Where should we fly into?
For Thailand, we will be flying into Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK).
In India, we are flying into Chennai International Airport (MAA).
We booked our flights through a travel agent named Veeru, if you would like to use him as well he would be happy to help! His WhatsApp number is +91 88026 20227. Just let him know you are with our wedding party. He made the entire booking process really simple for us.
What Dates Should we be in Thailand and/or India?
The short answer is, it's entirely up to you! The wedding in Thailand is November 18th, and the reception is in India on the 22nd.
We are trying to coordinate groups to travel together as much as possible, and we will have a better idea when RSVPs come in.
On November 15th or 16th, a small group of people will be traveling from Bangkok to Koh Chang, the island where the wedding will be.
There will also be a group leaving Bangkok to Chennai for the reception on Thursday, November 20th departing at 10:25 pm from Bangkok on Thai Air 337. Sara, her mom, Mani, and his parents have all booked the flight, so if possible we encourage people joining us in India to travel with us (so no one gets lost).
How do we get from the airport in Thailand to the venue?
There are a couple ways to do this. The cheapest way is to go by bus from the airport then catch a ferry over to the island. The bus takes about 5-6 hours and the ferry ride is 30-45 minutes.
Another way is by minivan, private car, or flying.
Once we know who is coming, we can coordinate a day (possibly the 16th) where people can travel from Bangkok to Koh Chang together.
Where Should we Stay in Thailand?
We recommend staying at the Barali Beach Resort & Spa in Koh Chang, Thailand for the night of the wedding. This is also the location our wedding venue. There are many resorts, however, that are also nearby on the island if you choose to stay somewhere else.
Address: 77 Klong Prao Beach, Koh Chang, Trat 23170, Thailand
Contact Info: +66 39 557 091 on WhatsApp.
The resort offers a 15% discount on rooms booked prior to 90 days, and a 10% discount for rooms booked 60 days in advance.
What should we wear?
Casual, light, and airy beach attire in pale pink/peach, light green, and other pastel colors preferred for the beach wedding. Please avoid dark colors as this will contrast negatively with the setting. The bride and groom will be wearing red/gold/cream.
Do we need to go to both Thailand and India?
No! Following the wedding in Thailand there will be dinner served and dancing. If you are unable to make it to India, we understand!
What do we need for India?
You will need an Indian Visa to enter India, along with your passport.
International Express Services in Troy, MI allows you to apply for visas online.
https://intlexpressservices.com/visasIndia.html
How do we get to India?
You will need to take a short flight from Thailand to India.
Where do we Stay in India?
We will be staying in Chennai, India. Mani's parents have graciously offered to host, so you will not need to worry about finding a place to stay unless you would like to travel outside of Chennai.
What is the time difference?
Thailand is 12 hours ahead of us in EST. We recommend flying in earlier to compensate for jet lag, if possible.
How do we communicate?
We recommend downloading the "WhatsApp" on your phone, which allows free international calling and texting overseas. All guests will be added to a group text for communication.
How much money should we bring?
We suggest bringing a card that does not have any international fees, as well as cash. Thailand utilizes the bhat, and 1 bhat is around 0.03 USD.
Do we need a visa for Thailand?
No! Just a visa for India.