OUR THAILAND TRAVEL GUIDE
Thailand is one of the first countries we visited together. We explored Bangkok, flew to the mountainous region of Chiang Mai and then went island hopping around Phuket and Ko Phi Phi. It remains to this day, one of the most vibrant and beautiful places we ever visited. It is one of our favourite countries to visit in Asia.
Thailand is known around the world for its tasty street food. It is home to stunning golden temples and white sandy beaches. The country is filled with friendly locals and is therefore often referred to as the land of smiles.
Thailand has a strong cultural heritage, a wide variety of landscapes and a thriving night scene. Thailand truly has something to offer to every type of traveller, whether you like the finer things in life, are a backpacker or are travelling with kids.
LANGUAGE
The official language of Thailand is Thai. However, a lot of people, especially those who work in the tourism industry speak fluent English. You should be able to find someone that can help you at most hotels and tour activities. In Bangkok and around the islands, most people understand at least a few words in English.
In more rural areas, such as Northern Thailand, however, it is more likely that you will encounter people who don’t speak English. Don’t fret, however, a big smile and hand gestures, usually work a treat in these situations. To help you out, here are a few basic Thai phrases and words that are useful for traveling.
CURRENCY
The currency in Thailand is the Thai Baht. 1£ is equivalent to about 40 Thai Baht.
Thailand still mainly a cash society. You can find cash machines almost everywhere in Thailand, even in smaller towns. However, the majority of cash machines will charge you between 150 and 200 Thai baht for the service.
So, we would recommend that you take out a large sum and then immediately store it in the safe at your hotel. Carry enough cash on you to get you through the day, preferably in smaller notes.
Electric Sockets
220V AC electricity. Power outlets are usually two-prong round or flat sockets. Be sure to pack a universal travel adaptor so you can still use all your electronic gadgets.
Visa
If you are travelling to Thailand from the UK, EU, or the United States, you will be automatically given a 30-day visa as you enter Thailand at the airport. If you arrive overland that Visa only lasts for 15 days. This visa can be extended fairly easily if you want to stay in Thailand for longer. You can also apply for a 60-day long tourist visa in advance at the Thai Embassy.
If you are an ASEAN passport holder, you will also be given a 30-day long visa upon arrival, however, you might not be able to extend it.
Note, that all visitors might be asked to show proof that they will leave the country before being let in. The easiest way to do this is by showing the authorities your return or onward flight ticket reservation. So make sure to make the necessary booking arrangements before you fly to Thailand.
Safety
Thailand is a fairly safe place to travel to. But you should be aware of and read up on the most common scams before you visit the country. Don’t let your guard down whilst you are in Thailand. If you do you might have your time wasted by an unscrupulous tuk-tuk driver or even worse get in a mafia taxi as we did.
Road accidents caused by drunk drivers are becoming more and more frequent on the Thai Islands. The most common accidents in Thailand are scooter or moped-related. Never drive a scooter after you have had something to drink. Also, make sure to get an International driver’s license before you travel to Thailand if you intend to take a road trip. A lot of people don’t realise that if you have a road accident and don’t have a valid license, you won’t be covered by your travel insurance.
Generally speaking, it is always better to take out travel insurance, before you take a trip anywhere in the world. Personally, we would never leave without booking some sort of travel insurance beforehand. We recommend World Nomads as they cover you on a large variety of activities, from snorkeling to hiking. If you are looking for something more short-term, Safety Wings is a good alternative, as they have insurance plans that can be renewed on a monthly basis.
BUDGET
Thailand is one of the cheapest countries we ever visited. But, as in every country, you can make your trip as expensive or cheap as you want, depending on the experience you want to have.
In Thailand, you will spend anything from about 20-25£ upwards per day. Most of that will be spent on your accommodation and the various activities you want to undertake.
The cost of accommodation can be as cheap as 6£ per night for a shared dorm in a backpacker hostel and as expensive as 280£ per night for a suite in one of Thailand’s fabulous five-star resorts.
Food on the other hand is generally incredibly cheap in Thailand, especially if you stick to street food vendors. You can buy a plate of Pad Thai for less than a pound.
WHERE TO GO IN THAILAND
Are you travelling to Thailand for the first time or returning for more? We hope to simplify your Thailand trip and help you chose where to go, how long to stay there and what to do once you have arrived. We research every destination we visit in-depth. We travelled to various areas in Thailand and have created travel guides for all the places we visited. Each destination guide also includes a detailed tried and tested travel itinerary.
