Southeast Asia Tour 2015
Bangkok Thailand | Siem Reap Cambodia
22 Nov 2015 | Sun
Day 04 of 46
Flight | Don Mueang Bangkok to Siem Reap Cambodia
We got an early start today, waking up at 4:30 am to get everything packed and ready for our flight to Siem Reap, Cambodia.
We had breakfast at 6:00 am, checked out of the hotel at 6:45 am, and were in a taxi on our way to Bangkok’s Don Mueang Airport by 7:00 am.
Don Mueang International Airport
Before Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi International Airport (Bangkok’s new current airport), there was Don Mueang International Airport. It was Bangkok’s only main airport up until 2006 (when Suvarnabhumi opened).
Don Mueang is one of the oldest airports in the world, originally opening as the Royal Thai Air Force Base in 1914 and then supporting commercial flights since 1924. After Suvarnabhumi opened, Don Mueang became the world’s largest regional commuter flight hub. Don Mueang is the main hub for Nok Air, Thai AirAsia, Thai Lion Air, and Orient Thai Airlines.
Air Asia Airlines
Similar to Tokyo, we rode a large bus to our plane on the tarmac. Our flight to Siem Reap, Cambodia was very smooth with no problems. It was listed as a one-hour flight but seemed shorter.
When you board the plane, the flight attendants hand you three forms that you have to fill out for the Cambodian Visa / declare goods. I had already gone through Cambodia’s online eVisa process, so we didn’t have to fill out all the paperwork, which was nice. By the time most folks got done with their paperwork, the captain mentioned that it was time to start preparing for landing. It was a beautiful day to fly!
Siem Reap International Airport
What looks and feels like a brand-new airport was actually built-in in 2006. Very simple, but neat and clean facility, and our check-in with Cambodia’s eVisa was quick and easy. We picked up our bags and headed outside to meet our driver from the hotel. After a quick 15-20 minute drive, we arrived at the Chronicle Angkor Hotel.
While waiting to take care of our eVisa I was able to take a few pictures before a few security/police rushed over to inform me that no pictures were to be taken off the airport. They were very pleasant about it, but I’m not sure why they had an issue.
