Thailand Travel Overview
With approximately 40 million visitors annually, Thailand stands as Asia’s premier travel destination, offering an incredible range of experiences. From pristine white sandy beaches and intricately designed temples to a vibrant cultural heritage, Thailand has something for everyone. Remarkably, despite the influx of international tourists, the country has maintained its cultural integrity. It escaped colonization and embraced Western influences while preserving its rich heritage.
Thailand’s diversity is hard to capture in a single breath. Bangkok, a bustling metropolis, is renowned for its grand temples and opulent palaces, while the Andaman Sea coast boasts some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. Throughout the country, you’ll enjoy delectable cuisine and warm hospitality. Explore our travel guide to discover the wonders of this beautiful nation.
Language
Thai is the official language, spoken by the majority of the population. It evolved from Sanskrit, Old Khmer, and Pali, and is sometimes referred to as Siamese. In tourist areas, especially on the islands, English is commonly spoken by those in the hospitality industry, including hotel staff and tour guides. However, in Northern Thailand and rural regions, English may be less prevalent. Don’t worry—communicating through gestures can be a fun and effective way to connect with the locals.
Thailand Visa Information
Travelers to Thailand generally need a visa, except those from visa-exempt countries or those eligible for a visa on arrival. Currently, Thailand offers visa-free entry to citizens of 64 countries and territories. Nationals of 18 countries can obtain a visa upon arrival. Visitors from the United States, the United Kingdom, and European Union countries receive a 30-day visa for air entry and a 15-day visa for land entry. ASEAN passport holders are granted a 30-day visa upon arrival. Note that many Southeast Asian countries now require proof of onward flights, so ensure you make the necessary arrangements.
What to Pack for Your Trip
Thailand’s climate is generally warm year-round, with cooler temperatures in Northern Thailand during certain months. Pack lightweight, quick-drying clothing and a few scarves for temple visits. Essential items include slip-on shoes, travel sandals, a durable water bottle, a sweater or sweatshirt, bug spray, sunscreen, a sand-resistant beach blanket, swimwear, and an RFID travel wallet. If you forget any items, you can find most necessities in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket.
When is the Best Time to Visit Thailand?
Thailand has three distinct seasons: the rainy season (May–October), the cool season (November–February), and the hot season (March–May). The best time to visit is during the cool season, from November to February, when temperatures are more manageable, and there is less rainfall. This period features beautiful waterfalls and blooming flowers, but it is also the peak tourist season. If visiting the north during this time, be prepared for cooler nights and pack warm clothing.
The rainy season, from June to October, peaks in September and October. While the monsoon can bring heavy rains, they are usually short-lived, and this season is considered the low tourist season. The hot season is ideal for beachgoers, as the weather is perfect for enjoying coastal destinations.
Things to See and Do in Thailand
Experience Bangkok
Bangkok is often the starting point of Thai adventures. This vibrant metropolis blends historical charm with modern excitement. In the historic center, marvel at majestic temples and bustling canalside markets. Downtown, explore towering skyscrapers and trendy bars.
If it’s your first time in Bangkok, consider joining an organized tour to ease into the city’s rhythm. Popular tours include Ayuthaya Day Tour, Damnoen Saduak Floating Market & Maeklong Train Market Tour, and a dinner at Baiyoke Sky Tower for breathtaking views. Once acclimated, explore these highlights:
Discover Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai, the cultural capital of Northern Thailand, offers a rich tapestry of temples, street food, and outdoor adventures. This charming city provides a respite from Bangkok’s hustle, with opportunities for temple-hopping, cooking classes, and exploring local crafts.
Chiang Mai’s highlights include:
Island Hopping in Thailand
With countless stunning islands to choose from, planning your island-hopping adventure in Thailand can be overwhelming. To simplify your choices, we’ve highlighted some of the must-visit islands to ensure you experience the best that Thailand has to offer.
Top Islands in the Andaman Sea
Phuket
Phuket, Thailand’s largest island, is a vibrant destination renowned for its powdery white sands, lush palm trees, and crystal-clear waters. Home to over 30 magnificent beaches, Phuket’s most popular spots include Kamala, Karon, Kata, and Patong. Phuket City, the island’s capital, offers lively markets and charming shophouses, while Patong is known for its chic bars, discos, and nightclubs. For a more romantic ambiance, explore the island’s northern reaches. Phuket’s natural beauty, luxurious seaside resorts, and delectable Thai cuisine make it a destination with something for everyone, from bustling nightlife to serene retreats.
