THAILAND
OVERVIEW
Thailand, “Land of Smile”, is regarded as one of the most attractive destinations in Southeast Asia. The country is packed with countless amazing things to explore from myriad majestic Palaces and Buddhist temples or ancient historical sites to the buzzing modern atmosphere of shopping malls, markets, beaches, streets, etc. Also, the charm of nature, people, and culture in Thailand is an alluring beauty that could satisfy any travel buffs at any age. With a developed tourism industry, Thailand becomes a prominent tourist hub in the region with a large offer of services at various prices. Visiting the country and encountering the Thai ambience, it is already the best thing you’ve ever had.
COUNTRY FACTS
Capital City Bangkok
Time Zone GMT+7
International Dial Code +66
Currency Thai baht (THB)
Population 71,7 million (Nov 2024)
Religion Buddhism, Muslim, Christian
TOURISM ATTRACTIONS:
NORTH
Northern Thailand is covered in teak forests and presents travelers with an opportunity to get away from the party lifestyle in the south and enjoy some amazing views and trekking.
In stark contrast to the hectic beaches and parties of Southern Thailand, the people and culture here are decidedly more relaxed, with a focus that leans more towards authenticity and nature trekking than wild full moon parties on the beach.
Acting as the central hub of Northern Thailand as it has for centuries, Chiang Mai and its surroundings contains a plethora of ancient temples.
Another place to set out on amazing mountain and valley treks is Chiang Rai. With a much more rugged and authentic feel than Chiang Mai, the province is littered with various ethnic minorities that can be visited.
For the temple-enthusiast, a visit to Sukhothai is definitely warranted. This ancient Thai capital boasts as many as 193 different ruins and historical sites, and is especially exciting in November when the Loy Krathong Festival is held.
The sleepy mountain town of Pai has been steadily growing in popularity. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy some incredibly varied food options, from perfectly made western cuisine to cheap local favorites at the nightly food market.
CHIANG MAI
Nestled in the lush mountains of northern Thailand, Chiang Mai, often referred to as the “Rose of the North,” is one of the biggest cities in Thailand. The city has a rich history and vibrant culture and is a great representation of Thailand. If you are not into big cities, such as Bangkok, Chiang Mai is a great alternative. Chiang Mai offers ancient temples, many local markets and great day trips. Furthermore, it is a great place to experience local restaurants and bars, including the speciality dishes from Northern Thailand.
CHIANG RAI
Renowned as the ancient capital city of the Lanna Kingdom under King Mangrai reign in the thirteenth century, this ‘Art Capital’ Chiang Rai in northern Thailand offers a surprising number of things to do and see such as exploring the colorful hill tribes, hiking/trekking the scenic and outstanding mountains. In addition, Chiang Rai – the birthplace of many Thai artists also houses a significant number of gorgeous temples.
SUKHOTHAI
If you’re a history buff and would like to know about ancient Thai in the past, Sukhothai is a famous destination that you should not miss. Home to the first independent Thai Kingdom – Sukhothai Kingdom, Sukhothai Province remains many historical relics standing for the golden age of Thai civilization from the mid-13th to late 14th century. Heading to Sukhothai, you will get a deep immersion in the old-age ambience of many back-in-time Buddhist architectures.
PAI
Pai, located in the north of Thailand, is a perfect destination if you want to wind down from bustling Thailand. If you have already researched the perfect Thailand Itinerary, Pai was probably in it. Next to that, it is known as both suitable for backpackers and digital nomads with many extending their initial duration spent in this lovely town.
CENTRAL
Not surprisingly, massive Bangkok dominates the central region of Bangkok, and here in the largest city in mainland South East Asia, there is a plethora of stunning temples to visit.
