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Travel Guide Thailand

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With 16 million foreigners flying into the country each year, Thailand is Asia’s primary travel destination and offers a host of places to visit. Travel to Thailand and you’ll find that despite this vast influx of visitors, it’s cultural integrity remains largely undamaged. Thailand is a country that cleverly avoided colonisation has been able to absorb Western influences while maintaining its own rich heritage.

Thailand travel facts

Where to go in thailand.

• Best time to visit Thailand

How to travel to Thailand

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Though the high-rises and neon lights occupy the foreground of the tourist picture, the typical Thai community is still the farming village, and you need not venture far to encounter a more traditional scene of fishing communities, rubber plantations and Buddhist temples.

Around 40% of Thais earn their living from the land, based around the staple rice, which forms the foundation of the country’s unique and famously sophisticated cuisine.

Tourism has been just one factor in the country’s development which, since the deep-seated uncertainties surrounding the Vietnam War faded, has been free, for the most part, to proceed at death-defying pace – for a time in the 1980s and early 1990s, Thailand boasted the fastest-expanding economy in the world.

Through all the changes of the last sixty years, the much-revered constitutional monarch, King Bhumibol has lent a measure of stability.

Furthermore, some 85 percent of the population are still practising Theravada Buddhists, a unifying faith that colours all aspects of daily life – from the tiered temple rooftops that dominate every skyline, to the omnipresent saffron-robed monks and the packed calendar of festivals.

• Country name: Divided into 77 provinces or changwat, Thailand was known as Siam until 1939 (and again from 1945 to 1949); some academics suggest changing the name back again, to better reflect the country’s Thai and non-Thai diversity.
• Population: 63 million, made up of ethnic Thais (75%) and Chinese (14%), with the rest comprising mainly immigrants from neighbouring countries as well as hill-tribespeople.
• Religion: Buddhism is the national religion, Islam the largest minority religion, but nearly all Thais also practise some form of animism (spirit worship).
• Leadership: The country has been a constitutional monarchy since 1932.
• The world record for nonstop kissing was set by two Thai men in Pattaya on Valentine’s Day, 2012, at a gobsmacking 50 hours, 25 minutes and 1 second.

Deciding where to go in Thailand depends on two things: what you want to do, and when you want to go. The varying areas of the country, from North to South offer visitors a selection of sights, activities and experiences. In this travel guide on the best places to visit in Thailand, we unearth where to enjoy the country’s range of activities, from world-class diving to carousing at lively festivals. Once that’s decided, you’ll need to check the best time to visit .

The clash of tradition and modernity is most intense in Bangkok , which forms the first stop on almost any itinerary. Within its historic core you’ll find resplendent temples, canalside markets and the opulent indulgence of the eighteenth-century Grand Palace . Downtown’s forest of skyscrapers shelters cutting-edge fashion in decor boutiques and some achingly hip bars and clubs.

Most budget travellers head for the Banglamphu district, where if you’re not careful you could end up watching DVDs all day long and selling your shoes when you run out of money. The district is far from having a monopoly on Bangkok accommodation, but it does have the advantage of being just a short walk from the major sights in the Ratanakosin area: the dazzling ostentation of the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaeo, lively and grandiose Wat Pho and National Museum.

Once those cultural essentials have been seen, you can choose from a whole bevy of lesser sights, including Wat Benjamabophit (the “Marble Temple”), especially at festival time, and Jim Thompson’s House, a small, personal museum of Thai design.

If you’re wondering where to visit in the northern uplands, then start with Chiang Mai . It’s both an attractive historic city and a vibrant cultural centre, with a strong tradition of arts, crafts and festivals.

Self-improvement courses are a strong suit – from ascetic meditation to Thai cookery classes – while the overriding enticement of the surrounding region is the prospect of trekking through villages inhabited by a richly mixed population of tribal peoples.

Plenty of outdoor activities and courses, as well as hot springs and massages, can be enjoyed at Pai , a surprisingly cosmopolitan hill station for travellers, four hours northwest of Chiang Mai.

Many colourful festivals attract throngs of visitors here too: Chiang Mai is one of the most popular places in Thailand to see in the Thai New Year – Songkhran – in mid-April, and to celebrate Loy Krathong at the full moon in November, when thousands of candles are floated down the Ping River in lotus-leaf boats.

Beyond the city limits, a number of other day-trips can be made, such as to the ancient temples of Lamphun – and, of course, Chiang Mai is the main centre for hill-tribe trekking, as well as all sorts of other outdoor activities.

Samui archipelago

The pick of the coasts are in the south, where the Samui archipelago off the Gulf coast ranks as one of the best places to go in Thailand. Ko Samui itself has the most sweeping white-sand beaches, and the greatest variety of accommodation and facilities to go with them.

Ko Pha Ngan next door is still largely backpacker territory, where you have a stark choice between desolate coves and Hat Rin , Thailand’s party capital. The remotest island, rocky Ko Tao , is acquiring increasing sophistication as Southeast Asia’s largest dive-training centre.

Tucked away beneath the islands, Nakhon Si Thammarat, the cultural capital of the south, is well worth a short detour from the main routes through the centre of the peninsula – it’s a sophisticated city of grand old temples, delicious cuisine and distinctive handicrafts.

Central plains

With Chiang Mai and the north so firmly planted on the independent tourist trail, the intervening central plains tend to get short shrift. Yet there is rewarding trekking around Umphang , near the Burmese border, and the elegant ruins of former capitals Ayutthaya and Sukhothai embody a glorious artistic heritage, displaying Thailand’s distinctive ability to absorb influences from quite different cultures.

Even if you’re just passing through, you can’t miss the star attraction of Nakhon Pathom: the enormous stupa Phra Pathom Chedi dominates the skyline.

To get an idea of what shopping in Bangkok used to be like before all the canals were tarmacked over, many people take an early-morning trip to the floating market ( talat khlong ) at Damnoen Saduak. Sixty kilometres south of Nakhon Pathom and just over a hundred kilometres from Bangkok.

The Andaman Coast

Across on the other side of the peninsula, the Andaman coast offers even more exhilarating scenery and the finest coral reefs in the country, in particular around the Ko Similan island chain, which ranks among the best dive sites in the world.

The largest Andaman coast island, Phuket , is one of Thailand’s top tourist destinations and graced with a dozen fine beaches, though several have been overdeveloped with a glut of high-rises and tacky nightlife.

Beautiful little Ko Phi Phi is a major party hub, surrounded by the turquoise seas and dramatic limestone cliffs that characterize the coastline throughout Krabi province . Large, forested Ko Lanta is, for the moment at least, a calmer alternative for families, but for genuine jungle you’ll need to head inland, to the rainforests of Khao Sok National Park .

Further down the Thai peninsula, in the provinces of the deep south , the teeming sea life and unfrequented sands of the Trang islands and Ko Tarutao National Marine Park make this one of Thailand’s top places to go. There’s now the intriguing possibility of island-hopping your way down through them – in fact, all the way from Phuket to Penang in Malaysia – without setting foot on the mainland.

The greatest interest in the deep south is currently all over on the beautiful west coast, where sheer limestone outcrops, pristine sands and fish-laden coral stretch down to the Malaysian border.

Along Trang’s mainland coast, there’s a 30km stretch of attractive beaches, dotted with mangroves and impressive caves that can be explored by sea canoe, but the real draw down here is the offshore islands, which offer gorgeous panoramas and beaches, great snorkelling and at least a modicum of comfort in their small clusters of resorts.

Khao Yai National Park

Another regular in lists of the best places to go in Thailand, Khao Yai National Park – the country’s first national park – encapsulates the phenomenal diversity of Thailand’s flora and fauna. It’s one of the very few national parks to maintain a network of hiking trails that visitors can explore by themselves, passing dramatic waterfalls, orchids and an abundance of wildlife.

Spanning five distinct forest types and rising to a height of 1,351m, the park sustains over 300 bird and twenty large land-mammal species – hence its UNESCO accreditation as a World Heritage Site.

Rangers discourage visitors from exploring the outer, non-waymarked reaches unguided, partly for environmental reasons, but also because of trigger-happy sandalwood poachers. Sandalwood trees are indigenous to Khao Yai, and though oil collection does not usually kill the tree, it does weaken it. Guides can point out trees that have been cut in this way along the trails.

Few tourists visit Isaan , the poorest and in some ways the most traditionally Thai region. Here, a trip through the gently modulating landscapes of the Mekong River valley, which defines Thailand’s northeastern extremities.

It takes in archetypal agricultural villages and a fascinating array of religious sites, while the southern reaches of Isaan hold some of Thailand’s best-kept secrets – the magnificent stone temple complexes of Phimai , Phanom Rung and Khao Phra Viharn , all built by the Khmers of Cambodia almost ten centuries ago.

We may have already mentioned the Andaman Coast, but Phuket is worth looking at in greater detail. Thailand’s largest island and a province in its own right, Phuket is the wealthiest province in Thailand, with tourism driving the economy.

Some tourist developments have scarred much of the island, however, many of the beaches are still strikingly handsome, resort facilities are second to none, and the offshore snorkelling and diving are exceptional.

If you’re after a peaceful spot, aim for the 17km-long national park beach of Hat Mai Khao, its more developed neighbour Hat Nai Yang, or one of the smaller alternatives at Hat Nai Thon or Hat Kamala.

Despite over a million visitors a year, Ko Samui remains a top places to go in Thailand. Back-packers to bougie fortnighters come to this part of southern Thailand for the beautiful beaches. At 15km across and down, Samui is generally large enough to cope with this diversity and the paradisal sands and clear blue seas have kept their good looks.

The island’s most appealing strand, Chaweng, has seen the heaviest, most crowded development and is now the most expensive place to stay, though it does offer by far the best amenities and nightlife. Its slightly smaller neighbour, Lamai, lags a little behind in terms of looks and top-end development, but retains large pockets of backpacker bungalow resorts.

The other favourite for backpackers is Maenam, which, though less attractive again, is markedly quiet, with plenty of room to breathe between the beach and the round-island road.

Discover more places in Thailand

• Southern Thailand: the Andaman coast Travel Guide
• The east coast Travel Guide
• The north Travel Guide
• Southern Thailand: the Gulf coast Travel Guide

The weather in Thailand is split into three seasons: rainy (roughly May–Oct) cool (Nov–Feb) and hot (March–May).

The rains usually builds momentum between June and August, hitting its peak in September and October. The cool season is when travelling in Thailand is most pleasant, though temperatures can still reach a sticky 30°C. In the hot season, you’re best of hitting the beach.

So, the best time to go to Thailand is the cool seasons: more manageable temperatures and less rain, it offers waterfalls in full spate and the best of the upland flowers in bloom. Bear in mind, however, that it’s also the busiest season.

Thailand currently has seven main international airports: Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi and Don Muang), Chiang Mai, Hat Yai, Krabi, Phuket and Ko Samui. The vast majority of people travelling to Thailand fly into Suvarnabhumi Airport.

Air fares to Thailand generally depend on the season, with the highest being approximately mid-November to mid-February, when the weather is best, and in July and August to coincide with school holidays. You will need to book several months in advance to get reasonably priced tickets during these peak periods.

The cheapest way of getting to most regional Thai airports is usually to buy a flight to Bangkok and then a separate domestic ticket. However, there are dozens of potentially useful, mostly seasonal, international routes into Phuket, including direct flights with several airlines from Australia.

Most international flights into Chiang Mai, Krabi, Ko Samui and Don Muang are from Malaysia, Singapore and China (including Hong Kong and Macau). Krabi also handles seasonal, mostly charter flights from Scandinavia, while Korean Airlines from Seoul is a popular route for North American visitors into Chiang Mai Airport, which has links with Myanmar and Laos too.

Travel in Thailand is largely cheap, easy and efficient – though not always speedy. For instance, long-distance journeys on land can be arduous, especially if a tight budget means you’re sat in the unforgiving second-class seats and there’s no air con.

That said, the many transport options available makes getting around Thailand a whole lot easier than elsewhere in Southeast Asia. Buses are speedy, inexpensive and frequent, and can be quite luxurious.

Trains are slower, but safer and, there’s more chance to sleep during an overnight trip. It’s also worth nothing that if you’re travelling by day you’re more likely to follow a scenic route by rail than by road.

Songthaews (literally “two rows”) – open-ended vans with as many people squashed into the back as possible – supplement the bus network, especially in rural areas. Slightly more comfortable are share-taxis and air-conditioned mini-buses which connect many of the major towns and cities.

Discover more domestic transport options and how to get around Thailand .

Here is our Thailand travel guide condensed into 15 unmissable Thai destinations:

You could spend a year in Thailand's capital and still not tick off all the boxes. There are a few absolute must-sees though. Start with Wat Pho, a lively and lavish temple, encompassing the awesome Reclining Buddha. Move onto the Grand Palace, which encompasses the country’s holiest and most beautiful temple, Wat Phra Kaeo. Then the markets…

Phuket, Thailand’s largest island, is the region’s major resort destination for families, package tourists and novice divers. Its dining, shopping and entertainment facilities are second to none. Phuket Town offers handsome Sino-Portuguese architecture and some of the most interesting sleeping, eating and drinking options on the island.

The furthest inhabited island of the Samui archipelago, Ko Tao, has taken off as a scuba-diving centre, but despite a growing nightlife and restaurant scene, still has the feel of a small, rugged and isolated outcrop. A boat-trip round Ko Tao Satisfying exploration and great snorkelling, especially off the unique causeway beaches of Ko Nang Yuan.

Southern Thailand’s gently undulating Gulf coast is famed above all for the Samui archipelago, three small, idyllic islands lying off the most prominent hump of the coastline. A lazy stay in a beachfront bungalow is so seductive a prospect that most people overlook the attractions of the mainland. Added to that you’ll find scenery dominated by forested mountains that rise abruptly behind the coastal strip, and a sprinkling of fascinating historic sights.

Old-town temples, the best of Thai crafts, cookery courses and fine restaurants – the north’s sophisticated capital is a great place to hang out. The capital and transport centre of the north, it's also a great place just to hang out or prepare for a journey into the hills. For many tourists, this means joining a trek to visit one or more of the hill tribes, who comprise one-tenth of the north’s population.

In the last few years Chiang Rai has acquired several genuine sights of interest, notably the Mae Fah Luang Art & Cultural Park, a beautiful storehouse of Lanna art. There’s now also a good choice of guesthouses and upmarket riverside hotels in which to lay your head, and from here you can set up a wide range of trekking, day-trips and other outdoor activities in the surrounding countryside.

In recent years, backpackers have tended to move over to Ko Samui’s fun-loving little sibling, which still has a comparatively simple atmosphere. The most popular activities on Ko Pha Ngan are round-island boat trips, from Hat Rin and Hat Yao, and trips to Ang Thong National Marine Park. Other activities include learning to cook Thai food, bicycle tours, yoga, meditation and kiteboarding.

The “island of long beaches”, Ko Lanta has an atmospheric old town, offers an appealing choice of places to stay. There’s good snorkelling and diving nearby, plus caves to explore, kayaking and other water sports. The island is especially popular with families, in part because of the local laws that have so far prevented jet-skis, beachfront parasols and girlie bars from turning it into another Phuket, though resort facilities are expanding fast.

Ko Samui is easily one of the most naturally beautiful Thai islands, with its long white-sand beaches and arching fringes of palm trees. Samui has over a dozen scuba-diving companies, offering trips for divers and snorkellers and courses throughout the year. Also on offer are plenty of spas, as well as meditation retreats, island tours, ziplines, kiteboarding and cooking classes.

The stunning jungle-clad karsts of Khao Sok National Park are well worth heading inland for. Located about halfway between the southern peninsula’s two coasts and easily accessible from Khao Lak, Phuket and Surat Thani, the park has become a popular stop on the travellers’ route, offering a number of easy trails, a bit of amateur spelunking and some scenic rafthouse accommodation on Cheow Lan Lake.

Protected from the ravages of the Andaman Sea by Phuket, Ao Phang Nga has a seascape both bizarre and beautiful. Covering some four hundred square kilometres of coast between Phuket and Krabi, the mangrove-edged bay is spiked with limestone karst formations up to 300m in height, jungle-clad and craggily profiled. This is Thailand’s own version of Vietnam’s world-famous Ha Long Bay, reminiscent too of Guilin’s scenery in China, and much of it is now preserved as national park.