Bangkok is the capital city of Thailand and is known for its vibrant street life, rich culture, and delicious cuisine. It is home to famous landmarks such as the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, and Chatuchak Weekend Market. The city is also a hub for shopping, entertainment, and nightlife, making it a popular tourist destination.
CHIANG MAI
Chiang Mai is a city in northern Thailand known for its rich history, stunning temples, and natural beauty. It is home to famous landmarks such as Wat Phra That Doi Suthep and the Night Bazaar. The city is also a hub for adventure activities such as trekking, rafting, and zip-lining, making it a popular destination for tourists seeking both culture and adventure.
CHIANG RAI
Chiang Rai is a city in northern Thailand known for its stunning temples, natural beauty, and hill tribe villages. It is home to famous landmarks such as the White Temple and the Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos meet. The city is also a popular destination for trekking, hiking, and exploring the surrounding mountains and jungles.
PHUKET
Phuket is a beautiful island in southern Thailand known for its stunning beaches, clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. It is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world who come to relax, sunbathe, and enjoy water sports such as snorkeling and diving. The island is also home to a variety of restaurants, bars, and clubs, making it a great destination for those seeking both relaxation and entertainment.
KO PHI PHI
Koh Phi Phi is a small island located in the Andaman Sea in southern Thailand known for its stunning beaches, clear waters, and limestone cliffs. It is a popular destination for tourists who come to enjoy water sports such as snorkeling and diving, and to explore the nearby islands and marine life. The island is also known for its nightlife and party scene.
OUR SUGGESTED ITINERARY FOR THAILAND
f you are planning to visit Thailand for the first time, we highly recommend that you don’t just stay in one place. Instead, take a trip around the country and visit a variety of areas. Here is the summary of the 14 day Thailand itinerary that we highly suggest you follow:
- DAY 1 to 4 – Bangkok (4 nights)
- DAY 5 to 6 – Chiang Rai (2 nights)
- DAY 6 to 8 – Chiang Mai (3 nights)
- DAY 9 to 10 – Phuket (2 nights)
- DAY 11 to 12 – Ko Phi Phi (2 nights)
- DAY 13 to 14 – Bangkok (1 night)
We have written a very detailed post about the suggested two week Thailand itinerary with lots of information and travel tips.
TRANSPORTATION IN THAILAND
If you are travelling to Thailand, you will most likely land at the Suvarnabhumi International Airport, 19 miles from Bangkok. Although Phuket International Airport (20 miles from Phuket city center) and the Chiang Mai International Airport (2 miles from the city center of Chiang Mai) are good alternatives.
To get around Bangkok, you will be using a mixture of tuk-tuks, the subway, river boats and taxis. The BTS Skytrain is a great way to get around Bangkok. Tickets cost between 1£ and 2£ depending on how many stations you pass through, or you can pay 120 baht to get a one-day pass with unlimited rides.
In Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai your main mode of transportation is the tuk-tuk or a taxi. Always get into an official taxi. They are easy to recognise, simply look for a colourful car. Usually, the top half is painted in a different colour from the bottom half. Taxis in Thailand are metered, and prices start at 1£, with 2 baht (0.05£) being added per kilometer travelled.
If you are planning to visit more remote areas on the Thai islands, you might need to hire a car or motorbike. To do this you will need to be at least 21 years old and have had a license in the country you live in for at least a year. A rental car costs from 17£ per day upwards.
Travelling around mainland Thailand is easy and efficient. You can either hop on a plane, catch a train or take a bus. Travelling by train is faster than a local bus, but the latter is cheaper and might be the only option to reach some remote areas in the countryside. A short journey on the bus will only cost 7 baht (0.16£). A longer journey on an airconditioned bus usually costs less than 1£.
You can use Bookaway or 12Go website to view the schedules for any bus, boat, and train you plan to take in Thailand. If you are visiting Thailand during the peak season, we also recommend that you book things in advance or you might end up wasting a lot of time waiting to get onto transport.
We personally chose to fly to Chiang Rai in order to save time. Our hotel then arranged a private taxi for us that took us from Chiang Rai to What Rong Khun and onwards to Chiang Mia.
