thailand cooking tour

Thailand is a top destination for foodies around the world and it is no wonder why!

Thailand food tourism is a hot trend among foodies worldwide, drawn to the country’s idyllic beaches and lush jungles. Indulge in a first-class Thailand food travel experience that won’t break the bank, and learn to cook authentic Thai dishes while staying in luxurious accommodations.

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Taste of Thailand: The Best Food Tours in Bangkok 2024

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Our Best Thailand Cooking Vacations 2023-2024

Try a Thailand food tour and experience why Thai cuisine is one of the most revered among foodies worldwide.

Thai food is exotic but simple, truly based on fresh produce and seafood in flavor combinations so charming you will keep coming back for more on our Taste of Thailand food tours. Like much of Southeast Asian cuisine, Thai cuisine is characterized by being lightly prepared, fresh, and combining the different flavor profiles of salty, sweet, sour, spicy, and bitter. Although Thai food does vary by region, noodles and rice are prevalent, served with light broths or complex sauces, meat or seafood, and of course fresh vegetables and herbs. You can learn to make this delicious and fresh fare on our Bangkok food tours or on a Thailand cooking vacation.

Despite being such a popular destination, Thailand retains its unique character; its culture is rich, its people are known for their carefree demeanors and quick smiles. Thailand, unlike most of its neighbors, was never colonized, although you will find many influences (mostly Asian) in Thai cuisine.

Thailand food travel is so captivating that many who embark on a Thailand food tour end up never leaving or returning permanently for their retirement.

Understanding a Rich Experience of Thailand Food Trip

Culturally, you will find much to see on a Thailand food tour. The country is largely Buddhist, resulting in many beautiful “wats,” or temples in the cities of Thailand. Our Thai cookery courses will expose you to the bustling markets and street fares, including exotic street food.

Outside the cities you can find lush forests full of exotic animals and majestic waterfalls, and of course the coastline and islands are known for their crystal-clear waters. A Thailand cooking vacation on the coast will include plenty of time to explore the beaches and the beautiful waters.

Our Cooking Classes in Thailand are usually private and are easily customizable. We have expert partners and guides who will lead you through your cooking holiday in Thailand.

What to Expect on a Thailand Foodie Tour

A Thailand foodie tour promises to be a culinary adventure with a vibrant mix of flavors, spices, and aromas. From street-side vendors to high-end restaurants, Thai cuisine offers an exciting array of dishes for food enthusiasts. Here are some things to expect on a Thailand foodie tour:

• A variety of dishes: Thai cuisine is known for its diversity, with each region having its unique flavors and ingredients. Expect to taste a variety of dishes, from the famous Pad Thai to the spicy Tom Yum soup and the rich Massaman curry.
• Street food: Thailand is famous for its street food culture. On a foodie tour, you’ll get to sample a wide range of dishes from the food carts, including grilled meat skewers, savory snacks, and sweet treats.
• Thai cooking class: Learn to cook authentic Thai dishes by taking a cooking class. You’ll get to visit a local market to shop for ingredients and learn to prepare a few dishes.
• Thailand food tours: Joining a food tour will give you the opportunity to explore different neighborhoods and experience the local food scene with a knowledgeable guide.

A Thailand foodie tour promises to be a feast for the senses, with tantalizing flavors, vibrant colors, and amazing aromas that will leave you craving for more.

Enjoying a beer during a culinary vacation in Southeast Asia with The International Kitchen.

What are some unique ingredients used in Thai cuisine that are not commonly found in Western cooking?

Some of the most unique ingredients used in Thai cuisine that you might encounter during a cooking tour in Thailand are:

• Galangal: This root is a member of the ginger family and has a sharp, citrusy flavor that is used in soups and curries.
• Kaffir lime leaves: These fragrant leaves are used to flavor soups, curries, and stir-fries. They have a distinct citrusy aroma that adds a fresh, zesty note to dishes.
• Lemongrass: This tall, grass-like herb has a lemony flavor that is used to infuse soups, curries, and marinades.
• Fish sauce: A pungent, salty sauce made from fermented fish, this is a staple ingredient in Thai cuisine and is used to add umami flavor to dishes.
• Thai basil: This variety of basil has a distinct licorice flavor and is used in stir-fries, curries, and salads.

What are some popular street foods in Thailand that tourists should try during a culinary tour?

The most popular street foods that tourists should try during a culinary tour in Thailand are:

• Pad Thai: Perhaps the most famous Thai street food, Pad Thai is a stir-fried noodle dish made with shrimp, tofu, bean sprouts, and tamarind sauce.
• Som Tam: This spicy papaya salad is made with shredded green papaya, tomatoes, chili peppers, fish sauce, and lime juice.
• Satay: These grilled meat skewers are a popular snack and can be made with chicken, pork, beef, or even tofu.
• Mango Sticky Rice: A sweet dessert made with sticky rice, fresh mango, and coconut milk.
• Fried Chicken: Thai fried chicken is a must-try, often marinated in garlic and served with sticky rice and chili sauce.

What are some popular seafood dishes in Thai cuisine? Seafood is a significant part of Thai cuisine, thanks to the country’s extensive coastline and proximity to the sea. Thai seafood dishes are famous for their bold and complex flavors, and trying them is a must for any seafood lover visiting Thailand. Tom Yum Goong: A spicy soup made with shrimp, lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, chili peppers, and fish sauce. Pla Rad Prik: A fried fish dish served with a spicy sauce made from garlic, chili peppers, and fish sauce. Pad Prik King Talay: A stir-fry dish made with seafood, green beans, chili paste, and kaffir lime leaves. Hoy Tod: A crispy oyster pancake made with eggs, flour, bean sprouts, and oysters, served with a sweet and sour sauce. Grilled Squid: A popular street food snack, often marinated in garlic and served with a spicy dipping sauce. How to Eat Safely in Thailand? For a safe Thai Food Tour, tourists should choose clean and hygienic restaurants, stick to bottled water, avoid raw or undercooked food, gradually build up a tolerance to spicy food, and wash their hands frequently to avoid bacteria growth due to the hot and humid climate. Read more about Thai food and travel tips

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Thailand Culinary Tours

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Thailand is a paradise for food lovers who wish to enjoy unique cultural and authentic culinary experiences in the Land of Smiles. Join with us on a Thailand food tour and follow our insider tour guides who lead you off the beaten path to savour the best dishes at hidden corners only known to locals. At Asia Tours, all of our culinary trips aim to give you an exciting and diverse experience of Thailand's cuisine. Contact our travel experts and start your food trip in Thailand.

A Journey Of Food & Culture

Thailand is an enchanting paradise for food lovers. By taking a culinary tour in Thailand, whether it’s a food tour or cooking class, you will not only have chances to savour the original tastes of world-known dishes such as tom yum, pad Thai or som tam, but also take a closer step to the local culture and lifestyle of Thai people. 

Get An Insightful Understanding Of Thai Cuisine

Through a food tour in Thailand, you will find a variety of Thai dishes revolving around the distinct flavours of spicy, salty, sweet and sour that may challenge your taste buds and sometimes not how you expect. But this culinary experience will be a head start that takes you to the world of authentic Thai food and surprises you all the time.

Explore Thai Regions Through Food

Thailand is home to some of the best foods in the world and foods from different regions are diverse. Our culinary tours aim to satisfy your desire for both eating and travelling. Let give our tours a try to see the night food scene of Bangkok, explore the Chinatown-style street food, or taste the traditional delicious cuisine of some ethnic minorities.

An Abundance Of Unique Culinary Experiences

Thailand is a foodies’ favourite destination not only by diverse foods but also with exceptional food experiences you find nowhere else. There is a host of options you can choose, from the evening Bangkok food tour by tuk-tuk to the welcoming Khantoke Dinner with dances in Chiang Mai or the colourful local food scene of Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, etc.

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Exploring a slice of local life on Chao Phraya River by a long tail boat

Immersing in the buzzing ambiance of Chinatown and savoring delicious street food

Taking a day trip to Ayutthaya, the UNESCO listed ruins of the ancient capital of Siam

Enjoying the traditional Khantoke Dinner with hill tribe dancing in Chiang Mai

Visiting Wat Prathat Doi Suthep and highlights of the Old City by samlor

Learning some recipes of Thai cuisine in a cooking class

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Thailand Family Travel With Kids

Take in the peaceful ambience of Tha Kha Floating Market and the jungle temple of Wat Bang Koong

Introduce to your kids some of the best cultural wonders in Bangkok: The Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Pho, Wat Arun, and Wat Traimit

Enjoy a wonderful day out with adorable elephants at its natural home - Elephant Nature Park

Visit one of the most famous attractions in Northern Thailand: Doi Suthep Temple

Join in a cooking lesson to learn how to cook local Thai Food with children

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Touring around Bangkok’s some of the most magnificent temples and palaces

Exploring the lively and vibrant atmosphere of Damnoen Saduak floating market and Mae Klong Market

Visiting local workshops to see how to produce coconut sugar and wood carving

Taking time to watch Tiffany Cabaret Show and explore nightly Walking Street in Pattaya

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Tasting northern Thai food and hill tribe dancing in a traditional Khantoke Dinner

Discovering the sacred Wat Prathat Doi Suthep and the Old City of Chiang Mai

Uncovering the secrets of Thai cuisine by a Chiang Mai cooking class

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Tour all the must-see sights of Bangkok: the Royal Grand Palace, the Emerald Buddha, Wat Pho, Wat Arun, Wat Traimit

Enjoy a wonderful night out with Bangkok evening food tour by tuk-tuk

Taste some exotic fruits at Damnernsaduak Floating Market

Watch “The Thai Village” show at Rose Garden to know more about Thai traditions

Soak in the northern culture ambiance of Khantoke Dinner with charming dance shows

Visit the sacred Wat Prathat Doi Suthep and Chiang Mai’s Old City

Uncover the secrets of Thai cuisine by a Chiang Mai cooking class with a local chef

Chiang Mai Relaxing Short Trip

Enjoy a welcoming Khantoke Dinner with hill tribe dancing by local people

Explore Wat Prathat Doi Suthep, one of the most sacred Buddhist temples in Thailand

Hop on a samlor and visit around the city’s highlights: Three Kings Monument, City Art & Cultural Center, Waroros Market

Have fun with a cooking class and cook your own Thai flavors

Visit a center of handicrafts to learn about the production of the local items

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FAQS About Thailand Culinary Tours

How much food is provided for the foodie tour or cooking class.

In our tour package, the average budget for the meal is around 10-15 usd per person. It is the average amount for tourist and if you would like to extend more food, please dont hesitate to let us know, we can amend based on your request.

I noticed that we will join in cooking class, I wonder if we can eat what we cook

Yes, you can. In the cooking class, you will have the chance to cook by yourself with our chef instruction, and we will serve your dishes after the class finished.

If I have some food restriction, is it possible to change to other food

Absolutely! Since our tour is private so we can be flexible to accomodate your request. During our booking process, we will ask for your food restriction or allergies so that we can take note with our restaurant as well as other food suppliers.

Customize Thailand Culinary Tours with us!

We are here to take the stress out of the holiday planning process. Let us help you plan an unforgettable journey of lifetime with High Quality & Affordable Price. Surely, you will feel satisfactory!

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Being the locals, we know the true value of our land. We always listen and arrange everything as your desire.

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Food & Culinary Tours in Thailand

Tantalise your taste buds and sample the finest delicacies of Thailand. With 6 food and culinary adventures lasting from 4 days to 14 days, you're sure to delve into culture and indulge in the traditional cuisine of Thailand!

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I had a fantastic time with my G adventures group - the people were amazing, our CEO was incredible and played a huge part in making the entire trip an incredible and memorable experience! We all learned a lot about Thai culture and history, and of course the fantastic food - M shared his knowledge with us, and accompanied is to amazing food markets. Thailand is an incredible country with fantastic people, and I would love to come back for sure! This trip gave me the confidence to book an even longer tour with G adventures next time.

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I simply LOVED travelling with Feel Free Travel!! From every communication during preparation until the end of the trip I wouldn't change anything. Very nice, well planned, evertyhing included and even with some additional suprise activities during our stay. Our guides Jamie and Jake made everything even more special! They were really great... from helping us to interact as a group to solving other issues they were not even supposed to solve. I love them both!!! I felt like traveling with a big group of old friends. Can't wait to travel with them again!!!

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Bangkok Food Taste, Small Group Tour

The tour was well planned and our tour guide Naa was excellent. She knew what to inform us and help us to learn our Thai cooking skills. I fully enjoyed my stay in Thailand.

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Thailand Real Food Adventure

8 days | take a tantalising culinary journey through bangkok and chiang mai.

Indulge in the complex flavours, fresh aromas and heavenly spices that make Thai food so addictive. Explore bustling markets and taste tropical fruits and aromatic dishes whipped up in front of your eyes. Learn the trick behind making palm sugar, experience the thrill of cruising through Tha Kha Floating Market by paddleboat, slurp noodles alongside locals in Bangkok, enjoy some home-cooking with a family in Chiang Mai, sit down to a khan tok feast and tour all the must-see sights of Thailand. This is an incredible culinary journey through one of South East Asia’s most addictive food cultures.

Trip overview

• Learn how to prepare and present the traditional 11-dish Northern Thai speciality khan tok and experience Thai life from a local's perspective at a village homestay.
• See dishes whipped up before your eyes, like kaeng som, spicy fish cakes at a community farm and roti sai mai at a market food stall in Ayutthaya.
• Cruise Bangkok’s floating market on a paddleboat and sail aboard a longtail boat to an island Buddhist temple in Ayutthaya
• Tuck into your favourite iconic Thai dishes and discover new ones along the way: guay-tieo-ruea (boat noodles), roti sai mai, khao soi, som tum, larb and more.
• Dine on a plant-based meal at a Chiang Mai restaurant that sources organic, local vegetables for their daily array of delicious meals.
• By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, EcoThailand Foundation. Donations help educate school children on important environmental issues like climate change, nature appreciation, conservation and sustainability.
• The cuisine of Thailand includes a lot of meat and seafood. For vegetarians and vegans we recommend reviewing the itinerary and inclusions to ensure that you will be able to fully participate and enjoy this trip. We also have many other trips to Thailand which can accommodate a range of dietary requirements.
• This trip includes an overnight train between Ayutthaya and Chiang Mai. Accommodation is simple but comfortable – soft sleeper class multishare compartments with air conditioning and bunk beds, with sheets and a pillow provided.
• There is one night at a homestay on this trip, a wonderful opportunity to witness everyday Thai life. Facilities can be basic and multishare, with fold-out mattresses on the floor and shared bathrooms. The rewards of such an authentic local experience are immeasurable.

