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20 Best Places to Visit in Thailand — From the Country's Oldest National Park With Secret Waterfalls to Stunning Islands With Excellent Diving

There's no shortage of beautiful places to visit in Thailand.

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Thailand is so much more than a travel destination — visiting is a bona fide rite of passage. From hostel-hopping backpackers to well-heeled five-star hotel aficionados, there’s something for everyone in “The Land of Smiles.” 

My most recent trip to Thailand was in early 2022, when the country implemented strict entry requirements due to the COVID-19 pandemic. At the time, I was one of a few hundred thousand tourists who were allowed into the country, and it felt like I had many of the typically crowded attractions all to myself.

The beauty of Thailand is that it will show you different sides of itself no matter how many times you visit. From the idyllic white-sand beaches and palm-fringed islands in the south to the misty hillsides and temple-peppered mountains of the north, the rattle and hum under neon lights of nonstop Bangkok, and the ruins of ancient cities surrounded by jungle, Thailand never disappoints.

So, what are the best places to visit in Thailand? I reached out to a Thailand travel expert and threw in a bit of my own first-person experience to help you narrow down this ever-growing list.

Tessa Desjardins/Travel + Leisure

For most travelers, an adventure in Thailand will likely kick off in the nonstop, energetic capital city, Bangkok. A dizzying destination and one of my favorite international cities, Bangkok is full-on sensory overload — but in the best way. Dig into sizzling street food; meander back alleys and bustling thoroughfares in search of small markets, shops, and hidden temples; cruise along the Chao Phraya River, and grab a cocktail at the dozens of sky-high rooftop bars. 

Tip: Book a room at the Capella Bangkok or Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok — two iconic luxury hotels with stunning locations perched on the Chao Phraya River.

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Second to Bangkok on most visitors’ lists is the northern city of Chiang Mai. Many travelers even prefer Chiang Mai to Bangkok for its relatively slower pace of life. The spectacular city is bursting with temples (Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is a must) and humming with restaurants and bars. 

"I would say for anybody, whether it's their first time or a repeat trip to Thailand, if you have been there or you haven't, [you have to visit] Chiang Mai," said Grant Ekelund , Travel + Leisure A-List advisor and senior travel consultant and Asia specialist at InsideAsia. "It's such a neat city. It’s one of those destinations that has something for everyone … Are you a foodie? Do you want to hike? See cool temples? Have amazing trekking opportunities? It can all be done [here], and it slots into any itinerary perfectly."

Koh Phi Phi

Thailand has more than 1,400 islands scattered around its coastline, but few are as famous or iconic as the Phi Phi Islands in the Andaman Sea. Comprising two islands — Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh — Koh Phi Phi is known for its natural beauty, excellent diving, and raucous party scene. For the latter, Phi Phi Don is the most famous. Phi Phi Leh, meanwhile, is uninhabited and beloved by those looking to disappear into nature. It was blasted into the public eye about two decades ago, when Leonardo DiCaprio's character went in search of an island paradise in the film "The Beach," which is set in real-life Maya Bay.

Alexander Spatari/Getty Images

While we’re on the topic of Koh Phi Phi, we’d be remiss not to mention Krabi province as a whole. Located in southern Thailand, bordering the Andaman Sea, Krabi is home to many of the beautiful beaches and islands that make Thailand famous. 

"I've been booking many [trips to] Krabi lately," said Ekelund. "It ticks a lot of boxes for people. You've got the beauty, cool cliffs, and interesting geology. It has a beach, but it's for people who don't want to simply park it on the sand for 10 days. Krabi offers activities and more." Some highlights include the beach town of Ao Nang, as well as islands like Phuket, Koh Lanta, Koh Yao Yai, Koh Lipe, Railay Beach, and several national parks.

Koh Yao Noi

Sunphol Sorakul/Getty Images

My first trip to Thailand was to the small island of Koh Yao Noi back in 2013. One of the most beautiful islands in Phang Nga Bay, Koh Yao Noi is flecked off the coast of its sibling island, Koh Yao Yai. Sandy beaches and small fishing villages comprise most of the land here, along with the luxe Six Senses Yao Noi resort tucked along the eastern coast. The property’s infinity pool is legendary for its explosive sunrise views that blur the distinction between the sky and sea.

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Many Thai cities have the ability to make visitors feel like they’re stepping back in time. But few create the illusion as vividly as Ayutthaya. Once the capital of the Kingdom of Siam, the ruins of Ayutthaya are breathtaking and hauntingly beautiful. It’s only an hour from Bangkok, making it an easy day trip or a great overnight excursion.

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Sukhothai is another beautiful ancient city. "Sukhothai is for people who like history. I was taken by how beautiful the area is and how extensive the ruins are," said Ekelund. "We cycled around the ruins with a guide and got a great sense of the history. Sukhothai is much more rural and harder to reach, meaning it has fewer tourists. You also don't have a city built up around it."

Mae Hong Son Loop

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Of all the places I've visited in Thailand, none stick with me as much as the Mae Hong Son Loop. This 300-mile route is most often tackled by travelers on the back of motorbikes looking to brave the mountain switchbacks that descend into the thick jungle and pass from small village to small village. It's not a journey to be taken lightly — motorbike experience is strongly recommended — but those who make the trip are rewarded with spectacular scenery and access to remote communities.

Khao Yai National Park

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Thailand has more than 100 national parks. The oldest is Khao Yai National Park, which also happens to be the country's third-largest. Within the park lies a web of hiking trails, secret waterfalls, and herds of elephants.

"Khao Yai has a lot of bat caves, too, which is one of the coolest things I've ever experienced," said Ekelund. "I stood there for 30 minutes while an unending stream of bats flew over my head. It was all so beautiful. It's a beautiful park with waterfalls, trekking, and hiking. Plus, it's just a couple of hours [by car] from Bangkok."

wichianduangsri/Getty Images

Approximately two hours southeast of Chiang Mai is the city of Lampang. Much like many large cities in Thailand, Lampang has its fair share of temples, street food, and markets. But unlike the others, it feels like a place where time has stood still. Just listen for the sound of clip-clopping horse carts, still used for transportation, and you'll understand what I mean. Because of Lampang's integral role in the teak trade, many migrants from Myanmar made this northern city home, and you'll find teak mansions and Burmese-style temples everywhere.

fokkebok/Getty Images

Chiang Rai, a northern Thai city, is often glossed over as most visitors opt to stop in Chiang Mai instead. "I am always struck by how chill Chiang Rai is," said Ekelund. "It's a relaxing place to be and has cool stuff to do. It's a great city to walk through the neighborhoods and see people living their daily lives. I enjoyed the mountains, nearby villages, and opportunities for cultural exchange."

Jackyenjoyphotography/Getty Images

No list of best places to visit in Thailand would be complete without Phuket. While Phuket has a reputation for being crowded with resort after resort, the truth is it’s for a reason — the island is a beautiful place to be. Thailand's largest and most easily accessible island brings visitors in by the millions each year for its wide array of hotels, white-sand beaches, parties in Patong, colorful snorkeling, and eclectic culinary scene.

Oleh_Slobodeniuk/Getty Images

Thailand’s second most popular island sits off the country’s eastern coast in the Gulf of Thailand. Koh Samui is wreathed in bone-white sandy beaches, peppered with temples, veined with hiking trails, and splashed with fabulous resorts and energetic beach towns and villages.

"It's hard to beat Koh Samui. It's just beautiful," said Ekelund. "If you want easy access without a full resort stay, I recommend Anantara Bophut . You can walk to Fisherman's Village, and you won’t feel like you're 'stuck' at a resort. If you want a full resort experience, I like Banyan Tree Samui for its private beach and spectacular rooms."

Cavan Images/Getty Images

The tiny island of Koh Tao, located in the Gulf of Thailand and not too far from Koh Samui, is one of the country’s best locations for diving and snorkeling. In fact, most avid divers will tell you that Koh Tao is their destination of choice in Thailand. The palm-fringed island is best known for its abundance of sea turtles.

Kanchanaburi

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Shrouded in thick jungle and sliced by miles of track belonging to what was once known as the “Death Railway,” Kanchanaburi has a dark and tragic history. The infamous train route, which crosses the River Kwai, was built from 1940 to 1943 by prisoners of war taken by the Japanese in World War II. Today, only a small section of the rail route is open and takes travelers on a journey through the mountain cliffs and bamboo forests of Kanchanaburi. "If you're into history, beautiful vistas, trains, and wildlife, you can get all of that in Kanchanaburi. It's a place not many tourists go, either, so it has a lot to offer," said Ekelund.

Tieu Bao Truong/Getty Images

Trang is the province directly south of Krabi, which means it has the same beautiful stretch of Andaman Sea coastline, except with a fraction of the crowds. There’s no shortage of islands to explore around Trang, like Koh Kradan and Koh Muk. Koh Muk's crown jewel is the secret Emerald Cave, which can be entered via a dark tunnel that leads to a protected beach surrounded by towering limestone cliffs.

Pierrick Lemaret/Getty Images

Located in the province of Phang Nga, Khao Lak can be thought of as Phuket’s much quieter cousin. Less than two hours from Phuket International Airport, Khao Lak is home to miles of sprawling, empty beaches, plus it offers easy access to beautiful national parks.

"I've been hyping Khao Lak quite a bit for people who want something quieter," said Ekelund. "You have easy access to the Phuket International Airport, but it's much more chill than the other Andaman Islands. It has beautiful beaches, good infrastructure, a great spot for dining, and it’s not hard to get to."

Inigo Arza Azcorra/Getty Images

Whether or not you drive the Mae Hong Son Loop, you’ll want to stop in Pai when visiting northern Thailand. Once a sleepy community of expats, Pai has morphed into a must-visit backpacker destination. Visitors will find funky cafes and coffee shops, endless bars, guest houses, hostels, and a dispensary or two, particularly now that cannabis is no longer considered a narcotic in the country.

Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park

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South of Bangkok, the province of Prachuap Khiri Khan is best known for the glamorous, frenetic beach town of Hua Hin. The province runs down the skinny arm of the country, bordering the Gulf of Thailand on one side and Myanmar on the other. Here’s where you'll find Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park, Thailand's first marine national park. The park's top attractions include a series of spectacular caves and a sprawling freshwater marsh. Visitors can enjoy the park’s beaches, islands, walking trails, and thick mangrove forests. It’s just an hour from Hua Hin and about 3.5 hours from Bangkok.

4FR/Getty Images

This long, skinny island, also in the province of Krabi, flies under the radar, but it’s one of my favorite places in the country. Koh Lanta is home to beautiful beaches, great restaurants, and the Mu Ko Lanta National Park, an amazing spot for diving and seeing undeveloped beaches.

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Time Out Bangkok magazine

Check out what's in this issue of Time Out Bangkok

Due to the Bangkok business shutdown to fight against the coronavirus outbreak, Time Out Bangkok will crease our print edition until further notice. However, you can still read the digital version or download your own copy to read on your digital devices for free here . 

No. 98  Thailand's thriving Boys Love Culture

As the Thai Boys Love television series and novels are on the rise, Time Out Bangkok talks to insiders to get to know more about what could evolve into the country’s new major entertainment export.

Download your digital copy to read from your tablet here . 

Past issues, no. 97 bangkok's best staycation deals.

