Complete guide to Thai Airways mileage accrual with tips

Bangkok-Ayutthaya-Chiang Mai 7 Days: How to Enjoy Economically and a Guide to Earning Thai Airways Miles

Thailand offers a diverse experience even within the same country. It’s where the grandeur of Bangkok’s palaces and temples, the ancient traces of Ayutthaya’s dynasties, and the welcoming alleys and cafes of Chiang Mai coexist. In this post, we’re covering a 7-day itinerary including directions, transportation, entrance fees, budget planning, lodging choices, and local booking tips all at once. Make sure to follow our steps for earning Thai Airways miles so you can return home with benefits still in hand.

Here’s what you’ll find in this guide:

• 7-day Itinerary: Bangkok (3 days) – Ayutthaya (1 day trip) – Chiang Mai (3 days)
• Transport: Korea-Bangkok international flight, Bangkok-Chiang Mai domestic flight, city-to-city travel
• Entry/Operation Information: Grand Palace, temples, markets, mountain temples, and key spots
• Budget Guide: Price range (in KRW), budget formalization by recommended schedule
• Accommodation Selection: Pros and cons by region in Bangkok/Chiang Mai and price range
• Thai Airways Miles Accumulation: Preparation, point by section, post-travel tips
• Local Experience/Transport/Accommodation Booking Link: Gathered from verified platforms

Travel Preparation

Thailand is hot and humid throughout the year. Clothing such as breathable short-sleeves, shorts, sandals/sneakers are comfortable, and bring a light shirt or long skirt/pants to cover shoulders and knees for temple visits. For chargers, a USB-C/Lightning cable, a multi-outlet, and a travel adapter (compatible with Thailand’s A/B/C type) are sufficient. Purchase a SIM at the airport or connect immediately upon arrival with an eSIM.

Refer to the Essential Travel Items link for a quick checklist to review.

Tip

Your passport should have at least 6 months of validity beyond your return date. Prepare cash in small denominations (1,000-5,000 KRW) and use a combination of card and cash payments locally for convenience.

Transport

There are many direct flights from Korea to Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi, BKK). Using Thai Airways allows for strategic mileage accumulation within the Star Alliance network. Flights are generally cheaper during weekday mornings/evenings in low season, and ticket prices often form their lowest 4-8 weeks before departure (excluding peak seasons and holidays).

Check flight fare variations by date at Book Lowest Airfare and compare baggage inclusion and seat assignment.

Recommendation

Choose aisle seats for long segments to ease restroom access and stretching. For early morning arrivals, confirm the operation times of the airport rail link, and select accommodation in an area with good transport connectivity to manage fatigue better.

Warning

For flight bookings, any discrepancy in the name spelling from your passport can lead to boarding denial. Make sure your name exactly matches the passport and frequently check your electronic ticket (e-ticket).

Prepare for Thai Airways Miles

As a member of Star Alliance, Thai Airways enables mile accumulation through their own (Royal Orchid Plus) or partner mileage programs. Accumulation rates vary by booking class, distance, and partner conditions. Ensure secure mileage accumulation by following these steps:

• Enter member number during booking: Before payment, your number should be inputted into your preferred Thai Airways mileage program (like Royal Orchid Plus).
• Keep boarding passes and luggage receipts: Necessary as proof for post-travel accumulation.
• Separate checking for domestic/international flights: Even shorter domestic flights like Bangkok-Chiang Mai can accrue miles depending on booking class.
• Utilize partnerships: Earn miles on other Star Alliance flights using your selected program.

Opting for an itinerary composed entirely of TG (Thai Airways) flights facilitates consistent management of mileage based on each segment’s distance. If integrated bookings are challenging, issue separate tickets for Korea-Bangkok international flights and Bangkok-Chiang Mai domestic flights, ensuring both reflect your membership number.

Tip

Mileage accumulation criteria may change periodically; check the official accumulation chart before booking. If miles are not credited post-travel, back-dated claims are often possible within 6 months, so retain original/scanned boarding passes.

Airport Transfers

From Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) to downtown, the Airport Rail Link, taxis/Grab, and airport buses are common options. The Airport Rail Link to Phaya Thai takes about 30 minutes and costs around 2,000 KRW. Airport taxis operate even at midnight, with added toll and airport surcharges (approximately 15,000–25,000 KRW, varying with traffic).

If you have a lot of luggage or are traveling with family/friends, pre-booking a pickup is convenient. You can select the vehicle type/class with a fixed rate advantage.