Sa-wat dee! Welcome to Thailand's capital, Bangkok – famous for its tuk-tuks, khlong boats and street vendors serving up delicious Thai dishes. Your food adventure begins this evening with an important welcome meeting at 5pm, but Bangkok has so much on offer that you might like to arrive a day or so early to explore: perhaps uncover the magnificent Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, wander down the tourist mecca of Khao San Road, or indulge in a Thai massage. After the welcome meeting, head out with your group for dinner at popular restaurant Krua Apsorn. After dinner, explore the area and sample some Thai sweets with your leader and fellow travellers.

• Hotel (1 night)
• Bangkok - Welcome Dinner
• Bangkok - Grand Palace - THB500

It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.

After an early breakfast, visit Tha Kha Floating Market. Walk past canals filled with sellers hawking their colourful fruits and wares at this authentic local market, then board a paddleboat to explore the waterways further. The area is well known for coconut palm sugar production and you’ll stop in at a riverside operation to see how it is made. Afterwards, travel back to Bangkok, where you will have a free afternoon to shop, sightsee or simply relax at a cafe. Tonight, head to Chinatown for a walking tour. This is a great place to sample some local street food, so ask your leader for their insight and recommendations. You might also like to join other members of your group to enjoy live music at one of the lively bars in the area.

• Bangkok - Tha Kha Floating Market tour
• Bangkok - Palm Sugar Demonstration
• Bangkok - Chinatown walking tour

After breakfast leave Bangkok and travel by private vehicle to a local village and community farm for an epic day of cooking Central Thai regional specialities and feasting with your hosts. Learn about the age-old agricultural traditions still being practised today and enjoy the freshest ingredients straight from the garden. You will help to prepare a home-cooked lunch of local delicacies, such as kaeng som (green papaya soup), spicy fish cakes and watercress salad with chicken, followed by multiple desserts using ingredients like coconut, rice milk and crispy noodles! Later this afternoon board a longtail boat and cruise the Chao Phraya River to visit a Buddhist temple located on a small, remote island. Head to Ayutthaya city for a free evening to explore and – of course – eat more!

• Ayutthaya - Regional Specialties Cooking Class
• Ayutthaya - Homemade Dessert Making Lesson
• Ayutthaya - Chao Phraya Long Tail Boat Cruise
• Ayutthaya - Wat Niwet Thamma Prawat Visit

Today we explore Ayutthaya, the second capital of Siam after Sukhothai, and once one of the most powerful cities in Asia. Stop by a street food stall for a demonstration and tasting of roti sai mai, a dish synonymous with the Kingdom of Ayutthaya. It consists of a thin pancake wrapped around delicious, fine strands of thin-spun cotton candy. Lunch today is a steaming bowl of guay-tieo-ruea, or boat noodles. The Ayutthaya take on this classic combo of fragrant pork broth, roasted slices of meat, Thai-style pork balls, sliced morning glory stalks, fresh green onion and a choice of rice noodles is considered the original and best. While the food is no longer served out of sampans on the river, the narrow rowboats are used as decoration at roadside eateries to indicate what's on the menu. See the remains and reminders of Ayutthaya’s golden age with a guided tour of the picturesque ruins and temples spread across the town. The rows of headless Buddhas at Wat Phra Mahathat, sacked by the Burmese in the 18th century, are very atmospheric, and a Buddha head surrounded by Banyan tree roots is perhaps the most photographed site in all of Ayutthaya. Freshen up at a hotel and grab a bite to eat before boarding your overnight train to Chiang Mai (approximately 13 hours).

• Overnight sleeper train (1 night)
• Ayutthaya - Temple Ruins entrance & guided tour
• Ayutthaya - Roti Sai Mai demonstration & tasting

You will be accommodated in soft sleeper class on the overnight train to Chiang Mai. Multishare compartments have bunk beds with sheets and a pillow provided, as well as air conditioning. Your baggage travels in the carriage with you. There's a food and drink service available on board but you might like to purchase some snacks before the journey.

Arrive in Chiang Mai by mid-morning. The most vibrant city in Northern Thailand, Chiang Mai has many famous temples and an interesting old city area. Most importantly, Chiang Mai is famous for its Northern Thai cuisine and may well be home to many of your favourite Thai dishes. Lunch today is a plant-based meal at a popular local restaurant that sources organic vegetables from nearby farms for their daily array of delicious meals. Afterwards, take an orientation walk around the streets of the city, stopping at Wat Chedi Luang and enjoying a pick me up at Akha Ama – a social enterprise created by a member of the Akha tribe who wanted to highlight the produce of his community and provide an income source to its coffee growers. Take time to relax and refresh before an included dinner at a local restaurant. If you’re keen to explore further, the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar beckons, full of local handicrafts and fabulous Northern street food dishes.

• Chiang Mai - Wat Chedi Luang entrance
• Chiang Mai - Leader-led Old Quarter orientation walk
• Chiang Mai - Coffee stop

Today you’ll travel to a small Thai village where you’ll meet Aoi, your gracious host for an incredible overnight homestay experience. On the way to Aoi’s village, stop for lunch at a restaurant specialising in the local delicacy of fermented rice noodles. Next, visit some local producers – including a mushroom farm where you'll pick up ingredients for a Northern Thai cooking class. Over the years, a khan tok dinner has become the traditional way to welcome guests in Northern Thailand, with the term ‘khan tok’ meaning both the meal and the raised tray on which it’s served. Eleven dishes are featured on this delicious khan tok menu, so cut, chop and sizzle the day away, then tuck into dishes like nam prik ong (chilli paste with tomatoes), deep fried vegetables, hung leh (curry) and mushroom larb (spicy mushroom salad). Enjoy the fruits of your labour against a backdrop of local musicians singing and dancing.

• Homestay (1 night)
• Homestay - Khan Tok Cooking Class

You can leave your main luggage at the Chiang Mai hotel and pack an overnight bag for the homestay. As we will be staying in a traditional rural community, please be mindful to pack and wear conservative dress. The accommodation tonight is multi-share and basic, but the atmosphere is warm and welcoming. Beds are fold-out mattresses on the floor and bathrooms are shared.

Wake up and enjoy a sumptuous Northern Thai breakfast of gai tod (fried chicken), fried rice, sweet sticky rice and egg custard. Bid farewell to your homestay hosts and take a scenic, winding drive (1.5 hours) to one of the country's most stunning temple complexes: Doi Suthep. A 300-step naga-guarded stairway leads you to the temples, and the climb is well worth the effort. The hypnotic chanting of Buddhist monks and the sweeping views of the city make for a memorable experience. Head back into town for a delicious lunch of khao soi: a curry noodle dish that is renowned in the region. This afternoon you might like to check out the bustling Warorot Market (Kad Luang). One of Chiang Mai’s largest markets and a thriving social hub, this is the perfect place to get a glimpse into daily life, as well as experience some of the ingredients and snacks unique to the regional cuisine. Taste your way through the stalls and be sure to try sai ua (Chiang Mai sausage) or bamboo worms.

• Chiang Mai - Doi Suthep Temple Visit

There are no activities planned for today, and your delicious Real Food Adventure comes to an end this morning. You are free to leave at any time, but this doesn’t mean your own adventure has to end! If you would like to spend more time in Chiang Mai, we’ll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability).

6 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 4 dinners

Private Vehicle, Boat, Overnight Train, Songthaew

Hotel (5 nights), Overnight Sleeper Train (1 night), Homestay (1 nightt)

Dates and availability

Important notes.

1. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement excludes Day 4 (Overnight Train) and Day 6 (Village Homestay) where you will be in shared accommodation, and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information. Please note that some room configurations have two single beds, although a double bed will always be requested. 2. While we endeavour to cater for specific dietary requirements, some meals and food activities are set in advance and may be difficult to adjust. Please advise us of any dietary requirements at the time of booking so that we can ensure you’ll enjoy this trip. 3. This trip starts with a welcome meeting at 5pm on Day 1 in Bangkok. This trip ends on Day 8 in Chiang Mai and you are free to leave at any time.

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

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THE 10 BEST Thailand Food Tours

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1. Bangkok Midnight Food Tuk Tuk Tour

2. Wonderful Pearl Dinner Cruise in Bangkok

3. Manohra Luxurious Dinner Cruise in Bangkok

4. Chaophraya Cruise - Amazing Dinner Cruise

5. Bangkok Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours

6. Southern Flavors Phuket Food Tour with 15+ Tastings

7. Bangkok Food Tour By Night

8. Bangkok Tuk Tuk Food Tour By Night

9. Small-Group Chiang Mai Evening Street Food Tour

10. White Orchid Dinner Cruise in Bangkok

11. Silom Thai Cooking School with Market Tour

12. Go where the locals go, Eat what the locals eat! Food Tour with Local Foodies

13. Phuket Night Food Tour & Old Town's Magical Lights

14. The 10 Tastings of Bangkok: Private Street Food Tour

15. Private Night Street Food Tour of Bangkok's Chinatown

16. Authentic Street Food Tour in China Town Bangkok

17. Private Tour : Bangkok Night Tour and Street food By Tuk Tuk and Boat

18. Evening Bangkok Food and Tuk Tuk Adventure

19. Vertigo Rooftop Fine Dining Experience @ Banyan Tree

20. Lanna Kingdom Chiang Mai Food Tour with 15+ Tastings

21. Experience Bangkok at Night: Chinatown Sightseeing & Street Food Tour

22. Bangkok: White Orchid Dinner Cruise

23. Bangkok: Silom Thai Cooking Class with Market Tour

24. Private Culinary Kickstart Tour of Bangkok with a Local

25. A Taste of Chiang Mai: Private Tour

26. Drinks & Bites in Bangkok Private Tour

27. Bangkok Most Famous Food Experience (Private & All-Inclusive)

28. Shangri-La Hotel's Salathip Thai Restaurant Experience

29. Bangkok Food Tour of Bang Rak with Local Guide

30. Flavors of Bangkok: Small-Group Chinatown Evening Food Tour

What travelers are saying.

8 BEST Food Tours in Bangkok, Thailand

This post contains product affiliate links. These are mainly on items/hotels/tours that I personally endorse & love. I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase, but at no extra cost to you.

It’s time for the best food tours in Bangkok! From a delicious street food tour to a Thai cooking course like no other, check out these Bangkok food tours!

The sights, sounds, smells and tastes of Bangkok are a mix you can’t find anywhere else in the world. It’s a place that’ll set all your senses on fire (literally – the food is mega spicy in Thailand!) That’s why this country is home to some of the world’s best food tours in Bangkok.

For me, it’s the contradictions and contrasts that make Bangkok such an amazing place to visit. I could go from discovering something yummy in a 7-Eleven to munching on a cheap £1 plate of pad Thai on the streets to a sumptuous fine-dining feast with the best views of the city all in a few hours. There aren’t not many places where you can do all of that in a day.

Add in beautiful temples, a bustling nightlife that can rival any and the smiliest people you’ll ever meet and you got the perfect ingredients for one of my favourite cities.

And as you’ll quickly learn from the moment you arrive here, the food really is incredible. You really can’t beat Thai food straight from the source.

Planning a trip to Bangkok? Then check out my guides to the best hotels in Bangkok , what to eat when you’re in the city, and how to celebrate Songkran water festival in Thailand. These guides are packed full of advice and information.

Foodie experiences in Bangkok

From a Bangkok Midnight Food Tour to a trip to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, there’s an intense mix of flavors in Thailand – spicy, sweet, salty, sour.

Influences have flooded in from all corners of the globe making Bangkok one of the best dining destinations in the world. It’s just so diverse and I love all the food on offer here – even the offal.

Also, it’s generally very cheap to eat in Bangkok, so you can get a lot of bang for your buck. The street food isn’t just cheap, it’s quality too. Think £2 for a bowl of Michelin-starred noodles (yes, this is actually a thing here!)

Personally, I think the best way of getting to know the city is on a food tour. Then you get to see all the city has to offer while trying some local delicacies along the way. And let me say this: you’re in for a treat because there are some amazing food tours to choose from.

If you want to eat your way through the city while getting to know the history and the culture, then these are the best Bangkok food tours for you. Go on any of these tours below and you’re in for an amazing time!

Best Food Tours in Bangkok

1. cooking with poo – cooking class in bangkok.

It’s not often you can say this but I loved cooking with Poo!

Poo has become a bit of a legend in Bangkok. She started from very small beginnings in the backstreets of one of the poorer districts of Bangkok. Learning to cook from her mum, people started flocking to her for her delicious food. These days, almost from nothing, she has built one of the best cooking schools in the city.

This cooking class starts off at 8:30am in the Klong Toey wet market. This is where you’ll pick up your ingredients to cook with for the day. What I loved about this was you actually learned about all the different ingredients straight from the source. Also, it really gives you a connection to the local community too.

From the market we then made our way to Poo’s cooking school. In the small intimate setting of her home, we learned how to make a spicy beef salad, pad Thai and a delicious green curry. It’s easy to say this, but it was genuinely some of the best food I had in Thailand. Everything was so simple to make and so delicious too. It really teaches you about Thai food and flavours. Oh, and every day there’s a different menu too so you can keep on coming back to learn new dishes!

One of the best things about cooking with Poo is a lot of the money goes back into the local community, so you’re actually helping the people living around Poo too.

I really do think this is one of the best Bangkok food tours and I can’t recommend it enough!

Cost: £36/$47 per person. You can find out more about this food tour here .

2. Expique’s Evening Food & Tuk Tuk Adventure

This is another Thailand food tour you just have to do while you’re in the capital.

On this food tour you’ll explore the city in your own little tuk tuk (don’t worry, you have a driver too.) This means you can get to those little places that no one else knows about.

What I loved about this tour was we really went off the beaten path. Our first stop was at a tiny food market followed by a tasty hot pot on the streets surrounded by locals. From them on it was a flavour odyssey as we tried anything and everything under city’s lights.

On this Bangkok street food tour you’ll be like a local visiting the most known landmarks like the Old Town temples and the flower markets all with one major difference – it’s without the crowds that you find on usual tours.

Also, our guide Lek was brilliant at explaining everything we were eating. We even got to try a few interesting things like bugs and tripe. It really shows you what the local delicacies are in Bangkok.

I lost count of how many stops and dishes we tried on this food tour. I think we tried well over 10 different dishes so it really is amazing value for money. Also, your tuk tuk driver will drop you off at your hotel at night afterwards too. Bonus! This really is a Bangkok tuk tuk night food tour like no other.

Expique also offer some of their own cooking courses too that I’ve only heard great things about. These are cooking classes with a twist so well worth checking out.

Cost: £57/$74per adult, £28/$37per child (aged 5-11). You can find out more about this food tour here .

3. Local’s Favorite Dishes: Secret Food Tour of Bangkok

Experience a locals’ favorite dishes on this delicious Bangkok street food tour. Dine with others from out of town and discover food stalls, favorite hidden spots, and experience the cultural history and rich foods the area has to offer.