Covid-19 has taken its toll on tourism businesses all over the world. Thailand, once a thriving tourist destination that welcomed leisure and business visitors in droves, saw a dramatic drop in inbound arrivals in the first quarter of 2020. Severely affected are the hotels that rely heavily on the influx of foreign tourists. Many have decided to take a break and cease operations temporarily while some have even closed for good. Those left standing are now trying to appeal to the domestic market by launching appealing staycation packages that allow locals to relax and still feel like they’re on holiday when flying out of Thailand is still not an option.  

No. 96 Striking Structures

B angkok’s Old Town boasts a diverse mix of traditional Thai structures and European-inspired heritage buildings. But architectural buffs will tell you that the city’s urban landscape has more to offer than grand temples and converted colonial homes. If you take time to research, walk around the city or even just look up, you’ll realize that Bangkok is home to a number of beautiful buildings bearing a variety of architectural styles , from neoclassical to modernist to postmodernist.

Now that there are fewer cars and people on the road—and provided you practice social distancing—this is probably the best time to go out with a camera and get your fill of Bangkok’s many modern architectural wonders.

No. 95 New Normal

Nobody knows when this pandemic will be over. But we know one thing: it has and will continue to change the way we live. 

In between trying all possible ways to survive (physically, mentally and emotionally), many have started talking about the possibility of a “ new normal ”. How will life go on in the future? How will we shop? Will there be concerts? Will e-commerce platforms overtake shopping malls? Will food delivery become a standard for restaurants? There are so many questions waiting to be answered.

Time Out has reached out to representatives from various industries. What they say reveal much about how a city is adapting and planning for a post-pandemic future .

Download your digital copy of the latest Time Out Bangkok  here .

No. 94 Stay safe, Bangkok

In this issue, during business shutdown and night curfew, we get into the digital world to explore how Bangkokians are using technology to help one another in the time of COVID-19. 

Download your digital copy  here .

No. 93 Next in Food

Time Out writers predict what Bangkokians will be eating in the rest of 2020.

Download your copy here . 

No. 92 Vegan Life

Looking for the   best vegan and vegetarian eateries   in Bangkok? We've got you covered. 

No. 91 Pet Town

No. 90 mario maurer.

Mario Maurer looks back into his 15 years in the Thai entertainment industry.

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THAILAND TRAVEL GUIDE

How to travel to thailand independently.

✓ 170 pages of tips collected during our 18 months of traveling around Thailand

✓ All you need to know about food, transport, accommodation, insurance, costs and Thai traditions

✓ Awesome pro tips for what to do in Thailand beyond beaches and temples

✓ Tons of useful advice about where to go in the northern, central and southern regions

✓ Suggestions for what to avoid in Thailand

✓ Detailed itineraries for your Thailand vacation

✓ Oodles of helpful resources about Thailand

Discover the Land of Smiles

Thailand is a fascinating country with an incredible diversity in natural and historical sites, exotic cuisine and a huge range of activities to do. It doesn’t matter if you are a budget traveler, an adventurer, an outdoor lover, a luxury traveler or a first-time visitor in Asia, Thailand will welcome you with open arms and heart.

Despite the fact that it’s become one of the most popular destinations in Asia (and in the world!), there are still lots of off the beaten path places with genuine locals and unspoilt nature.

Thailand stole our hearts during our first visit in 2013. Since then we’ve been returning periodically and calling it home for extended amounts of time. We’ve ventured through the north, south, east and west of Thailand and visited lesser known corners of the country as well as popular sites. Our time with kind-hearted locals taught us more about the local culture and country’s history.

We’ve volunteered at an international NGO that protects the natural habitat of elephants. We’ve organized photowalks in the Northern part of the country and gave a speech about responsible travel in Bangkok. One of our travel pieces on Thailand was published in the UK edition of the Psychologies magazine. We were also honoured to be guests on the travel show The Passion, which airs on Thai national TV.

In this travel guide, we’ll share our knowledge on Thailand with hopes to inspire you to travel to Thailand independently, without a travel agent, and to explore the country at your own pace and according to your interests.

This is the e-book for people looking for detailed information on Thailand, including Thai culture, transportation, accommodations, food, things to do and places to visit in Thailand. Thailand Travel Guide will help you plan and enjoy your trip.

By reading this Thailand Travel Guide, you will…

• be able to decide which region of Thailand suits you the best, and the kinds of natural and historical sites you’ll find in the northern, central and southern regions.
• find suggestions for all sorts of accommodation, ranging from luxury resorts, mid-range guesthouses to basic bamboo huts.
• get tips on various transport modes available throughout the country. draw inspiration on what to do in Thailand, whether you’re an adventurer, a foodie or a luxury traveler. We also include a list of awesome Thai festivals. learn about what and where to eat in Thailand.
• have an idea of how much money you will spend on your holiday in Thailand.
• discover how the weather varies in different regions and when to visit each region.
• understand what not to do in Thailand so you can avoid faux pas.
• receive practical tips on how to save money in Thailand.
• have access to two different travel itineraries: one that focuses on beaches and nature, while the other focuses on history and cities.

What other Thailand travel experts say about this guide

Frequently Asked Questions

Because we’ve written it from with the goal of helping others to get the most of their trip to Thailand. All experiences in the e-book are either ours personally, or in a few case, we took some tips from friends we know have also traveled extensively in Thailand, and we trust their recommendations. The e-book is full of practical advice – absolutely no fluffy stuff.

If you’ve only visited Bangkok and a couple of the islands in the south, then the answer is “Definitely!”. We put together tons of tips covering where to go in Thailand, including the lesser-known areas. This e-book covers the whole country of Thailand and includes many inspiring tips for things to do. You’ll have plenty of options to choose from!

Not at this time.

Drop us an email on nomadisbeautiful(at)gmail(dot)com. We’ll be happy to help out if we can.

About the authors

Ivana Greslikova and Gianni Bianchini are the Slovak-Italian couple behind the Nomad is Beautiful travel website.

After they quit their jobs in Germany in 2013, they packed their lives into two carry-on backpacks, hit the road and never looked back.

Gianni and Ivana both graduated from English language and literature and were documenting their lives through photography for many years prior to their nomadic journey.

With Ivana’s five years of experience as an editor and Gianni as a photographer and team leader in a videogame company, they’ve created a website filled with beautiful travel photos and engaging articles.

On their blog, they focus on Southeast Asian countries, travel photography, responsible travel and living the digital nomad lifestyle.

If they’re not roaming around local markets early morning, you’ll find them hiking up in the hills and sipping pu-erh tea around the world.

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The best thailand travel guides.

Which Thailand travel guide should you choose? I've read almost all of them – many from cover to cover – and I've even written one.

This post may contain affiliate links, from which I receive a small commission on any resulting purchases at no cost to the customer. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. It keeps The Koh Samui Guide ad-free, never sponsored and 100% independent. See privacy policy for more details.

The best Thailand travel guidebooks

Buying the travel guide is the first promise to yourself that this vacation is finally ( finally ) happening. Ready to commit to Thailand? The following Thailand travel guides include new editions and major updates for 2023, so it's a great time to start planning. While Lonely Planet books tend to be ubiquitous best-sellers, Thailand is rightly a popular country with plenty else on the shelves.

So – Which Thailand travel guide should you choose? I've read almost all of them – many from cover to cover – and I've even written one . Here's how to find the perfect guidebook for your trip. Enjoy!

Top 3 Thailand travel guides

1. lonely planet thailand.

Lonely Planet Thailand

Lonely Planet Thailand is renewed and refreshed with – I hope – less elephant-riding than last time. This edition covers Bangkok, Central Thailand, Ko Chang, Chiang Mai Province, Northern Thailand, Hua Hin, Southern Gulf, Samui, Lower Gulf, Phuket and the Andaman Coast.

A great starting point to get to grips with Thailand. Lonely Planet chases down the cool kids with liberal use of “kinda” and derisory references to strutting “middle-aged men”. Are you a cool kid? A very good Thailand primer section helps you to choose where to go, when and for how long. There’s some needed simplicity when you’re trying to choose between a dozen beach destinations. A thick section is devoted to Bangkok.

The book makes excellent use of sidebars, colour-coding and bolded bits. Half an hour with it and you’ll have extracted all that you were looking for. Too simplistic in parts? Maybe. But a very dependable shortcut. As for size, you’re not going to want to carry this book in your handbag. It’s a brick. There’s a Kindle version, though!

2. DK Eyewitness Thailand

DK Eyewitness Thailand

‍300,000 temples. 282 mammal species. 'Nagas' are believed to control rainfall. There’s a museum with the preserved remains of a man who ate 7 children. Rafflesia flowers are insane . I’m a walking Thailand ‘Rain Man’ thanks to DK Eyewitness ( see my full review ). Expecting tidy lists of travel minutia? What you get instead is 384 pages of small font and huge interest.

I read this travel guide cover to cover. It's fascinating, and – no matter your Thailand plans – you need to spend at least one evening devouring it.

3. Fodor's Essential Thailand

Fodor's Essential Thailand ‍

I can relate to the joy of a brand new and totally updated guidebook! Fodor’s latest offering promises a full redesign, and includes sections on Cambodia and Laos as well. More a book to read than Lonely Planet’s skim-through. However, photos on every page keep it interesting. Sections like “What’s hot in Thailand right now” (teenagers “tapping their feet to J-Pop”) suggests Fodor’s audience is Baby Boomer Plus. It feels – dare I say it – slightly uncool. Do you own a Tilley hat?

While it's not quite as hyper as Lonely Planet, I find there’s more to read in Fodor’s. The content is wider-ranging as well, with details on Thai history and a great FAQ on how to eat street food (“What are all the condiments for?”). Intro pages have a great range of itinerary suggestions. Portable? Not totally. It’s a great book for doing your research in advance.

Thai language and culture guides

4. thailand - culture smart.

Thailand - Culture Smart! ‍

The manual I was missing on my first trip to Thailand. Picking up where the Lonely Planet intro leaves off, this culture guide covers the whos, the hows, the whats and the whys of Thailand culture (and some interesting history) in a very readable manner. You can easily read it in one sitting, emerging much the wiser.‍ ‍

Tip: Love people watching? This book will help you to get much more out of day-to-day observation while you’re in Thailand.

5. Thailand's Best Street Food

Thailand's Best Street Food ‍

Learn exactly how to dig into Thai street food safely, and with confidence. You’ll learn where to eat, and exactly what (and how) to order ( see my full review ). This updated book covers Bangkok primarily, with sections on Phuket and Chiang Mai as well.

6. Lonely Planet Thai Phrasebook

Lonely Planet Thai Phrasebook ‍

If you’re going to do something badly while in Thailand – why not try to speak Thai? Most every tourist quickly masters ‘hello’ and ‘thank you’ in Thai, but a third, fourth or fifth phrase would earn high praise. Get a head start on a few words in this (quite tricky) language with this highly praised pocket reference book.

Koh Samui travel guide

7. the koh samui guide.

The Koh Samui Guide ‍

Look at that little beauty. I often say that The Koh Samui Guide is ‘the guide I wish I’d had’ from the start. But my ‘live and learn’ first trip to Koh Samui was still a perfect vacation – as, I hope, yours will be. Still, if you want the cheat-sheet to enjoy Samui like total pros… I’ve literally written the manual. Enjoy!

‍ “I can’t come up with a single suggestion to enhance it. It’s by far the best single spot travel guide I’ve seen, anywhere, and I’m 44 and been around the block (well got lost at one point). I’d say it’s essential and almost a necessity.” – Claus, Denmark

Bangkok travel guides

8. dk eyewitness top 10 bangkok.