Koh Phi Phi
Koh Phi Phi, celebrated for its role in the film The Beach starring Leonardo DiCaprio, lives up to its cinematic reputation. This island paradise boasts breathtaking landscapes where lush mountains meet the turquoise waters of the Andaman Coast. Koh Phi Phi consists of two islands: Koh Phi Phi Don, the only inhabited island with accommodation and amenities, and Koh Phi Phi Leh, home to the iconic Maya Bay. Note that Koh Phi Phi Leh has been closed for renovations since October 2018 and is expected to remain closed until 2021.
Koh Lipe
Known as the Maldives of Thailand, Koh Lipe is rapidly becoming a favorite among tourists. This L-shaped island in the Adang-Rawi Archipelago, located on the edge of Tarutao National Marine Park, offers clear turquoise waters, exquisite local cuisine, and a unique sense of tranquility. Koh Lipe features three popular beaches: Sunrise (east), Sunset (west), and Pattaya (south). Nearby, you’ll find renowned dive sites like the Yong Hua Shipwreck and the 8 Mile Rock pinnacle. Koh Lipe remains relatively untouched by mass tourism, allowing for a peaceful exploration year-round.
Top Islands in the Gulf of Thailand
The Gulf of Thailand, a shallow inlet of the South China Sea, is known for its warm weather and inviting islands. To reach these islands, take a bus from Bangkok to Pattaya, then catch a ferry to your chosen destination. For Koh Chang, the best time to visit is from November to February, while other islands are accessible until the end of April.
Koh Chang
As Thailand’s third-largest island, Koh Chang is celebrated for its laid-back, bohemian vibe. Surrounded by lush forests, welcoming locals, and delectable cuisine, Koh Chang offers some of the most stunning beaches and sunsets in the Gulf of Thailand. Despite its popularity, the island has managed to retain its charm without becoming overly commercialized. Koh Chang is an ideal destination for those seeking a blend of natural beauty and relaxed island life.
Koh Samet
Named after the local ‘Samet’ trees, Koh Samet is a quintessential island getaway featuring crescent-shaped bays with powdery white sand, turquoise waters, a plethora of water sports, and a vibrant nightlife. Although overnight stays were restricted until 1981, the island has since blossomed into a lively destination with cliff-top resorts and bustling nightspots. Located just a 15-minute speedboat ride from the mainland, Koh Samet enjoys less rainfall compared to other Thai islands, making it an ideal year-round destination.
Koh Mak
For those seeking a tranquil retreat with pristine white sand beaches, Koh Mak is the perfect choice. This relatively undeveloped island offers a nostalgic glimpse of Thailand as it was decades ago. With no high-rise buildings or fancy bars, Koh Mak is ideal for families and couples looking for a romantic and secluded escape. It remains a well-kept secret among tourists, providing a peaceful alternative to more crowded destinations.
Top Islands in Surat Thani
Surat Thani, the largest province in southern Thailand, encompasses a variety of islands in the Gulf of Thailand. Known for their hidden waterfalls, burgeoning culinary scene, and vibrant parties, these islands are best visited from December to April, when rainfall is minimal.
Koh Samui
Koh Samui is a cosmopolitan paradise offering something for everyone, from beachside bungalows to luxurious resorts. The island boasts diverse areas like the relaxed Lamai Beach, the lively Chaweng Beach, and the charming Fisherman’s Village in Bophut. Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun, enjoy world-class dining, indulge in spa treatments, or explore exciting nightlife, Koh Samui provides an array of experiences. It’s an ideal spot for romantic honeymoons, laid-back getaways, and everything in between.
Koh Phangan
Koh Phangan is renowned for its Full Moon Party, a vibrant beach festival that attracts thousands of revelers from around the world. Held on the island’s southeastern peninsula, the party at Sunrise Beach is famous for its neon lights and all-night festivities. However, Koh Phangan has more to offer beyond the party scene. Discover bustling night markets, scenic waterfalls, hidden coves, and temples while exploring the island’s lush jungle and tranquil corners.
Koh Tao
Koh Tao, or ‘Turtle Island,’ lives up to its name as Thailand’s premier scuba diving destination. Its warm, shallow waters are ideal for beginners pursuing a PADI certification, and the underwater world features stunning coral reefs and diverse marine life, including rays and whale sharks. Green and hawksbill turtles also visit the island to breed. Despite its rapid development since its exploration in the early 1980s, Koh Tao retains a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly beach bungalows to luxurious five-star resorts.
Top Attractions in Thailand
Historic City of Ayutthaya
Once the grand capital of Siam, Ayutthaya is renowned as both a majestic and historically significant site in Thailand. Founded in 1350, it thrived from the 14th to 18th centuries as a major global commerce and diplomatic hub. Today, the city is a living testament to its rich past, with the Ayutthaya Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1991, serving as its centerpiece. The park is located on an island encircled by three rivers, where ancient temples stand amid lush greenery. Key highlights include the Royal Palace and the Royal Chapel, which were central to the kingdom’s political and spiritual life.