Located in an idyllic spot in Phang Nga bay, almost equidistant from Phuket, Phang Nga and Krabi, the island of Ko Yao Noi enjoys magnificent maritime views from almost every angle and makes a refreshingly tranquil getaway. Measuring about 12km at its longest point, it’s home to some four thousand islanders, the vast majority of them Muslim, who earn their living from rubber and coconut plantations, fishing and shrimp-farming.

The fourth-largest island in Thailand, forested Ko Kood (also spelt Ko Kut and Ko Kud) is still a wild and largely uncommercialised island. Though it’s known for its sparkling white sand and exceptionally clear turquoise water, particularly along the west coast, Ko Kood is as much a nature-lover’s destination as a beach-bum’s. Swathes of its shoreline are fringed by scrub and mangrove rather than broad sandy beaches, and those parts of the island not still covered in virgin tropical rainforest are filled with palm groves and rubber plantations.

Blessed with the softest, squeakiest sand within weekending distance of Bangkok, the tiny Thai island of Ko Samet, which measures just 6km from top to toe, is a favourite escape for Thais, expats and tourists. Its fourteen small but dazzlingly white beaches are breathtakingly beautiful, lapped by pale blue water and in places still shaded by coconut palms and occasional white-flowered cajeput (samet) trees, which gave the island its name and which are used to build boats.

Ringed by high mountains, the small but prosperous provincial capital of Nan, 225km northeast of Lampang, rests on the grassy west bank of the river. Few Western visitors make it out this far, but it’s a likeable place with a thriving handicrafts tradition, a good museum and some superb temple murals at Wat Phumin, as well as at Wat Nong Bua out in the countryside. The town comes alive for the Lanna boat races, usually held in late October or early November.

We’ve curated a series of itineraries that span Thailand, from running the rapids in the northern mountains to lazy beach stays in the Andaman archipelagos.

Travel ideas for Thailand, created by local experts

5 days  / from 1180 USD

Chiang Mai Safari Adventure

The perfect trip for some family fun and adventure, lovely Chiang Mai with its lush valleys and national parks ticks all the boxes. Expect majestic cliff-top temples, sprawling national parks and exciting safari adventures.

12 days  / from 2750 USD

Thailand's Islands and Highlands

Experience the best of Thailand as you discover glitzy Bangkok's temples, markets and waterways. Compare the bustling, lively capital with the glorious rolling hills and lush interior of mountainous Chiang Mai before heading south to beach bliss and unexpected cultural delights in hedonistic Phuket.

12 days  / from 2450 USD

Thailand Discovery

A great way to discover Thailand, take in the Central Plain and Bangkok, the north with Chiang Mai and the south at the lively resort of Phuket.

So, whether you want to come closer to superlative nature, satisfy your appetite for Thailand’s varied and colourful cuisine, or keep things low-key on a paradise island, this lineup of Thailand travel guides will see you navigate this incredible country with ease.

For the simplest double room while travelling in Thailand, prices start at a bargain B150 in the outlying regions, around B200 in Bangkok, and B400 in the pricier resorts. Tourist centres invariably offer a tempting range of more upmarket choices but in these areas rates fluctuate according to demand.

Most of Thailand’s budget accommodation is in guesthouses and bungalows. These are small, traveller-friendly hotels whose services nearly always include an inexpensive restaurant, wi-fi and safe storage for valuables and left luggage, and often a tour desk.

Thailand travel sales reps and other people travelling for business rather than pleasure rarely use guest-houses, opting instead for budget hotels, which offer rooms for around B150–600. Usually run by Chinese-Thais, these functional three- or four-storey places are found in every sizeable town, often near the bus station or central market.

The rest of the accommodation picture is all about tourist hotels, which, like anywhere in the world, come in all sizes and qualities and are often best booked via online discount accommodation booking services such as local outfit sawadee.com . One way or another, it’s a good idea to reserve ahead in popular tourist areas during peak season.

As guesthouses have become increasingly hotel-like and commercial in their facilities and approach, many tourists looking for old-style local hospitality are choosing homestay accommodation instead. Homestays give an unparalleled insight into typical Thai (usually rural) life and can often be incorporated into a programme that includes experiencing village activities.

Thai food is one of the biggest reasons for the country’s popularity with tourists. Bangkok and Chiang Mai are the country’s big culinary centres, offering the cream of gourmet Thai restaurants and the best international cuisines. The rest of the country is by no means a gastronomic wasteland, however, and you can eat well and cheaply in even the smallest provincial towns, many of which offer the additional attraction of regional specialities.

In fact, visit Thailand and you’ll find that you could eat more than adequately without ever entering a restaurant, as itinerant food vendors hawking hot and cold snacks materialise in even the most remote spots, as well as on trains and buses – and night markets often serve customers from dusk till dawn.

Hygiene is a consideration when eating anywhere in Thailand, but being too cautious means you’ll end up spending a lot of money and missing out on some real local treats. Wean your stomach gently by avoiding excessive amounts of chillies and too much fresh fruit in the first few days.

You can be pretty sure that any noodle stall or curry shop that’s permanently packed with customers is a safe bet. Furthermore, because most Thai dishes can be cooked in under five minutes, you’ll rarely have to contend with stuff that’s been left to smoulder and stew.

Many travellers’ itineraries take in a few days’ trekking in the hills and a stint snorkelling or diving off the beaches of the south. Trekking is concentrated in the north, but there are smaller, less touristy trekking operations in Kanchanaburi, Sangkhlaburi and Umphang. There are also plenty of national parks to explore and opportunities for rock climbing and kayaking.

Diving in Thailand

Clear, warm waters (averaging 28°C), prolific marine life and affordable prices make Thailand a very rewarding place for diving and snorkelling.

Most islands and beach resorts have at least one dive centre that organises trips. Thailand’s premier diving destinations are generally considered to be Ko Similan, Ko Surin, Richelieu Rock and Hin Muang and Hin Daeng – all of them off the Andaman coast.

Thailand’s main dive resorts

• Ko Pha Ngan

Snorkeling in Thailand

Boatmen and tour agents on most beaches offer snorkelling trips to nearby reefs and many dive operators welcome snorkelers to tag along for discounts of thirty percent or more; not all diving destinations are rewarding for snorkelers though, so check the relevant account in this book first.

Trekking in Thailand

Trekking in the mountains of north Thailand differs from trekking in most other parts of the world in that the emphasis is not primarily on the scenery but on the region’s inhabitants. While some of the villages are near enough to a main road to be reached on a day-trip from a major town, to get to the other, more traditional villages usually entails joining a guided party for a few days.

For most visitors, however, these hardships are outweighed by the experience of encountering people of such different cultures, travelling through tropical countryside. Here’s our take on some of Thailand’s best trekking routes .

Rock climbing

The limestone karsts that pepper southern Thailand’s Andaman coast make ideal playgrounds for rock-climbers, and the sport has really taken off here in the past fifteen years. Most climbing is centred round East Railay and Ton Sai beaches on Laem Phra Nang in Krabi province, where there are dozens of routes within easy walking distance of tourist bungalows, restaurants and beaches.

Sea kayaking and whitewater rafting

Sea kayaking is also centred around Thailand’s Andaman coast, where the limestone outcrops, sea caves, hongs (hidden lagoons), mangrove swamps and picturesque shorelines of Ao Phang Nga in particular make for rewarding paddling.

Entertainment and sport in Thailand

Bangkok is the best place to catch authentic performances of classical Thai dance, though more easily digestible tourist-oriented shows are staged in some of the big tourist centres as well as in Bangkok. The country’s two main Thai boxing stadia are also in the capital, but you’ll come across local matches in the provinces too.

Spas and traditional massage in Thailand

With their focus on indulgent self-pampering, spas are usually associated with high-spending tourists, but the treatments on offer at Thailand’s five-star hotels are often little different from those used by traditional medical practitioners, who have long held that massage and herbs are the best way to restore physical and mental well-being.

Thai massage ( nuad boran ) is based on the principle that many physical and emotional problems are caused by the blocking of vital energy channels within the body.

Spectacular archipelago in the Gulf of Thailand, generally visited on a day-trip from Ko Samui or Ko Pha Ngan.

Waterfalls, hill tribes, orchids, around four hundred bird species and the country’s highest peak.

An exceptionally pretty, seven-tiered waterfall that extends deep into the forest. Hugely popular as a day-trip from Kanchanaburi.

Coastal flats on the Gulf coast known for their rich birdlife plus an extensive stalactite-filled cave system.

Southern Thailand’s most visited park has rainforest trails and caves plus a flooded river system with eerie outcrops and raft-house accommodation.

Thailand’s most popular national park, three hours from Bangkok, features half a dozen upland trails plus organized treks and night safaris.

Remote group of Andaman Sea islands with famously fabulous reefs and fine above-water scenery. Mostly visited by dive boat but limited national park accommodation is provided.

National marine park archipelago of beautiful coastal waters in the Andaman Sea, though much of its coral became severely bleached in 2010. Good snorkelling and national park campsites.

Beautiful and wildly varied land- and seascapes on the main 26km-long island and fifty other smaller islands on its western side.

Dramatic and strange 1300m-high plateau, probably best avoided at weekends.

Nearly all Thai festivals have a religious aspect. The most theatrical are generally Brahmin (Hindu) in origin, honouring elemental spirits and deities with ancient rites and ceremonial costumed parades.

Buddhist celebrations usually revolve round the local temple, and while merit-making is a significant feature, a light-hearted atmosphere prevails, as the wat grounds are swamped with food and trinket vendors and makeshift stages are set up to show likay folk theatre, singing stars and beauty contests.

Many of the secular festivals (like the elephant roundups and the Bridge over the River Kwai spectacle) are outdoor local culture shows, geared specifically towards Thai and farang tourists. Here’s what you need to know on when to go .

Travel advice for Thailand

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Thailand

• Getting around Thailand: Transportation Tips
• Khao Sok National Park
• Eating and drinking in Thailand
• How to get to Thailand
• Travel Tips Thailand for planning and on the go

From costs and climate to tipping to taxes, this Thailand travel guide has all the advice you’ll need to stay safe and happy.

Visiting Thailand for most Western passport holders (that includes citizens of the UK, Ireland, the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa) is simple as they’re allowed to enter the country for short stays without having to apply for a visa.

Visa requirements for extended trips in Thailand are subject to frequent change, so you should always consult before departure a Thai embassy or consulate, a reliable travel agent, or the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ website at wmfa.go.th .

Top image: Thai khon dancers © saravutpics/Shutterstock

There’s no standard system of transliterating Thai script into Roman, so you’re sure to find that the Thai words in this book don’t always match the versions you’ll see elsewhere. Maps and street signs are the biggest sources of confusion, so we’ve generally gone for the transliteration that’s most common on the spot; where it’s a toss-up between two equally popular versions, we’ve used the one that helps best with pronunciation. However, sometimes you’ll need to do a bit of lateral thinking, bearing in mind that a classic variant for the town of Ayutthaya is Ayudhia, while among street names, Thanon Rajavithi could come out as Thanon Ratwithi – and it’s not unheard of to find one spelling posted at one end of a road, with another at the opposite end.

Although the vast majority of Thais are Buddhist, nearly everyone also believes that the physical world is inhabited by spirits . These spirits can cause trouble if not given enough care and attention, and are apt to wreak havoc when made homeless. Therefore, whenever a new building is constructed – be it a traditional village house or a multistorey office block – the owners will also construct a home for the spirits who previously occupied that land. Crucially, these spirit houses must be given the best spot on the site – which in Bangkok often means on the roof – and must also reflect the status of the building in question, so their architecture can range from the simplest wooden structure to an elaborate scale model of a particularly ornate temple or even a sleek little icon of modernism. Daily offerings of flowers, incense and candles are set inside the spirit house, sometimes with morsels of food.

Such is the national obsession with muay thai , or Thai boxing, that when Wijan Ponlid returned home from the Sydney 2000 Olympics with the country’s only gold medal (for international flyweight boxing), he was paraded through town at the head of a procession of 49 elephants, given a new house and over 20 million baht, and offered a promotion in the police force. Belatedly perhaps, muay thai has recently entered the canon of martial-arts cinema: Ong Bak (2003), Tom Yum Goong (2005) and their various sequels were global box-office hits, and their all-punching, all-kicking star, Tony Jaa, who performed all his own stunts, has been appointed Cultural Ambassador for Thailand.

Though there are boxing venues all around the country, the very best fights are staged at Bangkok’s two biggest stadiums, Rajdamnoen and Lumphini, and are well worth attending as a cultural experience even if you have no interest in the sport itself (see The media & Thai boxing).

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written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 05.06.2024

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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?

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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).

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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

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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."

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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.

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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."

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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."

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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.

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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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Thailand Travel Guide

Your ultimate thailand travel guide, with tips, ideas on things to do, and best things to see in thailand. great for first-time and returning travelers..

Known for its famous cuisine, Thailand is also a country full of history and culture and home to many sacred sites and temples.

Add in plenty of shopping venues (both on land and on the water), friendly locals, and many natural wonders like beaches, lagoons, and caves, and it all makes a memorable trip.

There are many things to see and do in Thailand.

This Thailand travel guide will help you plan your next vacation.

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Table of contents

Table of Contents

Fast Facts about Thailand

• Currency: The official currency is the Thai baht and 1 baht is equal to 0.032 USD.
• Power: Power voltage is 220 V at 50 Hz.
• Visa:  To enter, you will need a U.S. passport valid for 6 months after your departure date and a return plane ticket. You can stay for 30 days without a visa.
• Getting Around The best way to get around Thailand is by bus or train.
• Sales tax The sales tax rate is 7%.
• The Capital City of Thailand is Bangkok

Things to See and Do in Thailand

• Climb in Railay  – We went Rock Climbing in Railay for the first time in 2000 and each time we go back to Thailand we climb, King Klimbers and Hot Rocks are our go-to shops. 
• Go Sea Kayaking   – through the Hongs of Phuket
• Volunteer or  visit an Elephant Sanctuary
• Take Part in Songkran  – It’s the world’s largest water fight. Actually, it’s the Thai New Year and they ring it in in style with a lot of water. 
• Take a Muay Thai Kickboxing Course  – Sign up for a month and really delve into the culture.
• Take a Cooking Class –  Thai food  is a favourite around the world and cooking courses are popular around the country. Sign up for a multi-day course to really get to know the cuisine.=
• Beaches  – Thailand has the most beautiful beaches in the world. Places like Phuket and Kho Samui are popular with the tourists but there are many other beaches like Railay and Ao Nang in Krabi, Kho Lanta and Kho Lipe near the Malaysian Border. 
• Tip: avoid Pattaya Beach it’s overrun and just downright depressing. 
• Bridge on the River Kwai – Made famous by the movie it was a strategic location during WWII. There is a war memorial here for soldiers who were kept as POWs in unbearable conditions.

Thailand Travel Guides

• Best Things to do in Bangkok, Thailand
• The Best Things to do in Koh Samui
• Best Things to do in Krabi
• Best Things to do in Phuket
• 35 of the Best Things to do in Chiang Mai, Thailand
• Loy Krathong and Yi Peng – A Guide to The Lantern Festivals of Chiang Mai

Accommodation

Budget: You can find a number of backpacker hostels in the range of 250-700 baht per night. Enjoy dorm-styled or private rooms, shared kitchens, lounge areas, free Wi-Fi, and great locations.

Mid Range: For mid-range hotels, expect to pay 1,500-2,750 baht per night and enjoy private rooms, free breakfast, an outdoor pool, a hotel restaurant and bar, a gym, and nearby attractions.

High End: Upscale hotels will range from 3,00-12,000 baht per night, with the mostluxurious going all the way up to 76,500 baht. Take in the best of Thailand with top-of-the-line hospitality, polished rooms, and suites with flat-screen TVs, beautiful hotel architecture, rooftop pools overlooking the city, multiple dining options, fitness centers,tennis courts, and more.

If you are starting your trip in Bangkok check out our suggestions for where to stay in Bangkok.