DK Eyewitness Top 10 Bangkok (2023) ‍

The new 2023 edition is now available and is a great starting point if you're raring to go. This straightforward guide will help you to plan a superb trip to Bangkok – especially if you’re tight on time.

9. Secret Bangkok

Secret Bangkok ‍

Avoid tourist traps? This is the guide for you. "This book will lead you to the place where people offer bacon and eggs to tiger temple guardians, and a temple with elaborate effigies of David Beckham, Donald Duck and Popeye."

10. Lonely Planet Bangkok

Lonely Planet Bangkok ‍

Depending on your location, this book was published in May 2022 or early 2023. With 288 pages of nothing but Bangkok, this guide book will get you from Chinatown to Chatuchak. Nineteen neighbourhood maps and updated content from Austin Bush (see The Food of Northern Thailand ).

Phuket travel guides

11. dk eyewitness top 10 phuket.

DK Eyewitness Top 10 Phuket (2023) ‍

The 2023 edition is now available. While the full DK Eyewitness Thailand book might take you a few days to read and digest, the Top 10 books are obviously more bite-sized. Planning a quick visit to Phuket? This will help you see what you need to see, Marie-Kondo-ing the rest.

12. Lonely Planet Pocket Phuket

Lonely Planet Pocket Phuket

‍Truly a pocket book – it's about the size and weight of a Kindle. It covers Phuket Town, Hat Patong, Hat Karon, Hat Kata, Rawai, Hat Kamala, Hat Surin, Ao Bang Thao, Thalang, Northern Beaches and more.

Thailand travel guides for kids

13. all about thailand.

All About Thailand ‍

A fun way to introduce kids to Thailand, using stories, songs, crafts and games. Not exactly a travel guide, but part encyclopaedia, part activity book.Tip: Preparing for visiting Thailand with kids? See these favourite children's books for some great bedtime stories about Thailand.

14. Kids' Travel Guide - Thailand

Kids' Travel Guide - Thailand ‍

Included with a Kindle Unlimited membership. The fun way to discover Thailand – especially for kids. “No matter where you visit in Thailand – kids enjoy fascinating facts, fun activities, useful tips, quizzes and Leonardo (your child’s tour guide)!” Available in Kindle and paperback.

15. Travel for Kids: Thailand

Travel for Kids: Thailand ‍

“Whether preparing for a vacation, or simply wanting to learn about Thai, this book gives you all you need to know, fun places to visit, tasty food to try, and fun, interactive pop quizzes throughout.” Available in paperback and for Kindle.

Hate reading? Prefer sleeping?

16. learn thai while sleeping.

Learn Thai While Sleeping ‍

‍ Free with an audible trial. Any efforts to learn a word or two of Thai will pay off. Again, unlike many parts of Asia, Thais will be far happier to teach you their language than pester for English tips. If you've been meaning to kick your "fall Asleep in front of Netflix" habit, this might be a useful place to start. Learn basic Thai greetings, how to count and helpful beginner Thai over 7+ hours of lessons.

Your questions

‍ Any nature or field guides for seeing birds and animals in Thailand?

‍ Yes! This sub-set of Thailand travel guides starts niche ... and gets nichier (sea slugs, anyone?). In no particular order:

• Diving: Diving & Snorkelling Guide to Thailand
• Durian: The Durian Tourist's Guide to Thailand
• Birds: A Naturalist's Guide to the Birds of Thailand
• Birds: Birds of Thailand (Princeton Field Guides)
• Animals: Field Guide to the Mammals of South-East Asia
• Butterflies: A Naturalist's Guide to the Butterflies of Thailand
• Fish: A Field Guide to Tropical Reef Fishes
• Sea slugs: Nudibranchs and Sea Slugs of Koh Tao and Nearby Islands

For what it's worth, I have both the bird books and recommend them thoroughly.

‍ What's a good German language Thailand travel guide?

‍ Try Stefan Loose Reiseführer Thailand Der Süden . I can’t read a word of it, but German friends tell me this is the book to have if you want German-language advice for Thailand. (As I can’t vouch for the content, it will surely weigh down the towel you’ll use to claim your pool bed at dawn =)‍

‍ Can you recommend any Thai cookbooks?

‍ Yes! See this list – you'll find thirty-three superb Thai cookbooks for all skill levels, including four German-language books, plus niche options for noodle-lovers, lazy but greedy people and, fine, vegetarians, too. As a quick summary, I recommend:

• Maenam if you want to challenge yourself
• Thailand: The Cookbook as a beautiful gift
• Simple Thai Food if you're a beginner with high hopes

To add to your Thailand knowledge, see even more recommendations below.

• The 33 Best Thai Cookbooks
• The Best Books about Thailand
• Favourite Children’s Books about Thailand
• The Best Audiobooks about Thailand

P.S. You can find every tip for Thailand packing and prep in the archive, or subscribe by email and get all the details straight to your inbox. Enjoy!

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Top 10 Destinations in Thailand

by Vincent Vichit-Vadakan | Jun 11, 2020

It’s easy to see why Thailand, far and away the most popular destination in Southeast Asia, is on everyone’s holiday wish list.

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]In recent weeks, who hasn’t dreamed of a holiday to get away from it all? We’ve all indulged in a little armchair travel and for many of us the first destination that wanderlust leads to is Thailand. Fantasy trips will do for now but as soon as conditions allow for safe travel again, we know you won’t be the only one booking a ticket to these top 10 destinations in Thailand.

Why is Thailand such a popular tourist destination? The answer to that question is a question: what’s not to like about picture-postcard landscapes, sites steeped in history, mouth-watering delicacies and a genuinely warm welcome wherever you go in the Land of Smiles?

You can visit year-round, but of the country’s three seasons (cool, hot and rainy, known respectively as hot, hottest and hotter) the best time to visit Thailand is during the cool weather of December to February, after the threat of daily downpours has subsided and before the scorching heat returns. Bangkok may be the first stop for most international travellers, but look beyond the capital to discover some of the best places to visit in Thailand.

Sino-Portuguese Building, The Old Building in Phuket Old Town

Phuket – Laem Phrom Thep

Racha Yai Island, Mu Ko Racha (Racha Island) or Raya Island

The biggest of 1400-plus islands in the country is also the most popular destination in Thailand outside of Bangkok. Stroll through Phuket Old Town, and its brightly painted shophouses the origin of which can be traced back to tin mining that made the fortune of the island.

Start in Thalang Road, taking a break in one of the many cafés like Kopitiam, a stylish rendition of an old-school coffee house. The brand new Blue Tree Phuket is a sprawling water park that is ideal whether you’re travelling with family or friends.

Movenpick Resort & Spa Karon Beach Phuket

If you are looking for the best restaurant in Phuket, head for Pru, where the farm-to-table menu won it the island’s only Michelin star, or Acqua, for an authentic taste of Italy. Exclusive, secluded Trisara pampers its guests, while the villas and residences at Mövenpick Karon Beach are perfect for families. Remember that the most romantic sunsets with uninterrupted views to the horizon are on the west coast beaches like Bang Tao and Surin.

The Twin Pagodas, Doi Inthanon Chiang Mai – Phra Mahathat Naphamethanidon and Phra Mahathat Naphaphonphumisiri

Rice Terrace at Ban Pa Bong Pieng Village, Chiang Mai

The restored walls and moat of the fortified city are the most visible reminder of the Rose of the North’s past as the capital of the Lanna Kingdom. The city centre is dotted with impressive temples like the 80-metre-high Wat Chedi Luang.

A hub for artists, the city also includes galleries , studios galore and the world-class MAIIAM Contemporary Art Museum. Just to the west of the walled city, explore the boutiques and cafés of Nimmanheimin, and enjoy the sunset from the rooftop of the Yayee Hotel. Explore the endlessly creative modern Thai cuisine at Blackitch.

Stay at the best hotels in Chiang Mai including the casual chic X2 Chiang Mai Riverside Resort on the banks of the Ping River and 137 Pillars built around a 19th-century heritage teak house. For an easy day trip out of town, head for the ornate temple Wat Doi Suthep or climb Doi Inthanon, Thailand’s highest peak.

Phra Yai Temple at Samui Island, Surat Thani

Cruise at Samui Island, Surat Thani

Located in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Samui is the country’s second biggest island. If you are looking for things to do in Samui, the answer is some of the best beaches in Thailand.

Peaceful Laem Yai in the west is home to the Four Seasons. Bophut Fisherman’s Village on the north coast features old-fashioned charm, boutiques and quiet cafés that are a far cry from the bustling crowds of backpacker-filled Chawaeng.

With just 22 elegant villas and a clear contender for the title of best hotel in Samui, Cape Fahn occupies a private island off the northeast coast of Samui that is close enough to walk to at low tide. Boats and an amphibious truck are available the rest of the time. Cape Fahn is also the location of Long Dtai, celebrity chef David Thompson’s latest restaurant that pays homage to the variety of seafood and produce and the rich, heady flavours of southern Thai cuisine.

Khao Yai National Park, Nakhon Ratchasima

Gaur in Khao Yai National Park Nakhon Ratchasima

An easy road trip from Bangkok, Khao Yai can be reached by car in about two hours, making it a favourite getaway for locals escaping the capital . Khao Yai is Thailand’s oldest national park and is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site that protects the varied flora and fauna of the region. Spotting gibbons and elephants is a regular occurrence and birdwatchers will want to pack their binoculars. A night safari in the park is a definite highlight.

GranMonte Vineyard and Winery in Asoke Valley, Khao Yai

Nearby Scenical World is one of Thailand’s best theme parks with a water park, extreme rides and a dedicated kids’ area. The suites and villa of the adjacent Botanica Resort are perfect for a weekend getaway. Some visitors are surprised to learn that Khao Yai also produces excellent wine. Tour the GranMonte winery, dine at their Vin Cotto restaurant and even stay in guest rooms located on the edge of the vineyard.

Mak Island, Trat

Trat – Koh Chang National Marine Park – Koh Yak Yai

Klong Chao Beach on Kut Island, Trat

Koh Chang, along with neighbouring Koh Kood and Koh Mak are the easternmost of Thailand’s islands and some of the best Thai beach destinations. Even Koh Chang’s built-up west coast is low key compared to the busiest beaches of Phuket and Samui and offer the comfort of properties like the Centara Tropicana or Chivapuri. But to really get away from it all push on a little further.

Most of the hotels on neighbouring Koh Mak are on Ao Suan Yai beach, just a stone’s throw from one of the island’s most visited attractions, The Kingdom of Somchai’s Affection, named for a late local artist whose sculptural work could be described as quirky, racy or both.

Finally, the honours of best hotel on Koh Kood, the island furthest from the mainland that offers the most pristine beaches, goes to the eco-conscious, understatedly luxurious Soneva Kiri. Respectful of its environment, the property boasts an observatory, an outdoor cinema, an educational eco den, and dining on a suspended platform in the trees, complete with servers who arrive by zip line.

Kanchanaburi

Saphan Mon or Uttamanusorn Bridge is the longest wooden bridge in Thailand, cross the Songkalia River at Kanchanaburi

The Death Railway or The Burma Railway is along with the Kwae Noi River at Krasae Bridge, Kanchanaburi

Kanchanaburi is the location of the famed Bridge over the River Kwai and history buffs flock to see the infamous bridge, the museum and wartime cemeteries. The province is also home to stunning natural sites like Erawan National Park and the popular seven-tiered Erawan Waterfall.

You can travel to Kanchanaburi by train in style. Eastern and Oriental Express offer a dinner service aboard the impossibly elegant dining carriage, all wood panelling and bevelled glass. You can alight to continue your stay or journey back to Bangkok by car.