For a deeper cultural experience, visitors can explore the Ayodha Floating Market, the Ayutthaya Boat Museum, the Bang Sai Royal Folk Art and Crafts Center, and the Krirk Yoonpan’s Million Toys Museum. With its close proximity to Bangkok, Ayutthaya remains a popular destination for those eager to delve into Thailand’s historical splendor.
Grand Palace
The Grand Palace in Bangkok is a breathtaking architectural gem and a top tourist attraction. Spanning 2.35 million square feet, it comprises over 100 buildings that chronicle 200 years of Thai royal history. The complex includes the revered Wat Phra Kaew, which houses the Emerald Buddha. Built in 1782, the Grand Palace served as the royal residence and administrative center for 150 years. Today, it is used solely for ceremonial purposes.
Travel Tips: Dress conservatively with long skirts or trousers and sleeved shirts (no tank tops). If wearing flip-flops or sandals, socks are required. Tickets are available from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm and include entry to the Abhisek Dusit Throne Hall and Vimanmek Palace. Guides are available for hire at the ticket kiosk.
Jim Thompson House
The Jim Thompson House, once the home of the American entrepreneur and art collector who revitalized the Thai silk industry, is now a museum showcasing a remarkable collection of Asian art and antiques. James Harrison Wilson “Jim” Thompson, born in Delaware in 1906, settled in Bangkok post-WWII, where he became fascinated with Southeast Asian art. His promotion of Thai silk to international fashion houses helped elevate its global status. The house itself is a beautiful example of traditional Thai architecture and houses Thompson’s extensive collection of paintings, ceramics, and sculptures.
Wat Pho
Wat Pho, Bangkok’s largest and oldest temple complex, is renowned for its impressive reclining Buddha statue, which is 15 meters high and 46 meters long, adorned with gold leaf. Also known as the “Temple of the Reclining Buddha,” Wat Pho is a must-visit for anyone exploring Bangkok. It boasts the first public university in Thailand and the country’s largest collection of Buddha images. Visitors can also experience traditional Thai massage, as Wat Pho is considered the birthplace of this therapeutic practice. A visit here offers not only cultural enrichment but also a relaxing foot or head and shoulder massage.
Travel Tips: The temple complex is open daily from 8:00 am to 6:30 pm. As a mark of respect, all visitors must remove their shoes before entering the temple. Please adhere to the dress code: no exposed shoulders or skin above the knee.
Sukhothai Historical Park
Sukhothai, the former capital of the Sukhothai Kingdom during the 13th and 14th centuries, is enclosed by a moat and walls, covering an area of 2 km by 1.6 km. The park features 193 ruins, including 21 historical sites across 70 km² of land. Key attractions include the royal palace and 26 temples, with Wat Mahathat being the largest. The park, maintained by Thailand’s Fine Arts Department with UNESCO support, was designated a World Heritage Site in 1991.
Travel Tips: The park is open daily from 8:30 am to 6:00 pm. It is divided into five zones, each with a 100 Baht entrance fee. Cars and motorbikes are not allowed inside the park, so renting a bicycle or electric buggy is recommended to explore the impressive ruins, some of which are located outside the city walls. Free maps are available at the ticket office.
Erawan National Park
Located in the Tenasserim Hills of Kanchanaburi Province, Erawan National Park spans 550 sq km and was established in 1975 as Thailand’s 12th national park. The highlight is the emerald-green Erawan Falls, a seven-tiered waterfall named after the three-headed white elephant of Hindu mythology. The first three tiers are easily accessible, but reaching the higher tiers requires sturdy walking shoes and some stamina for the 2-kilometer hike.
The park also features notable caves: Mi, Phartat, Reua, and Ta Duang. To avoid crowds near the falls, consider a ranger-led hike on the Khao Hin Lan Pee Trail, which takes you through the forest to the fifth tier of the falls.
Travel Tips: Bring a swimsuit and be cautious of monkeys, as they may snatch belongings. Food is not permitted beyond the second tier, but water bottles are allowed with a 20-Baht refundable deposit.
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
Perched at an elevation of 1,073 meters, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is one of Northern Thailand’s most revered temples. Construction began in 1386 to house a bone relic of Gautama Buddha. Legend has it that a white elephant carrying the relic climbed Doi Suthep, stopped near the summit, trumpeted three times, and then died. The spot where it lay became the site of the temple.
Travel Tips: Entrance to the temple is 50 Baht. Inside, remove your footwear and dress modestly. The temple can get busy, so visiting early in the day is advisable. There is also a meditation center where visitors can learn and practice meditation.