Thai cuisine favors rice, noodles, nam pla (fish sauce), vegetables and fruits, seafood or meat, and herbs and spices. Pad Thai is one of the national dishes in Thailand.

Soups and curries, with various combinations, are also popular dishes. Thailand has many street vendors where you can sample great Thailand cuisine.

When out and about, try some mango sticky rice or banana roti (banana pancake). Expect to pay 90-150 baht per meal when dining in a restaurant.

The Best Ways to Get Around Thailand

Getting to thailand:.

Getting to Thailand: The Suvarnabhumi International Airport is the main airport to fly into and is about 19 miles from Bangkok. The 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 alternatives.

You can check for the best flights to Thailand on Skyscanner .

Transportation:

Transportation: Trains are a fast way to get around, especially the BTS Skytrain in Bangkok. Tickets cost 16-59 baht depending on how many stations you pass through, or you can pay 120 baht to get a one-day pass with unlimited rides. The Skytrain runs from 6:30 AM to midnight and passes by many attractions, including more rural areas

Buses : are a good way to get around and travel through most parts of the country. Pay just 7 baht for shorter rides or 9-19 baht for air-conditioned buses that cover longer distances.

Taxis:   Taxis are an alternative way to get around. In major cities like Bangkok, the taxis are metered, and prices start at 35 baht, with 2 baht being added per kilometer traveled

Car Rental:   To rent a car, you need to be at least 21 years old and have a U.S. license that you have held for at least one year prior. Prices start at 700 baht per day

When to go To Thailand

When to visit Thailand: Thailand mainly has two seasons, wet and dry.

Thailand’s high season is November to February.  This is when it is the driest but this is also when you’ll be swarmed with the most tourists.

Southern Thailand is hot all year long, but has a very wet rainy season:

The West Coast of Southern Thailand is wet between April to October.

The East Coast is wet from September to December.

June to October is the rainy season and temperatures soar with high humidity.

Northern Thailand’s dry season stretches from November to May.

Temperatures are less hot between October and January and can actually be a little cool in the North especially in the evening and early morning.

Where to Stay in Thailand

Hansar Hotel Bangkok : This five-star hotel in the Pathum Wan District of Bangkok is the place to be. Enjoy private suites with glass showers, an infinity pool and hot tub, a hotel restaurant and bar with live music, a fitness center, and complimentary breakfast and room service. Shopping centers and the Lumphini Park are nearby.

Royal Phuket City Hotel : Just a short trip to the Tiger Kingdom animal park and Wat Chalong temple, and a short walk to the Trickeye Museum, this four-star hotel is the place to stay in Phuket. Enjoy private rooms with sea views, a day spa, the hotel’s three restaurants, a karaoke lounge, and a rooftop pool, plus more.

Check out our favorite booking platforms Booking.com , Tripadvisor and Air B&B for the best deals on accommodation in Ireland.

Thailand Accommodation Guides

• Where to Stay in Bangkok – A Guide to the Best Neighborhoods
• The Best Things to do in Pai Thailand

What to Pack for Thailand

We have been back numerous times and have come up with these Thailand travel tips to help you pack right.

That being said, you don’t have to pack a lot to travel to Thailand, it is always hot! And whatever you don’t have, you can buy there, but here are our top suggestions for things to have while traveling in Thailand.

You can basically live in a bathing suit and flip-flops, although the cities are getting quite chic so it’s nice to dress up too.

Pack lightweight breathable clothing.

Thailand is hot and humid. You won’t need a lot of heavy clothing. A bathing suit, shorts, t-shirts.

Hiking boots or shoes are good for jungle and mountain treks

• Sarongs  – these can be used for anything. From covering up when visiting temples, being used as a towel or keeping cool on a hot night while using it as a light sheet. Check out our  Many Uses of the Simple Sarong  for more suggestions.
• Ladies, make sure to pack a light long-sleeved blouse for entering temples. A skirt is a good idea for the same reason, although I often just tie a sarong around my shorts.
• Flip Flops  – Flip Flops, Thongs, Jandals…whatever you call them in your part of the world, flip-flops are a must for Thailand. They are easy to slip on and off when entering temples. Since the weather is so warm, you don’t need a lot of footwear unless you are going for hikes. If you are planning on hikes, pack some lightweight hiking boots.
• Backpacks  – We prefer a backpack to a suitcase for Thailand as you’ll be on boats, tuk-tuks, motorcycles and trains. Backpacks are easier to carry and you don’t have to roll them through the sand of Thailand’s amazing beaches. We buy a lot of our clothing in Thailand. The fabric is lightweight and perfect for the weather.

Thailand Travel Guide: Best Booking Resources

Whenever we travel to we make sure to start with these companies. We have tried a lot of different ones over the years and all of these have consistently proven to be the best when it comes to offering great prices.

We have used every one of these personally and continue to do so.

• Booking.com : This is our go site to when comparing prices for accommodation. It usually has the cheapest prices, especially in Europe and we love their interface. Not to mention you get free cancellation and you are guaranteed the best price.
• Trip Advisor :  What we like about Trip Advisor is that we can look at all the reviews and then book our accommodation. TripAdvisor is where we go when we want to compare prices with multiple accommodation providers.
• VRBO : is the main search engine we use when we are looking for a home or apartment rental. It can sometimes be cheaper than hotels and it is the best way to stay in areas that offer a more local feel.
• Hostelworld :  With one of the largest databases of hostels in the world, Hostelworld is the go-to site when you are looking for budget accommodation.
• Skyscanner : This is the first place we check for flights. It consistently comes back with the cheapest and best options. It allows us to compare a lot of airlines to get the best price.
• Rome 2 Rio :  If you want to see how to get somewhere by plane, train, bus, ferry or car Rome2Rio lays it all out for you as well as related costs.I love how they show it all to you on a Google Map and it works offline.
• Get Your Guide:  For all your day trip and city guide needs, we use Get Your Guide. It has the world’s largest collection of things to do with more than 30,000 activities in 7500 destinations.
• World Nomads Insurance:  When traveling to Italy you should always have travel insurance. We have found the best bang for your buck is by far World Nomads.

Thailand Travel Guide: Related Articles

To browse all our articles and guides about Thailand  click here .

20 Best Beaches in Thailand to Spark Your Wanderlust

The Best Things to do in Koh Samui, Thailand

32 Best Things to do in Bangkok, Thailand

Most visitors kick off their Thailand adventure in the country’s exhilarating capital, Bangkok, before moving on. The north offers emerald forests, mist-shrouded mountains, and the famously laid-back Chiang Mai. The south contains some of the world’s best beaches and diving, including iconic islands Phuket and Koh Samui. There’s much more to the country than its biggest hitters, though—ask anyone who has trekked through jungle in Mae Hong Son or visited cultural sites in Isaan. Thailand has experienced some political strife in recent times, but continues to capture visitors’ hearts with its beautiful landscapes and friendly people.

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When’s the best time to go to Thailand?

There are three distinct seasons in Thailand: relatively cool from November to February, hot from March to June, and rainy from July to October. Generally speaking, it’s best to visit during the cool season. The hot season really is very hot, but this is also a popular time to visit because of Songkran (Thai New Year). Monsoon season is actually surprisingly pleasant, with heavy rains interspersed with long spells of sunshine.

How to get around Thailand

Bangkok is a hub for world travel with direct flights to Europe, the Middle East, Australia, and all the major cities in Asia as well as many secondary cities. There are no direct flights between the United States and Thailand, however: journeys usually involve a stop in another Asian city like Tokyo or Hong Kong. There are also international airports in Chiang Mai and Phuket. Once you’re in the country, it’s easy to get around Thailand. There is a top-class supply of internal flights, the public transport infrastructure is comprehensive, and you can always hire a car.

Food and drink to try in Thailand

Thai is one of the world’s most famous cuisines. From street-side feasts that come in at just a few dollars to full-on five-star blowouts, the dining options for local specialties are breathtaking. The flavors vary widely from region to region. Northern Thai food carries Burmese and Chinese influences. The northeastern Isaan cuisine shares much with Laos and Cambodia, while the spicy coconut milk–infused dishes of southern Thailand carry strong notes of Malay and even Indonesian cuisine. The best introduction to traditional Thai food is in Bangkok, where you can explore every nook and cranny of the country’s abundant larder. The Thai capital is also the best place to experience contemporary cuisine. Venues like Nahm, Bo:Lan, and Gaggan (this latter is molecular Indian) have featured in recent lists of the continent’s best restaurants, and culinary standards are lofty across the board.

It’s worth making the effort to catch Loy Kratong, the November river festival in which Thai people ignite fireworks, release airborne lanterns, and float thousands of offerings to the river spirits on the country’s waterways. Thai New Year (Songkran) in April is a raucous celebration that sees Thais and visitors drench each other with water as the temperatures soar. To better understand the Isaan belief in ghosts and spirits, seek out Phi Ta Khon, a colorful merit-making festival that is held in the village of Dan Sai in Loei Province. It takes place over three days around the first weekend after the sixth full moon of the year. Also look out for the Surin Elephant Round Up, held in late November each year, during which participants prepare enormous buffet spreads for the local pachyderms.

Culture in Thailand

With sacred spiritual sites complemented by modern museums, hip galleries, and other cerebral attractions, Thailand is the perfect place for an injection of culture. Bangkok, especially, is awash with international-class museums and plenty of contemporary art. For the more traditional side of Thai culture, bask in the history and grandeur of the Grand Palace in Bangkok. The nation’s long and storied history of majestic Buddhist kingdoms can also be witnessed at sites like Sukhothai and Ayutthaya—both former capitals. Chiang Mai, the northern capital, has an incredible array of wats (Buddhist temples) as well as a youthful and happening art scene centered upon Niemenhaemin Road.

Local travel tips for Thailand

Thailand’s many contemporary clubs, bars, and nightspots belie the fact that most Thais prefer local sounds to foreign imports. Thai country music, which includes luk thung (rowdy and mostly instrumental) and mor lam (a slower, more vocals-orientated sound), is hugely popular around the nation. In Bangkok, venues like Isaan Tawandaeng and Isaan Tur Tur are packed with migrant workers whose level of boisterousness is commensurate with the flow of booze.

Local Resources

• BK Magazine
• Bangkok Post
• Khaosod Engligh

Guide Editor

Duncan Forgan

From boutique properties to luxury resorts, explore our indispensable recommendations for hotels and where to stay on your next trip.

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.

Copyright © 2013 – 2024 – Nomad is Beautiful | Home  |  Privacy Policy

Introduction

• For beginners
• Visas & borders
• Getting here

An independent travel guide to Thailand

Thailand offers many quintessential Southeast Asian travel experiences: spectacular nature, a rich culture and history, a friendly population and a cuisine as rich in colour and appearance as in taste. For many travellers, Thailand is a first foray into Southeast Asia and that first trip becomes one of a series.

On this page

• Alternative
• How long for

Our Thailand travel guide is here to help you get the most out of each and every one of your trips to Thailand, beginning with some simple guidelines below aimed at first-time travellers to the country.

Tourism has been developing seriously in the kingdom since the 1970s. Today, there’s both a very well trodden trail and a very well developed travel infrastructure to take any pain out of travel here. Relatively easy to get around, and, by regional standards, quite affordable, the country attracts a vast number of tourists from all corners of the globe—you’re just as likely to be sharing a beach bar with an Australian as an Austrian, or indeed a Singaporean.

Absolute highlights

Thailand packs a solid punch when it comes to offering appealing attractions, but when it comes to the absolute must-sees in Thailand , a few spots really shouldn’t be missed. Choose from scores of tropical islands, multiple sites of fascinating ruins, trekking destinations in the north and, for those seeking an intense megalopolis experience, the nation’s capital Bangkok never disappoints.

Bangkok : Set astride the majestic Chao Phraya River, Bangkok represents all that is good and bad about an Asian mega-city. It’s a city with something, somewhere for everyone, whether it be delicious street food, offbeat nightclubs, serene yoga classes or colourful market shopping.

Chiang Mai : This is Thailand’s northern capital, and with its smaller size and population, Chiang Mai has a lot to offer travellers. The centre of town is packed with glittering temples, excellent restaurants and expansive shopping markets , all of which are easily taken in on foot.

Historic ruins : Three destinations between Bangkok and Chiang Mai are home to important historic ruins dating back as far as the 13th century. Both Sukhothai and Ayutthaya were former capitals and are the two most popularly visited. Kamphaeng Phet will appeal to those looking to get a little further off the beaten trail.

Islands : With so much variety, we’re wary of nominating absolute faves, but these four very different islands are difficult to beat. Ko Pha Ngan is a highlight for its amazing variety of beaches and affordable accommodation, Ko Jum boasts a bo-ho laidback vibe, Ko Bulon Lae shows how tourism can exist in harmony with the tranquil rhythm of the islanders and Ko Kut offers a more upmarket and serene option—and the beaches are gorgeous.

Popular destinations

Kanchanaburi : A short hop from Bangkok, Kanchanaburi is home to pristine national parks , cavernous caves, majestic rivers, lakes, waterfalls and temples. For many though, this takes a backseat to the area’s World War II history.

Pai : Once a sleepy and somewhat remote Shan town, Pai , while still a bit of an effort to reach, is these days well and truly on the traveller’s map of northern Thailand. If you’re a young backpacker on a first trip to Thailand, it can be a great scene.

Nong Khai : Overlooking the Mekong River within earshot of Laos, Nong Khai boasts magnificent landscapes, waterfalls and forest temples nestled into its surrounds. Add in a good mix of affordable accommodation, yummy food and one quirky yet awe-inspiring sculpture park and you have an appealing destination.

Hua Hin : A vast white-sand beach, thriving art scene, tacky tourist sights, early 20th century architecture, seedy bars, scenic hills and golf courses, hastily developed streets, aggressive touts, inflated prices, family-friendly resorts and lots of European retirees: Love it or hate it, Hua Hin has a character all its own.

Krabi : A mash-up of funky bars, Western restaurants and old-school markets slinging fiery curries somehow come together to form a fun and intriguing town, better known as Krabi .

Alternative destinations

Sangkhlaburi : When travellers dream of Thailand, they may picture jungles, sparkling temples and the exotic charm of rural villages— Sangkhlaburi is home to all this and its seclusion only adds to its mystique.

Chiang Dao : Dao means star in Thai—and the mountain in Chiang Dao is so high it’s supposed to be on the same level as the stars themselves.

Sangkhom : Tucked along a pretty stretch of the Mekong River, the tiny village of Sangkhom is one of those little-known, remote places that can turn out to be a highlight for those willing to sidestep the well-trodden track. In other words, we love Sangkhom!

Prachuap Khiri Khan : Make time to visit and you will be amply rewarded with a low-key, local atmosphere that has just enough of a developed tourist infrastructure and plenty of largely tasteful accommodation to make your stay comfortable. The seafood is great, too.

Nakhon Si Thammarat : Set to a historical backdrop of Buddhist kings and bustling trade, modern Nakhon Si Thammarat is a fast-paced cultural and commercial centre. If you’re after a taste of unadulterated Southern Thailand and you don’t mind sliding off the tourist trail, head here.

Tropical islands

Thailand is no slouch when it comes to sea and sand, with four main clusters of islands, plus dozens more individual islands to choose from. (We cover more than 30 Thai islands on Travelfish.)

Eastern Gulf Islands : Set towards Cambodia, these include jungle-clad Ko Chang , drop-dead gorgeous Ko Kut and, closer to Bangkok and popular as a weekender from the megacity, Ko Samet .

Southern Gulf Islands : These include family-friendly Ko Samui , home to the infamous Full Moon Party Ko Pha Ngan and the diving mecca of Ko Tao .

Northern Andaman islands : On Thailand’s Andaman (southwest) coast, these run from Ko Phayam and Ko Chang Noi in the north to Phuket in the south. Note, there are plenty in between.

Southern Andaman islands : The lovely Ko Yao Noi and Ko Yao Yai are striking antidotes to boisterous and overtouristed yet spectacular Ko Phi Phi . Further south you’ll find laidback Ko Jum and family-friendly Ko Lanta , followed by a whole string of smaller islands, which taper off at Ko Tarutao , Ko Bulon Lae and Ko Lipe , just before the waves become Malaysian.