Further north, set on an island surrounded by not one, not two, but three rivers, lies the ancient Thai capital of Ayutthaya. The ruins were recognized as a UNESCO world heritage site in 1991 and include a multitude of temples and structures from the city’s magnificent golden age. East along the coast, your first stop may be in Pattaya, famous for bars, clubs and beach hotels & resorts. Out west in Kanchanaburi province is where you’ll find the only trekking opportunities and nature sights in Central Thailand. Situated among the Tenasserim Hills, the views are stunning and waterfalls, caves and lakes dot the jungle covered countryside.
BANGKOK
Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, is the rightest definition of vibrant city life in Southeast Asia. The city consists of the charm of tradition and majesty besides the lively ambiance of the modernity. Coming here, tourists will have the feeling of entering the world of countless fascinating things from the past until now. Brimming of tourist spots along with smiling people, buzzing atmosphere, and delightsome cuisine, Bangkok is an attractive city that you will never stop surprising.
AYUTTHAYA
As one of Thailand’s central provinces, Ayutthaya is the capital of the Thai Kingdom from 1351 to 1767. The province nowadays remains many old relics indicating a prosperous era in Thailand centuries ago. Any history buff coming here will find it very engrossing to spend time wandering around these historical sites. Ayutthaya is a hidden archaeological gem near Bangkok where you can get closer to Thailand in the past with enjoyment.
PATTAYA
Pattaya is the largest city of Chon Buri Province as well as the biggest tourist-oriented city in Thailand. Attracting huge influxes of tourists annually, this coastal city is famous for big shopping malls, and countless bars, clubs, and coastal hotels & resorts. If you’re expecting a trip with both sun-sand-sea activities and experiencing the busy life of a tourist hub, there is nowhere in Thailand better than Pattaya.
KANCHANABURI
Located only 140 km from Bangkok, Kanchanaburi is a great place to visit for those who are looking for a quick trip to escape the concrete walls of Bangkok and be among nature, go hiking, and swim in beautiful waterfalls. It also allows you to learn more about the historic Kanchanaburi city and see why the Thais love to visit Kanchanaburi so much.
SOUTH
Starting in the north, not far from Bangkok, the resort town of Hua Hin is a popular destination for families or travelers looking for a luxurious and relaxing time at the beach. Over on the west coast, Phuket is the main metropolis of the region, known as the “Pearl of the South”. Heading south from Phuket, you have the islands of Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta, as well as the charming coastal town of Krabi. The islands are of course ringed in pearly beaches, while on the mainland, Krabi has emerged as one of the top rock-climbing destinations of South East Asia. The most famous islands in Thailand are over on the east coast, namely Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao.
PHUKET
Located in the South, Phuket is well-known to be the best destination for a wonderful beach vacation when in Thailand with the beauty of alluring sandy beaches, breathtaking seascapes as well as charming historical and cultural spots. There are a lot of things to see and to do that always keep you occupied with a wide range of activities in Phuket. It comes as no surprise that here is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Thailand.
KRABI
If you are looking for a perfect holiday destination in Thailand to relax on the beautiful white sand beaches with the turquoise waters and the most outstanding scenery surrounding, Krabi is definitely the right choice. Situated between Phang Nga and Trang, Krabi province has more than 150 islands along the 150-kilometre coastline, Krabi offers travelers a wide range of leisure activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, rock climbing, kayaking, jungle trekking and much more.
HUA HIN
Hua Hin is a charming coastal town in Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, about 200 kilometres from Bangkok. Unlike Thailand’s bustling metropolises, Hua Hin has a more relaxed pace, making it an ideal getaway for those looking to unwind. It’s a destination that combines natural beauty with rich cultural history, dating back to when it was a favoured retreat for Thai royalty. Today, Hua Hin is a thriving resort town that still holds onto its traditional roots while offering modern amenities, luxury hotels, and world-class dining.