Eastern and Oriental Express offer a dinner service

Alternatively, book a slightly less plush state railway prestige carriage through Inn Train, who will customise all services you require, including decoration, an on-board chef and any stops along the way. This is an excellent alternative for an exclusive family or group outing. If you’re looking for something a little different but still enjoy creature comforts and attentive service, go glamping at the Hintok River Camp.

Mahathat Temple in Sukhothai Historical Park, Sukhothai

Phra Achana Buddha Image at Sri Chum Temple in Sukhothai Historical Park, Sukhothai

The ancient capital of the Sukhothai Kingdom dates back to the 13 th century. The archaeological site of the Sukhothai Historic Park spread can be visited by car, tuktuk or bike. One of the distinctive features of Sukhothai art is the Buddha sculptures with elongated bodies, like the awe-inspiring seated Buddha in Wat Mahathat.

Other excursions include the mountain peaks of the Ramkhamhaeng National Park and the not-to-be-missed archaeological site of Si Satchanalai, the second princely city of the ancient kingdom. If you fly Bangkok Airways to the old Thai capital of Sukhothai, perks include lounge service regardless of ticket class and the only flights to Sukhothai Airport, owned by the airline. (Low-cost carriers fly to nearby Phitsanulok.) The airline also owns the best hotel in the area, the Sukhothai Heritage Resort, a little away from the city centre, that includes the property’s own organic farm that supplies the hotel and that guests can visit.

Tham Phra Nang Beach on Nang Bay in Hat Noppharat Thara – Mu Ko Phi Phi National Marine Park, Krabi

Ha Island, Krabi

Boutique hotel Le passe-temps lobby

Krabi is the perfect base for all manner of water sports including sailing, snorkelling and scuba-diving. It is also an ideal starting point for exploring the iconic islands like Phi Phi (though access to Maya Bay made famous by Leonardo di Caprio in The Beach has been suspended until further notice).

Check out the lesser-known beaches of Poda, Garos and Koh Deng. Tip: request a departure an hour after the other groups to avoid the crowds. Tour the unique ecosystem of the salt and fresh water mangrove in Tha Pom and kayak through the community-based eco-tourism site of Khlong Nong Thale known to locals as the clear water canal.

You can also paddle to see the cave paintings in Thum Pee Hua To or the big-headed ghost grotto. Stay in the charming bungalows of exclusive boutique hotel Le passe-temps, run by a French couple with a sense of style and a real connection to the local community.

Koh Yao Noi

Yao Noi Island, Pang-nga

Yoga at Yao Yai Island, Phang-nga (Santhiya Koh Yao Yai Resort & Spa)

Koh Yao Noi (Small Long Island in Thai) and the even lesser developed Koh Yao Yai (Big Long Island) are perhaps some of the most untouched corners of natural beauty in Thailand, making them one of the best beach destinations in Thailand.

Located between the island of Phuket and Krabi on the mainland, life moves at a slower pace here. The most challenging decision of the day will be to choose between the blissfully peaceful white sandy beaches of Pasai or Tha Khao Bay. Wander out to pick your Phuket lobster for dinner.

Six Senses Yao Noi View from The Den

Yao Noi Six Senses is where the luxury brand built its reputation for dedication to wellness and sustainability, a philosophy that the resort still doggedly applies today. That means not just a spa treatment, but how you sleep, what you eat and even how you mindfully see the world. A tour around the island isn’t just a selfie op, but an enriching outing that is designed to stay with you long after you leave.

Could Koh Lanta offer the best beaches in Thailand? Here the vibe is less about partying and more about relaxing strolls on the beach that even in high season never feel crowded. Kantiang Bay, Kor Kwang, Khlong Khing and Khlong Nim are among the best beach choices on Lanta.

Pimalai Resort and Spa in Koh Lanta

Dive and snorkel among the exotic pufferfish and pipefish and pristine coral. Lanta Old Town was a trading port where Thai, Chinese and Muslim traders from the Middle East met and that mix of cultures is still part of the town’s fibre today.

Pimalai Resort and Spa

Among the island’s first inhabitants are the Chao Le people also known as the sea gipsies who speak a distinct language and have preserved many of their animistic traditions. High on the list of the best hotels in Lanta is the Pimalai Resort and Spa, that prides itself on the exclusivity and seclusion the property offers as well as its green credentials that are respectful of the hotel’s environment. ◼[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Subscribe to the latest edition now by clicking here.

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TRAVEL to THAILAND – Tips and Information Guide (2024 Edition)

Everything you need to know about travel to Thailand in our comprehensive 2024 Thailand Travel Guide.

Having spent almost 12 months exploring and living in the ‘Land of Smiles’, we’ve become pretty knowledgable when it comes to information on travel to Thailand, which is why we’ve put together this epic Thailand travel guide for you!

Travelling to Thailand, a place proud in heritage and Buddhism offers an insight into the fight to sustain its past while a booming economy beckons.

From the Grand Palace to the rice paddies of Chiang Mai, Thailand’s diversity of adventure and culture combine to be the perfect mix for a first-timers country or those who want to delve deeper.

Maybe a trip to remote Northeastern Thailand to visit 13th-century temples or why not head to Phangnga Bay home to a multitude of limestone islands.

Thailand along with its expanding cities, natural landscapes never cease to amaze from the Northern jungles of Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai where waterfalls become an ideal swimming spot as lush forests dominate the mountainous horizon all while golden beaches and oceans sustain some of Thailand’s most pristine and unique sea life.

Travelling in Thailand has it all from exotic cuisines, endless opportunity for adventure and some of the friendliest people in the world. What more could you ask for?

The 22 Best Things to Do in Koh Samui, Thailand

27 amazing places to visit in thailand, cape fahn hotel review – the best luxury resort on koh samui, travelling in thailand: at a glance.

Here are the basics of travel to Australia.

Thai Baht (See  current exchange rates ). $1 USD equals roughly 31 Thai Baht. You can often find cheap local meals for about 30-50 Baht ($1-2 USD), and an average beer at a bar can cost between 70-100 Baht ($2-3 USD). 

OTHER MAIN CITIES:

Chiang Mai, Phuket

ENTRY / VISA:

People travelling to Thailand must obtain a visa unless they come from a visa-exempt country, or a country that can obtain a visa on arrival. For information about the visa process click  here.

Thai (In touristy areas, many locals speak English. So you don’t have to be fluent in Thai to navigate the country!)

Thailand in general is a very safe country for tourists, but just like everywhere else you need to be street smart. The most common issues tourists will encounter in Thailand comes in the form of petty theft and robberies, usually in busy markets or out on the streets late at night.

ELECTRICITY:

220 Volt at 50Hz. If you have 110-volt appliances, you need a voltage adaptor otherwise you’ll burn out the item you are using. Plug type A (two-prong round socket) or C (two-prong flat sockets).Be sure to get your  universal travel adapter  before you leave.

TRANSPORTATION:

Getting around Thailand is super easy. Thailand has some wonderful public transport infrastructure in place, and you can get just about anywhere in the country without too much of an issue.

Don’t Forget to Pack the Most Important Thing: Travel Insurance !

Top 5 Travel Experiences in Thailand

With so much to see and do in Thailand, it really is hard to pick the top experiences.

However, we think that to truly appreciate Thailand you need to plan to do these 5 activities during your visit.

Go Scuba Diving

Thailand is the place to get scuba certified. The courses are among the cheapest in the world and the trainers are highly qualified. If you are already certified, dives are cheap.

Go  diving from Phuket .

Find peace at a meditation/yoga retreat

Thailand caters to those of us who are looking for a place to recharge our minds and bodies. With lots of affordable options, a retreat should be on your must-do list.

Book your  wellness stay in Koh Samui .

Take a Thai cooking class

Thai food is so delicious, so why not learn to cook it yourself? There are many cooking classes available throughout the country.

Book a  cooking class in Bangkok .

Island hop the most picturesque beaches

Thailand offers some of the most spectacular beaches in all of the world. Most of these are on islands only accessible by boat. Fortunately, transport is cheap and easy so get out and find your favourite beach!

Pay your respects at the many temples

Buddhism is an essential and vibrant part of Thai life and temples are all over the country. To learn more, respectfully engage in conversation with monks. And at some of the temples, you can learn meditation for the day or have a meal for a small donation.

Tour the famous  temples of Chiang Mai .

Other Things to do in Thailand

Rock climb . Krabi is known for many things, rock climbing among them.  Railay Beach  is the most popular place to give the sport a try.

Get a Sak Yant tattoo . Sak Tant tattoos are  sacred and blessed tattoos  inscribed by monks using traditional bamboo tattoo methods. Definitely a permanent memory from your time in Thailand.

Ride a tuk-tuk . These three-wheeled vehicles are the most common way to navigate the busy streets in most Thai cities. You’d be hard-pressed not to find them convenient and affordable during your travels.

Visit a floating market . Bangkok has  the most famous floating markets . But you can tour others throughout the country for a uniquely Thai feel.

Eat Pad Thai . Sure you’ve probably had Pad Thai at your favourite Thai restaurant back home. But you’ve never had it as you will in Thailand itself.

Watch a Ladyboy show . Seemingly peculiar yet incredibly popular and well respected in Thai culture, the  Ladyboy Cabaret’s  will leave you entertained for sure.

Walk on the Bridge Over the River Kwai . Famous in its own right, the bridge is worth a stroll when you are  visiting Kanchanaburi .

Visit the Golden Triangle . Thailand, Laos and Myanmar come together at what is called the Golden Triangle.  Visit here  to take in all 3 countries at once.

Visit the Bangkok Airplane Graveyard . It’s never good to think of planes and graveyards in the same thought. Unless you can explore the ruins of  massive and historic planes .

Catch a sunset at the Phi Phi viewpoint . Sure there are plenty of amazing places to end your day in Thailand. But  Koh Phi Phi  boasts just about the best sunsets as anywhere else in the country.

Watch Muay Thai fight . You can watch Muay Thai at any number of venues around Thailand. Or  take a lesson in Bangkok  if you’re up for the challenge.

See the Big Buddha . Buddhism is big in Thailand. And nothing demonstrates this more than the Big Buddha in Phuket.

Be Sure to Check Out These Other Amazing Things to do in Thailand !

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Best Places to Visit in Thailand

There are plenty of amazing places to visit in Thailand. Depending on your interests, trip duration and time of year you will find plenty of things to do during any length of stay. 

The capital of Thailand has become one of the most popular gateways to Asia. No trip to Thailand is complete without  a few days in Bangkok .

For the best introduction to the stunning scenery and warm culture of Thailand,  visit Phuket , the country’s largest island.

With the best restaurant and cafe scene in the country, excellent nightlife, a strong Buddhist presence and enough activities to fill a calendar year, there is definitely no shortage of  things to do in Chiang Mai !

Located in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Samui is a huge island covered in forest and fringed with pristine beaches. As the second-largest Thai island, you absolutely must plan to  visit Koh Samui .

For more information on specific things to do in the top places to visit in Thailand, reference our following city travel guides: 

*  Bangkok City Guide *  Bangkok Itinerary *  Day Trips From Bangkok

Chiang Mai:

*  Chiang Mai City Guide *  Chiang Mai Itinerary * Day Trips From Chiang Mai

*  Phuket City Guide *  Phuket Itinerary * Day Trips from Phuket

*  Koh Samui City Guide *  Koh Samui Itinerary

Krabi Pai Koh Phi Phi Chiang Rai Ao Nang Koh Mook Trang Kanchanaburi

Kamphaeng Phet Koh Lanta Pattaya Hua Hin Koh Phangan Koh Yao Noi Koh Tao Tonsai Beach

Be Sure to Check Out These Other Awesome Places to Visit in Thailand.

