As Mirks, has shown, traveling cattle class on Thai trains is just that, expect the bloke next to you have his prized fighting cocks or ducks in a bag on his lap!
First class ain't outrageous (ST, LT options included!
) and second class is more than adequate.
Did the overnighter to Chang Mai years ago in second class. If you're by yourself try to get the bottom bunk. You want to select your departure times carefully so you can actually see some of the scenery.
The train to Hua Hin is a good introduction to train travel in Thailand. There's one that leaves at 1300 and gets you there at 1710 (if it's on time!). Some good scenery once you crawl out of BKK. Waiter comes by with a bucket full of Singha, told him to come back every 20-30 mins and to get more ice! Food from the dining car (they'll deliver to your seat) is generally crap. Better off buying from the vendors that jump aboard every time it stops.
For some reason going back to BKK from HH the schedule is shit, either leaves at 7-8 in the morning or 5 in the arvo.
