Flights: Bangkok <--> Chiang Mai

Last time, I did a stopover in Bangkok for a couple of days, and then I flew to Chiang Mai. I wanted to do the same this time but the extra flight was so much more expensive. I decided to take the overnight train from Bangkok right after I landed at Bangkok International. It takes 14 hours but it's only around $20 and you get a bunk to sleep in. I've never been on an overnight train before. It would be an experience.

However, the political situation in Thailand has been heating up recently. I'm not so worried about safety. I'm only using Bangkok as a transfer point. But, I AM worried that I won't make it to the train station on time if protests or something is going on. The traffic will already be crazy busy when I land in the afternoon.

I looked up flights to Chiang Mai from Bangkok on budget airlines like Nokair and One-Two-Go. They were much cheaper than the ones I had with Thai Airways, but their flights only depart from Don Mueang Airport. I would have to take a bus or taxi to get there. The trip is not that pricey, but it's a hassle. Plus, I couldn't find flight times on the same day as the ones I had coming from and going back to Japan.

THEN, I looked up the flights on Air Asia. It was (surprisingly) cheaper AND I found some day flights. I won't have to spend two nights on the overnight train, which means I have two extra nights to explore Chiang Mai! It was perfect. I booked ittt.

Depart (Friday, 23 Apr 2010)
Bangkok (BKK) to Chiang Mai (CNX)
Depart Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK) at 18:15
Arrive in Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) at 19:25

Return (Saturday, 08 May 2010)
Chiang Mai (CNX) to Bangkok (BKK)
Depart Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) at 08:25
Arrive in Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK) at 09:35