Best Thailand Travel Itinerary

Depending on whether you are starting from scratch or have a general idea of what kind of things you would like to see and do, we’ve put together a  few Thailand itineraries  that are sure to leave you wanting for nothing at the end of your visit. 

There are so many amazing things to do in Thailand that planning an itinerary for your travel can be a little overwhelming. 

Of course, no one-size-fits-all plan will suffice. But if we were to head back to Thailand these are the top places and things that we would want to do! 

There is so much to see and do in Thailand, and you honestly could spend years here (lots of people to in fact).

Here is an overview of how you might consider spending between 1 to 3 weeks in Thailand.

Whether you love adventure, relaxation, health and wellness, luxury, food or culture, every type of travel is possible in Thailand!

Southern Thailand is more about beach life, luxury, partying and relaxing, whereas Northern Thailand is more about culture, food and adventure.

Here are some  2-week Thailand itinerary  suggestions that will help you plan your trip to Thailand.

Southern Thailand – Beach Life

• Fly into Phuket
• 2 days in Phuket
• 2 days in  Khao Sok National Park
• 3 days in Ao Nang – There are a lot of  things to do in Ao Nang , and you can island hop from here.
• 3 days in Koh Lanta
• 4 days in Koh Lipe
• Fly back to  Phuket  to fly out

Northern Thailand – Culture

• Fly into Bangkok
• 3 days in Bangkok – Check out our guide on the  best things to do in Bangkok.
• 2 days in Ayutthaya – Travel back in time and visit this historical park. Well preserved ruins and massive stupas.
• Fly up to Chiang Mai
• 3 days in Chiang Mai – There are so many  things to do in Chiang Mai.
• 3 days in Pai – Relax on the river bed or ride a motorbike and explore the surrounding area. Read our awesome  Pai travel guide.
• 2 days in Chiang Rai – Visit the White Temple.
• Fly back to Bangkok and head out on the next adventure.

Best of Both Worlds – North and South

• 2 days in Bangkok
• Day trip to Ayuthaya
• Fly from Bangkok to Chiang Mai
• 2 days in Chiang Mai
• 2 days in Chiang Rai
• Fly from Chiang Rai to Krabi
• 2 nights in Ao Nang / Railay Beach
• 2 nights in Koh Lanta
• Fly back to Bangkok and fly out

READ MORE: CHECK OUT THIS POST FOR MORE DETAILS ON THE  BEST THAILAND ITINERARIES .

Thailand Trip Planning

Best time to visit thailand.

If you are travelling the whole country from south to north, we would recommend travelling between the months of December and February for beautiful clear blue skies and nice temperatures.

January to February sees much less rain across the country, and temperatures remain constant throughout the year. The humidity is also very manageable.

If you’re in the north of the country at this time of year it may get a bit chilly at night so bring a sweater with you.

If you wanted to avoid the busy times, which are from November to March, consider travelling around from March to October when it is low season. There are way fewer tourists and hotels and flights are cheaper.

The one downside is that it does rain a lot in the afternoons and it can be very humid, but if you don’t mind getting a bit wet then this is a brilliant time to travel to Thailand.

Avoid Chiang Mai around April, as this is the burning season. It is not a pleasant time to be there as the air quality is not very good and hard to breathe at times.

If you have asthma, avoid this area completely during the burning season.

Thailand Travel Budget Guideline

Thailand is a very cheap country compared to most Western destinations, but it is on the high side compared to other countries in Southeast Asia.

A Thailand travel budget really comes down to your style and how much you’re willing to spend on things.

It’s entirely possible to travel on $20 a day, and you could also live on $2000 a day if you want.

For the most part, the north is around 30-50% cheaper than the south, so keep that in mind when you’re trying to figure out how much to spend and where you want to hang out the most.

The prices below are a general budget guide to travel in Thailand. All prices are in USD per day.

But there are a few things you should know about the different budgets at which you can choose to travel.

• Single Traveller:  $20-$40
• Couple Travellers:  $50-$80

Backpacking in Thailand is a wonderful experience for people of all ages and in our opinion the most authentic and enjoyable way to explore the country.

If you are on a backpacker budget and planning on staying in dorm rooms, getting street food, and either not drinking or only having a few beers a week, then you can go as low as $25 a day, a bit more if you are in the south.

A single hostel bed can be $8-$15 per person. A budget basic private room is $15-$30. A street food meal can be $1-$2. A bottle of beer is about $1- $2 from 7/11.

You can rent scooters for as low as $5 a day if you’re renting long-term, and fuel is very cheap, making it an excellent way to explore towns.

Flashpacker

• Single Traveller:  $50-$100
• Couple Travellers:  $80-$150

If you can afford to fit into a flashpacker budget, you’re going to have an incredibly epic time in Thailand.

You’ll be spoilt with nice private rooms, great food, cocktails on the beach and quite a few awesome activities like scuba diving in Koh Tao.

You’ll get excellent private rooms for $20-30 in the north, $40-50 in the south.

You can eat off the street when you want, and a lot of good, delicious meals can be found for $5-10.

Visit a few temples, do a cooking course, get a private guided tour, the world really is your oyster as a flashpacker in Thailand.

• Single Traveller:  $200-$400+
• Couple Travellers:  $250-$500+

Thailand has some of the best luxury resorts in the world, and this is where the majority of your budget will go when you travel to Thailand as a luxury visitor.

The truth is even if you eat at very nice restaurants, you’ll still struggle to pay more than $20-$30 a meal (there are of course exceptions to this rule in award-winning restaurants), but you’ll probably find your budget will get blown out on alcohol.

Fancy cocktails in luxury resorts can cost up to $20 for one drink.

CHECK OUT OUR  THAILAND BUDGETING GUIDE  TO HELP MAKE YOUR MONEY GO FURTHER.

Getting to and Around Thailand

Visa requirements for thailand.

People travelling to Thailand must obtain a visa unless they come from a visa-exempt country or a country that can obtain a visa on arrival.

There are 57 countries that are visa-free and 21 countries that can obtain a visa on arrival. The rest need a visa and can obtain them from your local Thai embassy.

Visa-on-arrivals (VOA) are usually given for up to 30 days when arriving by air, or 15 days when entering by land.

These can be extended once at an immigration office in Thailand.

Make sure you look up the visa requirements for your country. Airlines have the list of visas required for different countries and may refuse you to board if you don’t have the visa.

Check out whether you need a visa or not  here .

How to Get to Thailand

There are a number of airlines that fly to Thailand from all over the world.

The main international airports that you will likely fly into are Bangkok Suvamabhumi Airport (BKK) or Phuket International Airport (HKT). Bangkok is a major transport hub and many countries offer direct flights.

There is public transport from both of these airports into the cities, or you can catch a taxi or shuttle bus.

You can sometimes get a great deal with a budget airline too. Luggage and food will not be included, and you will have to pay this on top of the fare.

But if you are only travelling with a carry-on and don’t mind bringing your own food, you can get some awesome prices.

We look for our flights through Skyscanner and Google Flights.

Transport in Thailand

If you’re more inclined to stick to tourist-focused transport you’ll find no shortage of companies willing to get you to every main tourist destination. Caveats apply though, so read on…

You can get some great deals with the local airline carriers within the country. Sometimes flying is cheaper than train or bus travel too. 

The airline carriers are usually budget and luggage may not be included in the price. Food and drinks will probably cost extra onboard.

Vietjet, Lion Air, Thai Smile, Nok Air, Bangkok Airways, Orient Thai, Thai Airways and Air Asia are all good carriers in Thailand.

Buses are the most common way to travel in Thailand, and you’ll be hard-pressed to find a single town that isn’t serviced by at least one bus company.

The tourists’ options are nice “VIP” buses that offer comfortable seating, a small meal and a (mostly) reliable bus. Unless you are on a tight budget, we recommend booking on the VIP buses where possible.

Something to keep in mind is that just because you’re paying more for a tourist bus, doesn’t mean your valuables will be safe, and unfortunately, there is a lot of theft common on these trips.

But chances are you’ll find yourself on a bus at some point in your travel to Thailand.

Getting out to the famous Thai islands often means you’ll need to take a boat or a ferry. You can buy your ticket at legit travel agents, or at the boat company’s office at the pier.

The boats aren’t anything fancy and range from small speed boats to large ferries with open decks and beds for sleeping on the overnight journeys.

You can sit inside or outside, but if you sit outside make sure you wear sunscreen and be prepared to get a bit wet if it’s a speedboat.

Thailand has a few major cities that are connected via a decent train network, and this is an excellent way to travel around the country.

From Bangkok, you can get to destinations like Chiang Mai and Chumphon on an overnight trip, or you can get a train to Ayutthaya which is 50km out of Bangkok.

If you are on a tight time frame, the train is not the best way to travel in Thailand, as they do run late a lot of the time.

Just like anywhere else in the world, Thailand is full of taxis. And just like anywhere else in the world, these taxi drivers may try and scam you or rip you off.

If you grab a taxi on the street make sure they use the meter or negotiate a price beforehand.

Songthaews are red pick-up trucks with benches on the back ( songthaew  literally means ‘two benches’ in Thai), which you will find all throughout Thailand.

They are shared transport for getting around towns or between villages. You simply flag down a Songthaew when you see one comes, tell the driver your destination, and if the driver is going that way jump on the back.

The cost ranges per distance and you pay when you arrive at your destination.

Tuk-tuks are a great way to get around the cities, and no trip to Thailand would be complete without taking at least one tuk-tuk journey.

Tuk-tuks are basically a little bubble trailer attached to the back of a scooter that a couple of people can sit in.

These 3-wheeled vehicles go everywhere and are incredibly popular for locals and tourists alike.

Rental Cars

While driving in Thailand can be quite interesting, renting a car is still the best way to have full autonomy over your travel itinerary.

Be aware of the traffic laws and pay full attention to other drivers.

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend  Rental Cars , which has the largest range of cars for the best value on the market.

READ MORE: Check out this post if you’re looking for more detailed information and tips on  how to get to and around Thailand .

Apps and Technology

Here are a few we think you should definitely acquaint yourself with prior to your travels:

• XE Currency  – Transfer, monitor and calculate currency as the need arises. This app may not be totally necessary as you are typically tied into rates the banks charge for services. But it is handy to have around. 
• Express VPN  – This will protect your sensitive information wherever you travel – not just in Thailand. Be sure to have this to keep your online information secure as you travel. 
• iTranslate  – Even if you don’t know more than a handful of Thai words, iTranslate will help you communicate as you travel in Thailand.
• Google Maps  – Super helpful for getting around Thailand. Some local attractions in remote areas don’t have exact street addresses, so Google Maps can help you visualize exactly where they are. 
• Rome2Rio  – Very convenient for comparing different forms of public transport so you can pick either the quickest or the cheapest way to travel. 
• Maps.Me  – This allows you to download maps that you can use offline. That way you never get lost even if you don’t have wifi!

Best Things to Eat in Thailand

There’s a reason Thai food is one of the most popular foreign cuisines around the world – because it’s absolutely amazing!

Known for being delicious, healthy and cheap, Thai food is quite varied, and you’ll find unique dishes in all the major towns, and a distinct flavour difference from the south to the north.