On this tour you get to journey through different parts of Bangkok. Also, make sure you’re hungry as you’ll eat at 6 different places in the city to experience the true taste of Thailand.

The tour will start off with fresh mouthwatering papaya salad that is slightly spicy and will make your taste buds dance. On the next stop, you’re able to experience all the sweet fruit the country has to offer.

Ever tried fishball noodle soup? It’s now one of my favorites (I really mean that!) Be prepared to eat this dish next to a gorgeous temple while appreciating the colorful and vibrant Chinatown.

Sit down here for a nice Thai-style dim sum soup and end your day at the local pub to taste the local beer and share your experiences with others. So much fun!

Cost: £34/$44 per adult, £30/$38 per 13-17-year-old, £26/$33 per 3-12-year-old. You can find out more about this food tour here .

4. The Ultimate Bangkok Bicycle & Boat Tour

I wanted to go for an all-day adventure so I joined the Ultimate Bangkok Bicycle & Boat Tour. Going out of the city, this explores areas far from typical tourist traps.

You’ll enjoy visual cultural contrasts of Muslim and Buddhism, classic and modern, rural and urban.

We began in Chinatown where for about an hour we wandered through pathways with markets, temples, and a vibrant street life.

After a 30 km train ride, we arrived in eastern Bangkok and rode for about 2.5 hours on the paths through neighborhoods and klongs, again noting the strong contrasts of lifestyles along the way.

Next we enjoyed a meal at a local restaurant and a temple before riding on a tail boat in the canals. This is such a good way of getting around and seeing a lot of Bangkok.

A quick bike ride ended at the BTS station and then we rode through urban Bangkok back to the tour beginning, enjoying the unique neighborhoods along the way.

Cost: £55/$70 per adult. You can find out more about this food tour here .

5. Old Town Bangkok Food Tour

Join this tour for a true culinary adventure in Bangkok’s Old Town, one of the best places to eat in Bangkok. In just a few hours you’ll gain all the knowledge you need on one of Thailand’s local culinary scenes.

At these local spots you’ll get the chance to try things like BBQ-pork buns, roasted duck, red curry, and beyond. But not only will you get to try these dishes, but you’ll also go behind the scenes for a personal, hands-on learning experience. You’ll discover a range of tastes in one of Bangkok’s oldest neighborhood.

Sign up for a half-day tour with only a few other visitors. Your Bangkok food guide will introduce you to some of Bangkok’s best chefs who will share their stories and answer any foodie questions you have.

Explore Bangkok’s tastiest neighborhood through abundant samples, street foods, and even fine dining options. You’ll feel like a local in no time!

I think that this 3.5-hour tour is a foodie tourist’s dream. You can pick your favorite spot out of five different locations where you’ll taste over eight delicious culinary delights. But save some room for walking. In between eating you’ll explore hidden neighborhood gems, ancient temples, and some of the local’s favorite spots.

Ever had a Thai green custard bun or the royal recipe for green curry beef and chicken? How about roti? Or Kao-Nha-Ped, roasted duck with rice? Among the many exotic flavors you’ll sample are Som Tam (papaya salad), curry on egg, crisped catfish, coconut ice cream, and iced lemon tea.

Plus as a bonus, you’ll get to try secret dishes available only for the group. It’s a great experience.

Cost: £33/$42 per adult, £26/$33 per child, infants free. You can find out more about this food tour here .

6. Bangkok Chinatown 3.5-Hour Night Food Tour

Do you want a cultural experience that will leave you dreaming of coming back for more? Look no further than the Bangkok Chinatown 3.5-Hour Night Food Tour. During these few incredible hours you will experience Chinatown like never before.

In the 200-year-old Chinatown district, you will experience a variety of foods to satisfy your taste buds. This cuisine ranges from street food vendors to fine dining restaurants. The food will range from herbal teas to sweet treats to satisfying noodle soups. There is no doubt there’s something for everyone on this tour!

In between the 7 delicious food stops on this Bangkok street food tour, you’ll be getting an up close and personal view of the neighborhood. You’ll meet the locals, hear their stories, and develop a deeper understanding of the Chinese culture through religious and symbolic landmarks. For me this is one of the best tours of Bangkok.

Cost: £35/$45 per adult, £28/$36 per child, infants free. You can find out more about this food tour here .

7. Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Bangkok Tour at Ratchaburi

Although Venice is famous for its canals and gondolas, Thailand offers the greatest example of a floating market in Damnoen Saduak Floating Market Bangkok Tour at Ratchaburi. This remnant of yesteryear completely charmed me and ensnared my senses with its vibrant colors and enticing scents.

The tour begins at Gardner’s House, where you will learn the process of making coconut sugar. Learning how to husk the coconuts and extract the milk is a fascinating lesson, and at the end it’s possible that you’ll get to taste some of the final product.

After that, it’s straight to the floating market where hundreds of different types of boats bob together on the water. All sorts of things are available to purchase, including a variety of snacks and foods, clothes and fabric, jewelry, and much, much more.

The floating market at Ratchaburi is a great place to view the friendliness and kindness of local Thai people on full display. They are quite welcoming and eager to barter and banter with travelers, so feel free to immerse yourself in the experience!

Cost: £17/$22 per person. You can find out more about this food tour here .

8. Bangkok Dinner River Cruise

The Chao Phraya Dinner Cruise by Grand Pearl Cruise is a must for anyone who wants to experience the romance of Bangkok. Offering unforgettable views of the city, an exquisite buffet of Thai delicacies, and live music and dance, this experience is sure to delight even the most experienced traveler.

The cruise departs from the River City Pier and takes passengers upriver, past the illuminated visages of the Temple of Dawn, Grand Palace, and Temple of the Golden Buddha. Upon return to the pier, a delightful repast is served, including local and international dishes that are seasoned to perfection.

This dinner cruise by the Grand Pearl is truly an experience like no other, and one that is sure to leave one with amazing memories of Bangkok. What a wonderful way to experience this amazing city!

Cost: £37/$47 per adult. You can find out more about this food tour here .

So, out of these Bangkok food tours which one catches your eye? I would love to know which one you’d go on so let me know in the comments below!

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About the Author

Macca Sherifi is the founder of the multiple award-winning blogs An Adventurous World and the Great British Bucket List. Every month he inspires over 200,000 avid readers to travel the world.

2 thoughts on “8 BEST Food Tours in Bangkok, Thailand”

Was it really that good? Bangkok and any other Asian country has such interesting street food. I think I’m craving it now!

Yeah, these food tours are really great – I’d definitely recommend them the next time you’re in Bangkok!

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Taste of Thailand Culinary Tour

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Places visited, suggested duration, customizable itinerary, bangkok – tasteful beginnings.

Welcome to Bangkok, Thailand, the metropolis filled with unexpected tranquility hidden within the secret niches that make the city your own. You will be met at the airport by a private transfer who will take you to your plush hotel located along the bustling streets of the cityscape. The Peninsula Bangkok offers you the luxuries of modern Thailand overlooking the expansive city that surrounds you. The afternoon is yours to explore the city at your own pace. Initially the sidewalks of the metropolis can be a bit overwhelming; however, you will quickly become an expert at maneuvering the streets as you discover the open friendliness of the people. The aroma of fresh noodles and lemongrass fill the air. Stroll through serene Lumpini Park, known as a ‘tranquil oasis,’ within the fast paced rush of the city. The large pond reflects the shimmering skyscrapers, the trees offer respite from the sunlight, both are entangled within the city but seem to be miles apart.

What's Included:

Bangkok – Taking it to the Street

The morning sun reaches over the horizon and you can see the orange-robed Buddhist monks parading single file through the city streets. The morning ritual brings the dedicated out to the sidewalks offering rice or cookies, along with donations to the monks to help support their daily, pious lives. After breakfast you will journey to Wat Po to hear the morning chanting ritual that brings in the new day in a collective, deep hymn. The gracefully elongated reclining Buddha stretches over 120 feet long and adornments glitter along the temple walls and even on the underside of Buddha’s feet. Touring through the Grand Palace will bring you to the exquisite Emerald Buddha, the most celebrated and ornate statue in Thailand. The illustrious green figure watches over the lavish gallery located within the Royal vicinity, and the King changes the statue’s robes once a season.

In the afternoon you will find yourself in the neighborhood of Bangrak where you will experience the historic food on an adventure behind the local sights and flavors of the well-known neighborhood. To locals, the area is a center of diverse and still local flavors. From home-style mom and pop cuisine to superb restaurant displayed dishes, you will be able to taste the down-home cooking that has brought Thai cuisine to the forefront of the international palette. From vibrant fried prawns that maintain their glowing orange color to grilled pineapple and forceful bird’s eye chili; one taste and you will never want the tour to end.

Bangkok – When Elephants Are Blue

After a lush breakfast you will venture out to the historic Blue Elephant restaurant, open since 1980 and known for bringing Royal Thai cuisine to the world. You will meet your guide who will tour you through the local market in search of ingredients. You can watch, listen, point, try, and order the freshest produce, from jackfruit to lettuce, including fresh, daily caught seafood. The restaurant is located within a historic mansion that harkens back to the days of colonial architecture, featuring arched window and tiered roofs. Your guide and instructor will demonstrate each dish, giving you a tasting of the vivacious ginger or subtle spice before you attempt to prepare the cuisine yourself. The secrets of the cuisine, known for its deceptive simplicity, are told to you through instruction, flavor, and offer something to take home with you. In the evening you will be able to dine at Alzamendi at Iniala, a three-Michelin-star restaurant that carefully assembles some of the best of the various and focused culinary traditions of the city.

Bangkok – Fabulous House and Royal Cuisine

Today you will journey to the fabulous house of Jim Thompson, an American who settled in Thailand after World War II and helped rebuild and restructure the Thai silk industry. His home was once transferred from Ayutthaya to Bangkok, and is now a grand combination between eastern and western architecture, sitting beneath the dangling shade of banyan trees. The checkered tile entryway and enrapturing porch are touches of the western style while the 17th century standing Buddha sits beneath a charming lighting arrangement and promotes the eastern sensibility. As the day continues you will begin another tour of the Mandarin Oriental with a three-hour cooking class. The menus are themed and change monthly, giving you a unique course and look inside Thai cuisine. You could try your hand at making lotus leaf rice or even prawn dumplings, tasting the flavors every step of the way. The kitchen fills with the fresh aroma of herbs, where lemongrass gives off a floral fragrance. When the dumplings begin to cook you can hear the sizzle and imagine the sensational flavors to come.

Chiang Mai – Urban Jungle to Mountainous Jungle

In the morning you will have a luscious breakfast before transferring to the airport and finding yourself within a city surrounded by plush forest. Chiang Mai is considered the capital of the north and upon your arrival you will be greeted by a private transfer to begin your fabulous exploration. Wat Suan Dok is a temple that was built in the 14th century standing just outside of the ancient city walls. The prayer hall is unique because of its size and its open sides, giving a view of the surrounding foliage. Beside the tree line is a series of lavish white-washed shrines that radiate in the morning sun. After a stupendous visit to the mountain Doi Suthep, and the adorning temple known for its panorama and the 309 steps that ascend beneath the marvelous dangling forest, you will find comforts in the Anantara Chiang Mai Hotel. The pool resembles a pond, surrounded by blossoming lily pads. The rooms open out to a view of the ever-present jungle. You have found that the flavors of Thailand do not reside in the food alone.

Chiang Mai – Land of 1,000 Rice Fields

There is an image that lives in your mind when you think of Southeast Asia, a place overrun with the beauty of sweeping rice fields and the incredible fragrance of sesame oil. Today you will journey outside of the Chiang Mai spending the day in Khum Lanna, founded in the 13th century. The property is surrounded by mountains, located within a small valley and neighbored by the quaint village of Phrao. The orchards sparkle in the sunlight and the emerald-green fields are mesmerizing. You are led through the garden to begin your tour. The vegetables are remarkable, vibrant, and perfumed by the surrounding herbs. Gather your ingredients and ready yourself for the demonstration to come. Five diverse dishes will be exhibited, from ingredients to preparation, displaying the wonderful cuisine, simple techniques, and flavorful outcome. After lunch you will travel on a bicycle tour along the lively fields to visit a traditional healer, where you will learn about the traditions of herbal medicine that have grown throughout time within the culture of the region, before returning to Chiang Mai.

Chiang Mai – In and Around the Walls

The day brings with it endless adventure that will take you throughout the Chiang Mai. After breakfast you will journey along the fabulous San Kamphaeng district, home to the heart of the silk and cotton industries, where you can watch the intricate weaving process and see the splendid colorful final products. Wander through “Umbrella Village,” at Bor Sang, where you can stroll the paper umbrella-clad aisles that are filled with remarkable color and which somewhat resemble a fabulous, blossoming garden. The afternoon brings with it a feast for the senses with a small cooking class at  A Lot of Thai, a family run class established in 2001. Your instructor blends science and tradition bringing the flavors and culture of the food to rich, new life. You are familiar with the comfortable flavors; however, the technique adds new depth to pad Thai and massaman curry. They even tout a visit from acclaimed chef Gordon Ramsey.

Phuket – Flavors of the Forest to the Sea

When morning comes you will make your way to the airport to catch your flight to the stunning island of Phuket. A private transfer will pick you up from the airport and have you journeying through the islands grandeur where the mountains are filled with fabulous jungles and the beaches are no less than effervescent. Look out over the exceptional panorama from Phuket Viewpoint where you can see the trees sloping down into the cityscape and the distant pure water glittering in the sunlight. Afterwards you will be taken to a cashew factory to experience the delights and importance of the nut in various Thai dishes. Before traversing the streets of the centuries-old Phuket Town, filled with quintessential Sino-Portuguese architectural beauty, your tour through the factory gives you more than just history and culture but also a taste of the fantastic cashew whose crunch and flavor you have come to know well throughout your time in Thailand. As your tour winds down you will settle into the grand comforts of The Surin Hotel, where a one-bedroom superior cottage is dressed and ready to welcome you.

Phang Nga – Somewhere Along the Sea

Today can take an optional adventure out onto the luxurious water that surrounds the island for a tour of the sensational Phang Nga Bay. The June Bahtra eases through the glass-clear water where various shades of blue shimmer in the morning light. The rocky edges of Phuket have glistening limestone that peeks beneath the carpet of trees. At the edges of James Bond Island, named for its cameo in The Man with the Golden Gun , the limestone karsts are as magnificent in person as they seemed in the movie, almost unreal in their magnitude. On Panak Island and Hong Island you will explore the varied labyrinth of mangrove swamps. It’s almost as if you have stepped back in time into the Louisiana bayou, with dangling barren vines and remarkably clear water that reflects the green canopy. Monkeys run along the branches, birds chirp in their hidden niches within the leaves, and you have found a flavor of Thailand that you had yet to have tasted.

