Arriving at an Airport You Can t Even Pronounce
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Travel Leisure -> subcategory Travel Tips.
Arriving at an Airport You Can’t Even Pronounce
Summary:
If you’ve recently traveled to Thailand, you likely landed at Southeast Asia’s newest airport, replacing an old favorite of mine.Keywords:
airport, Bangkok, international airport, Don Muang, Thailand, SuvarnabhumiArticle:
I've been traveling to Thailand on and off for 35 years. Stationed in Bangkok in the early '70s, I still visit 2 or 3 times a year. With all those trips, I knew the old Bangkok International Airport like the back of my hand.
In September 2006, Suvarnabhumi Airport (pronounced su-war-na-poom) opened, marking the end of the Don Muang era. Suvarnabhumi is now Bangkok’s official international airport, with Don Muang handling domestic flights. Adjusting to this new airport has been quite an experience.
Suvarnabhumi, meaning "Golden Land," is situated about 30 km east of Bangkok in Nong Ngu Hao, or Cobra Swamp. Covering 32 square kilometers, it boasts the world’s tallest control tower at 132 meters. With 360 check-in desks, 120 gates, and the capacity for 45 million passengers annually, it’s surrounded by serene rice paddies.
The airport itself is an architectural marvel of metal and glass. My only gripe is the seemingly endless walk from the arrival gate to Immigration. It feels like miles!
On the positive side, after clearing Immigration, a giant electronic display guides you to your luggage carousel, making life much easier.
Customs is a breeze?"I’ve never been checked in over 35 years of traveling to Bangkok. But once you grab your bags, you’ll face the notorious taxi mafia.
With luggage in hand, you’ll encounter a throng of people?"some greeting loved ones, others ready to pester you. The clipboard-toting taxi mafia will relentlessly try to get your business, but with some persistence and perhaps a few firm words, you can navigate past them.
Head to the down escalator for more reputable taxis. A small fee is required, but it's worth it for the peace of mind. These taxis are registered, the attendants speak English, and prices are straightforward with metered fares.
If your driver offers a flat rate without the meter, agree on a price and clarify who will pay tolls. This will give you a taste of haggling in Asia?"enjoy the experience!
I can’t speak for every driver, but I found an honest one last year. After leaving my credit card wallet in his cab, he contacted my hotel and returned it intact. His honesty was rewarded generously, saving me potential stress and expense.
Driving in Bangkok can only be described as controlled chaos?"an experience you must see to believe. Say a prayer and hope for the best!
If you’re traveling within Thailand, you might fly out of the old Don Muang Airport. It resembles a ghost town but brings back fond memories of past trips. Airports, being the first sight in a foreign land, often become endearing.
I’m learning to embrace Suvarnabhumi as my new friend. I’ve visited twice and plan to return in March 2008 for another holiday. Thankfully, I'll also see my old friend, Don Muang, when I head to Khon Kaen. It will be nice to reconnect with both old and new.
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