It can also be quite spicy, so if you’re not into that make sure you learn to say “ mai phet ” (my pet), which means “no spice”.

Here are some dishes not to miss when you are in Thailand.

• Som Tom (Spicy green papaya salad)
• Pad Krapow Moo Saap (Fried Basil and pork)
• Gaeng Keow Wan Kai (Green chicken curry)
• Kai Med Ma Muang (Chicken with cashew nuts)
• Khao Soi (Creamy coconut curry noodle soup)
• Pad Phuk Tong (Stir-fried pumpkin)
• Pak Boong (Morning glory greens)
• Panang (Thai curry)
• Kao Niew Ma Muang (Mango and sticky rice)
• Pad Thai (Classic fried noodle dish) 

READ MORE: LEARN EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE  BEST FOOD IN THAILAND !

Places to Stay in Thailand

Thailand is a curious nation when it comes to places to stay because the options here cover just about everything you could ever dream of.

If you’re looking for world-class, high-end, award-winning luxury resorts, you’ll find them in spade around southern Thailand in places like Phuket.

On the flip side if you are travelling through some remote hill tribe villages in the north, don’t be surprised if you end up sleeping on a dirt floor with bugs.

It might not be luxurious, but is definitely authentic! It all depends on where you go and your budget.

To book your accommodation in Thailand we recommend using  Agoda , and  you can use the coupon code “AGODANMD10” to get 10% off your hotels and hostels.

Types of Accommodations

Thailand is packed with affordable backpacker hostels that generally range from 5 to 12 USD per night for a dorm bed.

If you are a solo traveller looking to save the most money, a cheap hostel dorm bed is the way to go. 

Most hostels in Thailand have basic amenities and are quite clean. It is common to find kitchens, lounge areas, pool tables and games, televisions, and laundry facilities in hostels around Thailand. 

There are a lot of party hostels as well, which are amazing for meeting people and having fun nights out.

But if you prefer a more low-key, quiet, stay make sure you book hostels that aren’t notorious for partying.

Guesthouses

For mid-range priced accommodation, Thailand has lots of guesthouses.

These are like very small hotels, usually set in a local’s home or apartment building, but they offer a more intimate and homey experience than a hotel. 

A standard room in a guesthouse can be anywhere between 15 and 40 USD per night.

So you can enjoy more private and cozy accommodation than a hostel, for a very cheap price.

If you are traveling as a couple, it may even be cheaper to split the cost of one cheap room rather than buy two separate hostel dorm beds. 

Hotels in Thailand can range from standard and basic to absolute luxury. Even very nice hotels can be super cheap compared to many other countries, so Thailand is a great country to treat yourself. 

Gorgeous hotels that aren’t 5-star luxury hotels can still cost anywhere between 30 and 150 USD per night.

If you shoot for the best of the best, meaning luxury, beachfront, five-star hotels, you’ll spend a few hundred USD per night which is still affordable for the quality you are getting. 

Airbnbs are pretty similar to guesthouses because they are also set up in a local’s home or property. But when you rent a place on Airbnb, you usually have either the whole house or apartment to yourself.

You can also rent single rooms on Airbnb for a cheaper stay. 

Airbnb prices in Thailand are actually a bit higher than some cheap hotels and guesthouses.

Depending on the quality of the place, places can cost anywhere between 50 and 150 USD per night. 

If you’re looking for an awesome place to stay in the area, we personally love using Airbnb. If you’ve never used the platform before,  sign up using this link to get USD$35 off your first booking .

Beach Bungalows

Because Thailand has such an abundance of coastline, it is quite easy and affordable to find adorable beach bungalows.

Renting a beach bungalow means you’ll have your own private mini house right on the sand with the ocean right in front of your window. 

Any major tourist island of Thailand will have beach bungalows available for rent, and they usually cost only 30 to 70 USD per night.

Thailand Travel Tips

While there are  many basic travel tips  we suggest you use when travelling to Thailand, there are also plenty of Thai-specific tips that will make your visit the best it can be. 

Here are some of our best tips to help you travel to Thailand.

• Be respectful to the locals and other travellers. Respect the culture, whether you are in a temple or out on the streets.
• Dress appropriately. Because you are in a warm country, doesn’t mean you can wear next to no clothing. Please dress respectfully, especially when you are going inside a temple.
• Never raise your voice or start a commotion in public. In Thai culture, they do not do this and hate confrontation. Always keep your calm, even if someone is trying to take advantage of you.
• Be prepared to take off your shoes a lot. Bring slip-on or sandals. You will be taking your shoes off and on if you are entering a temple, home or some hotels and restaurants.
• Book tours through respectable travel agents
• There are two prices at attractions; Local price and foreigner (farang) price. Unfortunately, there is nothing you can do about it. Don’t argue, it will not get you anywhere.
• Have an idea of prices before you shop, buy a tour, buy a transport ticket or rent a room. Sometimes the prices fluctuate depending on how smart you are. Do your research so you don’t get ripped off.
• Know the currency exchange rate. This is important when changing money. You want to know you are getting a good price.
• Try new foods. Thai food is delicious
• Use your insect repellent, as the sand flies and mosquitoes are terrible
• Wear a helmet if you rent a scooter
• Know the scams. Research scams in Thailand so you are prepared and know if someone tries it on you.
• Do not drink the tap water. Take a metal water bottle and refill it out of big filtered water vendors or reverse osmosis machines.
• Take advantage of the happy hours. You will see them at bars and cafes during the day. So take note and have a few drinks then.
• Always look both ways when crossing the road. Sometimes a scooter may be going down the wrong way. Look both ways and be sure before crossing.
• When renting a scooter, take photos of the bike from all angles and in front of the rental place too. Never leave your passport with them either. Bring a photocopy. There are dodgy companies out there.
• The girls in the bars may not be ladies. There are many lady-boys in Thailand and you would never even know so just heads up if you are not into that.

READ MORE: Our comprehensive list of  Thailand travel tips  to make your journey safer, more enjoyable and more affordable!

Thailand Packing List

We always travel with a  core packing list  wherever we go. And when it comes to Thailand, many factors will affect what else you need to bring along with you. 

Check out our  travel essentials  and be sure to add any of the other additional items listed below. 

READ MORE: Be sure to know  what and why to pack  for every season in Thailand!

Staying Safe in Thailand

Thailand, in general, is a very safe country for tourists, but just like everywhere else you need to be street smart.

The most common issues tourists will encounter in Thailand comes in the form of petty theft and robberies, usually in busy markets or out on the streets late at night.

You need to respect and obey the Thai law, including all of those that involve respecting the monarchy.

Thailand has experiences with civil unrest and military coups in recent years.

Use your head and stay clear of street demonstrations.

Violent crime is very rare in Thailand, but do exercise caution during parties such as full moon parties or dodgy areas in places.

In general, if you show respect to Thai people, they will show respect to you.

Driving on the roads in Thailand is crazy, so we can’t mention safety without reminding you to be wise on the roads.

For bus and minivan transport try and go with tour companies and bus companies that are responsible.

If you rent a motorbike, check it over when you pick it up. Check the brakes, the lights, etc. Most importantly always wear a helmet, shoes, pants and a top.

Don’t be one of those backpackers that rides a scooter wearing their swimwear thinking you’re cool.

Hot tip – the gravel in Thailand is just as hard as the gravel in your home country if you come off.

Don’t travel to Thailand without travel insurance! It’s the most important thing you need for your trip, trust us. Alesha visited the hospital in Koh Lanta with stomach pains and we ended up with a $1500 bill.

Travel insurance covered every cent.

Get your free quote with World Nomads here.

Medical System in Thailand

If you need to go to a hospital in Thailand, don’t panic. The quality of care is very good, and in some hospitals could be even better than what you have back in your home country.

In most situations, you’ll be required to pay upfront for any care unless you can prove you have travel insurance.

That’s one of our Thailand travel tips for you.

Private Hospitals In Thailand

There is a private hospital network that is privately owned, and their prices are a lot more expensive.

The doctors and nurses will speak English and the care is very good, but you are paying an arm and a leg for their services.

They will ask for your passport on the way in before they see you. NEVER hand them your passport.

If you are insured, call your insurance company and get clearance that they will pay, or you can pay a price upfront to get the services rolling.

If you hand them your passport, they will hold it ransom and start charging you for random services, refusing to return it to you until you pay the full amount.

When it comes to money, these private companies are very aggressive. And if they know an insurance company is paying they will give you tests that are not necessary.

This happened to Alesha when she had an intestine infection. We were communicating with our insurance company and told them these tests were not needed.

The insurance company agreed and the clinic got very aggressive and hostile. This was at Siam International Clinic in Koh Lanta.

While we were there we saw them rip off countless backpackers, charging them insane prices for things as basic as paracetamol.

The service was great, the facility was spotless, but they were a business first and hospital second, only caring about extracting as much cash as possible.

This isn’t to scare you, and obviously if you’re sick or have an accident go to a hospital immediately. It’s just a warning.

We highly recommend you always have  travel insurance  when travelling in Thailand.

Government Hospitals in Thailand

There are dozens of government-run hospitals all throughout Thailand, and these range from having very high standards to being basic, third-world facilities.

At these hospitals, you will be waiting in long queues, and there may be no one that speaks English.

If you can go with a local, that would be the best option for communication. You may also need to pay upfront before a doctor or nurse will see you.

As a foreigner expect to be charged a higher fee than a Thai person, but these costs will be extremely cheap, especially when compared to the private hospitals.

This is because locals pay social security and tax, so a lot of their medical care may be subsidised.

Medical Tourism

Medical Tourism is definitely a big thing for people travelling to Thailand.

You can get procedures done for way cheaper than in most western countries, and a lot of these services are extremely high quality.

But DO YOUR RESEARCH!

If you are looking to get cosmetic work done, meet with the clinic, ask all your questions and research the clinic online for reviews before committing to anything.

For dental care, Thailand is an excellent place to go as well. We went to a dental clinic in Chiang Mai called Dental 4 U and we had great experiences with them.

We did our research, talked to ex-pats, and all arrows kept pointing at this dentist.

It was a lot cheaper than Australia, very clean, our dentist spoke perfect English, had studied in the US, and explained every little detail to us.

Staying Connected in Thailand

These days it is incredibly easy to stay connected while traveling. Free wifi is common in touristy areas, and SIM cards are quick and easy to obtain.

So if you’re only traveling to Thailand for a week or two, you should be able to survive by just sticking with your current data plan or only using wifi. 

If you’re spending a few weeks or longer in Thailand, you may want to get a local SIM card so you can connect with locals more. 

Consider these options for staying connected in Thailand. 

Purchase a SIM Card

Head to any 7-Eleven or cell-phone store in Thailand to purchase a local SIM card. There are lots of different plans to choose from, including ones with data.

A cheap, pay-as-you-go plan is the most flexible and economical unless you plan on making lots of phone calls every day or using lots of data, then you can buy a prepaid plan. 

In touristy cities like Bangkok the staff at cell-phone stores usually speak English. Show them your phone, discuss what type of plan you want and they can install a local SIM card for you.

Then you’ll have a Thai phone number, and you can start calling and texting and using data in addition to just seeking out wifi. 

If you want to set up your SIM card before you go, you can order it online and then pick it up when you arrive.

Get your  WiFi for Thailand setup today .

Rent a Portable WiFi Device

If you’re heading out of the populated areas and into remote corners of Thailand, you probably won’t have any signal or wifi.

