Giant Ibis Transport Bangkok
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"Misled About Visa Process – Frustrating Experience"
This is unfortunately my first ever 1-star review. We chose this company for the convenience of obtaining a visa at the border and specifically checked in advance whether we could secure an Ordinary Visa. The answer was yes—but in reality, it wasn’t true. At the start of the journey, we filled in the Cambodian immigration form, clearly stating our request for an Ordinary Visa. We then handed over our passports, forms, and payment to the bus host. A short while later, he announced to everyone that we would be receiving Tourist Visas. When we reminded him we wanted Ordinary Visas, he dismissed it, saying the Embassy only processes Tourist Visas. That single moment derailed all of our long-term plans. At the Embassy, the bus host took all passengers’ documents inside. When I asked again, he told me Ordinary Visas could only be obtained at the border—too late to be useful, since once a Tourist Visa is issued, you can’t switch. We were left stuck with just a one-month extension option, when we had planned to extend for nine months. By the time we reached Siem Reap, the host made a vague apology over the microphone, but the damage was already done. To make matters worse, when we contacted the Bangkok office hoping for a sincere apology or at least an honest review of their process, we instead received a misleading response that contradicted our experience. That was perhaps the most disappointing part. If you need an Ordinary Visa, don’t rely on this bus service. Either fly and apply online, or if you go by land, make sure you handle everything yourself at the border. The correct process is simple: keep your passport until the Thai exit, walk across the bridge, head up the stairs to Cambodian immigration, and request your Visa on Arrival (both Tourist and Ordinary are available). Sadly, what should have been a straightforward process turned into wasted time, money, and frustration.
"Absolutely Worth It – Comfortable and Stress-Free Journey"
This was 1000% worth the slightly higher ticket cost to get from Thailand to Cambodia. The visa process was simple and hassle-free, the drivers were safe, and the overall trip was well-organized. Lunch and snacks were included, the Wi-Fi worked surprisingly well, and the seats were very comfortable. As a bonus, we even learned a few Cambodian words along the way! I’d definitely ride with them again.
"Unfair Policy and No Refund for Canceled Service"
I booked my ticket from Bangkok to Siem Reap well in advance, only to later discover that the borders had been shut. What’s worse is that Giant Ibis never informed me—I had to contact them myself to learn that all buses were suspended. When I requested a refund, they refused, saying I could either rebook to another destination or hold the ticket for future use. This made no sense, as there were no alternative destinations available from Bangkok due to the border closure, and holding the ticket was useless since I would no longer be in Southeast Asia. I fully understand a no-refund policy for late passengers or missed buses, but keeping customers’ money when the service isn’t even running feels shockingly unfair—bordering on theft. This was a very disappointing experience, and I would caution others to think twice before booking.
"Safe and Comfortable Ride – Be Prepared for Traffic"
I booked a Giant Ibis ticket online for Bangkok to Siem Reap. The bus arrived right on time, which was reassuring. One small confusion though: the e-ticket showed a different Bangkok address than Google Maps, so I had to call the office to confirm the departure point. The fare was very reasonable for the comfort provided. The bus was spacious, offered complimentary WiFi and snacks, and I appreciated that two drivers worked in shifts for safety. The onboard staff were friendly and even assisted with the Cambodian visa application process. The only drawback is the traffic itself. In Cambodia especially, scooters weave through traffic without much regard for rules, which can feel chaotic. My advice: try to relax or sleep instead of watching the road. Overall, I do recommend Giant Ibis. The drivers are careful and professional, and the journey, including the visa stop and a rest break, takes around 8 hours. If you’re short on time, flying might be the better option, but for comfort and value, the bus is a great choice.
"Selling Nonexistent Trips – Dishonest and Frustrating"
I bought a ticket for a trip that doesn’t even exist, sold through 12Go. The transport company admits the route has been suspended for a month due to a border closure, yet they continue selling tickets on 12Go without informing customers. There was no clear communication, and no refund was offered. This is unacceptable — they’re knowingly selling a service that doesn’t exist and blaming external circumstances. I had to escalate the issue with my bank and 12Go to report this fraudulent practice. Avoid at all costs.
"Clean Bus but Scam at the Border"
This bus company is often advertised as the most recommended way to travel from Bangkok to Siem Reap, especially for help with the border crossing — but in reality, it’s a scam. On the positive side, the bus was clean with decent legroom, and the staff spoke English. They provided a very basic breakfast (a canned coffee and a small sandwich) and a simple lunch (fried rice), worth maybe $2 in total. Wi-Fi didn’t work at all. The real issue is the visa “facilitation” fee. The ticket already costs $40, but onboard, the staff asked for $30 for the Cambodian visa (standard) plus an additional $10 to supposedly speed up the border process. When I questioned this, I was told I could refuse, but then I’d have to leave the bus, get the visa on my own, risk delays, and potentially be left behind. With no real choice, I paid. In reality, the border crossing was smooth and simple. At Cambodian immigration, visas were available for the official $30 fee without queues. The extra $10 charged by the bus staff is nothing more than a forced scam. To make matters worse, other bus companies departing from Khao San Road sell tickets for cheaper and reportedly only charge $2 for border assistance. So why pay $10 extra per passenger on top of an already overpriced ticket? I would not recommend this company — you end up paying more for less, while being pressured into unnecessary fees.
"Not Worth It Compared to Flying"
Traveling from Bangkok to Siem Reap with this bus company simply doesn’t make sense. The ticket price is nearly the same as a flight, yet instead of arriving in Cambodia fresh in just one hour, you’ll spend close to 10 hours on the road. On top of that, the border crossing is notorious for scams and hassle, where almost everyone will try to overcharge or cheat you. Don’t be misled by overly glowing reviews — many come from first-time backpackers who are thrilled just to be traveling and may not notice the downsides. If you value your time, comfort, and peace of mind, flying is by far the better choice.
Giant Ibis Transport Bangkok
One of Cambodia's most popular bus companies, offering comfortable and reliable services between major cities. They are known for their punctuality and customer service.
Address
229 Phra Sumen Rd, Talat Yot, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand
Website
http://www.giantibis.com/
Email
[email protected]
Telephone
+66621019333