Nature lovers

National Parks : While they’re not all world class, Thailand does have a rich network of national parks, including enormous Khao Yai National Park in the northeast and Kaeng Krachan National Park in the south. Other crowd-pleasing spots include Khao Sok National Park and Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park , both of which are in the south. In the northeast, Pha Taem National Park points towards early evidence of human habitation in the area.

Ruins and rivers

Khmer ruins : Those with an interest in Thailand’s Khmer period often strike into the northeast, where highlights include the spectacular ruins at Phanom Rung and Phimai , though plenty of other sites can be visited as well. Be sure to explore the fiery, addictive cuisine of Isaan while you're in this region.

Rivers : While Thailand is famous for its beaches and islands, there’s something special about lazing away a few days by swirling river waters, too. The Mekong delineates much of the Thai-Lao border and prime river-hangout towns include Chiang Khong , Chiang Kha , Sangkhom , Nong Khai , That Phanom , Mukdahan and Khong Chiam . Other rivers worth experiencing are Kok River in the north and the Chao Phraya , which weaves straight through the Thai capital.

For many, an active Thai holiday might mean anything requiring more than a 20-metre stroll from the hammock to the ocean. But for those looking to do more than re-read Lord of the Rings in a hammock, Thailand isn’t at all shabby when it comes to fun things to do.

Learn to dive: Top of the pops is probably learning to dive on Ko Tao (or Ko Phi Phi, or any number of other islands). Above the waters, rock climbing , especially by Railay Bay, is world class.

Cooking courses and food walks : Doing a cooking course or taking a food walk are both popular activities, as is visiting one of Bangkok’s many floating markets .

Trekking : In northern Thailand, trekking is hugely popular, with Chiang Mai, Pai, Mae Hong Son and Pai all trekking centres. The trips are often combined with bamboo rafting and visiting or staying in a minority village.

Courses and personal improvement : Every Thai town has at least one wat (temple) so there is no shortage to visit and some choose to stay at or do meditation courses within . Language courses are also popular, especially in Chiang Mai, and then there is yoga, fasting and detox retreats , often in idyllic locations, for those taking a more holistic approach to their travels.

Festivals : Thailand celebrates an impressive array of festivals , with the water festival of Songkran (Thai new year) in mid-April the biggest of all. Others, including the Rocket Festival and Phi Ta Khon in the northeast of the country and nationwide Loi Krathong , can offer remarkable (and colourful) insight into life in Thailand.

Between November and May, Thailand’s north sees mostly dry, cooler weather, warming to scorching hot in April. May to November is dominated by the southwest monsoon, characterised by heavy rain interspersed with dry and sunny stretches.

The South has two seasons, and the weather changes depending on which side of the peninsula you are on. The west coast sees the southwest monsoon bring rain and often heavy storms from April to October, while on the east coast, most rain falls between September and December. The rest of the year on each side is warm and dry.

So when is the best time to visit? From a weather point of view , December to February generally offers the best conditions—the north won’t be blisteringly hot and you’ll find great weather on some of Thailand’s islands.

With this great weather though comes big crowds and peak season prices. Those who don’t mind a bit of rain in return for thinner crowds prefer the shoulder season in November and March. Of course it also depends on where you are going—when the rain is pouring on Ko Chang, it is shining on Ko Tao and Ko Pha Ngan.

How long to go for

How long have you got?! For a first-time visitor looking to see just a bit of Bangkok, and say Kanchanaburi or Ko Samet, a week would suffice to give a taste of what the country has to offer. Thailand though really deserves two weeks for a first-time trip we reckon.

If you’re planning on travelling around a bit, rather than just staying on one island, four weeks is a popular stretch as it fits within a visa-free stay and allows for a couple of weeks in the north and a couple of weeks in the south.

If you are planning a longer stay, it pays to familiarise yourself with Thailand’s visa rules . They change often and some rules are enforced haphazardly, complicating what should be a simple process.

What it will cost

Your budget will depend very much on your style of travelling . If you’re comfortable in simple accommodation, eating street food, not drinking too much alcohol, travelling using cheap transport and steering clear of heavily touristed (and so more expensive) destinations, you can still survive on around 600 baht per day—less if you’re especially frugal and travelling as a couple. Watch out for fancypants dorms which are often way over-priced for the standard when compared to what you could pay for an air-con private room in a normal guesthouse.

Most independent travellers tend to spend a little more. That air-con room is tempting, as is the pool and WiFi, latte and occasional VIP bus or short domestic flight. All these conspire to push daily budgets up to around a more comfortable 1,000 to 1,500 baht per day.

If your tastes veer more towards the luxurious, then Thailand does offer terrific value for accommodation around the 3,000 to 6,000 baht mark, with food and entertainment costs potentially rising accordingly. Likewise, you can also spend tens of thousands of baht a night for truly luxurious settings—think private pool villas and so on—flying everywhere and fine dining the whole way along.

What to read

Probably the most famed Thailand-set novel is Alex Garland’s The Beach , which was re-released by Penguin in 2016 to celebrate the 20-year anniversary of its publishing. Garland seeks to explore the question of whether Western travellers effectively ruin the very thing they set out to find — you can pretty easily guess the answer, but the book is a page-turner while it teases the analysis out.

Bangkok Found by Alex Kerr pierces deeply into the art, culture and people of Thailand in a book that reads more like an inspiring travel narrative than a research project. A chapter on polite behaviour, titled "Walking Softly," should be required reading for all visitors to Thailand.

For a nuanced examination of traditional Thai values, 1954-published Many Lives by M.R. Kukrit Pramoj is a compelling read, exploring the lives, and deaths, of 11 people in early 20th-century Thailand. The stories unravel a web of unwritten laws that still keep Thai society tangled together, for better or worse, today.

A lighter exploration of life in Thailand in the 1960s from the perspective of an outsider is Mai Pen Rai Means Nevermind by Carol Hollinger. This memoir is now something of a history book too, recounting the period Hollinger spent in Bangkok first as a housewife, then as a teacher at the American University and finally Chulalongkorn University.

A more recent look at the lives of Thais (and those visiting Thailand) is Sightseeing by Chicago-born, Thai-raised Rattawut Lapcharoensap, a series of short stories (and one novella), published in 2004. It’s an illuminating view behind the curtain in a country that strains to put its best foot forward for visiting foreigners.

The 2014 Man Booker winner The Narrow Road to the Deep North by Richard Flanagan is a deep, dark and important read, set mostly in a Japanese POW camp along the Thai-Burma Death Railway. If you plan to visit Hellfire Pass and Kanchanaburi in Thailand, you really should read this beforehand.

What to watch out for

Sadly Thailand has more than its fair share of scams . Gem scams, especially in Bangkok, persist. Petty theft, snatch and grabs and other crimes of opportunity are not uncommon in heavily touristed areas.

Violent crime specifically aimed at foreign travellers remains rare, but does happen. Use your common sense, stay under control and, if a situation becomes uncomfortable, leave or seek assistance immediately.

Having adequate travel insurance cover is essential .

Thailand’s road toll is extremely high. Drink driving is endemic, especially over public holiday periods, when hundreds of people die on the roads. Bus accidents are frequent. Always wear a motorcycle helmet when riding a bike. Do not ride a motorbike if you don’t know how. Public boats are frequently overloaded and speed boats are often overloaded and driven erratically or dangerously. Public boats sink frequently, often with insufficient life jackets. If the boat looks overloaded to you, or the weather dangerous, do not get on board . There will be another.

Don’t ride (or drive) stoned or drunk. Drug laws in Thailand are very strong, but enforced haphazardly. Just because the tuk tuk driver who sold you a bag of pot didn’t get arrested doesn’t mean you won’t be.

If you wouldn’t do it in your home country because it is stupid, why do it in Thailand?

Thailand is run by a military junta . It took power in a military coup, kicking out a popularly elected government. Under the junta’s rule many public and press freedoms have been significantly curtailed. Thailand maintains extremely harsh and severe lèse-majesté laws, ostensibly to protect the reputation of the Thai royal family. Thais falling foul of this law have been jailed. Public political discourse is generally not a great idea, especially after drinking 15 large Singha beers.

Popular destinations in

Amphawa Aranyaprathet Ayutthaya Bangkok Chanthaburi Chiang Dao Chiang Mai Chiang Rai Kanchanaburi Khao Sok National Park Khao Yai National Park Ko Chang Ko Kut Ko Lanta Ko Lipe Ko Mak Ko Pha Ngan Ko Samet Ko Samui Ko Tao Ko Wai Krabi Lopburi Mae Salong Mukdahan Nan Nong Khai Pai Phanom Rung Sangkhlaburi Sangkhom Sukhothai That Phanom Thong Pha Phum Trat Ubon Ratchathani See all destinations in Thailand

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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.

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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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Your Thai Guide

see Thailand differently with a private tour guide

Travel with your own private Thai tour guide and enjoy a customized sightseeing tour suited to your personal tastes.

From as little as US$104 a day you can have fully licensed English speaking Thai tour guide at your side to explain, translate and help you understand what you are seeing and hearing during your stay.

Karen N. reviews Prayut ‘Yuut’ Rueangsaeng

Two guides, both amazing!

I had two free days in Bangkok. One day I had guide “Nina” and the other day I had guide “Yuut”.

Nina was like a best friend I’d not met yet; she was super friendly and personable and took great care to ensure I was happy with our day together.

Yuut was very knowledge about temple and Buddhism, given that he was a monk for 10 years.

I enjoyed both days with both guides immensely. Also, communications from Num at the office were great.

Highly recommend!

Hector I. reviews Charinee ‘Oil’ Jitburus

My day started with the tour guide being on time and telling me about our plan for the day, as we arrived to the tiger zoo it was great since I was the first one there.

We then went to go eat and had a great lunch meal.

Our driver was great as well.

I would like to give thanks to both my guide and driver for making my day great.

Provided excellent service.

Dan D. reviews Pudtipong ‘Jean’ Nawasornyuttana

We booked Jean using the website. This was very easy to do and emails were answered is a reasonable timeframe.

Jean met us at our hotel and we headed out to see the sights we had previously mentioned we wanted to see. Jean’s English was very good. He had lots of interesting things to tell us about Bangkok, the culture and the history as we made our way around Bangkok during the day, he also picked out a good place for lunch.

I am really pleased we used a guide for visiting the sites, not knowing much about the history or culture it made it much more interesting than if we had gone on our own. Also as first time visitors it was much easier to get to all the places we wanted to visit than trying to work it out ourselves.

Andrew C. reviews Prapaiporn ‘Peach’ Honghem

We had a wonderful day and Peach our guide showed us the highlights of Bangkok using the trains, boats, Tuk Tuk’s and walking.

She was very knowledgeable and friendly and tailored the tour to meet our needs.

We would highly recommend Peach and this tour.

Abbie M. reviews Waree ‘Apple’ Singhanart

I’m impressed, elated, and honored to leave my first impression feedback for Apple today. Apple is a special young lady, she has an amazing soul and the ability to connect with people on an intellectual and spiritual level.

I believe I was analyzed by Apple about 30 minutes into us meeting and she quickly discerned my personality and was able to recommend places that I never would have thought to go.

Prior to that I had an idea of the things I wanted to see and was accommodated but I am glad that I also had enough faith in my friend Apple to lead the way to hidden gems in Bangkok not in any tourist handbook.

Hanging out with Apple all day was like hanging out with a long lost friend! She really made me feel very special and was intuitively attentive to my needs.

My tour guide the day prior was Joker who was also exceptional and amazing, and provided wonderful information.

Again, I really appreciate meeting the amazing tour guides because they reflect wonderfully on this company.

I will definitely not only recommend this company to anybody I know coming to Bangkok but would most certainly call when I am back in Thailand in March next year.

I hope to secure Apple for my tour guide again, she is that amazing!!

Juliette W. reviews Charinee ‘Oil’ Jitburus

We thoroughly enjoyed our day with Oil. She was warm, friendly and very engaging with both us and our two daughters.

Oil not only guided us around the city, she also spent time educating us about Thai traditions and cultures which we all loved.

Thank you Oil!

Standlay B. reviews Waree ‘Apple’ Singhanart

Our day in Bangkok with Apple was far beyond any of our high expectations. Easy arrangements and excellent follow through and confirmations made the booking procedure painless.

Most importantly, our guide was exceptional! Apple’s amazing knowledge and enthusiastic willingness to share that knowledge with my husband and I (first time visitors to Bangkok) made our day with her one that will not be forgotten.

Bangkok is an amazing city, and I cannot think of a better way to get a wonderful taste of what it has to offer than with Apple…we could not have asked for more. And just to add one more thing… in addition to knowing the city like the back of her hand and speaking Thai (which was invaluable in our dealings with locals during our day), her English is SUPERB!

Apple is the best.

Jisel G. reviews Prayut ‘Yuut’ Rueangsaeng

My guide was Yuut.

He was very kind, helpful, and knowledgeable and was able to give me and my son a lot of insight about the culture and religious beliefs in Thailand.

Thank you so much!

Bryan J. reviews Prapaiporn ‘Peach’ Honghem

With my guide, Peach, a great day , amazing temple and palace, the lovely house of Jim Thompson, traveling along the river.

I recommend this guide which name is Peach for her happiness, kindness and knowledge.

Faye A. reviews Pudtipong ‘Jean’ Nawasornyuttana

We booked three days of touring with “Your Thai Guide” at the last minute and they were able to accommodate us. Our guides were Jean and Natt. Both very knowledgeable, reliable and friendly. They were always there when they said they would be. They arranged a driver and events outside the city for us as well as getting us last minute tickets to Thai kickboxing which was great.

They took us around using public transportation which worked out great. We were there during the protests and we felt very comfortable. Using public transportation made us more comfortable getting around on our own too.

They were always willing to make any changes to the day that we requested. They made our stay in Bangkok fun, productive and diverse. I would use them again any day! 5 stars from Fay

Allen L. reviews Prayut ‘Yuut’ Rueangsaeng

I was very fortunate to be able to book Prayut ‘Yuut’ Rueangsaeng at the last minute as a guide to Ayutthaya.

His knowledge of the history of the old capital of Ayutthaya is great, and he is able to offer insight that no other guide can, thanks to his 10 years as a Buddhist monk.

Yuut would be an excellent guide for anyone who plans on visiting any of the hundreds of temples in and around Bangkok due to his deep understanding of Buddhism, and I plan on hiring him again on my next visit to Bangkok!

Naomi W. reviews Pudtipong ‘Jean’ Nawasornyuttana

My husband and I used Guide Jean, who made our Thailand tour one to remember.

He was very knowledgeable and was flexible when we changed our initial itinerary.

I would highly recommend.

Colin H. reviews Prapaiporn ‘Peach’ Honghem

Peach was such an excellent guide for the perfect day in Bangkok.

She made sure I was able to fit in all the activities I wanted, and she was so knowledgeable about Bangkok history and culture.

It truly was like having a local best friend for a day.

I would highly recommend this tour for anyone, especially if they only have a short time in the city.

Carlotta P. reviews Waree ‘Apple’ Singhanart

We would like to thank APPLE, our private guide in Bangkok, for the lovely tour we got last week.

She had been able to accommodate every our single request, from the places we would like to visit to the food and refreshing beverages we needed on our way and in managing the time.

APPLE got a degree in history and it made her the best guide we could desire in visiting the National Museum and temples.

Apple is nice, gracious and very professional, we felt in good hands and pampered.

Next time we will go back to Bangkok we will going to ask for her again even to visit the historical sites around Bangkok.

Jelena K. reviews Charinee ‘Oil’ Jitburus

We had an absolutely brilliant tour, tailor made just for us with fantastic tour guide named Oil. She was very helpful, knowledgeable and pleasant overall. We had no problems getting the tickets, taxi, lunch or anything whatsoever, as she would take care of it.

Would definitely recommend her to anyone who wants to have great time and learn something new! Thank you Oil!

Rajanikanth M. reviews Waree ‘Apple’ Singhanart

Our guide who goes by the lovely name of Apple, was absolutely amazing. Post booking the trip, a mail was sent to me asking about the places I wished to see. While the trip organizers will organize the itinerary, it will be good to have your own view as well.

