CP
Carlotta PI was dropped off at the wrong bus stop and had to pay for another ticket to get to my final destination.
Chiang Mai to Vientiane, Bus Express, Tara Tour and Travel (ธาราทัวร์แอนด์ทราเวล), Dec 8, 2025
CB
Charlotte BNot really a POOR experience, and not an AVERAGE experience, somewhat in-between. First off, at the CM bus terminal, I was told I needed to load a social media app, but without explanation as to why. It became obvious why, after I got on the bus to leave. I am not an avid social media user, but felt it was a must for this trip. The agent took my picture with her cell, again with no explanation. I found out later it was to identify me to the Udon Thani agent at the transfer point. Although I appreciate that, the non-communication was upsetting. With so many English-speaking passengers, there should be a multi-lingual Thai agent on the bus and at the stations to assist foreigners and help explain what's going on. The tickets should show each stop, toilet breaks and transfer points. I appreciated both agents assistance, but to have an explanation would've made the trip more comfortable. However, using the messaging app came in handy as it made communication better and translated the languages. Every question or concern I had was addressed expediently through communicating with the app. The agents were extremely helpful and prompt. Given the fact, Tara Tour was located a few steps from the station in Udon Thani and not at the terminal itself, sending my photo to the agent there was a great idea. He located me quickly. The ride from Udon Thani was enjoyable, no real issues. They issued blankets, water and a snack. The assigned seat was also perfect.
Chiang Mai to Vientiane, Bus Express, Tara Tour and Travel (ธาราทัวร์แอนด์ทราเวล), Nov 15, 2025
M
Manuella The bus arrived on time but it was a bit complicated to find the right bus stops between all the terminals. Also the toilet were a bit filthy but overall the ride was good and they give you a blanket as well as water and food so that is quiet nice.
Chiang Mai to Vientiane, Bus Express, Tara Tour and Travel (ธาราทัวร์แอนด์ทราเวล), Nov 12, 2025
AR
Autumn RYa is the best travel assistant I have ever had. Was very patient and knowledgeable about the entire trip!! 10/10!!
Chiang Mai to Vientiane, Bus Express, Tara Tour and Travel (ธาราทัวร์แอนด์ทราเวล), Oct 24, 2025
M
Mark As expected, ok comfortable
Chiang Mai to Vientiane, Bus Express, Tara Tour and Travel (ธาราทัวร์แอนด์ทราเวล), Oct 4, 2025
FT
Federico TVery few information, we feel alone in a complex process of boarding in another country. No information about bus departure, real ticket and so on until one hour before departure. In general was very uncomfortable.
Chiang Mai to Vientiane, Bus Express, Tara Tour and Travel (ธาราทัวร์แอนด์ทราเวล), Sep 6, 2025
BB
Bramwell BThe bus itself is fine - big comfy seats, duvet-blanket, AC and lights out for the whole journey so you can actually sleep.
Be aware that it's not a continuous bus all the way to Vientiane. The coach stops at Nong Khai (Thai side of the border), where all the locals end their journey. Someone cattle-prods the tourists (ie you!) into an overloaded tuk-tuk to the actual border. Then you're told to get on another local bus once you've crossed to the Laos side of the border. The info is sent piecemeal by whatsapp messages and photos with instructions.
Honestly, you're probably better off just getting the bus to Nong Khai and doing the rest yourself. It's easy enough to work out (get a taxi to the actual border, then another on the other side) and almost certainly cheaper.
Chiang Mai to Vientiane, Bus Express, Tara Tour and Travel (ธาราทัวร์แอนด์ทราเวล), May 8, 2025