Book Airport Pick-up

For same-day domestic connections (Bangkok-Chiang Mai), Thai Airways offers seamless transitions between international and domestic flights at Suvarnabhumi, simplifying logistics. This domestic segment is also eligible for Thai Airways miles, so confirm membership number application during check-in.

Course Day 1-3: Bangkok

Walk through Bangkok’s core spots in the first 3 days. We’ve mixed temples, riversides, markets, and shopping malls to keep things interesting.

• Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew: A palace complex symbolizing Thailand with a dazzling exterior and interior. Entry fee for foreigners is about 500 baht (approximately 18,000–20,000 KRW), with cooler viewing times in the morning. Strict dress code: shoulders and knees must be covered.
• Wat Pho: Famous for its giant reclining Buddha. Entry fee is about 200 baht (7,000–8,000 KRW). Walking distance from the Grand Palace; temple floors can be slippery, so thin socks are recommended.
• Chao Phraya Boat: Take the orange flag boat from Saphan Taksin to connect to key temples and riverside spots at an affordable rate (1,000–2,000 KRW), effectively saving on transportation costs in this route.
• Chinatown (Yaowarat Road): A foodie’s paradise in the evening. Enjoy a variety of street foods with 5,000–15,000 KRW per person.
• Chatuchak Weekend Market: An extensive weekend market open on Saturdays and Sundays. Ideal for shopping clothes, bags, accessories, and snacks. Recommend visiting in the morning to avoid hot weather.

Tip

Purchasing a BTS/MRT transit card reduces transfer waiting times. Daily travel cost is approximately 4,000–8,000 KRW. Arrange your temple visit along the riverfront, and centralize shopping around Siam/Sukhumvit for efficient travel.

Warning

Avoid scams luring visitors to other stores claiming “temporary closures” near temples. Determine operational status by official signage and ticket counters.

During the Bangkok stay, you can accumulate Thai Airways miles in both international and domestic segments. Especially with round-trip Korea-Bangkok and two Bangkok-Chiang Mai one-ways, you rack up significant mileage, paving the way for bonus seats or upgrades later. Consistently check your booking details for membership number inclusion.

Course Day 4: Ayutthaya Day Trip

Located about 80 km north of Bangkok, Ayutthaya, an ancient capital recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a collection of ancient ruins accessible by train/minivan/car tour within 1-2 hours.

• Transport Options
  • Train: Depart from Bangkok Central Station (Krungthep Aphiwat), very cheap for 3rd class (costs in the low thousands KRW). Check for seat allocation and air conditioning availability.
  • Minivan: From Mo Chit Terminal, approximately 4,000–6,000 KRW one-way. Numerous schedules with tuk-tuk/bicycle options upon arrival.
  • Car Tour/taxi: Arrange a day itinerary covering 3–5 temples (30,000–60,000 KRW per person). Reasonable considering heat and efficiency of movement.
• Main Ruins
  • Wat Mahathat: Known for Buddha’s face entwined in tree roots. Entrance fee is about 1,500–2,500 KRW.
  • Wat Phra Si Sanphet: Ayutthaya Royal Palace temple. Approximately 2,000 KRW.
  • Wat Chaiwatthanaram: A temple with beautiful sunsets. Approximately 2,000 KRW.

Compare Ayutthaya day tours or bicycle/electric scooter tours at Book Destination Activities to simplify itinerary planning.

Recommendation

Select around three temples and organize your day with an “early start → lunch break → sunset point” sequence to mitigate heat and physical exertion. Hats, sunscreen, and water are essentials.

Warning

During peak season (November to February) weekends, vehicle queues can extend at ruin entrances. Start as early as 7-8 AM to avoid congestion.

Course Day 5-7: Chiang Mai

The flight from Bangkok to Chiang Mai takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. Using Thai Airways allows direct connections from Suvarnabhumi, and make sure domestic routes like this one are eligible for mileage accumulation and that membership numbers are reflected. A 3-day itinerary covering the tranquil Old Town, trendy Nimmanhaemin, mountain temples, and night markets is fitting for Chiang Mai.

• Old Town (Walled City): A square walled area filled with temples, cafes, and massage shops. Main temple entry fees are around 1,000–2,000 KRW (e.g. Wat Chedi Luang is approximately 50 baht).
• Doi Suthep (Wat Phra That Doi Suthep): A mountain temple overlooking the city. Entrance fee is around 1,000 KRW; minor additional fee for using the cable elevator. Morning on clear days offers the best views.
• Nimmanhaemin: An area filled with trendy cafes, lifestyle shops, and roasteries. Café beverages range from 2,000–5,000 KRW.
• Night Markets: Sunday Market (Sundays), Saturday Market (Saturdays), Warorot Market (permanent). Street snacks range from 1,500–4,000 KRW.