The tour was very well organised. We started the day with taking a river cruise to visit the Lad Mayom Floating Market. The cruise was filled with lovely sights of old houses, riverian lifestyle, farms and even a little episode of feeding huge fish that live in the river. The Lad Mayom market itself is a fabulous feast to the eyes with its food stalls, souvenir shops and bargain stores

Post this visit, we paid a visit to the Wat Pho and the Wat Arun temples. Apple made this trip very special and I must mention her especially. She chose a great place for us to savour authentic and lip-smacking Thai food.

While we aren’t avid shoppers, the trip ended with shopping at the MBK shopping mall. A day very well spent, filled with highlights

I would highly recommend this.

And thanks again, Apple.

Annie C. reviews Charinee ‘Oil’ Jitburus

My guide, Oil was exactly what I needed for this trip. Oil was very accommodating, and able to answer any questions someone like me who knew very little about Thailand’s culture and history. She was extremely attentive, and very personable. She seemed to understand my need intuitively – Never push too much, but never failed to mention what is possible. Oil helped many details without much fuss, so that each day was quite memorable in its own. We become so close, we have exchanged many fun facts about our background. In my options, this is the best possible cultural exchange anyone can share!

From my traveling experience, I understand the tour guide’s importance:  It can influence visitor’s perception and attitude towards the country. If that is reasonable assumption, then Oil had done a wonderful job of helping me to see Thai as a rich heritages of cultures, history as well most hospitable people nation I’ve ever visited. And how about the Thai cuisine? I had so much fun tasting various food with Oil! For that I thank Oil!

She was most professional, and knowledgeable, always on time. She was always very clear about the daily itinerary. Knew a way to save time and cost and she made an extra consideration to make me comfortable at all time.

I would highly recommend your company to anyone traveling to Thailand. As a matter of fact, I am already started to plan something this year or next, and definitely call you back.

Sarah J. reviews Pudtipong ‘Jean’ Nawasornyuttana

I would definitely recommend Guide Jean.

He was polite, knowledgeable, and friendly. Especially good if you’re trying to see and do a lot of things in a short period of time.

Delphine W. reviews Prapaiporn ‘Peach’ Honghem

For our first day in Bangkok, we booked a full day tour with our tour guide, Mrs. Peach. She picked us up at the hotel and during this amazing day she showed us the Grand Palace and the main temples of Bangkok.

Beside the historical locations, Peach gave us an excellent insight into the Thai way of living and the Thai culture. For lunch we visited a typical Thai restaurant with live music. And during the day we used all kind of transportation which are typical for this town, such as boat and tuc-tuc.

During the walks, there was plenty of time for asking questions about Bangkok, its history and the way of living of the “normal people”.

Christie S. reviews Prayut ‘Yuut’ Rueangsaeng

We just wanted to say thank you for a fantastic day with Yuut on December 31st, he was a fantastic guide and a great person.

We’ve learned so much from him and could not imagine going through the temples without him and his knowledge… it was a wonderful day.

Victoria O. reviews Pudtipong ‘Jean’ Nawasornyuttana

We had three days in Bangkok and YTG really helped us to make the most of them. From the first they were incredibly quick and helpful with the booking – I did most of it on my phone in Dubai airport using wifi! They sent us details and pictures of our guides in advance so we knew who we were meeting and when, really useful.

Over three days we saw everything we wanted to at a sensible relaxed pace – impressive given how much was on our list. All of the guides we used had great English and with their differing styles put us at ease instantly and built quick rapports.

Joker was incredibly knowledgeable and clearly a very experienced guide – very considerate of the heat and the fact that Bangkok was completely unknown to us. He was a fantastic guide, everything we could have hoped for and his photos are amongst our favorites from the trip.

Jean was really easy going and took us to the best Pad Thai restaurant we’ve ever been to. His knowledge was great and he was fabulous at answering all our questions.

Nettie was a delight – so full of enthusiasm and just what we needed on our last day. She was very helpful and seemed to take as much enjoyment in visiting the sites as we did which was a joy.

Regula H. reviews Prapaiporn ‘Peach’ Honghem

Absolutely worthwhile!

We had a great day with our guide Peach who was just excellent. She took us to the grand Palace, Wat Pho and Wat Arun.

The longboat trip on the channel was superb.

Peach had lots of nice ideas and surprises in between- we were happy to spend a day with here.

Thanks again, Peach !!!

Gregg C. reviews Waree ‘Apple’ Singhanart

Spent two days with Apple in Bangkok.

She was very receptive to what we wanted to see and put together a fantastic itinerary. She made sure we got,to spend as much time as we wanted at the locations we had outlined and added some great sights we weren’t aware of. The experience exceeded our expectations and it was clear she wanted to do everything she could to make our time in Bangkok a great experience.

She definitely succeeded. She was very knowledgeable about the sights we were seeing. She made traveling around Bangkok easy to navigate. She spoke exceptional English. We wanted to go off the beaten path to visit a shop where they make hand made metal bowls for monks.

It’s a Thai craft that is slowly disappearing. She helped translate the experience as the man in the workshop described his process. We mentioned wanting to purchase some authentic Thai silk. To our surprise she took us to a silk weaver who actually had worked with Jim Thompson and again translated his explanations of the weaving process as well as his experience with the silk industry when Jim Thompson had lived across the canal.

It was an amazing surprise and experience of a life time. We visited the markets and Apple did all the haggling for us getting us the Thai discount lol. It was a ton of fun. Couldn’t have asked for a better time.

Thanks Apple!

Dean E. reviews Prayut ‘Yuut’ Rueangsaeng

The only Thai guides to hire!

What can I say? Your Thai Guide provided me three days of absolutely spectacular service. It feels like you’re spending a day with an old friend.

I thoroughly recommend the services of Apple, Nina and Yuut. Each of them made me smile and laugh throughout the day and they clearly love the city they live in.

My time in Bangkok has been made so much better by Your Thai Guide.

Kap khun krap to Apple, Nina and Yuut. You are the best!

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• Destinations

Travelbinger.com

Travel smart. Travel well.

Ultimate Thailand Travel Guide for 2024 and Five Must-Visit Destinations

Sawasdee kha! Welcome to Thailand, the ultimate holiday destination with something for every traveler. Known as the ‘Land of Smiles,’ Thailand is a well-traveled, tourist-friendly country in Southeast Asia.

Whether you are looking for a family-friendly resort, a luxury romantic getaway, or a backpacking adventure, Thailand can cater to all budgets, interests, and activities. This Thailand travel guide will give you an overview of five top destinations, plus suggested activities, costs, and must-know information before your trip.

Bangkok: The Capital of Thailand

Bangkok is a large city and business center known for its cultural landmarks, bustling markets, and diverse culinary scene. The city is warm year-round, with temperatures averaging around 86°F, plus the concrete urban landscape intensifies the heat—an ideal destination for urban explorers and culture enthusiasts.

Location: Central Thailand

Population: Approximately 10.5 million

In a nutshell: Urban, Vibrant, Historic, Bustling, Diverse

Bangkok is a paradise for food enthusiasts. The city offers a mix of traditional Thai street food and high-end dining experiences. Don’t miss the famous Pad Thai, spicy Som Tum (papaya salad), and the sweet mango sticky rice. For a unique experience, try rooftop dining at places like Vertigo at Banyan Tree, which offers stunning city views.

Ten things to see and do in Bangkok:

• Visit the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew.
• Shop at Chatuchak Weekend Market.
• Explore the historic Wat Arun and Wat Pho temples.
• Party the night away on Khao San Road.
• Sample street food in Chinatown (Yaowarat Road).
• Take a boat tour along the Chao Phraya River.
• Hitch a ride in a Tuktuk.
• Stroll through Lumpini Park.
• Discover art and culture at Bangkok Art and Culture Centre.
• Watch a Muay Thai boxing match.

Phuket: Thailand’s Largest Island

Phuket is a top choice among Thailand’s tourist destinations. It is renowned for its picturesque beaches and vibrant nightlife. Well-traveled and very touristy, it caters not only to partygoers but also has resorts suitable for families or couples. If you would like to visit the islands but need more time, you can take day trips to some islands from Phuket.

Location: Southern Thailand

Population: Approximately 416,000

Essence in 5 Words: Tropical, Beaches, Leisure, Vibrant, Picturesque

Phuket’s cuisine showcases fresh seafood and Thai flavors, with popular dishes like Mee Hokkien and Moo Hong. The island also offers a variety of international dining options, along with vegetarian and vegan choices.

Ten things to see and do in Phuket:

• Sunbathe and enjoy water sports at Patong Beach.
• Visit the Big Buddha and Wat Chalong temple.
• Enjoy the nightlife on Bangla Road.
• Island hop to nearby destinations like the Phi Phi Islands.
• Snorkel and scuba dive in clear waters.
• Explore Old Phuket Town and its Sino-Portuguese architecture.
• Visit Phuket Elephant Sanctuary.
• Enjoy a traditional Thai massage.
• Take a sea canoe tour in Phang Nga Bay.
• Attend a cultural show at Phuket FantaSea or Siam Niramit.

Chiang Mai: Nature and Culture

Chiang Mai is a smaller city that appeals to those seeking a blend of historical richness and natural beauty. It is known for its ancient temples, lush landscapes, and cooler climate. Chiang Mai blends traditional Thai culture and natural beauty, appealing to culture seekers and nature enthusiasts.

Location: Northern Thailand

Population: Approximately 1 million

In a nutshell: Cultural, Serene, Historic, Lush, Artistic

Northern Thai cuisine is quite different from the coconut-based curries of the South. Some local dishes include Khao Soi, a creamy coconut curry noodle soup; Khao Kha Moo, a slow-braised pork leg with a gravy sauce on rice; and Sai Oua, a spicy Chiang Mai sausage. Vegetarian and vegan options are also widely available.

Ten things to see and do in Chiang Mai:

• Explore the ancient city and its temples, like Wat Chedi Luang.
• Visit an ethical elephant sanctuary.
• Trek in Doi Inthanon National Park.
• Take a Thai cooking class or market food tour.
• Experience the Sunday Walking Street Market.
• Hot air balloon rides over the scenic countryside.
• Visit the Hill Tribe villages.
• Zip-line through the jungle.
• Relax at the San Kamphaeng Hot Springs.
• Attend a traditional Thai festival, like Yi Peng.

Pai: Tranquil and Scenic

A small town in the mountains of Northern Thailand, Pai is known for its laid-back atmosphere and natural beauty. Less touristy and more of an ‘off the beaten track’ destination, Pai is perfect for travelers seeking a peaceful retreat in nature with a bohemian vibe. Its subtropical highland climate in the mountains results in cooler temperatures than much of Thailand. It appeals to backpackers, artists, and anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Location: Northern Thailand, in Mae Hong Son Province

Population: Approximately 2,000 (small and intimate community)

In a nutshell: Tranquil, Scenic, Bohemian, Rustic, Adventurous

Pai offers a variety of Thai and international cuisines, with a focus on organic and health-conscious options. Local delicacies include fresh river fish dishes, local organic vegetables, and Northern Thai specialties similar to those in Chiang Mai. There’s also a strong presence of plant-based eateries – so if you’re a health-conscious foodie, you don’t have to miss out on your vegan yogurt or chia pudding .

Ten things to see and do in Pai:

• Relax in the Pai hot springs.
• Visit Pai Canyon for stunning views.
• Explore the Tha Pai World War II Memorial Bridge.
• Trek to Mae Yen Waterfall.
• Enjoy the laid-back vibe at Pai Walking Street.
• Experience the local art scene at Pai’s galleries and cafes.
• Bike around the scenic countryside.
• Visit the Bamboo Bridge (Boon Ko Ku So).
• Explore the Lod Cave.
• Watch the sunset at Yun Lai Viewpoint.

Thailand’s Islands: Idyllic Beaches

The Thai Islands are diverse, but all are renowned for their stunning beaches, clear waters, and vibrant marine life. They attract beach-goers, divers, party-seekers, and those seeking a tranquil escape.

Population: Varies by island

In a nutshell: Idyllic, Pristine, Relaxing, Adventurous, Diverse

The cuisine across Thailand’s islands often centers around fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and traditional Thai dishes. You’ll find an array of seafood curries, grilled fish, and island specialties like Som Tam (spicy papaya salad). Each island also typically offers international cuisine.

The second largest island after Phuket, Koh Samui, is home to approximately 65,000 people. It blends the lively atmosphere at Chaweng Beach with serene experiences like Ang Thong National Marine Park and the iconic Big Buddha Temple. It’s accessible through Samui International Airport or by a 1.5 to 2-hour ferry ride from Surat Thani. It is well known for its luxury resorts and spas; it is ideal for families, couples, and wellness enthusiasts.

Koh Phi Phi

With a population of around 2,500, Koh Phi Phi is famous for Maya Bay from The Beach movie and its vibrant nightlife, especially on Tonsai Beach. You can reach the island via a 1.5 to 2-hour ferry from Krabi or Phuket, making it suitable for a day trip if you are short on time. The island caters well to adventure seekers and younger travelers, offering excellent scuba diving and snorkeling opportunities.

Hosting approximately 30,000 residents, Koh Lanta is known for its relaxed Long Beach, the diverse wildlife of Mu Ko Lanta National Park, and the charming Lanta Old Town. The island’s laid-back vibe and natural explorations like kayaking in mangroves make it an excellent choice for families and travelers seeking a quieter retreat. Reachable by ferry from Krabi, Phi Phi, or Phuket (taking 1 to 3 hours) or by driving over a series of bridges from the mainland.

Koh Phangan

With a population of about 12,000, Koh Phangan is renowned for its monthly Full Moon Party . It draws a global crowd to its vibrant all-night beach celebration at Haad Rin Beach. Travel to Koh Phangan typically involves a flight to Koh Samui followed by a ferry ride, taking around 30 minutes to an hour. Apart from the party scene, the island boasts serene beaches, lush jungles, and wellness retreats.

With a small population of about 1,500, Koh Tao is renowned for Sairee Beach, snorkeling at Shark Bay, and stunning views from John Suwan Viewpoint. Get there via a 1.5 to 3-hour ferry from Chumphon, Surat Thani, or neighboring islands like Koh Samui and Koh Phangan. The island is famous for its scuba diving and wellness retreats. It is perfect for solo travelers, couples, and diving enthusiasts.

The Best Times To Visit Thailand

Thailand’s peak tourist season is between November and February, coinciding with the dry and (relatively) ‘cool’ season. During this time, temperatures generally range between 68°F to 86°F, with humidity levels around 60-70%. This period is considered the ideal time to travel.

The hot season from March to June sees temperatures soar, often ranging from 86°F to 95°F, sometimes even higher. Humidity levels can hover around 75%, making it feel quite intense. If you don’t mind a bit of heat, it could be an ideal time to save a little on price and hit the island beaches.

The rainy season from July to October brings sporadic downpours and high humidity, with temperatures typically between 77°F to 91°F. The humidity often exceeds 85% during this period. Demand decreases, which means fewer tourists and lower prices. If you’re looking to travel on a shoestring budget and don’t mind the high humidity and rainy weather, this could be the ideal period for your trip.

Food in Thailand

Thailand is a prime destination for foodies. The country’s food scene ranges from cheap eats starting at roughly 50 THB from street food vendors to luxury fine dining, accommodating every taste and budget.

Thai cuisine is distinguished by its emphasis on a balance of four fundamental taste senses: sweet, salty, sour, and spicy. This balance is achieved through the use of various ingredients and cooking techniques:

• Sweet: Commonly derived from palm sugar or coconut sugar, sweetness in Thai dishes often offsets spiciness and sourness. Sweetness is essential in popular dishes like Massaman Curry and Mango Sticky Rice.
• Salty: Fish sauce and soy sauce are primary sources of saltiness in Thai cooking. These condiments add depth and umami to dishes like Pad Thai and stir-fried vegetables.
• Sour: Lime juice and tamarind are Thai cuisine’s most common souring agents. They are essential in dishes like Tom Yum soup and Som Tum salad, providing a refreshing tartness.
• Spicy: Chillies, ranging from mild to intensely hot, are used in various forms – fresh, dried, or as pastes. They are crucial in many Thai dishes, adding heat and flavor complexity.