Phang Nga – Within the Wondrous Caves

Another day on the island brings you back out along the Andaman Sea and its calm, immaculate water. At the edges of the Phang Nga Bay National Marine Park you will be able to paddle through the bay in a canoe that will glide you through the maze of islands, allowing you to explore the varied grottos and hidden lagoons up close. The limestone dangles down from the powerful and imposing cliffs, with edges that look like they have melted and frozen over time. It is easier to see the clarity of the water as you drift and paddle along the soft cool surface. In the evening you will come to the final tastes of Thailand cuisine at Aziamendi in Iniala where the essence of tradition gives a decadence to the light flavors. Your final dinner in Thailand will be memorable in everyway, offering you one last taste of the country’s fresh quality.

Bangkok – Endless Flavor Undone

Once more you will awaken to the rich and fresh flavors of breakfast, where pineapple juice and coconut help bring in the new day. After your delightful meal you will have a private transfer to the airport where your flight will be ready to ferry you back home. Your time in Thailand brought you the diverse flavors of the country, from delicate to forceful, minty to spicy, as well as the styles of cooking that vary from north to south and from town to town. As you journey home you know you will never forget the exquisite food and remarkable people that have made the tastes of Thailand more than just a vacation but a wonderful experience. You may even consider extending your trip. For trip extension ideas, be sure to browse the reviews for travel agents for Thailand .

Trip Highlights

• Experience the culinary mastery of Thailand with special tasting and cooking classes that are meant to show you the secrets and diversity of Thai cuisine
• Traverse the marveled temples and grandeur of Bangkok’s opulent history and modernity 
• Visit the remarkable architecture of Jim Thompson’s house that combines the styles of both the East and West
• Enjoy the panorama of Chiang Mai from the summit of Doi Suthep
• Discover the mesmerizing landscape and flavors of the pristine resort Khum Lanna
• Journey along the immaculate water of Phang Ng Bay 
• Dine at luxurious restaurants discovering the traditional flavors of Thailand as well as the ingenuity of newer fusions

Detailed Description

There is an endless flavor to Thailand that will guide you through the mesmerizing tastes, from north to south, on this 11-day culinary tour. From the spicy cuisine of the south to the hardy dishes of the north, the vibrant produce to perfect seafood, you will have the wonderful traditions of Thai cooking before you. The flavors range from fusion to customary; each focusing on the particular hints that you know well and many that are unfamiliar, making Thailand a haven for food-lovers. From herbaceous to spicy, succulent to sweet, you will find comfort and quintessence within the food and throughout your tour of Thailand . 

Begin your culinary exploration with your arrival in Bangkok. The city wraps around the horizon on either side of you filling the view with urban landscape and skyscrapers. The beauty of the metropolis is within its hidden niches and small flavors, from quiet parks with serene walkways, to the always exciting cuisine. A private tour takes you through the flavors of the city, from the temples to the streets, where Wat Po brings chanting monks, the Grand Palace brings immaculate architecture and an Emerald Buddha, and wandering through historic Bangkok shows you the splendor of a locally known food-driven neighborhood. 

The next day you will meet your guide and chef at the Blue Elephant restaurant located within a historic mansion. Follow the chef through the local market to experience the fresh scents and flavors of Bangkok before learning the famous dishes of the eatery. In the evening you will have the option to dine at Sirocco, located on the 64th floor of the State Tower with an immaculate view of the sparkling city. An alternate option for an exquisite meal is at Nahm, Bo Lan, Sra bua, where the delicate flavors of traditional Thailand fare will melt in your mouth and ease your palette. A visit to Jim Thompson’s House displays the influence that the west has had on the vibrant silk industry, while the afternoon has you indulging in a Royal Thai cooking class at the marvelous Mandarin Oriental.

Continue your flavorful adventure in Chiang Mai and visit the remarkable Wat Suan Dok just outside of the city walls. You will delight in a lunch of khao soy , a wonderful creamy curry over egg noodles, before visiting the temple where the Emerald Buddha was originally housed. Visiting Khum Lanna is a special treat, located within the mountains of an area that was once ruled by a kingdom which overtook Myanmar and Laos. The tour brings you through the fabulous garden and eventually has you observing a demonstration of, in addition to tasting, five diverse dishes before visiting an acclaimed herbalist at Aui Kham’s house. 

Back in Chiang Mai you will have a tour through various neighborhoods that specialize in the silk, cotton, and even paper umbrella industry before partaking in a cooking course with A Lot of Thai. Once in Phuket you will traverse the fabulous flavors of the island, from its cashew nut factory to the grand Sino-Portuguese architecture of Phuket Town. An optional cruise on the June Bahtra will take you out along Phang Nga Bay, to visit James Bond Island and the magnificent reef around Khai Nai Island. The next day you will journey deeper into the Phang Nga Bay National Marine Park, by way of canoe, to witness the grottos and lagoons. In the evening you will dine at Alzamendi at Iniala; this three-Michelin-star restaurant will offer some unforgettable Thai fare, and when your vacation ends you will know that you have found, tasted, and enjoyed the diverse flavors of Thailand. 

Starting Price

$3,141  per person (excluding international flights)

Your Zicasso trip is fully customizable, and this sample itinerary is a starting place for your travel plans. Actual costs are dynamic, and your selection of accommodations and activities, your season of travel, and other such variables will bring this budget guideline up or down. Throughout your planning experience with your Zicasso specialist, your itinerary is designed around your budget. You can book your trip when you are satisfied with every detail. Planning your trip with a Zicasso travel specialist is a free service.

What's Included

• Accommodations
• In-country transportation
• Some or all activities and tours
• Expert trip planning
• 24x7 support during your trip

Your final trip cost will vary based on your selected accommodations, activities, meals, and other trip elements that you opt to include.

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All-inclusive Thailand Food and Cooking Tour October 23, 2024-October 31,2024

Join us for a 9-night/10-day thailand culinary tour.

Join us for a fantastic all-inclusive Thailand Food Tour!

Table of Contents

On this food-focused trip, a small group of us will head on a 10-night, 9-day tour to Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket, and a few local stops along the way.

The trip will be a mix of significant sites in Thailand, smaller villages, and local shops. Each itinerary includes expert-led tours, cooking classes, market visits, boutique accommodations, and a great group of fellow travelers.

Unlike other food tours that charge $5,000 per person with very few meals included, our low-priced Thailand food tour takes care of you all the way and in great style.

We went to Thailand in 2019. That trip was to Bangkok, Pattaya, and Chiang Mai. You can scroll through pictures of that trip here . This trip will be to Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket.

• Fill out this form  and pay a $ 1,000 per person nonrefundable deposit
• Remainder due July 31, 2024

U PCOMING TRIP DATES

October 23, 2024 – October 31, 202 4

THAILAND FOOD TRIP ITINERARY

October 23, 2024 day 01 – arrive in bangkok.

Arrival || Group Transfer to Hotel || Dinner || Overnight in Bangkok

• NOTE: Many of us try to arrive the day before so we can deal with jetlag and allow for any travel mishaps. If so, we can help organize an extra night at the hotel.
• Arrive in Bangkok : Airport code BKK.
• Transfer to Hotel : You will be met at the airport or your arrival point and transferred to your 4-star hotel in Bangkok. If you come early enough, you can get a Thai Massage.
• Welcome Dinner at a Local Café : In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner at a local café, where you can savor traditional Thai cuisine. Your Thailand food tour has now begun!
• Overnight : You will spend the night at your 4-star hotel in Bangkok. You will stay here for the next three nights.

24 th OCTOBER DAY 02 –BANGKOK

Breakfast || Visit to the Grand Palace || Temple of the Emerald Buddha and Boat ride|| Phoomjai Gardens || Lunch and Thai Dessert Class || Street food tour by Tuk Tuk || Overnight in Bangkok .

• Breakfast in Bangkok: Begin your day with a sumptuous Thai breakfast at the hotel
• Discovering the Grand Palace: Explore the rich history and architecture of the Grand Palace in Bangkok, a must-visit landmark for travelers.
• Temple of the Emerald Buddha: Dive into the spiritual significance of the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, also known as Wat Phra Kaew.
• Scenic Boat Ride: Enhance your journey with a relaxing boat ride along the Chao Phraya River, offering breathtaking views of the city.
• Phoomjai Gardens: Immerse yourself in the tranquility of Phoomjai Gardens, a botanical haven in Bangkok.
• Lunch and Thai Dessert Class: Enjoy a delectable lunch at a local restaurant, followed by a hands-on Thai dessert class to learn the art of creating sweet treats.
• Culinary Adventure by Tuk Tuk: Embark on an exciting street food tour by Tuk Tuk, savoring a variety of authentic Thai flavors.
• Overnight in Bangkok: Think of all the wonderful experiences you’ve had today! Get a good night’s sleep and get ready to dive into Thai culture and Thai cuisine again tomorrow

25 th OCTOBER DAY 03 –BANGKOK

Breakfast || Visit the floating market|| Coconut Plantation|| Seafood Lunch || Dinner at local restaurant|| Calypso Cabaret Show || Overnight in Bangkok .

• Hotel Breakfast: Begin your day with a delightful breakfast at your hotel. Your taste of Thailand can include spicy Thai flavors, soothing rice dishes, as well as Western dishes.
• Floating Market Exploration: Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Bangkok’s floating market. A unique Thai market with local vendors and traditional as well as contemporary goods.
• Coconut Plantation Visit: Discover the intricacies of coconut farming and production at a local plantation. Learn about coconut farming and how coconut sugar is made.
• Seafood Lunch: Savor a delectable seafood lunch showcasing the freshest catches from the sea.
• Dinner at Local Restaurant: Enjoy a memorable dinner at a local restaurant, describing the dishes and the unique ambiance.
• Calypso Cabaret Show: Attend the captivating Calypso Cabaret Show. This live entertainment Bangkok Cabaret is a glimpse into the Thai Katoy culture.
• Overnight in Bangkok: Enjoy a good night’s rest at your hotel.

26 th OCTOBER DAY 04 –CHIANG MAI

Breakfast || Fly to Chiang Mai| Explore Chiang Mai via trishaw|| Lunch at local cafe|| Check into Hotel|| Dinner at local restaurant|| Overnight in Chiang Mai .

• Hotel Breakfast: Begin your day with a scrumptious breakfast at your hotel.
• Fly to Chiang Mai: Travel to Chiang Mai with the rest of your tour friends. Chiang Mai, located in northern Thailand, is a vibrant and culturally rich city known for its culinary delights, historic temples, and picturesque landscapes.
• Trishaw Tour of Chiang Mai: Explore Chiang Mai via a trishaw, a light, two-wheeler carriage pulled by a bicycling guide. Discover Chiang Mai’s charm with an immersive trishaw tour, guided by a local expert. This eco-friendly exploration allows you to soak in the city’s unique atmosphere.
• Lunch at a Local Cafe: Enjoy a delightful lunch at a local cafe. Your culinary experience includes sharing local cuisine served family style with your fellow travelers.
• Hotel Check-In: Check into your hotel in Chiang Mai and rest up. a little.
• Dinner at a Local Restaurant: Conclude the day with a flavorful dinner at a local restaurant.
• Overnight in Chiang Mai: Rest and rejuvenate for another exciting day in this captivating city.

27 th OCTOBER DAY 05 –CHIANG MAI

Breakfast || Cooking Class and Lunch|| Visit Pattara Elephant Farm & Care Program| Seafood Lunch || Dinner at local restaurant|| Calypso Cabaret Show || Overnight in Chiang Mai .

• Breakfast in the Hotel in Chiang Mai: Begin your day with a sumptuous breakfast at our hotel in Chiang Mai.
• Cooking Class and Lunch: Immerse yourself in the rich Thai culinary culture with a Thai cooking class. Learn the art of creating authentic Thai dishes under the guidance of skilled local chefs. After your culinary lesson, savor the fruits of your labor during a delectable lunch, enjoying the flavors you’ve crafted.
• Visit Pattara Elephant Farm & Care Program: Embark on a heartwarming journey to Pattara Elephant Farm & Care Program, where you can connect with these gentle giants. Learn about elephant conservation efforts and the ethical treatment of these animals in a beautiful natural setting.
• Seafood Lunch: Indulge in a seafood feast for lunch. Chiang Mai’s seafood offerings are renowned for their freshness and flavor.
• Dinner at Local Restaurant: As the evening sets in, savor the local flavors of Chiang Mai by dining at a charming local restaurant. Explore the diverse cuisine of Northern Thailand and discover hidden gems that only the locals know.
• Calypso Cabaret Show: For an entertaining evening, attend the world-famous Calypso Cabaret Show. Marvel at the dazzling performances, vibrant costumes, and captivating music, making for a memorable night filled with laughter and excitement.
• Overnight in Chiang Mai: Conclude your day by resting in your hotel in chiang Mai. to Bangkok, where you’ll find a comfortable place to rest and rejuvenate for more culinary adventures in the bustling city.

28 th OCTOBER DAY 06 –CHIANG MAI /PHUKET

Breakfast || Alms giving|| Fly to Phuket || Visit Old Phuket Town || Paranangan Cuisine Dinner || Overnight in Phuket

• Breakfast: Start your day with a delicious breakfast that will energize you for the adventures ahead.
• Alms Giving: Partake in the heartwarming tradition of almsgiving, a spiritual and cultural experience that allows you to connect with the local community and gain insights into Thai Buddhism.
• Fly to Phuket: Embark on a scenic flight to Phuket, a tropical paradise known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and delectable cuisine.
• Visit Old Phuket Town: Explore the historic and charming Old Phuket Town, a place where history and culture converge. Stroll through colorful streets, admire colonial architecture, and immerse yourself in the town’s unique ambiance.
• Paranangan Cuisine Dinner: Indulge in a culinary journey with a sumptuous Paranangan cuisine dinner. This is a unique opportunity to savor the exotic flavors of the region, where traditional recipes come to life.
• Overnight in Phuket: Conclude your day in Phuket with a comfortable overnight stay, preparing you for more enchanting experiences in this captivating island destination.

29 th OCTOBER DAY 07 – PHUKET

Breakfast || Phang Nga Bay & James Bond Island|| Sea kayak to Limestone Caves || Picnic Lunch || Return to Phuket || Dinner|| Overnight in Phuket

• Breakfast: Kickstart your day with a delightful breakfast, setting the tone for an exciting adventure in Phuket.
• Phang Nga Bay & James Bond Island: Embark on a captivating journey to Phang Nga Bay and the iconic James Bond Island, known for its breathtaking limestone formations. Witness the natural wonders that have graced the silver screen, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
• Sea Kayak to Limestone Caves: Experience the magic of Phang Nga Bay up close to sea, kayaking through tranquil waters to explore limestone caves and hidden gems. This adventure will immerse you in the beauty of the region.
• Picnic Lunch: Take a break and enjoy a delightful picnic lunch amidst the stunning natural surroundings, savoring delicious cuisine in a picturesque setting.
• Return to Phuket: After a day of exploration, return to Phuket, where you can unwind and prepare for the evening’s activities.
• Dinner: Satisfy your culinary cravings with a delectable dinner, sampling local or international dishes, making it a perfect end to your day of adventures.
• Overnight in Phuket: Rest in comfort and style as you prepare for more exciting experiences on your journey in Phuket.