BEST TIME OF YEAR TO VISIT THAILAND
If you don’t mind travelling to Thailand during peak season, then the best time to visit the country is between November and April. This is called the dry season, as temperatures are cooler and is is far less likely that you will get drenched whilst pursuing outdoor activities. However, the price for accommodation and flights increases in these months. You can also expect the temples in Bangkok and the beaches on Phuket, Ko Phi Phi and Krabi to be packed with tourists.
If like us you prefer to avoid the crowds, we would suggest that you plan your trip to Thailand between May and October. We personally travelled to Thailand at the start of September. Although you might need to endure several short-lived rainstorms, you will save a lot of money with cheaper flights and lower hotel rates.
If you are determined to witness the Loi Krathong Festival you will need to travel to Chiang Mai in November. The festival takes place on the evening of the full moon of the 12th month in the traditional Thai lunar calendar. It is one Thailand’s most beautiful festivals. Imagine looking up at the sky as thousands of paper lanterns are set free. It is truly magical!
To celebrate Songkran (Thai New Year), then you will need to be in Thailand between the 13th and 15th of April. Traditionally, Songkran is celebrated by people going to various temples (wats) where they pray and give food to the monks. They also clean Buddha images by pouring water over them. Symbolically, people wash away their sins and wrongdoings and bless their friends with water. Nowadays, Songkran is one big water fight that is enjoyed by both locals and tourists alike.
ACCOMODATION IN THAILAND
Accommodation in Thailand is diverse and caters to all types of travelers, from budget backpackers to luxury seekers. There are various options available, including hostels, guesthouses, hotels, resorts, and villas.
For budget travelers, hostels and guesthouses are an affordable option. These accommodations typically offer shared dorm rooms or private rooms with basic amenities such as a bed, fan, and shared bathroom facilities. Many also offer communal areas such as kitchens and lounges where guests can socialize with other travelers.
Hotels in Thailand range from budget to luxury, with a variety of options in each category. Budget hotels typically offer basic amenities such as air conditioning, a private bathroom, and a small restaurant or café. Luxury hotels, on the other hand, offer top-notch facilities such as spas, swimming pools, fitness centers, and gourmet restaurants.
Resorts and villas are popular among those seeking a more luxurious experience. These accommodations offer spacious rooms or private villas with high-end amenities such as private pools, ocean views, and butler service.
No matter what type of accommodation you choose, it is important to book in advance, especially during peak tourist season. Many accommodations also offer discounts for extended stays or advanced bookings, so it is always a good idea to check their website or contact them directly to inquire about promotions.
Overall, Thailand offers a wide range of accommodation options that cater to all budgets and preferences, making it a great destination for all types of travellers.
The Oriental Residence is a luxurious hotel located in the heart of Bangkok’s business and embassy district. The hotel offers spacious suites with modern amenities such as a fully equipped kitchen, dining area, and balcony with city views. It also features a rooftop pool, fitness center, and gourmet restaurant serving international cuisine.
Panviman Chiang Mai is a luxurious resort located in the mountains of Chiang Mai, surrounded by lush greenery and breathtaking views. The resort offers spacious villas and rooms with traditional Thai decor and modern amenities. It also features a spa, infinity pool, and gourmet restaurant serving both Thai and international cuisine.
137 Pillars Chiang Mai is a luxurious boutique hotel located in the heart of Chiang Mai’s old city. The hotel offers spacious suites with modern amenities such as a private balcony, outdoor bathtub, and in-room wine cellar. It also features a rooftop bar, infinity pool, and gourmet restaurant serving Thai and international cuisine.
The Pavilions Phuket is a luxurious resort located on a hillside overlooking the Andaman Sea in Phuket. The resort offers spacious villas with private pools, outdoor showers, and panoramic views. It also features a spa, infinity pool, and gourmet restaurant serving Thai and international cuisine. The resort is perfect for those seeking privacy, tranquility, and luxury.
Zeavola Ko Phi Phi is a luxurious resort located on the northern tip of Koh Phi Phi. The resort offers spacious villas and rooms with traditional Thai decor and modern amenities. It also features a spa, infinity pool, and gourmet restaurant serving both Thai and international cuisine. The resort is perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat surrounded by natural beauty.
THINGS TO DO IN THAILAND
As mentioned, Thailand is a country that has a little bit of everything for everyone. Despite being frequented by millions and millions of tourists every day, there is still a large portion of Thailand that remains largely unexplored. Here are a few of the best places things to do in Thailand.
