What is the best way to get from Bangkok to Chiang Rai?
There are several options: you can fly directly to Chiang Rai, which has a small airport, but flights are infrequent and a bit expensive. You could also fly to Chiang Mai and take a bus from there. The best low-cost carriers to use in Thailand are AirAsia and NokAir but be careful as once your luggage reaches over 15kg you can be charged a hefty fine. These flights are generally quite inexpensive. You can also take an overnight bus from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, arriving in the morning: tickets can be purchased day of the trip from Mo Chit bus station or you can take a vip bus that you can book from any of the travel agents on Khao San Road (cost is approximately $15). From Chiang Mai, you can take a short bus to Chiang Rai, leaving every hour. There are also direct overnight buses from Bangkok to Chiang Rai.