Dining Experiences in Thailand

Regarding dining experiences, Thai street food vendors are an integral part of the country’s culinary identity. Inexpensive and widely available, it’s common to find grilled meats, noodle soups, and fresh fruit – especially in Bangkok. Mid-range restaurants typically offer a broader menu, often including Thai and international dishes, in a more comfortable setting. Fine dining in Thailand typically combines traditional flavors with contemporary culinary techniques, offering a sophisticated take on classic dishes.

Thai cuisine also varies by region. Northern Thai food often features sticky rice, is less spicy, and includes ingredients like tamarind and turmeric. Dishes from this region include Khao Soi, a creamy curry noodle soup, and Sai Oua, a spicy Chiang Mai sausage. On the other hand, Southern Thai cuisine is known for its intense heat and use of coconut milk. Examples include Massaman Curry, rich with spices, and Tom Yum Goong, a hot and sour shrimp soup.

Central Thai cooking, which consists of the famous Pad Thai, balances all the fundamental tastes and often features rice as the main staple. Each region offers a unique culinary experience, reflecting the diversity of Thailand’s climate, geography, and culture. Numerous cooking schools across Thailand provide classes for those interested in learning Thai cooking. Classes range from short half-day sessions focusing on specific dishes to comprehensive courses covering a wide range of Thai cuisine.

Vegan options are also increasingly available in Thai cuisine. Traditional dishes are often adapted using tofu or legumes as a protein substitute, similar to Thai Chickpea Curry . Soups and sauces can be vegan-friendly by replacing fish sauce with soy sauce and omitting shrimp paste.

Thailand Travel Budgeting: How Much Does It Cost?

Whether you are seeking a luxury escape or backpacking on a shoestring budget, Thailand has an option. The Thai Baht (THB) is the local currency. The current conversion rate is $1 USD equals just over 34 THB.

ATMs are widely available, and most hotels and restaurants accept credit cards. Street food and local markets offer affordable dining and shopping options. Be sure to carry just enough cash throughout the day and safely secure the remaining money in a safe at your accommodation.

Here are some examples of how much you could spend in a day in Thailand, depending on your food, activities, and accommodation.

Budget Traveler

Staying in hostels, eating food from street vendors, using public transport or walking, and mainly doing free or cheap activities (museums, galleries, temples, markets) will set you back approximately 1000-1300 THB ($29-$38 USD) daily.

Mid-Range Traveler

Staying in a standard hotel, with casual restaurant dining, taxis, and paid activities (shows, cooking classes, massage, and sanctuary visits), will cost approximately 1800–2500 ($52-$73 USD) THB daily.

Luxury Traveler

Luxury travel costs will vary widely; however, as a gauge, spending 4000 (just over $116 USD) THB and upwards per day will get you a luxurious experience at premium resorts, fine dining, private cars, and experiences.

Local Transportation: Getting Around in Thailand

These iconic three-wheeled vehicles are a fun way to navigate shorter distances. Agree on the fare before starting your journey – don’t be afraid to barter.

Motorbike Taxis

For solo travelers, motorbike taxis are a quick way to get around, especially in traffic-congested areas. Always wear a helmet for safety, and check your travel insurance covers you for any injuries if there is an accident.

Buses and Trains

For longer distances, buses and trains offer affordable and scenic travel options. Sleeper trains are famous for overnight journeys, especially from Bangkok to Chiang Mai.

Renting Scooters

Renting scooters is a common way to explore, especially in beach areas and smaller towns. However, proceed cautiously, as accidents can be dangerous and even result in death. Ensure you have a valid international driver’s license and always wear a helmet. Ensure that your travel insurance policy covers injuries, as it may exclude scooters and motorbikes due to their high risk.

Accommodation Options in Thailand: Finding Your Perfect Stay

Thailand offers diverse accommodation options to suit various preferences and budgets. From luxurious resorts to budget-friendly hostels to unique bungalows and island huts – there’s something for every type of traveler.

Luxury Resorts and Five-Star Hotels

Best for: Travelers seeking comfort, high-end amenities, and exceptional service.

Features: These establishments often feature exquisite rooms, on-site dining options, spa services, and sometimes private beaches or pools. Buffet breakfast spreads are impressive, with fresh fruit, cereals, yogurt , and local cuisine.

Locations: Common in major tourist destinations like Bangkok, Phuket, and Koh Samui.

Boutique Hotels and Villas

Best for: Those looking for a unique, intimate experience with personalized service.

Features: Boutique accommodations often have a distinct style or theme, offering a blend of luxury and local charm.

Locations: Spread across Thailand, particularly in urban areas and popular island destinations.

Mid-Range Hotels

Best for: Families and couples looking for a comfortable stay without the luxury price tag.

Features: These hotels provide good comfort with standard amenities like air conditioning, in-house restaurants, and sometimes a pool.

Locations: Found in all major cities and tourist spots.

Budget Hotels and Guesthouses

Best for: Solo travelers, backpackers, and those on a tight budget.

Features: Basic accommodations, often with a private room and sometimes a shared bathroom. Amenities are limited but sufficient for a comfortable stay.

Locations: Widely available across the country, especially in backpacker areas.

Best for: Solo or young travelers and backpackers looking for affordable stays and social environments.

Features: Dormitory-style sleeping arrangements, communal spaces for socializing, and kitchen facilities. Private rooms are often available too.

Locations: Common in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and other tourist hubs, as well as off-the-beaten-path locations.

Vacation Rentals and Apartments

Best for: Families and groups or travelers seeking a home-like experience.

Features: Offers more space and privacy, with facilities like a kitchen, living area, and multiple bedrooms. You can also arrange for private chefs, cleaners, and nannies.

Locations: Available throughout Thailand, particularly in cities and popular tourist areas.

Eco-Lodges and Sustainable Stays

Best for: Eco-conscious travelers and nature lovers.

Features: Focus on sustainability and eco-friendliness, often in natural settings and offering experiences like jungle treks or wildlife watching.

Locations: Found in more remote areas, near national parks or rural settings.

Beach Bungalows and Island Huts

Best for: Beach lovers and those looking for a laid-back, rustic experience.

Features: Simple, often wooden structures near or on the beach offer a more relaxed vibe. Air conditioning is often not available.

Locations: Common on islands and coastal regions.

Americans can enter Thailand without a visa for stays up to 30 days. Obtain a tourist visa from a Thai embassy or consulate for more extended visits. Visit the U.S. Embassy or your home country’s government website for more information and guidance.

Language Guide: Useful Phrases To Know

Thailand is a very tourist-friendly destination, so you don’t need to worry about not speaking the language—most staff working in the travel industry will speak English. Printing off any hotel addresses or travel destinations written in the Thai alphabet is practical as this will help communication run smoothly with drivers. When bartering at markets or when ordering food, it’s easy enough to get by with gestures and essential words.

However, if you would like to learn some basic phrases to say on your trip, it is a thoughtful and respectful way to engage with the locals. Here are some basic everyday phrases that may be helpful:

• Hello: Sawasdee (krab/kha)
• Thank you: Khop Khun (krab/kha)
• Yes: Chai (krab/kha)
• No: Mai (krab/kha)
• How much?: Tao rai?
• Too expensive: Paeng pai
• Delicious: Aroy
• Bathroom: Hong Nam

Note: ‘krab’ for men (for men) and ‘kha’ (for women) are added to the end of sentences to be polite. As a woman traveling in Thailand, I would say ‘Sawasdee kha’ as ‘Hello.’

Things To Be Careful of and What Not To Do in Thailand

Traveling to Thailand is an exciting experience, but like any destination, it has its cultural norms and legal regulations. Being aware of these can ensure a safe and respectful visit. Here are some key things to be mindful of and what not to do while in Thailand:

Respect the Monarchy

Thailand holds its royal family in high esteem. Disrespecting the monarchy, in any form, is not only frowned upon culturally but is also illegal. Criticizing or speaking ill of the royal family can lead to severe penalties under Thai law.

Dress Appropriately in Temples

When visiting temples, dress conservatively. Cover your shoulders and knees, and remove your hat. It’s a sign of respect in these sacred places.

Don’t Touch Heads or Point Your Feet

The head is considered the most sacred part of the body in Thai culture, so never touch someone’s head, not even children. Similarly, pointing your feet at people, especially at Buddha images, is seen as highly disrespectful.

Avoid Public Displays of Affection

Thailand is conservative when it comes to public displays of affection. Holding hands is acceptable, but kissing and hugging in public are frowned upon.

Don’t Disrespect the Buddha

It’s illegal and disrespectful to deface, damage, or disrespect images of Buddha. Consider tattoos, clothing, or accessories with Buddha images as offensive.

Be Cautious With Alcohol Consumption

While Thailand has a vibrant nightlife, it’s essential to consume alcohol responsibly. Public drunkenness can lead to trouble, and there are strict laws against drinking in temples, public offices, and other specific public areas.

Be Aware of Human Rights and Animal Exploitation

It’s essential to be aware that in Thailand’s nightlife, especially in places like Bangkok, adult entertainment like the infamous’ ping pong shows’ may involve trafficked and exploited individuals. Avoid these venues.

Popular tourist activities like elephant rides, tiger temples, and wildlife shows often entail animal cruelty. Opt for ethical wildlife sanctuaries and conservation efforts that ensure animal welfare and conservation.

Don’t Engage in Illegal Drugs

Thailand has stringent drug laws, and penalties for possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe, including lengthy prison sentences or even the death penalty.

Be Wary of Scams

Be cautious of common tourist scams, such as tuk-tuk drivers taking you to a gem shop, overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help, or inflated tourist prices. Always agree on prices before receiving a service. If cars honk at you or a stranger approaches you, it’s best to ignore them and keep moving.

Avoid Sensitive Topics in Conversations:

Steer clear of discussing sensitive political topics, particularly those related to the Thai government or monarchy. Avoiding any conversation interpreted as critical of the country’s politics or leadership is best.

Discover a world of experiences in Thailand, from the busy streets of Bangkok to the serene beaches of the islands. Remember to immerse yourself in the local culture, savor the delicious cuisine, and travel responsibly. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or planning your first trip to Thailand, there’s always something new and exciting to explore. Share your experiences and tips in the comments, and don’t forget to check out more travel guides. Sawasdee kha and happy travels!

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Southeast Asia Travel Guide

Last Updated: November 27, 2023

Backpackers have been traveling through Southeast Asia since the late 1960s and early 1970s, leaving a well-worn trail around the region.

Starting in beautiful Thailand, the trail makes its way to up-and-coming Laos, through Vietnam, and to the temples of Angkor Wat. It then winds back into Thailand, where people head south to party in the Thai islands before moving down to Malaysia and Singapore.

There are a few variations to the trail, but this is what it mostly covers.

I’ve been visiting this region since 2004 and spent years living in Thailand . I love backpacking Southeast Asia and have written extensively about it as I know it like the back of my hand.

It’s an especially great region for new travelers because it’s easy to travel around, it’s safe, and there are lots of other travelers you can meet. But it’s also perfect for veteran travelers too as there are tons of off-the-beaten-path destinations that the standard backpacker trail doesn’t cover.

In short, Southeast Asia has something for every traveler — and every budget.

This Southeast Asia travel guide will help you travel the region like a pro, ensuring you save money and make the most of your time in this fun, gorgeous, and lively corner of the world.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Southeast Asia

Click Here for Country Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in southeast asia.

1. Admire Angkor Wat

One of the greatest human creations in history, the Angkor Wat temple complex is best explored over the course of a few days. The area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site created by the Khmer Empire and absolutely enormous. Temples to visit include Angkor Wat, Bayon Temple which has 216 gigantic stone face carvings, and Ta Prohm. I spent three days here and that simply wasn’t enough. A one-day pass is $37 USD, while a 1-week pass is $72 USD. If you’re here for multiple days, be sure to hire a driver and see some of the more out of the way ruins away from the main temple complex (and the crowds).

2. Explore Bangkok

Bangkok is the hub of travel activity in Southeast Asia. You can get anywhere you want from here. Though I hated it at first, the more I’ve spent time here the more I love it. Bangkok is like an onion whose many layers need to be peeled back. Some things not to miss include the spectacular Bangkok Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Chatuchak Market and Asiatique, and a canal trip on the Chao Phraya River. This is a city for foodies and wild nightlife.

3. Relax on some tropical islands

No visit to Southeast Asia would be complete without a visit to at least one of the thousands of tropical islands in the region. My top five include the Perhentian Islands (Malaysia), Rabbit Island (Cambodia), Ko Lanta (Thailand), and Boracay (Philippines). Lombok Island (Indonesia) has a chill vibe with unspoiled, perfect “desert island” beaches. There’s so many islands to visit. Be sure to add at least one to your trip. The country guides will have more information for you.

4. See Ha Long Bay

Sailing trips to this island-filled bay with stunning emerald waters, limestone formations, and marine life give you an appreciation for the natural beauty in Vietnam. Tours from Hanoi start at around $110 USD for two-day trips and increase from there. I love the colorful grottoes, hanging stalactites, and stalagmites of Surprise Cave (Sung Sot), Fairy Cave (Tien Ong), and Heaven Palace (Thien Cung). Make sure you go with a reputable company though as some of the cheaper boats are less than ideal. If you’d rather just visit for one day, day trips from Hanoi cost $55 USD.

5. Wander Kuala Lumpur

Other things to see and do in southeast asia, 1. go jungle trekking.

This region of the world is covered in amazing jungles with diverse wildlife, plentiful camping opportunities, and cool waterfalls. The best jungle treks are found in northern Thailand, Western Laos, and Malaysian Borneo (the latter are also the hardest and most intense). Some of my favorites include Danum Valley (Borneo) for its incredible wildlife; Ratanakiri (Cambodia) for its pristine wilderness and thousand-year-old trees; and Pu Luong Nature Reserve (Vietnam). Costs vary but jungle trekking generally costs $30-50 USD per day.

2. Attend the Full Moon Party

The biggest one-night party in the world welcomes up to 30,000 people with a party that stretches until dawn. Cover yourself in glow paint, grab a bucket of booze, and dance the night away with new friends on the island of Ko Phangan in Thailand. As the name would suggest, the party is on the night of the full moon. If you miss it, there’s always the half-moon party, quarter-moon party, and black-moon party. Really, every night is a party on Ko Phangan . Just avoid the flaming jump rope that occurs — I’ve seen people get burned badly!

3. Learn to dive

There are many great dive sites around the region for those interested in underwater exploration. You can learn to dive here at a fraction of what it would cost back home too. Some of the best places are Ko Tao (Thailand), Sipadan (Malaysia), as well as Gili Islands (Indonesia) and Coron, Palawan (The Philippines). A typical diving course is completed in three days. A PADI course typically runs $275 USD in Thailand, including three nights’ accommodation, though at smaller schools you can often negotiate down to $250 USD. Day trips for certified divers start at $165 USD. For information on Ko Tao, check out this blog post .

4. Eat street food in Singapore

Singapore is a foodie’s heaven. Try the hawker stalls of Singapore as well as Little India and Chinatown for some of the best and cheapest food in Asia. If you’re looking for a nice place to sit down and eat, eat at Singapore’s famed restaurants during lunch when restaurants offer discounts, making them a great deal. You’ll also find the most affordable Michelin-starred restaurants here (Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice and Hawker Chan), offering world-class meals for just a couple of bucks!

5. Overload on temples

You can’t turn a corner without seeing a Buddhist temple in this part of the world. You’ll get temple overload at some point but visit as many as you can as each is unique to the country and region of the temple. There are so many places with high concentrations of ornate and beautiful temples. Check out Chiang Mai’s Wat Doi Suthep Temple and hike up the 300 steps to the golden Chedi that’s 600 years old!; Bagan’s Shwesandaw Pagoda from the 11th century with its stunning golden dome; Angkor Wat’s Ta Prohm is covered in iconic vines and enveloped in ancient jungle roots; Hue’s colorful Thien Mu Pagoda is perched atop a lush green embankment; Hoi An’s Quan Cong Temple with incredible Chinese architecture with hand-carved beauty and skill, and Luang Prabang’s Vat Xieng Thong with its golden, canopied roof. Most are free to enter, however, dress codes are enforced (you need to have your shoulders and legs covered).