You can rent a portable wifi device, but they generally only work in areas with good connections. Portable wifi devices, also known as “pocket wifi”, are also about the same price as just buying a SIM card with a data package.

You’re probably better off just buying some data. 

But if you’re venturing into the wilderness of Thailand, maybe just try to embrace being off-the-grid and enjoy some disconnection from technology. 

Access Free WiFI

Most tourist destinations have free wifi, as do most hostels and hotels.

It is usually very straightforward and easy to login to free wifi from your phone or laptop, and then you can contact people via iMessage, WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger. 

While you have free wifi, it can be useful to download a navigation app like Maps.Me so you can use GPS navigation while once you leave the wifi.

Be a Responsible Traveller in Thailand

The best way to be a responsible traveler in Thailand is to learn a bit about the local culture and try your best to adhere to its customs. 

That means always having respect for others. Show respect for other travelers and local Thais, and also show respect for the land.

Don’t litter, avoid buying single-use plastics and try to leave a natural place as pristine as it was when you arrived. 

When booking tours in Thailand, do your research to make sure the tour company is reputable and sustainable.

Choose eco-friendly businesses over others, and try to support local businesses rather than big conglomerates.

Elephant tourism is massive in South East Asia. If you are dying to see elephants in the wild, only visit elephant sanctuaries where the animals are rescued and treated with respect and dignity.

Never ride elephants , and never go to a place where the animals are exploited. 

Overall, just use good judgment. Thailand is grateful for tourism and its contribution to the economy, so travel responsibly while you’re there and help maintain this beautiful country.

Key Thailand Travel Phrases

You don’t have to be fluent in Thai to have a great time when you travel to Thailand. But it does help to know a few key phrases.

This will not only assist you in your travels but it will also show respect to the local Thai people that you are doing your best to assimilate into their culture. 

Keep in mind that In Thai, there are often masculine and feminine forms of a phrase.

So on this list, if you are a male, use the translation listed first, and if you are female use the translation listed second.

Krup  is the word used at the end of many phrases if you are a male, and  ka  is used if you are a female.

Phrases that have  krup/ka  at the end mean you say one or the other, depending on your gender.

Books to Read About Thailand

Maybe you already know everything about Thailand. Chances are you don’t!

But even if you are well-read, here are a few suggestions that might be worth your time while you’re on the plane to Thailand. 

Anna and the King of Siam

This is an amazing true story of an English school teacher who was invited to live in nineteenth-century Siam and care for the children of the nation’s leader, King Mongkut.

The Kingdom of Siam eventually became Thailand, so this is an interesting insight into the history of the area. This book inspired the famous play and movie, The King and I.   Purchase on Amazon

A suspenseful and enticing fiction story, “The Beach” is about a traveler in Bangkok named Richard who hears about the legend of a hidden paradise beach.

He then embarks on a journey to find this secret beach and uncovers dark and mysterious mysteries about the place along the way.

This book was made into a movie starring Leonardo Di Caprio, and Maya Bay from the Phi Phi Islands is shown in the movie.  Buy on Amazon .

The Bridge Over The River Kwai

In the remote town of Kanchanaburi, Thailand, the Thai-Burma Railway, also known as the Death Railway, is the area’s biggest attraction.

The novel, ”The Bridge Over The River Kwai”, is a fiction story loosely based on the real story of the Prisoners of War who built this bridge during World War II.  Buy now on Amazon .

Thailand: The Beautiful Cookbook

This is an amazing book to get either before or after visiting Thailand. If you want to learn about the cuisine, the culture, and the traditions of Thailand, this book has so much information that will educate and inspire you.

Or after a trip to Thailand, if you want to savor and remember all the delicious food you ate and recreate the recipes at home, this is a great book to have on hand.  Purchase on Amazon .

Table of Contents

Read our thailand blog posts, 13 awesome things to do in chiang mai, thailand (2024 guide), keemala phuket review – phuket’s best luxury resort, riding the mae hong son loop – motorbike travel guide, how to visit bangkok’s airplane graveyard, how to become a divemaster in thailand, the ultimate guide to the best food in thailand, the ultimate koh mook, thailand travel guide (2024 edition), 11 activities in thailand for couples who love adventure, 20 epic things to do in chiang rai, thailand (2024 guide), where to stay in phuket – the best hotels for every budget, the 23 best things to do in phuket, the best 3 days in phuket itinerary for 2024 (bonus tips).

Off-Season in Thailand, Wonder Awaits

Most travelers avoid thailand when the weather gets wet. but what if rainy season is actually the perfect time to visit.

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Koh Yao Yai is halfway between Phuket and Krabi, Thailand.

Photo by KOH YAO/Shutterstock

We arrive by speedboat. The weather is gray and grim, but we don’t see it that way; to us it is sweeping, sly, mysterious. We have just spent three clamorous days in Bangkok , among the tuk-tuks and the canals and the steady whiff of watery detritus. Now we are eager for the islands. We are eager for Koh Yao Yai.

At the pier, we make conversation with an Australian couple until a passenger wagon arrives to pick us up. I am with my friend, Susan, who has planned this trip and has a better sense of what the island will look like than I do. Still, both of us are bug-eyed as we bump along the road to our resort. Susan says the greenery reminds her of Arkansas; I say it reminds me of the Bahamas . Really, though, Koh Yao Yai is only itself: an island along the southern tail of Thailand, hilly and remote, with homes on stilts and rubber trees that grow in grids.

According to conventional traveler wisdom, Susan and I shouldn’t even be here at all. It is July, in what is variously known as “low season,” “rainy season,” “monsoon season,” or, more euphemistically, “green season.” Rain falls frequently in these months, and though the temperature averages a not-appalling 85-ish degrees, everything feels hotter because of the humidity. According to one website, “Southern Thailand is the worst area to visit during the monsoon season”—and yet this is precisely where Susan and I have opted to go. We’ve decided to interpret “off-season” not as a prohibition, but as an invitation: a chance to see this remarkable country when fewer other visitors will be around—and, more to the point, when our schedules allow it.

We pull into the Koh Yao Yai Village resort , where a speedy porter takes our bags to one of only six thatch-roofed villas lining the beachfront. The cabana is spacious and airy, with huge windows and an outdoor shower like something out of an Herbal Essences commercial. During high season, these villas sell out six months in advance, but Susan and I were able to book our villa four weeks ago. Here, then, is the most obvious benefit of off-season travel: Popular places are easily available and for an excellent price. (We’re paying the equivalent of $140 a night; in December, beachfront villas go for about $235.)

In the high season, which generally stretches from November to March, prices throughout Thailand can as much as double from their off-season lows. International tourism slows from April to October, though there is a moderate rise in visitors in the summer months. Some parts of the country experience a bit more variation; in the Gulf of Thailand, for example, just east of Koh Yao Yai, the dry season lasts from around February to October. But wherever you go, tourism here is directly correlated with weather: the sunnier the skies, the busier the streets. According to the Thai Tourism Minister, 60 percent of hotel positions are presently vacant. (Susan and I are arriving at a moment of intense industry vulnerability: Weeks after our visit, officials will announce a plan to help fill a huge COVID-related employee vacuum.)

A heavy storm blows through Koh Yao Yai the first night of our visit. Accompanying the rain is a strange scratching sound that startles me as I try to fall asleep. At first, I think it’s an animal—but then I realize it’s palm fronds brushing against the roof of our cabana. Eventually the sound becomes almost soothing, and I fade into sleep.

Hat Laem Haad

Photo by Richard Whitcombe/Shutterstock

The next morning arrives bright, sunny, and clear. Susan and I take advantage of the weather by making our way to Hat Laem Haad, a spit of sand that begins to disappear with the rising tide. We try taking pictures, but no camera can capture the dazzling strangeness of the tree-covered limestone islands in the distance—the way they seem to float, iceberg-like, above the blueish-green water.

Back at the resort pool, we avail ourselves of the swim-up bar. “We love rainy season!” we say to each other, gesturing ironically at the unbroken sky. Below us stretches Phang Nga Bay, where low tide has exposed huge swaths of seabed to the late-afternoon sunlight. Susan and I feel as if we have discovered some magical travel hack—a secret way to enjoy a vacation with almost no one else around. Sure, it rained yesterday, and perhaps it will rain again tomorrow. But for travelers who can stomach a little uncertainty, the rewards— all this! —strike us as more than worth it.

The next day is similarly sunny, so Susan and I rent a pair of bikes and ride around the northern half of the island. We pass roadside trays of thin, silver anchovies, or “ching chang,” that have been left to dry in the hot, equatorial sun. These fish are used for, among other things, the fermented fish sauce that gives many Thai dishes here their particularly earthy punch.

Continuing onward, we encounter no other tourists and only a few passing Thais. “Fifteen minutes!” shouts a man on a motorbike, and I have no idea what he means—but perhaps he is guessing how long it will take us to get to the beach, for within a quarter of an hour we have arrived at Son Bay, another strip of beautifully secluded sand. The beachfront here is cozier and less majestic than the one at our resort, though it is certainly no less attractive. Evergreen trees lean out over the sand; tiny, translucent crabs scuttle with the lap of the water.

For several minutes we sit, chat, and snack on dried banana slices. When we stand, Susan is startled to find a black cat directly behind her; she lets out a yelp of frazzled laughter, and we make our way carefully back to our bikes. The cat hisses at us all the while, its face pinched and bored.

To Susan’s dismay, more cats await us at the resort’s beach bar, where we go for dinner that evening. We strike up a conversation with our waiter, a charming and kind-faced man named Anthony. We ask about the surrounding area, and Anthony tells us about a place called Bird’s Nest Island, which dominates the view from the restaurant. Nests made from bird saliva are harvested there, he says, then made into “bird’s nest soup,” an expensive delicacy in Chinese culture.

That Anthony has time to talk with us is yet another dividend of low-season travel—only two other tables have patrons. He tells us about his wife, and his kids, and his rubber tree farm.

“Do you like it on Koh Yao Yai?” I ask.

“Yes,” he said, grinning. “Yes, I do.”

Koh Lao Lading

Photo by Adrian Baker/Shutterstock

Heavy rains are forecast for Saturday, our third full day in Koh Yao Yai, but Susan and I don’t even think about canceling a planned boat tour of the neighboring islands. Bad weather is simply part of traveling off-season, and our awareness of this fact has made us prepared—curious, even—about contingencies that might have frustrated us in high season.

Nil, our chatty guide, takes us to the pier, where we board a low, wooden longtail boat. (These traditionally Southeast Asian boats are distinguished by tall prows and propellers that extend from lengthy tiller poles.) Nil warns us that two separate storms are headed directly to Hong Island and the surrounding archipelago, where we’re now headed. Susan and I laugh nervously, scanning a horizon that has already begun to darken. The divide between sun and squall is eerily distinct; the sky looks like a split screen.

Soon enough the storms are upon us, so we retreat to the hold, where we gaze out the Plexiglas windows at the watery circus that surrounds us. Even now, the islands are as strange and beautiful as ever. They almost seem to move with us, shifting as we pass between them.

We take refuge in an eroded cave space at the edge of one such island. The captain ties the boat to a pair of stalactites that hang from the streaked, stone ceiling. When the storm has partially passed and we’ve made our way to another nearby island, Susan and I jump in the water. We scout for Nemo fish; we avoid sea urchins; we brush at the odd stinging sensation that prickles our skin. The only other guide boat soon leaves the area, and again with are completely alone: There are no other travelers here, no other locals, no one.

