Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
LAOS
It is fairly hassle-free to cross into Laos from northern and northeastern Thailand. Lao visas (US$35 to US$50) can be
obtained on arrival; bring a passport photo.
The main transport gateway to Laos is the first Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge at Nong Khai to Vientiane. Other cross-
ings include Chiang Khong to Huay Xai, Mukdahan to Savannakhet, Nakhon Phanom to Tha Khaek and Chong Mek to
Vangtao.
MALAYSIA
Malaysia, especially the west coast, is easy to reach via bus, train and even boat.
Hat Yai to Butterworth
The western spur of the train line originating in Bangkok terminates at Butterworth, the main-
land transfer point to Penang. Less popular these days due to unrest in the Deep South.
Ko Lipe to Pulau Langkawi
Boats provide a convenient high-season link between these two Andaman islands.
Satun to Pulau Langkawi/Kuala Perlis
Boats shuttle from this mainland port to the island of Langkawi and the main-
land town of Kuala Perlis.
Other crossings include Hat Yai to Padang Besar and Sungai Kolok to Kota Bharu, but we don't recommend these
routes due to the violence in the Deep South.
ISLAND TRANSFER TICKETS
You may see air tickets on low-cost carriers (mostly Air Asia) that go to islands that don't have airports, such as
Ko Phi Phi, Ko Lanta and Ko Ngai. These tickets fly to the nearest airport then include bus and boat transport to
the island. The cost is about the same as arranging the ground transport by yourself except you don't have the
hassle that goes with it.
In other cases carriers may say they go to islands that have airports (like Ko Samui or Ko Pha-Ngan) but actu-
ally fly into a nearby airport and include ground and boat transportation in the cost. Make sure you check the de-
tails before booking. In these cases the ticket price is usually cheaper than flying to the island direct although the
travel time will be much longer.
MYANMAR
Myanmar has lifted travel restrictions at four of its borders with Thailand. Of these, Ban Phu Nam Ron to Htee-Khee is
a new crossing requiring major infrastructure investment; the Thai government intends to develop this route as a link
between Bangkok and Myanmar's Dawei port in the Andaman Sea.
The Mae Sai to Tachileik crossing is popular with travellers to renew their Thai visas as it is convenient to Chiang
Mai and Chiang Rai. Other crossings include Mae Sot to Myawadi which was open at the time of research.
Ranong to Kawthoung
This is a popular visa-renewal point in the southern part of Thailand.