30 th OCTOBER DAY 08 – PHUKET

Breakfast || Bang Rong Community Tour|| Rubber Plantation || Coconut Plantation and Thai Dessert Class || Seafood Lunch|| Private Catamaran Yacht Sunset Cruise to Coral Island|| Farewell Dinner|| Overnight in Phuket

• Breakfast in Phuket: Begin your day with a delicious breakfast in Phuket, setting the stage for another day of exciting adventures.
• Bang Rong Community Tour: Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture by taking a tour of the charming Bang Rong community, where you can connect with the warm and welcoming residents.
• Rubber Plantation: Explore a local rubber plantation and gain insights into the production of this valuable natural resource, learning about its significance in the region.
• Coconut Plantation and Thai Dessert Class: Delve into the world of coconuts and Thai desserts with a hands-on class. Learn to create traditional Thai sweets and enjoy the fruits of your labor.
• Seafood Lunch: Indulge in a delectable seafood feast for lunch, savoring the freshest catches of the day.
• Private Catamaran Yacht Sunset Cruise to Coral Island: Embark on a private catamaran yacht cruise to Coral Island, where you’ll witness a breathtaking sunset over the Andaman Sea, creating unforgettable memories.
• Farewell Dinner: Celebrate the conclusion of your journey with a memorable farewell dinner, relishing the diverse flavors of Phuket one last time.
• Overnight in Phuket: Retire to your comfortable accommodation in Phuket, reminiscing about the remarkable experiences of your culinary travel adventure.

31 st OCTOBER DAY 09 – PHUKET

Breakfast ||Transfer to Phuket Airport (HKT) for Departure

• Breakfast: Enjoy a final breakfast in Phuket, savoring the last flavors of your culinary adventure in this tropical paradise.
• Transfer to Phuket Airport (HKT) for Departure: Bid farewell to Phuket as you are transferred to Phuket Airport (HKT) for your departure. Reflect on the wonderful memories created during your journey as you head to your next destination.
• Fill out this f orm and pay a $1,000 per person nonrefundable deposit.
• Remainder due July 3 1, 2024

WHAT’S INCLUDED

• All  accommodations
• Breakfast, lunch, & dinner  on all tour days
• All in-country travel
• Private transportation for the grou p in an air-conditioned bus
• Entrance fees
• Estimated $80 airfare from BKK – Chiang Mai (Subject to change)
• Estimated $220 airfare from Chiang Mai to Phuket (Subject to change)
• Experienced  English-speaking Driver / Guide
• Pick up at Bangkok Airport
• Transfer to Phuket airport
• Boat rides as specified in the itinerary
• Tips and gratuities to Driver / Guide, porters, and wait staff.
• Water at meals (All other drinks are extra)

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED

• Transportation / International Airfares from your home  to Bangkok or from Phuket
• Individual  transfers from the  hotel to the  airport
• Any i ncidental expenses  
• Required  travel insurance
• Any meals not listed in the itinerary
• Any  extra excursions  or events you plan
• Alcoholic drinks, massages, extra snacks, telephone calls, or laundry
• A nything from room service or the hotel minibar
• Note that the trip begins in Bangkok and ends in Phuket.

Payment Schedule

• $1,000  non-refundable deposit , payable immediately (please do not ask for it back, no matter what)
• The remainder of the payment is due by  July 31, 2024 . I will invoice you the remaining amount. You can pay in installments or total by July 31st.
• Please note we will only run this trip with 15 or more guests. If the trip has fewer attendees  60 days before the trip, we will cancel and refund your deposit. 

Put down your $1,000/person deposit ASAP

Our trips typically fill quickly. We will be limiting it to the first 30 people who send their deposit. Fill out this form immediately and Great Culinary Travels will send you an invoice. You can pay from the invoice directly.

First Come, First Served

• We will take the first 30 bookings (which means the first deposits).
• Everyone else will be put on a waitlist.
• It is very important to put down your deposit as soon as possible

If you do not have a travel partner, you can purchase a single occupancy room and have it all to yourself! If you would like a roommate, please post in the Facebook group and see if someone is interested in rooming with you. It is up to you to find a suitable roommate.

If you don’t get along with your roommate, GCT is not responsible for this 🙂

Required Document

• Required Waiver . We need you to sign a waiver holding Teknilogic Inc. not responsible for any travel mishaps. Instead, please get travel insurance so you are covered.
• Required Trip Insurance.  Please note that trip insurance is required to join us on a Great Culinary Travel trip. FYI, most major credit cards (such as American Express, CHASE Sapphire, and Capital One) offer complimentary insurance when you purchase using their card.
• Required COVID-19 Vaccination card . We are cautious to protect ourselves on these trips. No one will be allowed to travel without proof of vaccination.

P lease read our FAQs page to answer any other questions you may have.

Our Culinary Tours Travel Philosophy

We choose places where the US dollar is strong, the food culture rocks, and the locals benefit from our visits. The tours are food and learning-focused. We combine a few tourist activities with activities and places that regular tourists rarely see.

We want you to experience the country as the locals do while not skipping major sites. These are first-class trips, and we make them as all-inclusive as possible. From the time you arrive, until you leave, you will only need your wallet to shop or order alcohol and other incidentals. Food, drink, transport, and ALL TIPS are included in your very low price!

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Thailand Culinary Tours & Cooking Classes

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Phuket food tour

PHUKET FOOD TOUR - There's a reason why Thailand's biggest island was crowned with UNESCO gastronomy status - for centuries this trading outpost has absorbed spices and techniques from far-fetched lands. This isn’t a place for Thai green curry or spicy som tum salads; that’s mainland fare.

If you truly want to understand what makes Phuket’s culinary scene tick, you’d be one wonton short of a noodle bowl not to drag yourself off the island’s sun-kissed beaches and join us on our four-hour Phuket food tour feast around the back alleys and Sino-Thai streets of old Phuket Town, ground zero for island eating.

On our Phuket food tour you’ll be wrapping your chopsticks around 14+ tastes: sticky handmade fresh spring rolls, wok-fried mee hoon , Hokkien noodles peppered with delicate prawn wontons and char sui barbecue pork, leaf-wrapped miang kham bites, spiced chicken curry puffs, gaeng som fish curry along with plenty more culinary surprises to boot.

We promise that when our Phuket food tour comes to its sweet conclusion you’ll have a much better appreciation of what the island flavours are all about. Don’t worry, the palm-fringed beaches will still be there - we just can’t guarantee you’ll still want to eat your hotel beach bar's Thai green curry any longer.

Dates not available? Prefer an earlier experience? Try our lunchtime Phuket food tour .

It's been a tough couple of years, but our Phuket food tours are open again 👋

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Why this tour is awesome

Our Phuket food tours have been voted the #1 culinary experience on the island. Why? Because our Phuket food tours don’t focus on ‘Thai’ cooking - it’s a journey through Baba and Perankan food history where you’ll peel back the layers of Chinese, Malay influences on the island’s gastronomy, learn about the ingredients and history of the dishes and find out why it’s been granted UNESCO World Heritage intangible status for it’s food. Slip on some comfortable shoes, loosen up a few notches of the belt buckle and get set for this moveable island feast.

Namtan was born and raised in Thailand's South. She grew up eating the kind of dishes that the island is known for - gaeng som curries and sweet moo hong pork stews. Join her Phuket food tour for a journey through the island's dishes.

Fujian crepes wrapped around tofu, char sui pork, bean sprouts, greens and tamarind sauce.

Sticky handmade fresh poh pia fresh spring rolls.

A deceivingly simple bowl of Phuketian soy sauce mee hoon noodles with pork broth.

Visit spots in old Phuket Town you'd never find alone.

Meet the people behind the food.

Try dishes you won't find anywhere else in Thailand.

A steamy bowl of Hokkien noodles with prawn wontons.

Foodie surprises around every corner.

Dainty dim sum, a Phuketian speciality.

A sweet conclusion to your Phuket food tour.

• Price US $59 per person
• Language English
• Small group Maximum of 8 guests
• Tastings 15 tasting menu
• Drinks Bottled water and local drinks
• Duration 15h00 - 19h00
• Guide Led by one of our superb Phuket food hosts
• Cancellation Cancel up to 48 hours
• Family friendly Children welcome
• Transport Walking tour
• Instant confirmation Book and confirm
• Pick up / drop off Not included

Dietary information

• Lactose free Suitable for lactose intolerant
• Vegetarian Unsuitable for vegetarians
• Vegan Unsuitable for vegans
• Gluten free Unsuitable for gluten intolerant
• Pork free Pork free not available

What are our Phuket food tours all about?

How to book

To join our Phuket food tour, use the calendar above to select your preferred date. If you have any special requests, would like to book a private Phuket food tour, or have any dietary requirements, please  contact us . Safety of our customers is our first priority, so if you have any food allergies, please  contact us  before booking.

What to expect

Our Phuket food tour is designed for adventurous eaters with an interesting in discovering what  Peranakan cuisine . It's a walking tour, but the pace is gentle, the terrain flat and there are plenty of eating stops along the way. Join us on the most intriguing food tour in Phuket.

Meeting point

Our Phuket food tour departs from just outside  Jui Tui Shrine near the heart of the old town. It's easy to reach the rest of the island and at the end of the tour, your guide can help you find transport back. There will be more details on your booking voucher. 

Cancellation Policy

Why you should book with us.

• Recipes By Region
• Exploring Thai Food

A Culinary Tour of Thailand

• Northern Regional Cuisine
• Northeast Regional Cuisine
• Southern Regional Cuisine
• Central Plains Regional Cuisine

Food of Bangkok

Vegetarian/vegan food, culinary food tours.

Thailand can be divided into five main culinary regions, the north (including the city of Chiangmai), the northeast, the south (including the Gulf of Thailand), the central plains, and Bangkok . Each region has its own cooking style according to available ingredients and local tastes. Try sampling recipes from the various regions to get a feeling for Thai cooking as a whole—you will find your culinary instincts relate better to some areas more than others. This, in turn, will give you a clue as to where you might like to travel if ever you have a chance to visit Thailand and taste Thai food at its magnificent source.

Food of the North (Including the City of Chiangmai)

Until the late 1800s, this region of Thailand existed almost as a separate kingdom, with a fortress composed of rivers, mountains, and trees. Within this isolation, the northern Thai people developed a distinct dialect as well as their own unique style of cooking.

Unlike the south, there are no coconut trees, hence no coconut milk . Unless it is brought in or comes from a river, fish is not eaten in this landscape of hills, valleys, and farmland. Red meat of all kinds is more common here, along with various vegetable dishes (both raw and cooked). Sticky rice is eaten daily, not necessarily as a dessert (like in other regions), but to accompany these spicy meat dishes. An example of a northern curry is Thai jungle curry.  Other dishes from northern Thailand include various types of spicy dips used to add flavor to raw vegetables, or used as a wrap as in lettuce wraps .

Food of the Northeast

The northeast is perhaps the poorest region of Thailand, also known as Isaan. Droughts are common and the heat during the day can be oppressive. Like in the north, fish and coconut milk are not readily available for everyday home cooking. When animals are eaten, no part is left to waste. Beef (including tongue, stomach, intestines, heart, and liver) is common, as are chicken, pork, and even boar. Cooking methods here include much roasting or broiling. Clear curries are popular, while the most famous dish of the region is green papaya salad , often eaten with sticky rice .

Food of the South (Including the Gulf of Thailand)

The region south of the capital forms a long peninsula that joins with Malaysia. A long mountain range follows the peninsula from north to south, while palm trees and white-sand beaches line the coast. Just off the western side of the peninsula lies a plethora of islands, many of them famous (such as Phuket) for attracting millions of international tourists each year. Fishing is another main industry. The coastal area on the eastern, gulf side also is known for fishing as well as the large-scale production of  fish sauce , one of the most important ingredients in Thai cooking. With its abundance of fresh fish and coconuts, southern cooking tends to be rich in fish and seafood dishes, including coconut milk-based curries. Desserts consist mainly of  fresh tropical fruit , such as mango, pineapple,  mangosteen , papaya, and many others.

Food of the Central Plains

Known as one of the great rice bowls of Asia, the central plains make up the heartland of Thailand, consisting of fertile rice farms. Originally, this region was a swamp and it is still prone to flooding during monsoon season. The abundance of water also allows for easier rice production. From this region, tons of fragrant, jasmine-scented rice are exported around the world each year. The cooking in this region includes rice noodles, usually eaten for lunch or as a snack, the most famous of which is  pad Thai . Protein in this region varies from beef to chicken and fish, and desserts made with banana and mango are popular.

It has been said that in Bangkok there are more food establishments per square mile than anywhere else on earth. If you were to visit Bangkok, you would believe this claim to be true. The city seems to revolve around food. Everywhere there are indoor and outdoor eateries, as well as fast-food stalls on most street corners.

In Bangkok, food from every region of the country is represented, with the addition of "palace food." Palace-style cooking is more refined in flavor than Thai home cooking, and especially in presentation, with intricately carved vegetables (often made into flowers) decorating each dish or included within the dish itself. The Chinese presence is strong in Bangkok, with a thriving Chinatown that is a must-see for visitors.

One last food item that must be sampled on a trip to Bangkok is a Thai dessert. There are hundreds of cakes, puddings, jellies, and other desserts, most made from a base of coconut, rice, egg, and sugar, to choose from. As is the case with savory dishes,  Thai desserts  also are divided into palace style and home cooking—some are beautifully made, while others appear almost repugnant. One such example is something called sweet blackened jelly, made from the brown "hair" on the outside of coconuts.

Although the cuisine of Thailand used to be based primarily on red meats, today there is an abundance of vegetarian and vegan restaurants. This recent influx stems from the spiritual atmosphere of the city and its focus on peace and well-being. Organic produce—and restaurants that use them—also are becoming popular and readily available.

For a real culinary tour of Thailand, check out Taste of Thailand Food Tours . This company will literally give you a taste of what Thailand has to offer. From the best in gourmet restaurant cuisine to the most delicious Thai street food, you'll get to try everything and see the country at the same time.

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Thailand beach & rainforest escape

Take in the sights and sounds of the capital Bangkok.

Experience the jungle at firsthand.

Learn about elephants in the Khao Sok National Park.

Relax on the beautiful beaches of Khao Lak.

