[tom]

Si,

If we had some idea of your itinerary it would be easier to give you some pointers.

A couple of general points though .........

Rail ..... it's inexpensive and the network is pretty decent. Overnight first class sleeper is the way to go if your heading up north (Chiang Mai) or down south (Surathani/Chumphon) ..... what you pay in fares you'll make up in hotel savings. It's also a great way to meet some local talent and see a bit of the countryside.

Air ..... basically down to where you're starting off from/headed to. Pattaya and Air Asia from Suvarnabhumi or Bangkok and Nok Air from Don Mueang. Some destinations (Sukhothai, Samui, Trat) you'll have no option but to go Bangkok Airways. Air Asia is currently receiving brand new A320s to replace its original 737s. Both Nok and Air Asia have some great 3 Baht/0 Baht deals on at the moment, including Hanoi. I prefer Nok because they have allocated seats rather than the mad rush you experience on AirAsia and I tend to be heading into BKK rather than down to Pattaya.

Car and driver ....... cheap as chips and loads of companies do them. Cost is anywhere between 1,800 and 2,500 Baht a day plus fuel.