6. Dive Sipadan

Located off Malaysian Borneo, Sipadan is one of the best dive sites in the world. If you have your dive certificate, make sure you venture out here. I absolutely love this area because it’s teeming with live turtles, diverse cave systems, sharks, dolphins, colorful coral, bright fish, and everything in between. Not a lot of people make it to this part of Malaysia, but it’s worth it to go the extra mile and make your way off the tourist trail a bit. Don’t miss Barracuda Point and The Drop-Off. Keep in mind that only 176 permits to dive at the island are issued each day, costing 140 MYR per person. The resorts on the neighboring islands each get a specific number of permits per day and require divers to stay with them for a few days. So you’ll need to stay at those resorts and dive into the surrounding areas before they can get you a Sipadan permit.

7. Fall in love with Bali

Bali is the most popular destination in Indonesia, and its famous Kuta beach is known for its wild parties and surfing ( though I think it’s overrated ). However, there is much more to Bali than just wild nights and sun-soaked days. If you’re a thrill seeker, hike up to the top of Mount Batur, an active volcano, for a breathtaking sunrise. Paragliding and white water rafting are also super popular here, as is surfing (it’s an affordable place to learn if you’ve never done it). There are also lots of hot springs to enjoy, the Ubud Monkey Forest (a popular temple and nature reserve home to hundreds of monkeys), and numerous places to scuba dive, including the Liberty wreck and Manta Point.

8. Take in Ho Chi Minh City

Frantic, chaotic, and crazy, Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam is the embodiment of the controlled chaos that rules Southeast Asia. You can’t quite figure out how this teeming mass of people and cars work together, but it does. Highlights here include touring the tunnels used by the Viet Cong in the 1960s, taking in the view from the Saigon Skydeck, eating your way through the street food scene, and seeing the city’s numerous temples.

9. Admire the sunrise over an Indonesian Volcano

One of the most popular tourist attractions on Java is Mount Bromo and its National Park. Don’t miss out on getting a photo of the smoldering Bromo volcano as it lies surrounded by the almost lunar landscape of the Sea of Sand. Get up early to catch one of the most memorable sunrises of your life. If you’re there in mid-August, you’ll be just in time to see Upacara Kasada, the traditional Hindu ritual of the Tenggerese, a Javanese tribe of the region.

10. Hike in Khao Sok National Park

Located in southern Thailand, Khao Sok National Park is constantly rated as one of the best parks in Thailand, with incredible trekking, camping, limestone karsts, cooling rivers, and a glistening lake. Visit for semi-challenging hikes, tons of wildlife, walking paths, and breathtaking sunsets. Park entrance costs around $6 USD while full-day guided tours are $95 USD. I highly recommend spending at least one night here to get the full experience.

11. Visit Kampot

Most people come to Kampot to enjoy the scenic riverside views, as well as the rolling hills that surround the city. Since you can explore easily enough on foot or by bicycle, Kampot is a great place to slow down and relax. There’s not much to do here but have lazy days by the river, chill, and eat (don’t miss the famous Rusty Keyhole for BBQ!). Don’t miss the pepper farms, as this region of Cambodia is filled with pepper farms where you can learn about the history of the spice, see how it is grown, and pick up what is considered some of the finest pepper in the world. Tours are usually free.

12. Take a cooking class

Food from this region is as varied as the countries themselves and learning how to cook a few dishes is a great souvenir of your time here. Even if you don’t plan to cook back home, you can still spend a day making and eating scrumptious food. Most big cities have cooking schools offering classes of 2-6 hours, often including a trip to the local market beforehand to select ingredients. I absolutely love cooking classes and urge you to take one at least once. They are a fun experience!

13. Take a food tour

If you’d rather eat instead of cook, taking a food tour is a fun way to gain insight into the region’s amazing noodle dishes, fresh seafood, sweets, and street food while learning about the history and culture behind the cuisine. Most major cities in Southeast Asia offer food tours. These include tours around local markets, street stalls, and tours to locally-owned restaurants and cafes where you can sample the local cuisine and connect with a local chef. If you’re nervous about street food, this is a great way to try some in a controlled setting. Tours usually last 2-4 hours and include multiple stops and several different dishes, with prices costing $40-75 USD per person.

14. Visit an elephant sanctuary

While riding an elephant is on many a Southeast Asia bucket list, once you know how much the animals suffer from abuse in order to provide these rides, you might think twice about taking one. An even better way to interact with elephants is to volunteer at or visit the Elephant Nature Park near Chiang Mai in Thailand. It’s a phenomenal place, allowing you to give back to the community and these magnificent animals all at once. After coming here, you will understand why you should NEVER ride an elephant. A one-day visit costs $70 USD.

15. See The Killing Fields

A visit to Choeung Ek, also known as the Killing Fields, may not be the most cheerful way to spend an afternoon, but it makes for an educational and memorable experience. Over 3 million people were killed by Pol Pot’s regime, including countless women and children. I recommend getting a guide so you can really understand what you’re seeing as you explore the area. Also, this horrific tragedy took place less than 50 years ago and is still very present so please be respectful as a visitor.  The site is located 10 miles from Phnom Penh. Half-day guided tours start at $66 USD.

16. Swim with Whale Sharks in Donsol

If you’re in the Philippines, check out the Donsol Whale Shark Interactive Ecosystem Project because there are not many experiences quite as adrenaline-inducing as swimming with a whale shark for the first time in crystal waters. These incredible creatures are around 45 feet (14 meters) long and yet incredibly gentle and curious. I loved floating at the surface being able to look below and see them slowly swim below me. Get some people together and rent a boat for a half day, explore the area, and go ‘shark-seeing’ for a good cause.  

  For a ton more information, visit my country specific travel guides for more detailed information on each place:

• Cambodia Travel Guide
• Indonesia Travel Guide
• Laos Travel Guide
• Malaysia Travel Guide
• Singapore Travel Guide
• Thailand Travel Guide
• Vietnam Travel Guide

Southeast Asia Travel Costs

Accommodation – Accommodation in Southeast Asia is really cheap, making it the perfect place to travel if you are on a budget. Hostels are plentiful, as are budget guesthouses and hotels. It’s also very cheap to splash out here if you’re in need of some luxury.

Generally, you can find hostel dorm rooms for as little as $6-8 USD in Cambodia and $3-6 USD in Laos. In Thailand, 4-6-bed dorm rooms are $8-12 USD, while in Vietnam you can expect to pay $5-7 USD. In Indonesia, prices range between $5-10 USD for a 4-6-bed dorm room. Expect to pay at least $15-20 per night for a private room with air conditioning. Free Wi-Fi is standard in most hostels, free breakfast is common, and many hostels even have pools. In more remote areas, hot water isn’t common so make sure to check in advance if that’s an issue for you.

Simple guesthouses or bungalows throughout Southeast Asia generally cost $12-20 USD per night for a basic room with a fan (sometimes air conditioning) and hot water. If you want something nicer that includes a more comfortable bed and a TV, expect to pay $25-35 USD per night.

For backpackers, budgeting around $10 USD per night for accommodation is pretty safe no matter where you go in Southeast Asia. If you’re looking for a higher-end hotel room with more amenities, expect to pay $20-50 USD per night for a room. Anything over that is luxury territory.

Camping is available in certain areas, usually for just a few dollars per night for a basic tent plot without electricity. However, this is about the same price as hostels so it’s not really any cheaper.

Food – While each country’s cuisine varies, overall, Southeast Asian food is aromatic, spicy, and flavorful. Typical spices and herbs include garlic, basil, galangal, cilantro, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, chilies, and fish sauce. No matter what region you’re in, you can expect to find a variety of curries, salads, soups, noodle dishes, and stir-fries.

Rice and noodles are central to Southeast Asian food, while the meat is usually pork, chicken, fish, or seafood, which is everywhere on the islands and coastal areas.

While traveling Southeast Asia, street food is the most popular food and cheapest option. On average, these meals cost $1-5 USD. You find these stalls throughout this region lining most streets and every market. They are ubiquitous in the region. In Singapore, street food (from “hawker stands” as they’re known there) costs around $4-5 USD for a meal. Even if you go into small local restaurants, the price doesn’t increase that much.

Food that costs $2 USD at a street stall generally only costs $4-6 USD at a local restaurant. If you went into a restaurant in Thailand, you’d pay around $3-4 USD for a pad Thai that would have cost $1-2 USD on the street.

In Cambodia, street food is around $1-2 USD, while restaurants charge around $3-5 USD for a dish like amok (a coconut milk dish) or luc lac (pepper gravy beef).

Western meals, including burgers, pizza, and sandwiches usually cost around $7-10 USD. But these generally aren’t that great. If you want something that actually tastes as it does back home, expect to spend at least $10-12 USD for your meal.

While cheap, alcohol can take a bite out of your budget if you’re not careful. Those $1-2 USD beers add up! Wine and cocktails are more expensive, generally around $3-5 USD. A cappuccino is typically around $2 USD. Bottled water is plentiful and costs less than $1 USD.

There’s a growing cutting-edge foodie scene in the region and, if you want to splurge, you can do so on some really good meals. Big cities like Bangkok, KL, and Singapore, all have world-class Michelin star restaurants as well some incredible fusion restaurants.

Since dining out is so cheap in the region, there’s no point in grocery shopping unless you’re looking to get some pre-made salads or fruits. Additionally, a general lack of kitchens in most hostels and hotels makes it difficult to cook even if you wanted to. If you do purchase your own groceries, expect to spend around $25 USD per week for basic groceries like local produce, rice, and some meat (while avoiding expensive imported items like cheese and wine).

Backpacking Southeast Asia Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of $45 USD per day, you can stay in hostel dorms, eat out at local markets and street stalls, limit your drinking, do mostly free activities, minimize paid activities, and use public transportation to get around. You’re not going to be able to splash out but you’ll be able to live the typical backpacker experience without really stressing over expenses.

On a mid-range budget of $85 USD per day, you can stay in budget hotels or private hostel rooms, eat more restaurant meals, do more paid activities like cooking classes, take some taxis, and enjoy a few more drinks. You won’t live large, but you won’t be missing out either.

On an upscale budget of $150 USD or more per day, you can stay in nicer hotels with more amenities, eat out as much as you want, do more paid tours including private tours, hire a driver, fly between destinations, and basically do whatever you want. The sky is the limit with this kind of budget!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in USD.

Southeast Asia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Backpacking Southeast Asia is cheap. There’s little opportunity to spend a lot of money since everything is already so inexpensive unless you intentionally are trying to splash out on fancy meals and high end hotels. The two reasons why most travelers end up overspending is that they eat a lot of Western food and drink way too much. If you want to save money while traveling in this part of the world, cut down on your drinking and skip the Western food. While country guides have more specific ways to save money, here are some general ways to save money in Southeast Asia:

• Stay with a local – Accommodation is cheap in Southeast Asia but nothing’s cheaper than free! Use Couchsurfing to stay with locals who have extra beds and couches for free. You’ll also meet great people who can show you around and share their insider tips and advice.
• Book tours and day trips as a group – You have more negotiation power when you’re with a group of people buying multiple spots or tickets. Traveling alone? Meet a friend at a hostel and see if they want to join the same tour as you. I’ve met some great friends over the years doing this and highly recommend it.
• Don’t book in advance – Don’t book any tours or activities before you get to your destination. They’ll be much cheaper when you arrive as you’ll be able to negotiate a lower price as you’ll find companies are often offering the same tour and competing. Anything you see online is more expensive than you need to pay!
• Eat on the street – The street food is the best food. The food is the best and cheapest you’ll find. It’s a great way to try new foods and get to chat with locals as well. This is where locals eat so if you want insight into local culture, good food, and savings, eat the street food. Look for where locals are eating to ensure that it’s safe to eat.
• Bargain hard – Nothing is ever at face value here. Bargain with sellers as most of the time, the price they’ve quoted is way higher. There’s a haggling culture in the region so play the game and save some money. It’s important not to convert it in your head to your own currency because it will usually sound cheap even though you might still be getting ripped off. You’ll never get the local price, but you might come close!
• Minimize your drinking – Drinks really add up. Even with cheap drinks, if you’re not aware, you’ll end up spending more money on beer than on food and accommodation. If you want to drink, head to the supermarkets, drink at the hostel, or check out the local happy hours.
• Pack a water bottle – A water bottle with a purifier comes particularly in handy in Southeast Asia since you can’t usually drink the tap water. Save money and thousands of plastic bottles and get a bottle that can purify the tap water for you. My preferred bottle is LifeStraw as it has a built-in filter that ensures your water is always safe and clean.

Where to Stay in Southeast Asia

I’ve been traveling Southeast Asia since 2005 and have stayed in hundreds of places. Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Southeast Asia:

• The Siem Reap Pub Hostel (Siem Reap)
• Onederz Siem Reap (Siem Reap)
• Mad Monkey Siem Reap (Siem Reap)
• Onederz Sihanoukville (Sihanoukville)
• Monkey Republic (Sihanoukville)
• Onederz Phnom Penh (Phnom Penh)
• Sla Boutique Hostel (Phnom Penh)
• The Magic Sponge (Kampot)
• Indigo House Hotel (Luang Prabang)
• Sa Sa Lao (Luang Prabang)
• Sanga Hostel (Pakse)
• Nana Backpackers Hostel (Vang Vieng)
• Dream Home Hostel (Vientiane)
• Traveller Bunker Hostel (Cameron Highlands)
• De’Native Guest House (Cameron Highlands)
• Kitez Hotel & Bunks (Kuala Lumpur)
• Sunshine Bedz Kuala Lumpur (Kuala Lumpur)
• Ryokan Muntri Boutique Hostel (Penang)
• Mad Monkey Hostel (Bangkok)
• D&D Inn (Bangkok)
• Kodchasri B&B (Chiang Mai)
• The Royal Guest House (Chiang Mai)
• Green Leaf (Khao Yai)
• Lonely Beach Resort (Ko Chang)
• The Sanctuary (Koh Phangan)
• Na-Tub Hostel (Koh Phangan)
• Pineapple Guesthouse (Phuket)
• Dream Lodge
• The Pod Capsule Hostel
• The Scarlet
• Under the Coconut Tree Guesthouse (Hoi An)
• Fuse Beachside (Hoi An)
• Pretty Backpackers House (Da Lat)
• Hanoi Old Quarter Hostel (Hanoi)
• Luxury Backpackers Hostel (Hanoi)
• The Hideout (HCMC)
• City Backpackers Hostel (HCMC)

How to Get Around Southeast Asia

Public transportation – Public transportation costs from a few pennies to a few dollars, with Singapore and Malaysia offering the most comprehensive public transportation systems. In Thailand, local buses cost around $0.25 USD per trip, while the Metro and Skytrain in Bangkok cost $0.50-1.50 USD per trip. In Cambodia, a bus ticket in Phnom Penh costs just $0.40 USD per ride.

Major cities generally have subway systems but mostly you’ll be using the bus or shared taxis to get around.

Tuk-tuks (small, shared taxis with no meter) are available around much of the region and require a bit of haggling. They usually have 3-6 seats and generally cost more than public transportation but are faster. To find a reputable driver, ask your accommodation as they usually know someone. Tuk-tuk drivers can often be hired for the day for a discounted rate (this is what a lot of people do to visit the Killing Fields and Angkor Wat in Cambodia, for example).

Taxi – Taxis in the region are generally safe, though it’s not uncommon to have to haggle. Scams to rip you off aren’t uncommon either, so always ask your accommodation to call you a taxi whenever possible so you know you’ll get a reputable company.

In Singapore and Indonesia, taxi drivers do put on the meter. In Bangkok, you can get taxi drivers to use the meter, but if you’re hailing one in a tourist area, he might try to avoid using it. In Vietnam, the meter is sometimes rigged, but if you can get a reputable company like Mai Linh, you won’t have any problems.

Ridesharing – Grab, DiDi, and Gojek are Asia’s answer to Uber. They work the same way: you hire a driver to take you somewhere via the app, and you can pay via the app or in cash. It’s often more affordable than a regular taxi, though drivers are a bit unreliable as the practice is not as widespread here as in other parts of the world.