KOH PHI PHI
Koh Phi Phi island is a beautiful spot in Thailand with limestone hills, turquoise lagoons, and the world-famous beach at Maya Bay. There are two main islands – Phi Phi Leh and Phi Phi Don – and both have amazing scenery. Leh island is completely uninhabited, while Don Island has hotels, restaurants, and more. It’s easy to visit the Phi Phi islands on a day trip (by boat) from Phuket, Krabi, Khao Lak, or Koh Lanta, and that gives you enough time to see Maya Bay and the other main sights, or you can stay a few days on Phi Phi Don and do even more exploring.
KOH LANTA
As Koh Lanta lies just south of the Andaman coast’s prime attractions, namely Krabi, Koh Phi Phi, and Phuket, it has maintained its laid-back atmosphere, even as Koh Lanta has slowly developed to include some of Thailand’s finest Beach resorts. Still, Koh Lanta remains an amazing beach destination for families, couples, backpackers, and scuba divers: anyone who is looking for a Thai Island that has not succumbed to overdevelopment but still has many options in regards to accommodation and activities.
KOH SAMUI
Perched in the Gulf of Thailand, off the eastern coast of mainland Thailand, Koh Samui is the second-largest island in Thailand after Phuket. It is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, lush tropical landscapes, and vibrant nightlife. The island features a diverse landscape, including palm-fringed white sandy beaches, coconut groves, mountains, and lush rainforests.
KOH PHANGAN
Although it’s best known for its monthly Full Moon Party, Koh Phangan has a lot more to offer than just wild nightlife. The island is mountainous, naturally beautiful and quieter and less developed than nearby Koh Samui, Koh Phangan is home to some of the Gulf of Thailand’s best beaches.
From inexpensive beachside bungalows to luxury resorts, a huge range of hotels and resorts are available on Koh Phangan, making this beautiful and quiet island a great choice for luxury and budget travelers alike.
KOH TAO
The natural beauty of Koh Tao Island, both above and below the water, with its stunning coral reefs and abundant marine life in clear, warm water, brings thousands of visitors each year, making it an unforgettable destination for divers, adventurers and travelers alike. This, combined with the relaxed atmosphere and lifestyle, has attracted people here for over 50 years and is now a warm second home for many. Koh Tao has developed in many ways, and with its thriving diving industry, it is now one of the leading centers for dive education in the world.
WHEN TO GO
The best time to visit Thailand is during the cool and dry season between November and early April, when temperatures range from 29°C to 34°C. However, the climate varies throughout the country and you can visit all year round. In the south, the climate differs between the eastern and western coasts. The west coast is more favourable during the winter months, when diving and snorkelling will be at their best. The weather on the east coast of Thailand is good for most of the year. Rainfall there is lowest in January and February, and highest in November.
Besides, depending on interests of travelling, we decide the best time to visit:
Best Times to Visit for Smaller Crowds
Thailand’s low season coincides with monsoon season. With the exception of the Thai islands, which draw college students from Australia and Europe during their summer breaks, the wet and muggy climate keeps many tourists away between July and September.
Visiting Thailand during this quiet time has its perks: You’ll get cheaper accommodations, better access to restaurants and activities typically inundated by vacationers, and potentially more of a local experience. At the same time, there are limitations. Rains could come in brief cloudbursts, or they could come in days-long downpours that affect boat service and island access. Tours are less abundant, and some hotels even close during the off-season, so be sure to plan ahead if you’re considering a trip in the summer.
Best Times to Visit for Good Weather
For ideal weather, visit Thailand during the dry season, which runs from November through March in most of the country, sometimes even lasting until April or May. A major exception is the Lower Gulf – home to the islands of Ko Samui, Ko Pha-Ngan, and Ko Tao – which is rainiest from September through December.
On the Andaman Coast, the coolest, most comfortable weather is around November to February, with average temperatures in the 80s and little chance of rain. This means clear, blue waters and gorgeous vegetation quenched from monsoon season.
Best Times to Visit for Lower Prices
Thailand is a relatively affordable destination throughout the year, though travelers may find the steepest discounts on flights, accommodations, and tours during the low season, July to September.