WORD OF CAUTION
Animal Tourism in Thailand is pretty rampant with lots of tours promoting elephant trekking. If there is one thing we are passionate about, it is about spreading the word about the rampant animal abuse that happens in these establishments. A lot of tourists flock to the Tiger temple in Chiang Mai just to get a selfie with a tiger.
The tigers in these places are often mistreated and drugged up so they can be docile enough for human interaction. Same goes for elephant “sanctuaries” Bottom line is, do your research if you really must see them and only go to reputable ones (we recommend Elephant Nature Park), or better yet-just avoid any activity which involves animals.
FAMILY TRAVEL IN THAILAND
If you are wondering where to go in Thailand with kids, then Bangkok, Pattaya, Ao Nang and Phuket are all be great destinations for Thailand holidays with kids.
The people are just superb and very kid friendly which helps make a Thailand holiday with kids very easy. People in Thailand will stand up on trains for families and just help out without you having to ask. However, if your kids are young be prepared for people to keep touching them.
There are many great Thailand activities that cater specifically to kids such as Kidzania in Bangkok. There are also many other kid focused attractions in Thailand such as theme parks, play centres and zoos. Plus the beautiful beaches and pools are sure to be a hit.
Beware that travelling around in a car in Bangkok can be slow going due to the traffic. The skytrain can save some of the traffic drama, but there are lots of stairs which makes it very hard unless your child is old enough to handle this. It is very important in Bangkok to stay somewhere well located to food.
You should not have any problems buying nappies in Thailand . Although the maximum size is 12kg, which might not be big enough for a British 2 year old. the price of nappies and wipes in Thailand is similar to the UK. Baby food, that isn’t just vegetable or fruit puree, is a bit more difficult to come by. And the formula looks a bit different to that sold in Europe.
FOOD TO TRY IN THAILAND
Thailand is home to some of the most amazing food (in the world) and is a big favorite of mine in Southeast Asia. This country features a cuisine full of fresh ingredients and bold flavors. If you’re only in Thailand for a short amount of time, here are a few dishes that you need to try:
Pad Thai: Readily available in almost every street food cart, this dish is something you can never go wrong with. Thick noodles topped with a variety of shrimp or chicken, bean sprouts, egg, and tofu, stir-fried together in goodness.
Pad Krapow Moo: A stir-fry made from minced pork or chicken dish cooked with lots of basil, garlic, and chilies served on top of a piping bowl of white rice and served with a fried egg.
Som Tum: Shredded papaya mixed with green beans, garlic and chilies marinated in a vinaigrette type of sauce topped with peanuts. Usually eaten as a side salad with grilled dishes.
Mango Sticky Rice: Coconut rice paired with a ripe sweet mango topped with a sweet coconut syrup that is to die for!
For more information on what to eat in Thailand, you can check out our Thailand street food guide as well as the full article on the best dishes in Thailand that you can’t miss out on during your trip.
WHAT TO PACK FOR YOUR THAILAND TRIP
Despite having different seasons, traveling around Thailand is generally warm, with the exception of a few cooler months when in Northern Thailand. With that in mind, make sure you bring lots of cool quick dry clothing and well as a scarf or two for visiting temples and other religious sites.
The most important thing for us when traveling is taking a good bag. We can’t live without our Nomatic travel bag which is the best day pack ever!) It has a ton of useful compartments and has been our sidekick for a few years now.
As a quick overview though, a few of our must-bring items while in Thailand is a sturdy travel water bottle, sand-free beach blanket, RFID travel wallet, and a good pair of travel sandals!
Best Guide Books for Thailand
Planning a trip to Thailand can be overwhelming with so many things to see and do. To make the most of your time and experience all that Thailand has to offer, it’s essential to have a reliable source of information.
On this blog we try to cover as much information as we can and provide information based on our own experience travelling to Japan. Since we have now travelled to this beautiful country several times, we are able to cover quite a bit of ground.
While travel blogs can provide a wealth of information, they often cannot compare to the convenience and comprehensiveness of a good guidebook. Guidebooks offer detailed information about a country’s history, culture, attractions, and transportation systems, as well as maps, recommendations, and insider tips from experts. They can be easily carried around and referred to at any time, even when you don’t have access to the internet.
There are many guidebooks available for Thailand, each with its own unique style and features. Below we have highlighted some of the best guidebooks for Thailand, to help you plan your trip and get the most out of your visit to this amazing country.