10 days from $3,050pp

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Thailand for families: elephants & island escape

Explore the bustling city of Bangkok.

Spend time with elephants in Khao Sok.

Canoe among stunning scenery.

Spend a night in a unique floating tent.

12 days from $3,245pp

Fascinating Thailand tour

Get an introduction to Thai food.

Visit the unusual railway and floating markets.

Look for wild elephants in Kui Buri.

Relax on a tropical island.

Visit an elephant sanctuary.

12 days from $4,955pp

Active Thailand: beyond the beaches

Discover Bangkok's street food.

Mountain biking away from the crowds.

Trek to remote hill tribe villages.

Search for elephants in the wild.

14 days from $6,280pp

Heart of Thailand tour

Experience Wat Pho and the Grand Palace before the crowds.

Visit the traditional markets of Amphawa and stay in the Mae Klong delta.

Visit the Bridge on the River Kwai and explore the beautiful scenery of Kanchanaburi.

Take a Kermit tuk-tuk around the ancient temples of old Siam.

Relax on the island of Koh Samet.

11 days from $3,990pp

Thailand family adventure

Explore Bangkok by Skytrain and traditional tuk-tuk.

Encounter elephants and stay in a unique floating hotel on the River Kwai.

Meet a local Thai family and take part in a Pad Thai cooking contest.

Relax on one of Koh Samui's beautiful beaches.

14 days from $4,495pp

Thailand cultural discovery tour

Immerse yourself in the hill tribe culture of northern Thailand.

Explore the communities living around the beautiful Khao Sok National Park.

Experience the many forms of local transport that Thailand has to offer.

14 days from $5,985pp

Culinary tour of Thailand

Experience Bangkok's street food with your guide and its high-end cuisine with a chef's table dining experience.

Try your hand at preparing traditional Thai cuisine during a cooking class.

Visit local markets and shop as local people do.

Indulge in fresh seafood on Thailand's beaches.

15 days from $5,995pp

Thailand uncovered

Visit some of Thailand's greatest attractions within easy reach of Bangkok.

Relax on a converted rice barge whilst cruising the Chao Phraya River to the historic city of Ayutthaya.

Take in the beauty of the Kanchanaburi region made infamous by the events of World War II.

Trek through Khao Yai, the country's oldest national park.

12 days from $6,410pp

Off the beaten track Laos & Cambodia

Soak up the culture in Vientiane; one of Southeast Asia's sleepiest capital cities.

Explore the stunning scenery of central Laos, including caves of Kong Lor and Xe Bang Fai.

Enjoy an unforgettable experience, camping under the stars in Nam Theun National Protected Area.

Follow the old 'Angkor Road', taking in the temples of Wat Phou, Preah Vihear, Banteay Srei and of course, Angkor Wat.

14 days from $6,765pp

Highlights of Cambodia & Thailand's eastern islands

Explore the magnificent temples of Angkor.

Learn about Cambodia's growing food and art scene in Battambang.

Kayak, paddleboard and taste your way through Kampot.

Experience the serene atmosphere at 4 Rivers Floating Lodge, Koh Kong.

Relax on Koh Chang, Thailand.

15 days from $6,795pp

Thailand's highlights & Siem Reap

Explore the many temples around Siem Reap including the iconic Angkor Wat.

Cruise out onto Southeast Asia's largest freshwater lake, the Tonle Sap.

Venture into the hills surrounding Chiang Mai for a rural Thailand adventure.

Navigate the huge bustling city of Bangkok where local street vendors and markets are contrasted by ultra modern shopping malls and spectacular sky bars.

Enjoy a three-day experience in the beautiful Khao Sok National Park.

11 days from $7,090pp

Luxury Thailand

Enjoy an atmospheric cruise on Bangkok's Chao Phraya River while enjoying a delicious Thai dinner.

Visit Chiang Mai, Thailand's northern capital with its intricate temples, bustling markets and encounters with the Asian elephant.

Relax on the beautiful beaches of Phuket.

Stay in some of Thailand's most renowned and luxurious properties.

11 days from $8,360pp

Cambodia's forgotten temples tour

Visit the bustling capital city of Phnom Penh.

Explore the charming countryside around Battambang.

Wander around the stunning temples of Angkor.

Embark on a true adventure through the Cambodian jungle.

Visit the spectacular and previously off limits Preah Vihear temple.

13 days from $8,475pp

Myanmar highlights & island cruise

Sail the beautiful clear waters of the Mergui archipelago by yacht.

Immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere of Yangon's shimmering Shwedagon Pagoda.

Explore the many beautiful and impressive temples of Bagan.

Enjoy an early morning balloon flight over Inle Lake for a unique vantage point of the stilted villages and floating gardens.

Imagine the former splendor of Inwa, a lost royal city.

Witness a little seen side of Mandalay.

15 days from $10,165pp

Following the Mekong: Laos, Cambodia & Vietnam

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Luang Prabang, Vat Phou and Angkor Wat.

Enjoy river cruising in Laos and Vietnam.

Explore the vibrant cities of Phnom Penh and Ho Chi Minh City.

Experience the full flavor of life surrounding the Mekong in Indochina.

20 days from $10,615pp

Intrepid Laos tour

Trek in a remote national park.

Stay in Laos' very first ecolodge.

Enjoy a relaxing boat ride through northern Laos.

Soak up the atmosphere of spiritual Luang Prabang.

Explore the enigmatic and remote Plain of Jars.

21 days from $11,685pp

Ultimate Cambodia

Discover the incredible Temples of Angkor.

Camp at a remote temple and explore by ‘jungle torch’ at night.

Feast on a tour of Cambodia’s best culinary gems.

Help protect Cambodia’s rainforest by staying in an ecolodge in the heart of the Cardamom Mountains.

Relax on a beautiful secluded beach.

16 days from $12,140pp

Grand tour of Indochina: Laos, Vietnam & Cambodia

Spend a night on a traditional junk cruising among the limestone scenery of Halong Bay.

Explore the fascinating towns of Hoi An and Hue.

Barter at the bustling markets in the Mekong Delta.

Explore the incredible Temples of Angkor.

Discover Buddhist culture in Luang Prabang.

22 days from $22,310pp

Speak to our Thailand specialists to plan your tailor-made itinerary

Some of our favorite travel guides, what to do in thailand: our highlights guide, thailand's best beach vacations and resorts, travel responsibly: thailand, into the wild: thailand’s national parks, trekking in thailand: four of the best trails, family vacations in thailand, cruising in thailand, best of bangkok: our what to do guide, luxury vacations in thailand, sweet, salty, sour and spice: what to eat in thailand.

To travel to Thailand and only see the beaches is to miss a magical and enthralling experience. This guide delves more deeply into what you can see and experience in this diverse country.

The beaches of Thailand have always been alluring to travelers. We highlight some of the best beaches (and where to stay on them), all of which you can incorporate as a relaxing end (or start) to your journey in Southeast Asia.

We’re committed to making sure that your Thailand trip has a positive impact on the people and places you visit, from elephant sanctuaries to remote communities. We share our tips in this responsible travel guide.

In-between the modern cities and venerated temples, Thailand has one of the highest percentages of protected land of any nation in the world. Discover how Thailand’s varied typography can take you from thick, waterfall-strewn cloudforest to primary rainforest, across elephant-trodden grasslands and into azure waters where turtles swim.

From gentle strolls ending at waterfalls to multi-day adventures, Thailand specialist Mat picks out some of the country’s best on-foot experiences. He suggests ideas for families, Thailand first timers and those seeking off-beat exploration.

It's hard to imagine a more family-friendly destination than Thailand. Family traditions are deeply revered in the country and the Thais have a natural affinity with children. Here, we present a few of our favorite family activities.

Traveling by river in Southeast Asia on board boats brimming with character and charm is one of the best ways to view cities like Bangkok, the myriad of ancient temples, as well as traditional villages and culture in general. Our specialists describe some of their favorite trips.

Thailand specialist, Charlotte highlights why Bangkok shouldn’t just be a transit destination. Spending three nights here will give you the opportunity to cook and taste Thai cuisine, experience its temples and markets, and weave through its canals on a Thai longtail boat.

Our Thailand specialist Harriet has had the tough job of vetting some of Thailand’s most luxurious properties and exclusive experiences. Sharing her expertise, she’s picked out some of the best, including a sojourn in a 100-year-old rice barge and time in an opulent tented jungle camp.

You may have experienced Thai food at a local restaurant, but travel to Thailand and you’ll discover a depth and complexity to the cuisine that’s hard to find elsewhere. Thailand specialist Mark explains the distinct regional specialties and the best ways to experience them.

From Street Food to Gourmet: 15 Culinary Tours That Challenge Your Palate

Posted: May 17, 2024 | Last updated: May 17, 2024

For those who love to explore the world through their taste buds, culinary tours offer an immersive way to experience a destination’s culture, history, and traditions. Food is a universal language, and these tours are designed to guide you through the vast array of global cuisines, from bustling street markets to high-end dining experiences. 

Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a culinary novice, these 15 culinary tours will tantalize your palate and enrich your understanding of local flavors and cooking techniques. Get ready to embark on a mouth-watering journey that will take you to some of the world’s most flavorful destinations.

Street Food Tours in Bangkok, Thailand

Explore the bustling streets of Bangkok, sampling iconic dishes like Pad Thai, Som Tum, and Mango Sticky Rice.

Wine and Cheese Tasting in Bordeaux, France

Delve into the world of fine French wines and cheeses in the picturesque vineyards and cellars of Bordeaux.

Pasta Making in Bologna, Italy

Learn the art of making authentic Italian pasta in the culinary heart of Italy.

Tapas and Flamenco in Seville, Spain

Combine the flavors of Spanish tapas with the passion of Flamenco in the vibrant city of Seville.

Sushi and Sake Experience in Tokyo, Japan

Discover the delicate art of sushi making and sake tasting in Tokyo, the birthplace of sushi.

Chocolate Making in Brussels, Belgium

Indulge in the rich, creamy world of Belgian chocolate by joining a hands-on chocolate-making workshop.

Street Food Safari in Marrakech, Morocco

Navigate the colorful markets of Marrakech, sampling traditional Moroccan street food.

Barbecue Trail in Texas, USA

Embark on a flavorful journey through Texas’s best barbecue joints, tasting various styles of American BBQ.

Spice Tour in Kerala, India

Experience the aromatic world of Indian spices with a tour of spice plantations in the lush landscapes of Kerala.

Pintxos Tour in San Sebastián, Spain

Enjoy the unique Basque culinary tradition of pintxos (small tapas) in the gastronomic city of San Sebastián.

Winery Tour in Mendoza, Argentina

Savor the bold flavors of Argentinian wines with a tour of the vineyards and wineries in Mendoza.

Cooking Class in Hanoi, Vietnam

Take a cooking class in Hanoi to learn the secrets of Vietnamese cuisine, including Pho and Spring Rolls.

Food Market Tour in Mexico City, Mexico

Explore the vibrant food markets of Mexico City, tasting local specialties like Tacos, Tamales, and Churros.

Seafood Tasting in Cape Town, South Africa

Enjoy the freshest seafood along the stunning coastlines of Cape Town, including oysters, crayfish, and local fish.

Gourmet Food Walk in Copenhagen, Denmark

Discover New Nordic Cuisine with a gourmet walking tour in Copenhagen, including a visit to the renowned Torvehallerne food market.

Culinary tours are an incredible way to dive deep into a destination’s culture and gastronomy. Each of these 15 tours offers an authentic and unforgettable culinary experience, allowing you to savor the world’s diverse flavors and culinary traditions.

Whether you’re enjoying street food in Southeast Asia or fine dining in Europe, these culinary adventures are sure to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for global cuisines. Pack your appetite and embark on a culinary journey that’s sure to delight every food lover’s palate!

Timeless Taste: 20 Boomer Superfoods That Are Making a Comeback

Discover the forgotten superfoods of the boomer generation! From liver to sardines, these nutritional powerhouses are making a comeback. Join us as we rediscover these classic ingredients and their health benefits. Let’s dive into the world of boomer superfoods together! Timeless Taste: 20 Boomer Superfoods That Are Making a Comeback

21 Everyday Grocery Items That Are Loaded With Chemicals

Grocery shopping can seem like a science experiment, with many products packed with artificial additives instead of nutrients. While convenient and tempting, have you considered what’s really in these items? 21 Everyday Grocery Items That Are Loaded With Chemicals

18 Must-Eat Foods for a Longer Life

In the quest for a longer life, certain foods can make a big difference. From everyday staples to exotic finds, these options span various budgets and might surprise you. Who knew the secret to longevity could be right in your pantry or at the grocery store? 18 Must-Eat Foods for a Longer Life

22 Cheap Foods Only Americans Love

In America, where creativity knows no bounds in the kitchen, some foods are both cheap and uniquely American, raising eyebrows in curiosity. Let’s explore these budget-friendly eats that have become staples in the American diet, for better or worse. 22 Cheap Foods Only Americans Love

20 Places Where You Can Enjoy an Old-Fashioned Life

Escape to places where time stands still and tradition thrives! From cozy American towns to serene countryside getaways worldwide, these destinations offer a break from the chaos of modern life. Whether you’re seeking a simpler lifestyle or a nostalgic retreat, these spots promise affordability and undeniable charm. 20 Places Where You Can Enjoy an Old-Fashioned Life

The post From Street Food to Gourmet: 15 Culinary Tours That Challenge Your Palate first appeared on elpasoNY.com .

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Glen Berlin.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

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After 3 years in Thailand, I moved back to New York. It didn't feel like home anymore, so I took off again.

• Elizabeth Lavis left New York for Thailand, planning to stay for 6 months, and ended up living there for 3 years.
• While living abroad, she missed some things about the US, but when she returned, it didn't feel like home.
• Now, she considers traveling her "real life" and sees it as just as authentic and valid as the stationary alternative.

As I tucked into a bowl of wisp-thin Thai rice noodles studded with bok choy and sprinkled with fried garlic, all I could do was wax poetic about Buffalo wings.

Plastic spoon in one hand, chopsticks in the other, I described my hometown's finest fare, which included hot, buttery chicken wings. My favorite basket always came from a local dive bar in Western New York, 15 miles from Niagara Falls.

Throughout the three years I lived in Thailand , a few Chang beers or a familiar Garth Brooks song about friends in low places would often prompt me to crave a seat at that bar, 8,533 miles across the ocean, with wings on one side and Reuben fries on the other.

After three years of teaching English, working at summer camps in the far north of Thailand, and spending long weekends exploring the country by train , I moved back to Buffalo. I was excited to bathe my eager tastebuds in all the Frank's hot sauce and meaty wings and wash it down with an ice-cold Loganberry soda.

But for some reason, everything was different. The old classic dishes didn't offer the culinary homecoming I'd been hoping for. Instead, I got horrid stomach cramps and acute nausea. The Buffalo wing mythology no longer held up. More importantly, I didn't feel like I was home.

