Whats up Zoners? Need some advice on Thailand flights

Forums:

Havent posted here in awhile but I have seen some good advice on Thailand around here. Need suggestions on the best airlines to fly from JFK. Im looking to go in a couple of weeks so it's all last minute. Plan on leaving 11/5 and coming back the 15th.  Will be flying to BKK then to Chiang Mai.

Any airlines that are better than others? I'm looking at a flight now that stops over in DOH (Doha). I have no idea where that is. Is it safe? I guess I just need some hand holding and suggestions.

Thanks so much in advance!

My advice is to stretch the trip out to at least 2 weeks. between the travel time and the time change you lose a few days, and that's not including jet lag. I flew United and thought the service (and partner airlines ANA and Hong Kong Airlines) were superb. International travel is way better than domestic. Even the little commuter flights between BKK and Chaing Mai are great, and most provide really good food too. 

 

If you decide to visit an elephant sanctuary, this is the place. book a night or two here https://www.elephantnaturepark.org/

Our kid loves the town of Pai. I wouldn't spend too many days IN Chaing Mai - hit the outskirts..and enjoy!

 

 

I'm so happy you are going. I have no advice other than, stay hydrated. I would say that about going anywhere, even staying home.

PS

 when you 're in Chaing Mai don't fall prey to the Tuk Tuk scam artists. Know your destination, do NOT allow the drivers  to suggest an alternative shopping district  or to take you outside the Old City. 

Qatar wouldn't be my first choice of connecting flights

Thai Air had great food.  They never stopped serving beer, wine, and spirits.  Each meal was served in a different  garment.   Cool. And they were extraordinarily kind. I would love to do it again. It's a long flight. You'll be dancing to the Jet Lag Song when you get there?  

Thanks for the info! I think I'm going to say Phuket (heh heh) and just do it. I'm out of work right now so I have the perfect opportunity. Thanks for the tip on United Nancy! Their flights are very reasonable. I just hope they are comfy seats. That's a long ass flight for sure!

 

((((((Judit)))) just because! <3

Pun Police!  Nobody move!

Safe travels, D.

>I just hope they are comfy seats. 

Very comfy and excellent service. I purchased a fleece neck wrap/support that enabled me to sleep. Should have worn compression socks tho..no way to elevate the feet in economy class, did okay there but on the way home got some serious cankles and could barely walk from all the swelling. Yuck. Compression socks recommended.

 

Oh, and be careful making any purchases at the connecting flight airports. I unknowingly paid $10 for a cup of tea in a styrofoam cup 

 

 

I would bag Chaing Mai and head south to the beaches of Krabi and Trang.

I bit the bullet and booked it. I fly out next Sunday. I booked on Cathay Air which had tons of great reviews. I'm a little nervous and super excited all at once. I've been doing a lot of research and it seems a very easy country to travel. A friend of mine lives in Bangkok so I'll meet up with him the first two days then on to Chiang Mai. My friend Im staying there with is going to a Buddhist retreat for four days when I'll be on my own. 

Any suggestion on how much cash I should bring? Should it be cash or traveler's cheques? It said the exchange rate there is much better so I 'll wait until I land but wanted to know a ballpark on how much to bring? Is it easy getting around on public transportation there? 

Again thanks in advance for the advice!

Oh Nancy, yes compression socks are on the list!

Have a Wonderful time,  and post us some Photos !!

If you prefer dealing in Cash,  the airport has a terrible exchange rate in every case.  Having been in the military,  you're probably familiar with the money-changing stuff.

Even 20 years ago,  I got better/best exchange rates by going to the ATM and simply withdrawing xxx amount of Guilders / Deutsch Marks / Pounds Sterling.  Maybe check with your bank and ask if they charge outrageous fees for 'foreign' transactions.  From my recollection,  there  was not much of a fee,  and the ATM machine had the most favorable exchange rate.

Same deal in Mexico.  Obviously,  go with the Big-Name banks and not questionable ATM machines that might burn you on a transaction fee (or skim your card).

>Is it easy getting around on public transportation there? 

 

yes. just ask at the hotel where you're staying to arrange a "transfer" - the price is usually better than a taxi. 

there are plenty of ATMs where you can withdrawl the local currency, but expect to pay hefty transactions fees unless you have an international bank card. never heard of anyone using travelers checks, and most vendors will accept US dollars and upscale establishment accept credit cards - but you'll want to get some Thai Bhat (local currency) and learn the exchange rate either before you leave or at an airport ATM when you arrive.