Just keep in mind that some drivers are driving motorcycles so be sure to double check what kind of vehicle is picking you up if you don’t want to ride on the back of one.

Bus – The easiest and cheapest way to travel around Southeast Asia is by bus. The backpacker trail is so worn that there is a very well-established tourist bus system to take you anywhere. Buses costs vary between $5-25 USD for a 5-6 hour journey. Overnight buses cost $20-35 USD depending on distance (they often have reclining seats so you can get a decent sleep).

You can check ticket prices and book tickets for all the different bus companies across Southeast Asia at 12go.asia.

Train – Train service is limited in the region and not something to really consider when you travel Southeast Asia. You can take a train up and down the coast of Vietnam and there’s some limited scenic rails in Malaysia. Thailand is the only country that has an extensive train system that lets you travel all its regions (and onward to Singapore) from Bangkok.

The train prices in Southeast Asia are determined by distance and class. Night trains with sleeper cars are more expensive than day trains. The night train to Chiang Mai from Bangkok takes twelve hours and costs $27 USD for a sleeper seat. However, that same train during the day is $8-9 USD. In Vietnam, trains run up and down the coast and cost $60 USD from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City.

Flying – The cost of flying around Southeast Asia has come down in recent years due to the rise of low-cost airlines. Scoot, Jetstar, and AirAsia are the biggest. Nok Air has a lot of flights within Thailand , and VietJet Air is popular in Vietnam . Lion Air serves Indonesia , but its safety record is really spotty and I personally would not fly them. If you book early, you can save on fares, as most of the airlines offer deeply discounted fare sales all the time, especially Air Asia.

Just make sure that the airport these budget airlines fly into isn’t too far out of your way (transportation from the secondary airport sometimes negates the savings from using the budget airline itself).

Also, keep in mind that you usually must pay to check your baggage on these cheap flights. If you wait to pay for your luggage at the gate, you end up paying almost double. Travel carry-on only to avoid this added cost.

All in all, I only recommend flying if you are pressed for time or find a super cheap deal. Otherwise, stick to the bus.

Hitchhiking – Hitchhiking in Southeast Asia is safe, though popularity of the practice varies by country (it’s more common in Malaysia, but not so much in Cambodia). Dress respectably, smile while making eye contact with drivers, and use a cardboard sign to tell people where you’re headed. Be prepared for long bouts of no pick-ups, especially if you’re traveling through more rural areas. Pack plenty of water and food. Also, make sure the people picking you up understand you’re hitchhiking and not flagging down a taxi.

Hitchwiki is a great resource for hitchhiking tips.

Car rental I don’t recommend renting a car in Southeast Asia. Rental cars are expensive ($40 USD per day or more) and the roads here are in poor shape. I would never drive around the region.

When to Go to Southeast Asia

The best time of year to visit Southeast Asia is from November to April when temperatures are milder (though temperatures vary drastically by region). It may be mild in Thailand in January and hot in Malaysia but in Northern Vietnam, it’s cold! Also, one of the biggest mistakes people make is not taking into account the rainy season. In some cases it won’t make a big difference but definitely does if it’s a beach trip.

In Indonesia, the best time to visit is April to October. Temperatures average 24-30ºC (75-86ºF), and the weather is mostly dry. July to September is the peak holiday season and when you can expect to pay the highest rates. December to February is the rainy season.

In Malaysia, January-March and June-September are the best time to visit, as these months have the lowest average rainfall. It is still hot and humid during this time though. The rainy season is from October to December. Singapore’s climate/weather is much like Malaysia’s.

In Vietnam, the weather varies by region. In Central Vietnam (including Hoi An and Nha Trang), January-May is the best time to visit because it is dry and the temperatures average 21-30°C (70-86°F). June to August is also a decent time to visit. If you want to stick around Hanoi, March to April is great, or October to December (for mildest temperatures). The rainy season is May-September.

Thailand has three seasons: hot, hotter, and hottest. It’s always warm, though the weather is nicest between November and February (which is also peak tourist season). Bangkok is “coolest” and driest during this time (but still averaging a hot 29°C/85°F each day). April and May are the hottest months, and the rainy season is June-October. The gulf islands get pretty rainy from August to December.

The dry season in Cambodia is from November-May and the cool season is from November-February (and when most people visit). Temperatures during this time are still high, but humidity is lower. Laos has the same cool season as Cambodia, with the dry season running from November-April.

In the Philippines, it’s mostly warm all year long with an average daily high of 26°C (80°F). There are rainy and dry seasons and temperatures are hot and dry from March-May and cooler December-February. The best time to visit is between January-April when it’s less humid. Monsoon Season is July-October.

For more information on when to go to places, visit the specific country guides.

How to Stay Safe in Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia is an incredibly safe place to backpack and travel — even if you’re traveling solo and even as a solo female traveler. Violent crime is super, duper rare. Petty theft (including bag snatching) is the most common type of crime in Southeast Asia, especially around popular tourist landmarks. Always keep your valuables out of reach on public transportation and in crowds just to be safe. Never leave your valuables unattended while at the beach and always keep a hold of your purse/bag when out and about as bag snatching is common.

That said, outside touristy areas, theft is really rare. Heck, it’s pretty rare in touristy areas too! But a little vigilance goes a long way and it’s better to be safe than sorry.

There are some common scams around that you’ll want to be aware of, such as the motorbike scam. This involves a bike rental company trying to charge you for damage to the bike that you didn’t cause. To avoid this, always take photos of your rental before you leave so you can protect yourself from baseless claims.

Another common scam involves a tuk-tuk driver taking you somewhere you didn’t want to go in hopes you’ll buy something from the shop/restaurant he dropped you off at (he gets a commission if you do). Simply refuse to buy anything and demand to go back to where you were — or find another driver.

For other common travel scams, read this post about major travel scams to avoid in the region .

Solo female travelers should feel safe here, though it’s generally a good idea to avoid walking around alone at night just to be safe. It’s always a good idea to carry some extra cash to get home in a taxi if you need to. Additionally, always keep an eye on your drink at the bar and never accept drinks from strangers. Be sensible when it comes to dating while traveling and meeting people in public places. As I’m not a woman, please check out some solo female travel blogs to get the best insight.

Overall, the people who get in trouble here tend to be involved with drugs or sex tourism. Avoid those two things and you should be fine. Keep in mind that it’s not always obvious how old someone is or if they’re a sex worker so be mindful when getting involved in romantic interactions. Also, penalties for drug use in this region are stiff so even if you’re here to party, skip the drugs.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

For more in-depth coverage of how to stay safe in Southeast Asia, check out this post that answers some frequently asked questions and concerns.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Southeast Asia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Agoda – Other than Hostelworld, Agoda is the best hotel accommodation site for Asia.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.

Get the In-Depth Budget Guide to Thailand!

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Southeast Asia Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Southeast Asia travel and continue planning your trip:

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The best things to do in Thailand with kids

Dec 21, 2023 • 6 min read

From babies to teens, there are many great things to do on a family trip to Thailand © Suriyapong Thongsawang / Getty Images

Thailand is perfect for families and kids of all ages.

Beaches and watersports abound, of course, as the country is blessed with 3148km (1956 miles) of coastline. But Thailand also boasts 156 national parks, 120 protected forest areas and 58 wildlife sanctuaries covering more than 30% of the country, providing ample opportunity for tramping and animal spotting. And city lovers need not worry: Bangkok holds a wealth of diversions and nearby day trips .

Thais love children and are willing to make all sorts of allowances for them; there are very few places where children are not welcome. When it comes to kids, Thailand truly is the “Land of Smiles.”

What makes Thailand good for kids?

Beaches, mountains, endless verdant scenery and the smattering of a temple or two: Thailand is a tropical paradise but also has enough infrastructure ( transportation , restaurants, generally clean restrooms) to make traveling with children relatively pain-free. If you fly into Bangkok, the Airport Rail Link (from Suvarnabhumi) and Don Mueang Airport Train (from Don Muang) can connect you to any Skytrain (called BTS ) or subway ( MRT ) station in the city, with most stations equipped with elevators for people with lots of baggage and a stroller in tow.

In any of Thailand’s bigger cities (and quite a few small ones), you’ll find that the major nexus around which all local families congregate is the shopping mall, which typically has a section devoted to children’s entertainment. This is where you’ll find play areas for smaller children, bowling alleys, movie theaters and the occasional ice skating rink ( Seacon Square in Bangkok even has a 10,000-sq-m (107,639-sq-ft) indoor amusement park called YoYo Land ). As for food options, the number of restaurant outlets at some of the bigger shopping complexes can be downright bewildering, but a few standbys – McDonald’s, Starbucks – coexist happily with local chains specializing in everything from Thai food ( Nara , Greyhound ) to Japanese ( Oishi , Fuji ) to Italian ( the Pizza Company , Peppina ).

If staying in Bangkok with your kids , public transport is a snap for children, who travel for free on both the Skytrain and subway if they are less than 90cm/2.9ft (a height measuring scale is located right next to the ticket window). On the subway, children who are younger than 14 but have surpassed the 90cm height limit to 120cm (3.9ft) can pay a discounted rate.

And when it comes to accommodation, Bangkok is thick with family-friendly options ranging from standard hotels within walking distance of public transportation and shopping centers to serviced apartments available for short-term rentals to AirBnbs costing as little as THB1000 (US$29) a night. Even better, most beach resorts (and quite a few resorts in popular destinations like Chiang Mai ) are well-versed when it comes to handling little ones, offering highchairs, children’s menus, baby pools and kids clubs dedicated to keeping youngsters busy. All options can be outfitted with extra cots or beds if requested ahead of time.

Less touristy destinations such as the Northeast and a few of the smaller islands are a bit trickier to navigate, especially with a stroller, so baby carriers are advised – particularly if you plan to be on the go during your visit. Kids menus might also seem thin on the ground here, so knowing a child-friendly dish that can be made anywhere is helpful. When it comes to children, Thais typically go for khao pad gai  (chicken fried rice), a mix of rice with diced chicken meat, scrambled egg and vegetables, sometimes topped with a fried egg. If chicken is not something your child enjoys, you can substitute it with any kind of protein: khao pad puu  (crab fried rice); khao pad nuea  (beef fried rice); or khao pad jay vegetarian fried rice).

Where is the best place to go in Thailand for kids?

During the high season from December to February and the “hot” season in March and April, the beach is obviously where it’s at. Visitors will be rewarded with moderate (for Thailand) temperatures of 22–32°C (72–90°F), clear skies, soft sand and bathtub-warm water. Of course, visitors will also encounter other tourists, both local and international, seeking the same thing, so make plans accordingly.

During the rainy season between May and October, the beaches are frequently littered with jellyfish, which tend to appear after a monsoon. If you want to avoid their unpleasant stings (or if you’re just looking to avoid a horde of tourists), Thailand’s many national parks offer kids a chance to not only get out into nature but learn something about the country’s unique ecosystem. 

Best things to do in Thailand with babies and toddlers: sun, sand and water

What more can you ask for as a baby than calm water, soft sand and a good place to take a nap? Thailand abounds in beaches, but some of its most family-friendly ones are Phuket ’s Nai Harn and Surin beaches, Ko Pha-Ngan ’s Than Sadet beach, Railay’s Tham Phra Nang beach, and Ko Samet , all of which provide plenty of places to eat and change.

Thais traditionally congregate on Hua Hin beach, which also offers banana boat rides, kite surfing lessons and horseback rides for older children and is, of course, lined with restaurants, hotels and the occasional roti vendor. If you dislike getting sandy, there is also Vana Nava , labeled the “world’s biggest water park.”

Best things to do in Thailand with kids: elephants, hikes and fireflies

Thailand has myriad national parks and wildlife sanctuaries scattered throughout the country, showcasing the diversity of its flora and fauna. In the far reaches of the north, elephant camps allow visitors to connect with the beloved pachyderms, which are considered “good luck.”

Closer to Bangkok, Thailand’s most popular national park, Khao Yai , offers a wealth of hikes for walkers of varying degrees of experience. If you hire a guide, they will help you spot the different varieties of wildlife, including monkeys, deer, and if you’re lucky, elephants. Another good day out from Bangkok is to Amphawa , a popular floating market that gives a glimpse of what shopping for Thais used to be like. At dusk, guided boat tours allow children to spot the fireflies that congregate by the roots of the banyan trees (and if you want to stay overnight, there are accommodations right on the water).

Best things to do in Thailand with tweens and teenagers: history, swimming and rafting

Although it may seem like your tween or teen isn’t interested in much of anything beyond their phone, you can possibly tempt them with forays into the country’s interesting history, to be found in places like Kanchanaburi , home of Thailand’s famous “ Death Railway .” The Thailand-Burma Railway Centre is an interactive museum that tells the story of how the railway came to be. The river itself is a fun attraction, lending opportunities for river rafting, paddleboarding or even a lazy (guided) float downstream. Close by, the popular Erawan Falls allows gentle splashing as tiny fish nibble on your toes.

Back in Bangkok, the interactive Museum Siam tells the story of how the concept of “Thainess” came to be, while the Chao Phraya River is fun to cruise, either by water taxi  or the numerous hotel shuttle boats (which are free), accessible from Saphan Taksin.

Planning tips for travel with kids in Thailand

Thailand actually sports a decent train system , which can provide (seemingly) endless hours of entertainment. The overnight train from Chiang Mai to Bangkok is a popular option, but younger children may find themselves battling sensory overload (and parents may be battling for space for a stroller). The train from Bangkok also reaches the furthest lengths of the kingdom down south for travelers who want to travel by train to Surat Thani , where you can transfer to a bus for Samui , Krabi or Phuket (again, a baby carrier is advised instead of a stroller).

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Digital Nomads Can Now Work in Thailand for Up to Five Years

By Jessica Puckett

From the bustling streets of Bangkok to the glittering temples of Chiang Mai and the tropical island paradise of Phuket, Thailand has always had something for every type of traveler.

Now, it extends that wide-ranging appeal to remote workers, who can live and work in the country for up to five years thanks to a recent extension of the Thailand digital nomad visa.

Previously, qualified digital nomads could only work in the Southeast Asian nation for a total of 60 days, so the new validity period is a significant jump. Thailand’s government announced on May 28 that the new visa policy will go into effect on June 1, per Reuters .

However, remote workers won’t be able to stay in Thailand for five uninterrupted years. The new visa will cover multiple entries into the country, with digital nomads able to stay for 180 consecutive days—about six months—at a time for up to five years. Visa holders will need to leave and reenter the country at the end of each 180-day period in order to meet the legal requirements.

Thai officials haven’t yet announced the new qualifications for the multiple entry Thailand digital nomad visa, but in order to apply, travelers will need to either make a visa appointment at a Thai Embassy or apply online through the official Thai e-visa website . (Only certain nationalities are able to apply for visas online; US citizens are typically eligible.)

Thailand is popular with digital nomads for its powder-soft beaches and tropical climate, vibrant nightlife and street food culture, striking national parks, and relatively low cost of living (1 Thai Baht equals about .02 US dollars). Along with the capital city of Bangkok and the popular mountain city of Chiang Mai, popular bases for digital nomads include the islands of Koh Phangan and Koh Samui—which are known for their pristine beaches —as well as Hua Hin, a resort town just a few hours south of Bangkok.

The new visa policy is part of a larger push from Thai officials to stimulate tourism as the country faces a contracting economy . In addition to extending the validity of the digital nomad visa, the government has also increased the number of countries eligible for visa-free entry to Thailand from 57 to 93 countries and extended the stay limit for eligible tourists from 30 to 60 days. Thailand has also introduced more lenient visa regulations for retirees and graduate students.

The five-year digital nomad visa puts Thailand among countries with some of the longest validity periods for digital nomad visas. Other nations that allow lengthy remote-worker stays include Spain , which allows digital nomads to stay for one year and then reapply for up to four additional years, and Montenegro, where the visas are valid for two years with an option to extend for another two years.

Recently, remote worker visas have become more popular around the world, with countries like Japan , Italy , and Turkey launching digital nomad visas in 2024.

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