Khao Sok National Park
Khao Sok National Park, Thailand’s oldest evergreen rainforest, covers 738 sq km and is situated between Phuket, Krabi, and Koh Samui. It is a prime destination for nature enthusiasts seeking a break from beach resorts. The park is home to diverse wildlife, including bears, boars, gaurs, gibbons, tapirs, wild elephants, and, with luck, even tigers. It also boasts over 300 bird species, 38 bat species, and the world’s largest flower, the Rafflesia kerrii.
Travel Tips: The best time to visit is during the dry season from December to April. The park is vast with numerous activities, so plan your trip carefully. During the monsoon season (June to October), trails can be slippery and leeches are common.
What to Eat in Thailand
A visit to Thailand wouldn’t be complete without savoring its world-renowned cuisine. Thai food is celebrated for its aromatic and vibrant flavors, skillfully blending the five essential tastes: sweet, salty, sour, spicy, and bitter.
Thai cuisine is a major draw for tourists, with Bangkok and Chiang Mai standing out as culinary hubs. However, even in the smallest and most remote towns, you can find local specialties that offer a unique gastronomic experience. Here’s a regional breakdown of what to savor in Thailand:
Food in Northern Thailand
Northern Thai cuisine is distinct due to the region’s cooler climate, which supports a variety of herbs and vegetables. Influenced by neighboring Laos, Myanmar, and China, the food often features bitter and sour flavors, and seafood is less common, resulting in less salty dishes.
A staple in the north is khao niaow (sticky rice), which often accompanies dishes like som tum (papaya salad). Noodles are also prevalent, with khao soi being a standout dish that combines crispy and boiled egg noodles in a flavorful broth. Popular northern dishes include gaang hang lair (curry), larb (meat salad), and sai oua (sausage).
Food in Central Thailand
Central Thai cuisine is renowned for its diversity, drawing influences from the region’s geographic neighbors. The blend of Northern and Southern Thai specialties is common here, allowing chefs to creatively adjust dishes based on available ingredients. Meals typically feature a variety of courses, including a soup, a curry, a fried dish, a spicy salad, and vegetables.
In Bangkok, it’s customary to finish a meal with a signature Thai dessert. Notable desserts to try include thong yip and thong yod, which are believed to bring good fortune to diners.
Food in Southern Thailand
As you travel south, you’ll notice a dramatic shift in the cuisine, reflecting the region’s diverse landscape. Southern Thai food is known for its bold flavors and liberal use of fish sauce. Often overshadowed by the northern and central Thai dishes, southern cuisine stands out with its vibrant salads, spicy curries, and abundant seafood. Expect dishes here to be the saltiest and spiciest, delivering an intense flavor experience.
Curries are a highlight of Southern Thai cuisine. They are typically rich, thick, and incredibly spicy. The region’s dishes also draw inspiration from Indonesia and Malaysia, incorporating coconut milk as a key ingredient. This adds creaminess and thickness to many dishes, serving as an alternative to various cooking oils. Additionally, the local climate is ideal for growing pineapples, making them a frequent ingredient in Southern Thai dishes.
Getting Around Thailand
Traveling around Thailand is both affordable and convenient, with numerous options to suit your needs. You can arrange trips and transportation through hotel reception desks or travel agencies, which often offer combination tickets including transfers.
Thailand’s transportation system is extensive and varied, from iconic tuk-tuks to trains, inter-town buses, and songthaews. Here’s a guide to some of the most popular options:
The Popular Tuk-Tuk
Tuk-tuks are a quintessential Thai experience. These three-wheeled motorized rickshaws are decorated in vibrant colors and adorned with trinkets, making them both distinctive and photogenic. While fares can be higher than metered taxis due to their popularity among tourists, a tuk-tuk ride is a memorable and adventurous way to see the city.
Inter-Town Buses
Buses are a cost-effective and practical way to travel around Thailand. They come in four categories: ordinary buses (non-air-conditioned and usually orange), and three types of air-conditioned buses (blue) – second-class, first-class, and VIP.
Songthaew and Air-Conditioned Minibuses
In rural areas, songthaews – open-sided vans or pick-up trucks with bench seating – are a common mode of transport. They are an affordable option for short trips within towns and are typically found near markets. For travel in the deep south, share-taxis and air-conditioned minibuses connect major towns, though minibuses can be cramped if full.
Trains
Thailand boasts an efficient meter-gauge railway system, offering a comfortable and economical way to explore the country. Train travel is not just about reaching your destination but also about enjoying the journey itself.
The railway network includes:
With these options, traveling around Thailand is straightforward and offers a variety of experiences to enhance your visit.
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