My "6-month" journey to Thailand

After breaking up with my long-term boyfriend, crashing my car, and quitting my job — in that order — I moved to Koh Samui . I told everyone I'd be back in six months.

But six months passed on the tropical island in the Gulf of Thailand, and instead of heading home, I made a visa run to the Thai-Laos border to stay for longer. It would be my first of many, extending my initial six months to three years.

Related stories

I was hooked on the steamy weather, the beaches with water the color of blue topaz, and the food. The ice-cold pineapples tasted as sweet as sponge candy (a treat from Buffalo similar to toffee). Lunch usually included spicy som tom with sour tamarind, peanuts, and shrimp, along with coconut water straight from the shell — always served with a little spoon to dig out the creamy flesh.

Fresh Thai food and the tropical climate did come with a few tradeoffs. Spiders, as big as softballs, would plop in front of me and scuttle away to some dark corner of my bathroom as I shrieked and swatted to no avail. Cockroaches were similarly supersized, and some could fly. Packs of stray dogs and lumbering monitor lizards shared urban space, even taking refuge in air-conditioned 7-11s during the most sweltering days.

Thai transportation wasn't always reliable or safe, including rickety trains that often ran late. Sometimes you'd hear horror stories about them derailing. Once, I heard an unsubstantiated and harrowing rumor about a monkey that climbed up a train toilet and terrorized the passengers until someone tranquilized it. While this particular story might be a total myth, anyone who's ever ridden those trains knows that a stowaway is not entirely implausible.

A strange homecoming

After three years in Thailand , I thought I was ready to come home. I missed reliable transportation, manageable bugs, the change of seasons, my friends and family, and the Great Lakes comfort food I'd been pining for.

At first, I relished the change. Buffalo is gloriously predictable in the best possible way. There are no surprise toilet monkeys. The trains do not derail. The food delivers on its promises: fatty, spicy, bready, and often served with a big cup of chunky blue cheese. On the other hand, there is not much public transportation, and as I didn't have a car, I was at the mercy of Uber. Also, my tastebuds had veered sharply from the local cuisine during my years away.

Beyond catching up with family and old friends, I felt little connection to my hometown. It was jarring, unexpected, and deeply sad. After three years away, my happy homecoming felt more like visiting a distant place full of friendly and familiar faces than settling back into my comfort zone.

I even realized that my definition of comfort food had changed.

On the road again

A year later, I headed back to the tropics, this time south, to Costa Rica. My plan was to chase epic surfing on the Pacific Coast, explore the rainforest, and brush up on my Spanish.

Now, while tucking into a plate of gallo pinto with Linzano sauce, my mind wanders to the wobbly red plastic chairs where I sat curbside to enjoy my favorite noodle soup in Bangkok — a reminder of another one of my homes.

When I left for Thailand almost a decade ago, I imagined that I'd be going back to my "real life" after six months. Now, I understand that traveling is my "real life," and it's as authentic and valid as a stationary one. Sometimes, the chaotic streets of Bangkok or the cozy bar-rooms of Buffalo still whisper my name. But I'm happy to keep moving forward, finding adventure, comfort, and a sense of home on the road.

Got a personal essay about culture shock or relocating that you want to share? Get in touch with the editor: [email protected] .

Watch: Marriott International's Tina Edmundson tells Insider that the travel mindset has changed since the pandemic

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• Open access
• Published: 16 May 2024

Catastrophic costs incurred by tuberculosis affected households from Thailand’s first national tuberculosis patient cost survey

• Sitaporn Youngkong 1 , 2 ,
• Phalin Kamolwat 3 ,
• Phichet Wongrot 4 ,
• Montarat Thavorncharoensap 1 , 2 ,
• Usa Chaikledkaew 1 , 2 ,
• Sriprapa Nateniyom 3 ,
• Petchawan Pungrassami 3 ,
• Naiyana Praditsitthikorn 5 ,
• Surakameth Mahasirimongkol 6 ,
• Jiraphun Jittikoon 7 ,
• Nobuyuki Nishikiori 8 ,
• Ines Garcia Baena 8 &
• Takuya Yamanaka 10 , 8 , 9  

Scientific Reports volume  14 , Article number:  11205 ( 2024 ) Cite this article

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• Health care economics
• Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis (TB) causes an economic impact on the patients and their households. Although Thailand has expanded the national health benefit package for TB treatment, there was no data on out-of-pocket payments and income losses due to TB from patients and their household perspectives. This national TB patient cost survey was conducted to examine the TB-related economic burden, and assess the proportion of TB patients and their households facing catastrophic total costs because of TB disease. A cross-sectional TB patient cost survey was employed following WHO methods. Structured interviews with a paper-based questionnaire were conducted from October 2019 to July 2021. Both direct and indirect costs incurred from the patient and their household perspective were valued in 2021 and estimated throughout pre- and post-TB diagnosis episodes. We assessed the proportion of TB-affected households facing costs > 20% of household expenditure due to TB. We analyzed 1400 patients including 1382 TB (first-line treatment) and 18 drug-resistant TB patients (DR-TB). The mean total costs per TB episode for all study participants were 903 USD (95% confident interval; CI 771–1034 USD). Of these, total direct non-medical costs were the highest costs (mean, 402 USD, and 95%CI 334–470 USD) incurred per TB-affected household followed by total indirect costs (mean, 393 USD, and 95%CI 315–472 USD) and total direct medical costs (mean, 107 USD, and 95%CI 81–133 USD, respectively. The proportion of TB-affected households facing catastrophic costs was 29.5% (95%CI 25.1–34.0%) for TB (first-line), 61.1% (95%CI 29.6–88.1%) for DR-TB and 29.9% (95%CI 25.6–34.4%) overall. This first national survey highlighted the economic burden on TB-affected households. Travel, food/nutritional supplementation, and indirect costs contribute to a high proportion of catastrophic total costs. These suggest the need to enhance financial and social protection mechanisms to mitigate the financial burden of TB-affected households.

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Introduction.

Tuberculosis (TB) causes a significant economic impact on the patients and their households 1 , 2 . Although most high TB-burden countries have offered diagnosis and treatment free of charge, patients and their households still incur substantial cost including the direct medical cost (during pre-treatment phase), direct non-medical cost (i.e., transportation, accommodation, and food), as well as indirect costs from job loss and productivity loss. Therefore, TB-affected household are still facing the risk of catastrophic costs, defined as the total costs related to TB management exceeding 20% of annual household income or expenditures 3 , leading to poor treatment access, adherence, and worsening health outcome 1 , 2 , 4 . Hence, to achieve the End TB Strategy introduced by the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 5 , one of the World Health Organization (WHO)’s strategies 6 was to eliminate the catastrophic costs among TB-affected households by 2020. According to the WHO’s global monitoring of the End TB indicators reports 7 , 8 , which covered the findings from the national TB patient cost survey data of the 27 countries, one in two patients (48%, 95%CI 36–67%) faces catastrophic costs. Recent modelling that produced estimates for countries that had not yet been able to complete survey 9 shows that estimated proportions of TB-affected households experiencing catastrophic total costs were 54.9% (47.0–63.2%) overall. According to the recent meta-analysis 10 , the pooled proportion of patients faced catastrophic costs (95% Confident Interval) from the existing 29 studies was 43% (34–51%) while the main predictors of the catastrophic costs included country, drug sensitivity, and Human immune-deficiency virus (HIV) co-infection.

Thailand, an upper-middle-income country, has high TB-burden with an incidence (new TB cases per year) of 105,000 (79,000–134,000) in 2020 8 . At present, almost all necessary diagnostic and TB treatments have been covered by public health insurance schemes. As of 2019, there was no data on economic burden due to TB from patients and their household perspectives. To achieve the goal of zero catastrophic costs due to TB as one of the three targets of the WHO End TB Strategy, the current situation must be investigated. This paper is the first study aiming to estimate the prevalence of catastrophic costs due to TB from the patient and their household perspective. Factors affecting catastrophic costs were also explored. The findings could provide important evidences to guide the development of policies/strategies to protect TB patients from risk of financial crisis, hence, improving the treatment outcomes leading to the achievement of end TB target.

Study design

The national cross-sectional survey design and methodology were in line with WHO recommendations in their handbook for TB patient cost surveys 11 . The cost components included direct medical costs (i.e., out-of-pocket spent on diagnostic tests, medication, outpatient and inpatient care, and doctor fees), direct non-medical costs (i.e., out-of-pocket spent on transportation, food, and accommodation), and indirect costs (i.e., productivity loss due to TB) based on hourly wage computed individually from reported.

Sample size and sampling method

We calculated the sample size based on an estimated proportion of households experiencing catastrophic costs (p) at 50%, a design effect (D.E.) of 2.0 and 4% precision level (e) with the following standard formula 12 .

where n is the total number of TB notifications registered in 2017 13 was as 67,971; and 15% adjustment of data incompleteness, the required sample size was 1400. A stratified multi-stage cluster sampling was used to sample TB patients for the interview to ensure balance in the economic status and healthcare services accessibility of each locality that can be nationally representation in this case. Firstly, the health facilities with TB clinics were stratified into 2 groups (i.e., low- and high-poverty area) according to the poverty level (i.e., the proportion of number of individuals with income below the per capita poverty thresholds to the total number of individuals of each province compared to the national poverty proportion of 7.87 14 ). Then, health facilities in each poverty level were further stratified into secondary and tertiary level, resulting in 4 stratums. The total of 40 clusters were, then, randomly selected from the 4 stratums. The number of clusters for each stratum were calculated using proportional to size approach. For each cluster, 35 patients were recruited. These resulted in 420 patients recruited from 12 clusters of tertiary hospitals in low-poverty incidence areas, 280 patients recruited from 8 clusters of tertiary hospitals in high-poverty incidence areas, 315 patients recruited from 9 clusters of secondary hospitals in low-poverty incidence area, and 385 patients recruited from 11 clusters of secondary hospitals in high-poverty incidence area). The patients were eligible if they (1) were registered for TB treatment enrolled in the National Tuberculosis Control Programs (NTPs) from October 2019 to July 2021 at sampled facility, and (2) were on treatment for a minimum of 14 days either in intensive or continuation phase. Eligible patients were selected randomly from database of each facility, and then were asked for their consent to face-to-face interview.

Data collection

Structured face-to-face interviews with a paper-based questionnaire were conducted by the 60 trained interviewers who were the employees of the 12 Regional office of Disease Prevention and Control covering the 40 clusters of this survey. One-day training on the interview approach with the survey questionnaire was provided to all interviewers prior to data collection. Questionnaires were adapted to Thai contexts and translated into Thai language (and were pre-tested to ensure the clarity and understandability) from a generic data collection tool provided by the WHO handbook for TB patient cost surveys 11 comprising four sections: (1) informed consent; (2) patient information (including patient and clinical characteristics, employment, household composition, healthcare utilization, time spent and income lost while seeking and receiving care); (3) costs (i.e., direct medical, direct non-medical, and indirect costs), and time loss before/during the current TB treatment; and (4) coping mechanisms during the treatment phase 15 .

Data analysis

To estimate direct costs per month, the cost per visit were multiplied by the number of visits per month. The number of visits including outpatient visits, facility-based directly observed therapy (DOT), follow-up, and drug pick-up, of each treatment phase was derived from the national TB control guidelines while direct cost per visit included direct medical cost and direct non-medical cost.

Indirect costs were estimated using a human capital approach. We selected this approach because the proportion of the patients with informal employment in the survey was much higher than other sectors, and this was the better way to present socioeconomic status of the patients based on the Thai context as the consensus from the Thai expert’s consultation. This approach included time lost due to traveling to health facilities and waiting time lost during healthcare consultations of both patients and their household members. The self-reported total time spent on those activities was multiplied by the estimated income per person per minute.

To estimate costs in the remainder of the patient’s current treatment phase (i.e., intensive or continuous phase), extrapolation of the patient's costs in that treatment phase to date was done according to WHO methods 11 . In the case that the costs were estimated for different treatment phases, the mean and median reported costs and number of hours from other patients who were sampled in that treatment phase were used.

Total cost was, then, calculated as the summation of direct medical cost, direct non-medical costs, and indirect costs and was reported for the following treatment stages: pre-diagnosis (from the onset of symptoms to the first visit to a health facility), and post-diagnosis (from first visit to end of treatment).

All cost data were calculated in 2021 value and then converted to USD using the average UN operational rates of exchange during the data collection period (October 2019 to July 2021) of 1 USD = 31.07 THB 16 .

Descriptive statistics were used to describe the participated patients’ characteristics (i.e., genders, age, education level, insurance status, and household size), clinical characteristics (i.e., treatment phase, treatment category, HIV status, type of TB, diagnostic delay, modality of TB treatment, and hospitalization), household economic status (i.e., incomes, expenditures, and impoverishment), costs incurred in TB-affected households, coping strategies, social consequences, social support and perceived financial impact. The proportion of TB-affected household facing catastrophic costs, TB-related total costs (direct and indirect) exceeding 20% of the annual household expenditure as per definition by WHO 11 and global monitoring 8 was estimated. Annualized self-reported household expenditure was used as the primary method for determining household ability to pay. In addition, we evaluated pre-disease household poverty levels by comparing daily income (calculated from self-reported household monthly income) against the international poverty threshold of 1.90 USD purchasing power parity 11 adjusted dollars (converted to PPP by using the PPP conversion factor of 12.34 for Thailand in 2020 17 ).

Pearson's chi-square test was applied to compare between patients with first line treatment and patient with drug resistance. Univariate logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify variables associated with facing catastrophic costs due to TB. The variables explored in the univariate analysis included age, sex, employment status, household expenditure quintile, household size, education level, insurance status, HIV status, drug resistance status, TB history, hospitalization during TB episode, mode of TB treatment. Multivariate backward stepwise logistic regression was performed to identify factors affecting catastrophic cost. Adjusted odds ratios (OR) and 95%CI was reported.

Ethical issues

Prior to the primary data collection of this study, ethical clearance was approved by the Institute for the Development of Human Research Protections (IHRP) (COA No.IHRP2019081 and IHRP No.073-2562), and the Ethical Committee for human research at the Faculty of Dentistry and Faculty of Pharmacy, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand (COA.No.MU-DT/PY-IRB 2018/068.0711 for the initial approval and COA.No.MU-DT/PY-IRB 2020/029.0206 for changes in the sample size). All respondents received a written and oral explanation of the study, and each of them signed an informed consent form before participating in the interview. All methods were performed in accordance with the relevant guidelines and regulations.

