Train network could attract more tourists

However, in other parts of the world that have invested in such major infrastructure reforms, such as China and Europe, vastly increased traveller numbers have done much to cover the heavy costs involved in such development. The same could well be true here. 

For example, the overnight service from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, replete with restaurant car and comfortable sleeper cabins, is a very congenial way to make that long journey. With even better, faster trains, many more passenger bookings may be expected. And the same could go for developing other faster train routes within Thailand – and, indeed, internationally from here.

There is even a category of tourist that chooses a country precisely because they want to travel by train within it.

Thailand’s tourist numbers might well be increased by investing in better train services. Train bookings would certainly be increased were the system to be much improved.

Paul Surtees

Chiang Mai