A step up from buses for many people, yet still a very thrifty means of transport, trains are a classic way to travel, and Thailand’s train system is well-developed and extensive.You can get from the southern border with Malaysia near Hat Yai all the way north to Chiang Mai; from Bangkok all the way to Nong Khai and the Lao border, even across the border into Laos now on the short 10-minute final leg – for now; plans are underway to extend this route all the way to China!

Most passengers choose 2^nd Class air-conditioned cars.First Class is also available, with two bunks per cabin; so if you’re traveling alone, you never know who you’ll end up bunking with.  Third Class is not advised for long trips, as these are simple benches, but they’re fine for short trips: to Hua Hin or Kanchanaburi, for example.