Thailand forum

That probably depends on what you consider cost effective. If you are just talking about what is the least expensive option, then bus to Poipet and then train from Aranyaphratet to Bangkok. That will take an entire day, or more, and isn't the greatest of trips in my humble opinion.

If time is an issue for you, then fly. I've seen flights between the two places for around U$100, which is about what I paid many years ago, and you'll be in Bangkok in about 90 minutes, or so. You'll also get another full month visa on arrival, which will be handy if you don't have a multi-entry visa and plan on traveling around more in Thailand. You'll get 15 days if you cross overland.

Just know that if you decide to bus it, you should have some questions ready for the seller. Make sure you find out beforehand what kind of bus you'll be taking and how many hours the entire bus ride will last. Sometimes paying a little more will save you a number of uncomfortable hours on the road.

Also, now's the time when you might be able to score some cheap tickets on airasia.com. It's worth checking the prices between Phnom Penh and Bangkok. You may find a great promotion and only pay a couple hundred baht to comfortably make the trip.

What is a "motodop"?

"Being stuck on a bus gives you the gift of time. Read a book. Do some writing. Relax and sleep. I like buses."

Are you kidding me? Obviously you haven't had this "gift" as much as I have. I utterly despise them.

'Being stuck on a bus gives you the gift of time.'
Got to agree with you Madmac and you haven't been on a Cambodian bus with its overloud karaoke and the ripe smell of unwashed armpits.Yes, bus travel is wonderful.

Recently, I found myself on a VIP overnight bus from Bangkok to Chiangmai. The seat had a massage option, food was included, and each headrest had a monitor with movies and tv shows. Now, that!, was a wonderful bus ride.

Though, I've also been on a bus in Cambodia, which drove 10 mph over rocky terrain for 15 hours with three people on each seat.

Oh, how bus situations can range...

This is the ultimate cheapo version from Siem Reap:

- Capitol Tours bus to Poipet leaving at 8 AM for $3.75 (arrives 11 something AM at border roundabout in Poipet)
- After crossing into Thailand, transportation to the train station, perhaps 50 THB, perhaps more or less (there used to be samlor's plying that route and I think they still must be. I paid only 5 THB in 2001, then it was 10, no idea what it would be now.
- train to BKK leaves about 1:10PM, costs 48 THB, arrives about 7:30PM at Hualamphong.

Buses cost probably 4 times as much, take 4.5 - to 5.5 hours and you will be dropped off at Mor Chit bus station, well outside of where you will be staying (it's smart to get accomodation close to Hualamphong and yes, I'm partial to the train. You have much more space and it's safer and much cheaper. Not everyone will agree, I understand).

I have done it but you break the journey somewhere, of course.

I needed to travel that route on Songkran Sunday and by chance I looked up the fare on AirAsia for that day: 5 Euros! (plus 20 for taxes) = buy!

Saves me a day, also no need to drag yourself out of bed at 4AM as that flight departs in afternoon.

MADMAC, you are not correct. I took this very train in February and March of 2011. It was exactly 48 THB and it can't be that much more now. It is an all 3rd class train, that is why it's so cheap.

See proof here: http://seat61.com/Thailand.htm#Aranyaprathet

When I first took it in 2001 it was 43 THB, btw.

I am not sure why you don't believe me. I've been coming to SE Asia since 1999. Lived in Thailand from 2001 to 2005 and still travel this route annually. I don't contribute to a topic unless I have first hand experience.

There are only 2 trains each day in each direction and only 3rd class is available. Who was trying to sell you 1st class?

The departures from Bangkok, get quite crowded, so don't come too late if you want a seat. It really is a fun train where you will get up close with the locals. I'll take it again in late April Hopefully it won't pour down again like mad as it did in March).