I've been to Thailand several times,last trip I spent 2 months there. Fantastic country and lovely people, totally non-aggressive and very polite and welcoming. Never had any probems whatsoever there, in fact was very nice to feel much safer than being in teh UK or some other countries in Europe. Bangkok has thousands of bars/cafes that show football, so World Cup won't be a problem at all. There are also loads of expat pubs (which I always avoid) if that's your kind of thing. Phuket also has loads of bars that will show the WC, same as many of the popular islands such as Ko Samui.

I love the food there, you can find anything. I hope to go again soon, only got back 4 weeks ago

gotta do pattaya, walking street and soi 6 !

Agree with these comments. My wife is from Thailand so we visit frequently. Thai people are football mad and knowledgeable, I have met many who know all about Crystal Palace!
A couple of things to be careful about (1) don't disrespect the monarchy or the religion and (2) be careful if travelling by road. 25000 people are killed on Thai roads every year, there is little evidence of any road sense, and plenty of drunk drivers careering around in pick-up trucks. Be extremely careful if hiring a moped (many of those killed are on mopeds), and choose only reputable bus companies or taxis - there are countless stories of bus crashes caused by unfit vehicles, drunk / drugged drivers, or drivers just falling asleep. But it's a great place to visit. Enjoy!

If you're going to be in Bangkok then definitely check out Koh Chang. Easy to get to and seemingly unspoiled. Get the bus to the coast and catch the ferry. Oh, and when in BK believe no one when they tell you a temple (or tourist attraction) is closed that day... it isn't. Enjoy the food.

Been many times went last year to krabi, and Bangkok
A few tips for Bangkok use the sky train from airport to centre very easy to use cheap and fast from airport,
I took sterling notes and changed into bahts and used my debit card to withdraw from cashpoint, always agree a price on everything you are going to purchase, don't let yourself be taken off track by a taxi or tuck tuck driver and just have your guard up as there are a few scams out there,
Eating out and trying street food is a must and the markets are great for shopping,
Thailand is an amazing place but I have noticed a massive change after my 1st visit in 2003 to last years visit
It's lost a lot of its charm and has become very expensive and comercial.

You are correct its the airport rail link its on the ground level of the airport.