In recent weeks, I have made several trips between Ubon Ratchathani and Bangkok, mostly using the new "Special Express Train Service" (in first class), which offers a rail service that, in the 21st century, could best be described as "adequate". Two days ago, however, finding the service fully booked in first class, I settled for a first-class trip on what was described as the "express" train service, which left Ubon some 30 minutes after its "special" counterpart had departed. As it happened, the train arrived one and a half hours late in Bangkok -- so it was a 12-hour, 40-minute journey time in total. There are no political riots, neither have parts of Bangkok or other major cities been burned down. RH SugaCONTACT: BANGKOK POST BUILDING136 Na Ranong Road Klong Toey, Bangkok 10110Fax: +02 6164000 email: postbag@bangkokpost.co.thAll letter writers must provide full name and address.

Source: Bangkok Post July 26, 2017 21:45 UTC