At Koh Lao Lading, one of the area’s more frequented islands, we join eight other boats at a beach nestled tightly against a limestone cliff.

“So many boats!” says Susan, but Nil shakes his head.

“So many boats?” he says, smiling. “No. You should see it in high season.”

At Hong Island, our last stop, we climb a long metal staircase to the summit. Despite being a lifelong hiker, I am surprised to find myself nervous about the intensity of the sheer drop below us. Or maybe it’s just the clouds that creep and conspire wildly in the vast, frothy sky.

Still, for all this, the clouds are also lovely. They cast a shale-colored grayness over the waterscape, granting us a version of the same dark grandeur Susan and I noticed on the day of our arrival. This is not the simple, uncomplicated splendor of a sunny day. It is something different—something alluring precisely because it is different. It is off-season beauty: that mix of ideal and imperfect, longed-for and unexpected, pleasant and uncomfortable. Of course, I would love to see this view when the sun is shining. But bright and sunny is not the only rewarding way to experience Koh Yao Yai—or any place, for that matter.

This, in the end, is the greatest dividend of off-season travel . Not the sparse crowds or the low prices, but a certain posture of openness. When “perfection” isn’t possible, you aren’t disappointed by its absence; you are, instead, open to more various and many-sided kinds of beauty: to the prehistoric stone islands that poke from the water; to the sky, and the seething gray clouds that swirl and drift and pour. It is an accident of timing that we have come to Thailand during rainy season. But what if we were to make such decisions more deliberately? What if we were to think of “off-season” as a kind of “on-season,” actively seeking out destinations when we’re generally advised to avoid them? Perhaps our adventures would be that much richer, that much more surprising, that much more embracing of the world in all its wondrous multiplicity.

Soon it is time to leave. Susan and I take the stairs back down to Hong Beach, where we stand, by ourselves, in a heady, happy silence.

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Those in the know skip Pattaya City and head just a stone’s throw south to its tamer neighbour, Jomtien. Located in Chonburi Province, around 1.5 hours’ drive south of Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and 40 minutes north of U-Tapao International Airport (UTP), the Na Jomtien subdistrict is a hub of five-star resorts and welcoming beach bars.

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diariesof Thailand

Travel inspiration.

Our experiences in Thailand transcended the well-known aspects of beach life, Buddhist culture, and culinary escapades, leaving us with lasting impressions. Among our most cherished memories are the breath-taking landscapes that captivated us. From the mountains in the north, to the diverse ecosystems we found in the national parks, we were in constant awe of the country’s cascading waterfalls, tranquil rice fields, and dense tropical rainforests.

Product Specs

Size: 210 x 297 x 12 mm / 8,2 x 11,6 x 0,5 inches ISSN: 2354-5380 Pages: 164 Weight: 814 gr Paper: Cover 300 gr / Interior 150 gr Language: English

Beaches with Crystal Clear Water

The fine beauty of the mae hong son loop.

The Mae Hong Son Loop is a picturesque and adventurous road trip route in northern Thailand. It spans approximately 600 kilometers, winding through stunning mountain landscapes, lush valleys, and remote hill tribe villages. Travelers can expect breathtaking views, cultural encounters, and a thrilling driving experience. Best experienced on a motorbike, we say!

Delightful Chiang Mai!

Nestled in the verdant mountains of northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is a city that captivates with its vibrant culture, ancient temples, and… fruit shakes! With its tranquil atmosphere and warm hospitality, this charming city has become a haven for travellers seeking an authentic Thai experience.

Eating One’s Way Through Thailand…

Thai cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavours, unique blends of spices, and striking presentation. It is a cuisine that has gained immense popularity all around the world and it’s no wonder why.

A Country in a Magazine

With us you will discover the fine beauty of the Mae Hong Son Loop and you will find out the ‘dangers’ that a Motorbike Tour of Thailand entails. We will take you to several sun-kissed beaches so you decide which is your favourite coast: that on the Gulf of Thailand or on the Andaman Sea . In Kanchanaburi , history meets natural wonders, as we take a train journey on the Death Railway. Spend some relaxing days floating on the waters of the reservoir at Khao Sok or you can   immerse yourself in the captivating chaos of Bangkok , the City of Angels, where tradition and modernity blend seamlessly…

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Lots of great photos inside and great to see a culture represented in depth.

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Want an authentic experience ?

it was the warm and welcoming nature of the Thai people that truly touched our souls. Everywhere we went, we were greeted with genuine smiles and warm hospitality. Their kind, open and live-and-let-live nature reminded us of the goodness that can be found in humanity, and made a strong impression on our journey.

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The List of Magazines in Thailand

Mandarin thai communication services co ltd.

B2S Books-Music-Stationery

Thai trade & industry media co., ltd., portland books co., ltd., asia food bevberage thailand, bongkoch publishing co., ltd., media function co., ltd., bookazine co., ltd., snp sirivatana co., ltd., business in thailand co., ltd., motorcar & boating co., ltd., praew magazine, se-education plc., advanced thailand geographic co., ltd., construction materials directory & industry world, advertising book, the, angel magazine, auto place magazine, filter by city.

• Bangkok 108
• Samut Prakan 1
• Nonthanburi 0
• Udon Thani 0
• Nakhon Ratchasima 0
• Chon Buri 0
• Chiang Mai 9
• Phra Pradaeng 0

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• Book Publishers 194
• Children's Books 1
• Magazines 130
• Management Books 0
• Secondhand Books 1

The best time to visit Thailand

Jan 3, 2024 • 5 min read

Find the best time to visit Thailand for you © Chadchai Ra-ngubpai / Getty Images

Silky-soft beaches, jungle-draped mountains, incredible food and a well-connected position at the heart of Southeast Asia have made Thailand a tourism hub for decades.

It welcomes more than 11 million visitors a year. All the same, travelers who dream of perpetually sunny skies and balmy weather might be dismayed at the pelting rain that arrives like clockwork every July or the sky-high price of their hotel from December to January.

The kingdom is full of diversions – myriad night markets, thundering waterfalls, even cherry blossoms and the occasional dusting of frost – but to experience them for yourself, you need to be in the right place at the right time. Here’s how.

December to February is best for beaches

The prevailing joke about Thai weather is that the country has three seasons: hot; wet and hot; and really, really hot. That may be, but when the “cool” season rolls around in December, you will find Thais bundled up in sweaters and even puffer jackets to combat temperatures that fall as low as 23°C (73°F).

While this may be cold for Thais, it’s perfect for international travelers hitting the beach, especially those escaping the northern winter, and resorts like Phuket , Samui and Krabi are predictably packed with sun-seekers at this time of year.

Daytime highs of 31°C (88°F) make outdoor activities warm but bearable, while nights are a hive of activity, with street food vendors lining the sidewalks and markets clad in fairy lights tempting even the most unwilling of shoppers.

The cool season is not for beachcombers alone. This time of year sees frost up north in the mountains as temperatures drop to 13°C (55°F). The northeast region even ushers in its own cherry blossom season as Phu Lom Lo erupts in a burst of pink Himalayan cherry blooms. Early morning hikers are rewarded with sunrise views over a sea of fog at the northern border with Laos , and wildflowers dapple the slopes of Doi Suthep and Phu Tabberk .

Not surprisingly then, this time is considered Thailand’s high season, when hotel and transportation prices are at their peak. However, the payoff is the kingdom at arguably its most beautiful and welcoming, temperature-wise.

March and April are best for tropical fruit and Songkran

The weather, even for Thais, becomes alarmingly toasty during Thailand’s “summer” when temperatures average 30°C (87°F). School is out, meaning the capital is less crowded than usual, and the beaches are typically jammed with Bangkokians seeking reprieve from the heat. Meanwhile, temperatures in the usually temperate north soar to 36°C (97°F).

While it may seem a miserable time to visit, foodies will have a field day because all of Thailand’s most beloved fruits – mangoes, mangosteens, rambutans and Marian plums – are in season.

In mid-April, Thailand celebrates its new year, Songkran , and the streets burst into joyful water fights. You’ll find the entire country in celebration: families seeking blessings from their elders, Thais dancing in the streets, and travelers receiving benedictions in the form of perfumed water on the hands, daubings of brightly colored powder on the cheeks or (most likely) a blast of water in the face. Fans of water fights (and getting drenched) will find their like-minded brethren anywhere in the kingdom.

Meanwhile, fans of an empty Bangkok can take advantage of… an empty Bangkok. That means breezy commutes from one end of the city to the other, less competition at popular restaurants and fewer crowds to contend with at shopping malls and theaters. The change in the city is so pronounced that quite a few Bangkokians prize this time of year, opting to make sure that when Songkhran rolls around, they celebrate in the capital.

May to October is best for accommodation bargains

Thailand’s rainy season is long, but it doesn’t necessarily mean non-stop torrential downpours. Monsoon rains, especially before July, are typically violent but short, usually arriving in the early evening and lasting for 20 to 30 minutes. (Luckily, Thailand’s location means it avoids the strong typhoons experienced by Vietnam and the Philippines.) The problem is Bangkok traffic snarls for hours as a result, but travelers in less congested destinations are not necessarily affected, and hotel and transportation prices linger at months-long lows.

From May to July, beach resorts on the Andaman Sea side of Thailand – especially on weekdays – are basically deserted, claiming only a fraction of the prices they would normally charge during high season. This means that even at five-star resorts, choice rooms can be rented for far less than their usual rate. And while there will likely be daily rains, they’re usually brief.

Low-season rates extend to non-beach-but-still-popular destinations like Chiang Mai and Khao Sok , where a treasure trove of accommodation options, from floating bungalows to mountaintop cabins, awaits savvy bargain hunters willing to put up with a sudden shower or two. In contrast, July and August are peak season for islands in the Gulf of Thailand like Samui , where the weather is less affected by monsoon rains.

From September to October, the northeast is brimming with waterfalls, providing impromptu bathing areas for visitors with the foresight to bring bathing suits or even just towels. A word of warning: this is also when flooding may occur in the north or northeast, with water reaching all the way to Bangkok in some years. Only riverside areas are at risk, so make sure to check before you go.

November is best for experiencing Loi Krathong

November marks the beginning of the dry season and is considered the shoulder to high season, but bargains can still be found among the bigger local hotel chains.

On the night of November’s full moon, the country celebrates its Loi Krathong festival, marking the end of the rainy season. This is also when people float away their sins by placing candles on makeshift river rafts or lanterns in hopes of welcoming the coming year with a clean slate.

This article was first published Mar 2, 2021 and updated Jan 3, 2024.

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• LVMH Teams Up With Accor to Roll Out Orient Express Trains, Ships, and Hotels

The French luxury conglomerate has made a “strategic investment” in the Orient Express brand.

Rachel cormack.

Digital Editor

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LVMH has jumped aboard to help Accor further elevate a travel icon.

The two French behemoths have entered a strategic partnership to breathe new life into the Orient Express brand.

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“Each of our groups will bring the best of its expertise to take Orient Express to the pinnacle of the art of hospitality,” explains LVMH chairman and CEO Bernard Arnault .

Similarly, Accor’s comprehensive collection of hotel brands means it is well-versed in high-end hospitality and fine dining. Heavyweights such as Raffles, Fairmont, and Potel & Chabot, have enabled Accor to refine and improve the guest experience. This pursuit of the best is at the heart of the Orient Express project.

Sounds like travelers are in for a treat.

Rachel Cormack is a digital editor at Robb Report. She cut her teeth writing for HuffPost, Concrete Playground, and several other online publications in Australia, before moving to New York at the…

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