Ann Barselo
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Honest opinion from a local here, just book the flight!
I tried the bus a few times and always arrived totally wrecked because I just couldn’t sleep on those winding roads as you get close to the mountains. Also in terms of safety, flying is the much better option. The busses drive like crazy.
As for the train, the reality is a lot less romantic than the blogs make it seem. The tracks are old so it’s quite shaky, and delays are standard. Even if you try for the 1st Class sleeper to get some privacy, you usually have to book that 90 days in advance because it sells out instantly.
When you look at the price, a quick flight from DMK or BKK is often barely more expensive than a train ticket. Don’t waste a precious day of your holiday recovering from a sleepless 13-hour journey.
Hi butterflyontherun.
I’d say I prefer Universal Studios.
If you want bigger thrills, it wins. The coasters and 3D rides are way more adrenaline-heavy, while Disneyland skews cuter and more family-focused. I mean I also enjoyed Disneyland, it was fun for the vibe and nostalgia, but if you are choosing one for excitement, go Universal.
Crowds get intense at both. If your budget allows, grab a fast pass for two headline rides at Universal during peak hours. It will save your day when queues hit 90 minutes.
I wish I could go visit again these themed parks!
Hey Frieda!
Oh, I totally get you, I was in the exact same spot when I was planning my first trip to Thailand!
If there’s one thing I’d say is non-negotiable, it’s getting a SIM card or eSIM right away. Staying connected is a lifesaver. The moment you step out of the airport, you’ll need it for maps, navigation, and messaging your driver if you booked a pickup.
I actually waited until my second day in Bangkok to buy one because I was so sure I’d memorized the routes to and from my hotel. Spoiler: I hadn’t. On my first night out for dinner, I thought I knew my way back, but the city can be pretty overwhelming. I missed a turn and ended up wandering around for 45 minutes before finally getting help from a taxi driver.
So yeah, I really wish I’d gotten connected from the start!
Hope this helps!
– Ann
I personally hold the DTV while a good friend of mine has the bronze Thailand Elite visa. For me, the decision was simple: cost-based.
The DTV visa fee itself is comparably low, promoted at around 10,000 THB, but you do need to prove you have at least 500,000 THB in your bank. From there, you’re largely on your own. You need to apply from a foreign consulate, you cannot directly apply from Thailand. Also the costs vary depending on where you apply from. I did it in Taiwan and it was in total around 11,500 THB The biggest challenge recently has been opening a bank account; in 2025, it’s become almost impossible. You can try to open a bank account having an institution that serves as a guarantor, you can read about that more in this article: DTV Visa Bank Account. You’re also responsible for all your own administrative tasks, like managing your stay with a border run or an extension every 180 days.
On the complete opposite end of the spectrum is the Thailand Elite visa. It’s the premium option but for a high price, starting at 650,000 THB for the bronze five-year membership. For that fee, the hassles disappear. Opening a bank account is easy, as a representative literally walks you into the bank and handles everything for you. Perhaps the most significant perk is that they take care of your 90-day reporting, which saves a lot of time and potential stress. You can find the other perks here:Elite Visas
The question is whether the convenience and benefits of the Elite Visa are worth about 50 times the price of the DTV visa. For me personally, the Elite Visa also seems to be a kind of status symbol. Choose it if you can afford it and need it, otherwise I would really recommend the DTV.