Tip

Book a shared transport ‘Songthaew’ (pickup truck taxi) for Doi Suthep, lowering the cost per person, or opt for a car tour to cover several points in one day. After active days, enjoy a foot massage (1 hour 8,000–15,000 KRW) to relieve fatigue.

When it comes to elephant experiences, ethical operations are a key concern. It’s recommended to choose programs prioritizing animal welfare, like feeding and bathing at rescue centers. Check the operator’s policy and reviews, and avoid unnecessary shows or riding.

Compare cooking classes, mountain temple tours, and visits to ethical elephant sanctuaries at Book Destination Activities.

Accommodation Choices

In Bangkok, dividing the area by transportation route minimizes the risk of poor choices.

• Sukhumvit: Good for BTS access and diverse dining/shopping choices. Mid-range hotels cost 80,000–150,000 KRW per night.
• Siam: Enclosed by large shopping malls, making wet weather logistics easier. Mid-range ones cost 100,000–180,000 KRW per night.
• Riverside: Offers Chao Phraya river views and relaxation. Prices are relatively higher.

In Chiang Mai, it’s split between Old Town and Nimmanhaemin, with Old Town setting the scene for walking tours and Nimman focusing on cafe-style trendy accommodations. Expect guesthouses at 20,000–50,000 KRW and mid-range hotels at 60,000–120,000 KRW (seasonal fluctuation applies).

Utilize the Compare Hotel Prices & Book to filter by location, budget, and breakfast inclusion. Some airline partner hotels may allow for Thai Airways mileage accrual, so check for affiliation before booking.

Recommendation

Opt for easy airport rail/taxi access on day one, and choose accommodation close to the airport on the last day to streamline logistics. For early departure flights, 24-hour operated front desk lodgings are advisable.

Budget Guide and Discount Tips

The daily budget per person (excluding flights) is 20,000–40,000 KRW for meals, 5,000–10,000 KRW for transport, and 10,000–30,000 KRW for entry fees, snacks, and massages. On days filled with activities, earmark an additional 20,000–60,000 KRW. Airfare varies with season and booking timing, but Korea-Bangkok round-trips usually range from 450,000–1,200,000 KRW, while domestic Bangkok-Chiang Mai flights can be found between 40,000–90,000 KRW.

Check monthly coupons at Klook Monthly Discount Codes for lower-priced tours, transport, tickets.

Tip

For local payments, non-fee cards or local currency payments are recommended. Currency exchange is often more advantageous at city centers (e.g. Sukhumvit exchange kiosks) rather than the airport.

Warning

Avoid street exchanges or unreliable currency booths. Double-check exchange rates and fees to avoid inadvertent losses.

In terms of mileage, this trip efficiently accumulates Thai Airways miles with a round-trip international and two domestic flights. Check accrual rates before issuing tickets since they vary by booking class, and remember, some hotels, car rentals, and shopping partners also offer Thai Airways mileage. Some credit cards enable conversions into airline miles, so preliminarily check your card’s transfer partners.

Local Travel Tips

• Bangkok: BTS/MRT combined with boat rides are efficient. Pair short distances with Grab/taxis.
• Ayutthaya: Negotiate hourly with local tuk-tuk drivers or pre-reserved tours to save energy.
• Chiang Mai: Walking + Songthaew + Grab as a base. Use car tours for mountain areas like Doi Suthep and Doi Inthanon.

Tip

Configure Grab payments as “cash/card” ahead of time. Checking driver ratings and car models helps minimize pre-boarding mistakes.

Sample Itinerary (7 Days)

• Day 1: Incheon/Gimpo → Arrive in Bangkok → Airport Rail/Pickup → Check-in Sukhumvit accommodation → Evening Chinatown
• Day 2: Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew → Wat Pho → Boat transfer → ICONSIAM/Riverside
• Day 3: Chatuchak Weekend Market (weekends) → Siam malls → Massage
• Day 4: Ayutthaya day trip (car tour/train) → Return to Bangkok
• Day 5: Bangkok → Fly to Chiang Mai → Stroll Old Town → Sunday/Saturday Market (dependent on weekday)
• Day 6: Doi Suthep/nearby waterfalls & viewpoints → Nimman café hopping
• Day 7: Cooking class or sanctuary experience → Airport transfer → Transit Bangkok → Return home

As the itinerary comprises 2-3 flights, confirm Thai Airways miles are duly reflected in your membership via check-in counters and mobile apps throughout. If missed, mileage can often be claimed post-travel, so retain boarding passes/receipts until your journey concludes.

