I once was just like you tired and sick of of my monotonous life back home. Sitting there doing absolutely nothing, watching the days go by. Playing video game as a form of escapism. This guide is the realistic step-by-step guide I wish I had myself when I first landed here. Consider this a starter guide for all beginners.
Booking your flight
your biggest cost is the flight, so timing is everything.
- For Perfect Weather (But Higher Cost): the best time to book a flight would be around November or December. You’ll get the best out of Thailand during these months as the weather is great, and isn’t overbearing, but you’ll pay a premium for it since it’s a popular time to go.
- For the Best Deals (Less Touristy/ But with Rain): if you go when it’s monsoon season and it rains a lot, expect the best prices for flights and the least amount of tourism. It’s the move if you want the place to yourself..kinda.
The Visa Game
- Tourist Visa at Home: you have the option of applying for a visa at home, and depending upon your countries origin you can possibly get up to 60 days per entry. And this can be extended by 30 days at immigration as long as you do it before ur visa expires.
- Visa on Arrival: You also have the option of gung ho’ing it and landing and getting a 15 day or even 30 day visa on arrival depending upon your country. If you’re doing visa on arrival make sure you bring 20,000 baht to avoid possible hassles.
Landing like a Pro
always choose a flight that arrives in Suvarnabhumi (BKK) if you want the smoothest experience, especially if you’re a beginner to Thailand.
Bring at least 20,000 baht, since you never know if immigration is gonna ask you for proof of funds. Also, make sure you got a return ticket that proves you’re gonna be outta there eventually. The return ticket is needed even if you plan to extend. It’s a gamble to try and enter without one.
Airport Rail Link vs Taxis
So there are two great ways to get out of the airport and to your hotel without spending a lot. Just think about where you’re staying.
if your hotel is closed to Phaya Thai or Makkasan then your best bet is going down to the airport rail link straight to Phaya Thai Railway station. You’ll also be super close to Ratchathewi BTS station if you need it. For 45 baht, it’s a peaceful ride that lets you just chill in silence before the chaos begins.
Another great option is simply to go down to the 1st floor of the airport and find the public taxis. Take a ticket from a machine and they’ll assign you a driver in the queue. This is the best choice if you’re going somewhere further like Silom, Sukhumvit, Siam, or On Nut. Since these are popular tourist areas, you might end up there. You’ll pay anywhere from 250-400 baht for the ride.
The last option which is On Nut specific, is to take the Airport rail link for 45 baht, and then go down to Ratchathewi to get to On Nut BTS station.
Where to Stay: Budget Options in Great Locations
Phaya Thai
Pillow & Bread: This is a great option if you want to stay at Phaya Thai. It’s only about 200m from the train station, so it’s a perfect starting point because you’re gonna be super tired from the plane ride. It’s a hostel, so you can meet other travelers and rest in a cozy room with the basics. The price is decent too, and you’ll have low cost 40-70 baht options for food. If your priority is meeting fellow travelers , this is the spot.
Bann Bunga Inn: if you crave privacy and want to stay in an authentic neighborhood, this is your best bet. Just don’t expect amazing rooms with a lot of space since they are a bit cramped. The real highlight is the proximity to amazing street food. A short walk down 15 ซ. เพชรบุรี 5, 15 Soi Phetchaburi 5, and you’ll start weaving past scooters, and walking past numerous vendors serving fresh thai cuisine. I remember walking out the hotel and heading straight to the first vendor I saw with stacked plastic cases of Pad Kra pow gai all for 50 baht a piece, which came with a free bubble tea. I just had to stop and eat there. Each vendor has its own promotions, making it a great way to enjoy the food, and get the real feel of Bangkok.
Silom:
Maderla: a great option for a hotel with a hot shower, nice bed, and a great modern looking interior. Lots of expats and young tourists congregate in this part of Sathorn, which is in the more business centric area, The food is a little pricier here, but it feels more sophisticated. It’s for people who want a bit of a high-end feel without spending a lot on amenities.
Sukhumvit
S30 Sukhumvit: if you want an absolute budget option to be in the Sukhumvit area this is a perfect pick. It’s a13 min taxi ride to Asok BTS station, which is next to Terminal 21 Mall, which is considered one of the best malls of the city. This hotel is lets you land on your feet in the most known part of town, you’re also within a 9 minute walk to Phrom Pong BTS if you metro taking public transportation.
The hotel room itself is nothing lavish, it’s a pretty basic room, with a bed that’s not super comfortable but it gets the job done. It’s the ideal low-cost option if you’re focused on exploring the city and just need a place to crash near the center. The price is definitely good, you can get a single room for one person for about $20.
So stop reading and start planning. You now have a fullproof blueprint to get yourself to Bangkok on a manageable budget. Ready to see what it takes to stay? Then check out: The Real Cost of Living in Bangkok: Long-Term.