Patients characteristics

One thousand and four hundred patients (1382 first-line treatment TB and 18 drug-resistant TB, DR-TB patients) in total participated in the costing survey. Table 1 shows the demographic and clinical data for those participants included in the analysis. Most patients were male (68.9%), aged older than 45 years (69.3%) including one quarter over 65 years, had attended pre/primary school education (60.1%), and had public health insurance (98.0%). The median of their household size was three members (range 1–17). The patients who participated in this survey were in any of the two treatment phases with similar proportions (46.1% were in the intensive phase and 53.9% were in the continuation phase). Most patients were new TB (94.4%) without HIV infection (88.2%). Around 31.7% of the patients in the intensive phase experienced a long diagnostic delayed (> 4 weeks). For modality of TB treatment, most patients (75.4%) self-administered their medications, 18.0% of them had home-based directly observed therapy (DOT), and few of them (6.6%) received facility-based DOT. Only 6.6% were hospitalized during their current TB episode, and almost half of them (47.6%) previously hospitalized in their current treatment phase.

Socio-economic characteristics and the changes in income among TB-affected households

The average monthly income of survey participants and that of their households before the onset of TB symptoms was 355 USD (95%CI 321–388 USD), and 1152 USD (95%CI 708–1597 USD), respectively (Table 2 ). Almost half of TB patients (48.3%) were the primary income earner. The average monthly household expenditure was 640 USD (95%CI 459–822 USD). While at the interview, the average monthly income of the patient and household decreased to 220 USD (95%CI 193–246 USD), and 643 USD (95%CI 572–714 USD), respectively.

Before the onset of TB symptoms, 2.2% of the participant households faced impoverishment (their incomes were below the poverty line—poverty headcount ratio at USD 1.90 per day at 2011 PPP), and it was increased from 2.2 to 11.1% due to TB (Table 2 ). The differences in the percentage of impoverishment of TB-affected households before and during TB episodes among the different household income quintile groups are demonstrated in Supplementary (Fig. S1 ). Our findings show that TB has affected the patients and their households in terms of income loss. The proportion of TB-affected households living below the poverty line was substantially higher among those in lower quintiles.

Costs of TB-affected households

The mean total costs per TB episode for all study participants (n = 1400) were 903 USD per patient (95%CI 771–1034 USD), and median total costs per episode were 412 USD per patient (IQR 184–879 USD) (Table 3 ). Of these, total direct non-medical costs were the highest costs (mean, 402 USD, and 95%CI 334–470 USD) incurred per TB-affected households followed by total indirect costs (mean, 393 USD, and 95%CI 315–472 USD) and total direct medical costs (mean, 107 USD, and 95%CI 81–133 USD, respectively. The mean total costs per episode among TB first-line treatment patients (n = 1382) and DR-TB patients (n = 18) were 848 USD (95%CI 725–971 USD) and 4987 USD (95%CI 2884–7090 USD), respectively (Fig. S2 in the Supplementary).

For the pre-TB diagnosis episode, the mean direct costs (37 USD with 95%CI 33–42 USD) were the highest costs incurred by the patients. The mean total costs incurred during pre-TB diagnosis episode were less than those incurred during post-TB diagnosis episode. Whereas the post-TB diagnosis episode, the mean direct non-medical costs (384 USD with 95%CI 98–191 USD) and the mean indirect costs (381 USD with 95%CI 303–458 USD) were the two highest costs incurred by the patients and their households. This reflects travel, food, and time costs (or productivity lost) by the patients and their caregivers during the TB treatment due to the many facility visits and hour lost (Table 4 ). In terms of number of facility visits, patients involved in facility-based DOT made 125.8 visits (ranged 114.6–137.0 visits) mainly during their treatment, followed by medical follow-up 9.4 visits (ranged 8.5–10.2 visits). Of these visits, DR-TB patients had significantly higher total number of visits than those of TB patients. Hours lost by DR-TB patients (743.4 h with ranged 350.3–1136.4 h) were also significantly much higher than the lost by TB patients (142.0 h with ranged 122.7–161.3 h). Although hours lost by caregivers were not statistically significant different between TB and DR-TB patients, total lost time of DR-TB caregivers were around four times of those of TB caregivers (372.9 h vs. 85.9 h, respectively).

Catastrophic total costs

Figure  1 illustrates the percentage of TB-affected households facing catastrophic total costs. At the 20% threshold, the percentage of catastrophic total costs was 29.5% (95%CI 25.1–34.0%) for TB and 61.1% (95%CI 29.6–88.1%) for DR-TB patients; this reflects 29.9% of TB-affected households facing catastrophic costs for overall TB participants of this study.

Percentage of TB-affected households facing catastrophic costs. CI confidence interval, TB tuberculosis. *Error bars represent 95% confidence interval.

Coping mechanisms and social consequences

The patients reported the use of loan as the main coping strategy (19.1%) to face costs incurred with very little social support; 2.2% and 1.0% of survey participants reported receipt of social assistance and vouchers from NTP (Table 5 ). Getting TB infection causes social consequences, i.e., their working days loss (41.9%), job loss (34.6%), and social exclusion (27.8%). Overall, those proportions of social consequences were significantly higher among DR-TB patients. The proportion of patients who became unemployed more than doubled when comparing the employment status before TB episode to the status during TB episode (at the time of interview) (16.0–42.0%) (Fig.  2 ). While the proportion of employment in the informal and formal sector decreased from 69.0% and 11.0% to 46.0% and 8.5%, respectively, when comparing the same time periods. More than half of the patients (52.0%) did not perceive any change in the financial impact, while 38.2% of them perceived they were poorer and 8.5% felt they were much poorer than in the past.

Changes in employment status before and during TB episode.

Factors affecting catastrophic costs

Figure  3 presents the selected final model with adjusted odd ratio (OR) of the risk factors that had a significant association with the probability of facing catastrophic costs due to TB. Households with lower expenditure quintiles (for the first 3 quintiles) had a significantly higher incidence of facing catastrophic costs compared to those in the highest expenditure quintile (the lowest expenditure quintile: OR 54.6, 95%CI 29.0–103.0; the second lowest expenditure quintile: OR 8.1, 95%CI 4.6–14.0, and the third expenditure quintile: OR 3.6, 95%CI 1.8–7.0). The other significant factors associated with the catastrophic costs include experiencing hospitalization (OR 9.4, 95%CI 6.0–15.0, compared to not hospitalizing), being DR-TB patient (OR 5.3, 95%CI 1.4–20.0, compared to those with first-line treatment), patients who do not have health insurance (OR 5.0, 95%CI 1.3–19, compared to those with health insurance), patients with extrapulmonary TB (OR 3.0, 95%CI 1.1–8.4, compared to those with pulmonary TB), and patients who received the facility-based directly observed therapy as their treatment support (OR 1.7, 95%CI 1.1–2.6, compared to those with self-administration).

Risk factors for TB-affected households facing costs > 20% of household expenditure due to TB. *Error bars represent 95% confidence interval.

Our findings illustrated that 29.9% of TB-affected households face catastrophic total costs, a lower proportion compared to the global pooled average of 48% (95%CI 36–61%) with 27 countries with published survey data 8 and also lower than the global pooled average of 135 low- and middle-income countries with meta-regression estimates 54.9% (47.0–63.2%) overall 9 .

The largest cost driver to the economic burden supported by TB-affected households were travel, food, and nutritional supplementation, in the form of direct non-medical costs (44.5% of total costs), and patient (and their caregivers) productivity loss, in the form of indirect costs (43.6% of total costs).

On the other hand, overall out-of-pocket expenses associated with direct medical costs accounted for only 12% of total costs. Thus, our findings also confirm that most of the direct medical costs have been covered by the Thai public health insurance 18 . Although, almost all direct medical costs during the treatment phase were covered by public health insurance, this study showed that most direct medical costs incurred before TB diagnosis episode were disbursed by patients (pre-diagnosis out-of-pocket expenses represent 2.1% of total episode costs). The patient might seek care by going to the private sector, such as drug store. This could increase out-of-pocket expenses. Thus, increasing proactive access to early TB diagnosis can help early detection of people with TB and bring them to be covered under the public health insurance schemes. Although this has been already included in the Thailand operational plan to end TB for 2017–2021 19 , this finding encourages the Ministry of Public Health to continue this strategy for the next plan to end TB. Moreover, refining benefit packages in all public health insurance schemes to include standard TB care, including diagnosis, treatment and social support is recommended. This can ensure that all presumptive TB cases have access to standard TB treatment.

Although the Thai UHC provides free TB treatment and other medical services, this does not cover traveling and productivity loss incurred from the facility-visits due to TB treatment. Enhancing patient-centered care in the Thai TB treatment guidelines or strengthen all primary health care services may reduce the time required for those facility visits and then decrease the direct non-medical costs and income losses of the patients. Moreover, this has led to another issue of social protection policies that required attention from national policymakers. Social protection policies beyond free medical services, e.g., financial incentives for cost of living, should be strengthened by the national and local government. Only 2.2% (95%CI 1.4–3.3) of survey respondents (Table 5 ) were accessing social assistance and 1% (95%CI 0.2–2.5) accessed vouchers. For TB patients who are in formal employment, the government should strengthen the policy by securing their jobs. Nevertheless, this issue is not solely the responsibility of government organizations in the health sector, but it also requires cooperation among the health and non-health sectors. Cooperation between The Ministry of Public Health and the Ministry of Labour, the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security, or non-government agencies is required to support TB patients in developing social support mechanism, such as enabling patients to take sick leave or be compensated in case of dismissal, especially for the patients with lower expenditure quintiles. This can mitigate the economic burden and reduce the proportion of households that experience catastrophic costs in Thailand.

Despite the free TB treatment policy under the UHC in Thailand, the percentage of TB-affected households living below the international poverty line 11 among the TB-affected households increased during TB treatment compared to the pre-TB episode (from 2.2 to 11%). The disease does not affect only to the poor households (percentage living below international poverty line rose from 11 and 0% to 22% and 15% in the 1st and 2nd household income quintiles, respectively) but it also impacts on the richer households (percentage living below international poverty line increased from 0 to 4.7% in the 5th household income quintile). This requires policy actions beyond the strictly medical and into social protection especially for those who are poorer. In addition to the free medical services during TB treatment, income replacement during TB treatment and the post-TB socioeconomic recovery strategies (e.g., maintain their formal employment, looking for a new job, and re-employment) are also key to protect the patients and their households against financial hardship due to TB.

It is also noteworthy that the mean monthly individual incomes reported by TB (first-line treatment) patients is significantly higher than that reported by patients with DR-TB. In fact, the mean total costs incurred by DR-TB cases were almost 6 times of the costs incurred by TB (first-line treatment) patients, even though Thailand has started shorter DR-TB regimen 20 . This highlights the serious socioeconomic impact of DR-TB on their households.

To our knowledge, this is the first national TB patient cost survey in Thailand using the standardized methodology for cross-sectional survey in TB-affected countries developed by WHO 11 . Our findings do not only deliver the significant indicator of catastrophic costs status due to TB in Thailand to achieve the end TB strategies, but we also provide insights that there were gaps in TB policy implementation that needed to improve.

This study has limitations that have led to some concerns. First, we started the survey in 2019 and data collection was ongoing as COVID-19 pandemic hit. This brought an obstacle to the interview process and many of the related health facilities did not allow the interviewers to go to the field. This may cause recall biases due to the delay of the interview appointment. Moreover, the number of health facility visits and income losses may have been interrupted by the pandemic. These might cause under-reported number of the facility visits and the income losses might be resulted from the pandemic. Second, there were missing income data reported from the patients, especially the ones working in informal sector, even though the interviewers tried to ask them to estimate. This might affect the indirect cost estimation. For those missing ones, the estimations of their individual incomes were based on ascribing a proportion of the household annual income to the individual of the reported one. Third, we did not specifically sample for DR-TB, and randomly selected DR-TB in the random clusters; therefore, our findings due to DR-TB cases may not represent the DR-TB patients in Thailand. Although the costs calculation for DR-TB patients were referred to the national standard practice guideline of the DR-TB, its sample size was small and we did not design our data collection of the DR-TB patients for this survey. However, our findings can highlight the higher economic burden of DR-TB than those incurred by TB patients. Thus, we strongly suggest the further study focusing only on DR-TB patients to examine economic burden and catastrophic total costs incurred in DR-TB patients that can be representative of this specific groups of TB patients in Thailand.

This study is the first national TB patient cost survey in Thailand. Our findings highlight the economic burden on TB patients and their households and of their falling into deeper poverty and greater unemployment. Travel costs, food/nutritional supplementation, and productivity costs drive total TB episode costs in Thailand and a significant proportion of TB-affected households incur in costs > 20% of household expenditure (i.e. catastrophic total costs). Such evidence suggests financial and social protection mechanisms to mitigate the economic burden of the TB-affected households.

Data availability

The datasets used and/or analysed during the current study available from the corresponding author on reasonable request and with permission of the Health System Research Institute.

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Acknowledgements

We gratefully acknowledge the contribution of our study participants; the research team from both Faculty of Pharmacy, Mahidol University, and the Division of Tuberculosis, Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health, Thailand. This research was funded by the Health system Research Institute (HSRI). The findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect the views of the aforementioned funding agencies. Also, we would like to thank Dr.Viroj Tangcharoensathien and his team at the International Health Policy Program, Thailand, for their support in data validation and verification in Thailand context.

This research was funded by the Health system research Institute (HSRI) under Grant HSRI 64-019.

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Mahidol University Health Technology Assessment (MUHTA) Graduate Program, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand

Sitaporn Youngkong, Montarat Thavorncharoensap & Usa Chaikledkaew

Social and Administrative Pharmacy Division, Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand

Division of Tuberculosis, Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health, Bangkok, Thailand

Phalin Kamolwat, Sriprapa Nateniyom & Petchawan Pungrassami

Faculty of Nursing, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand

Phichet Wongrot

Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health, Nonthaburi, Thailand

Naiyana Praditsitthikorn

Department of Medical Sciences, Ministry of Public Health, Nonthaburi, Thailand

Surakameth Mahasirimongkol

Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand

Jiraphun Jittikoon

World Health Organization Global Tuberculosis Programme, Geneva, Switzerland

Nobuyuki Nishikiori, Ines Garcia Baena & Takuya Yamanaka

Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK

Takuya Yamanaka

School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan

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All authors conceived and designed the work. S.Y., P.K., P.W., M.T. and U.C. supervised and monitored the survey. S.Y., P.W. and T.Y. did the analysis. S.Y. wrote the first draft of the manuscript with input from other authors. All authors interpreted the data, provided critical revision for important intellectual content and approved the final version to be published.

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Correspondence to Sitaporn Youngkong .

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Youngkong, S., Kamolwat, P., Wongrot, P. et al. Catastrophic costs incurred by tuberculosis affected households from Thailand’s first national tuberculosis patient cost survey. Sci Rep 14 , 11205 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-56594-1

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Received : 04 January 2024

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DOI : https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-56594-1

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