Health & Safety

• UV Protection: Hat, sunglasses, SPF 50+ sunscreen are essentials. Avoid outdoor activities around noon.
• Hydration: Buy bottled water priced at 500–1,000 KRW from convenience stores. Also, utilize hotel free water supplies.
• Medical: Pack basic first-aid (antidiarrheals, painkillers, anti-nausea medications), and save traveler’s insurance contact info as needed.

Warning

Temples enforce dress codes; drone use and commercial photography may be restricted. Adhere to signposted guidance, and many secure their shoes in bags in designated “shoes-off” zones to prevent loss.

Booking and Execution Checklist

• Flights: Compose Korea-Bangkok return + Bangkok-Chiang Mai one-way (or multi-city) structures, enter Thai Airways mileage number
• Airport Pickup: Pre-reserve for early morning/late-night arrivals or family/group travel
• Accommodation: Book across 2-3 areas in line with region, budget, and travel path
• Activities: Confirm Ayutthaya tours, cooking classes, Doi Suthep car tours upfront
• Budget: Plan cash/card proportions, apply discount codes

Flight fares fluctuate greatly by booking time. First, look at fare across date options, then compare luggage, seat, and refund policies. Confirm Thai Airways mileage eligibility for flights inclusive of TG sectors.

Book Lowest Airfare

Streamline airport-to-city transfers to enhance first-day condition. For larger groups, pre-book pickups/drop-offs to seamlessly transition into relaxation mode upon arrival.

Book Airport Pick-up

Carefully check cancellation/modification policies for local experiences based on schedule and weather, selecting suppliers with comprehensive reviews enhances satisfaction. Always apply coupons at booking.

Book Destination Activities | Check Klook Monthly Discount Codes

For lodgings, focus on location, cleanliness, and review count. Ensuring familiarity with refund policies facilitates quick response to itinerary tweaks.

Compare Hotel Prices & Book

Seasonal discount codes frequently shift for local guided tours or dedicated vehicles, so it’s advised to conduct a final check pre-departure.

Check MyRealTrip Discount Codes

Final Check on Thai Airways Mileage Accumulation

• Booking Step: Input Thai Airways mileage program’s membership number for all flights
• Pre-flight: Confirm number application via the mobile app/counter
• Post-flight: Verify accumulation acknowledgment in 1-2 weeks, apply for post-travel accumulation (attach boarding pass/receipt if missing)
• Partnership Utilization: Choose mileage-back options for appropriate hotels/rental cars/activities as noted (pre-check necessary)

This itinerary comprises Korea-Bangkok international routes, Bangkok-Chiang Mai domestic, and Chiang Mai-Bangkok (transit) international return, spanning 3-4 segments. Accumulating Thai Airways miles throughout enhances future access to seat upgrades or reward tickets. Given accrual rates vary by ticket class, strike a balance between affordable fares and accumulation efficiency.

Conclusion

The 7-day course encompassing Bangkok’s energy, Ayutthaya’s serenity, and Chiang Mai’s relaxation has high satisfaction relative to travel duration. Preparing transportation, accommodation, entrance fees, and activities in advance ensures you focus solely on experience while there. Most importantly, by meticulously tracking Thai Airways mile accumulation before, during, and after travel, your spends transition from mere cost to foundational “next journey resources.”

It’s recommended to finalize bookings for flights, accommodations, airport transfers, and activities 2-4 weeks before departure. See the links below for easy checks:

• Book Lowest Airfare — Compare prices by date for a rational choice
• Compare Hotel Prices & Book — Filter by location, budget, and reviews for convenience
• Book Airport Pick-up — Simplify logistics for early/late arrivals
• Book Destination Activities — Ayutthaya, Doi Suthep, Cooking Classes, etc.
• Check Klook Monthly Discount Codes — Additional savings with monthly coupon applications
• Check MyRealTrip Discount Codes — Use for local tours, vehicles, guides reservations
• Essential Travel Items — Check gadgets, medication, pouches

Tailor your trip to your schedule, keep a watch on Thai Airways mileage accumulation throughout ticket issuance stages. A small habit can return significant benefits for future travel. Have a safe and wonderful trip to Thailand!