With fares around the US$2,700 (THB91,000) mark for a two-night Singapore to Bangkok trip on the Eastern and Oriental, first class travel in Thailand is considerably cheaper. Ticket prices per person for first class berths in a two-berth compartment are typically 60 to 70 per cent higher than for a second-class berth.
So for example, Chiang Mai to Bangkok in a first class cabin is THB1,500. Travellers have the option of reserving the cabin for their sole use by paying a THB500 surcharge. First class offers infinitely more privacy than second class sleeping cars which are configured in an open plan style something like a school dormitory.
Another advantage of first class is that the berths tend to be bigger and are therefore better suited to the size of the average western tourist. Other bonuses are plusher mattresses, a switch to control the temperature of the air-conditioning, complimentary drinking water and towels, a washbasin and access to a shower in the communal toilet.
First class train travel in Thailand
News in Asia
Thailand’s four arterial train routes all offer the choice of travelling in a first class sleeping carriage. Without booking a trip on the Eastern and Oriental Express, a first class journey on a Thai train is the best way of experiencing the style of the golden age of travel.