The low season does have its advantages as it’s quieter and the rates are typically lower. This makes Thailand a great-value destination during the summer. While this time of year is generally wetter, you might even get better natural scenery. Summer is now commonly referred to as ‘green season’ due to the rains turning the countryside green and filling the rivers and waterfalls.
WHEN SHOULD NOT GO ☹
There is no bad time to visit Thailand. Each season has its benefits, but most people avoid traveling during the heaviest monsoons, which can disrupt public transportation and make exploring Thailand’s stunning natural sites wildly uncomfortable (if not impossible). Forget renting a motorbike or riding ferries during the wet season.
Though you’re more likely to snag accommodations for cheap, you’re liable to spend more time at your hotel than you wanted, waiting for the downpours to pass. If you’re averse to heavy rains and thick humidity on vacation, avoid planning a trip to Thailand in August and September.
LANGUAGE
The official language of Thailand is Thai, but English is also spoken in many tourist areas, especially in Bangkok. Learning some basic Thai words and phrases can enhance your travel experience and show respect for the culture.
FOOD
Thai food is world renowned and the country itself a food lover’s paradise. Phat Thai, Green Curry, Som Dtam, Tom Yum Gai… almost certainly everyone has a favourite. Rice and noodles are used as a staple and underlying base for most dishes with various accompaniments, whether it be a broth containing vegetables and, or meat, stir-fry, curry or salad, providing flavour. Thai accompaniments strive to strike a balance between the ‘four flavours‘- sweet, sour, salt & hot. The balance of the four flavours varies from dish to dish to create a varied cuisine full of distinctive flavours – from their celebrated hot & sour soup – Tom Yum Goong, to the milder chicken, peanut & potato Massamum Curry originating in the Muslim South. Omnivores enjoy a plethora of choice and possibilities, though vegetarians need to take heed as often base flavourings often include fish sauce, shrimp paste or dried shrimps.
Thailand brews several beers; the best known is Singha, with Leo and Chang being less expensive and more popular with the locals . Imported beers, such as Heineken, are also widely available. Mekong and Sang Som are two of the more popular local ‘whiskeys’, even though the latter is more like rum (fermented from sugarcane). Fruit juices, freezes, milkshakes of all kinds and coconut water, iced and drunk directly from a fresh coconut are very popular with Thais and visitors alike. Freshly squeezed Thai sweet orange juice and chrysanthemum juice are other favourites. Thais often add salt to their fruit juices or have basil seeds added to their iced fruit juice – an acquired taste that you might learn to like.
HEALTH
Consult your local health practitioner to determine which vaccinations you need. Recommended vaccinations include Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Tetanus. If you’re traveling to remote areas, you may also need vaccinations for TB, Hepatitis B, Rabies, Diphtheria, and Japanese encephalitis. Consider bringing a basic travel health kit containing essentials like over-the-counter medications for diarrhoea, motion sickness, and pain relief, as well as any prescription medications you may need during your trip. Protect yourself against unexpected medical expenses or emergencies by purchasing comprehensive travel insurance for Thailand that includes coverage for healthcare services abroad, medical evacuation, and trip cancellation.
ELECTRICITY
The electric current in Thailand operates mostly on 220 volts – 50 Hz. Round pins, flat pins, are the most common electric plugs.
INTERNET
You will find plenty of Internet cafes in most larger towns and cities and in many guesthouses and hotels as well. The going rate is anywhere from 30B to 80B an hour. Bangkok typically has fast connections and new machines, while the provinces are a little bit behind. Wi-Fi is available in some upscale hotels, but the daily charge is usually around 500B to 600B.
TELEPHONE
Local calls from pay phones cost 1 B for 164 seconds (add more coins for more time). Domestic long-distance rates vary from 3B to 12B per minute, depending on the distance. Hotels add surcharges for international long-distance calls. Private phone offices charge less, but still usually higher than the government rates.
A prepaid Thailand SIM card with an international cell phone is the most convenient and economical solution for staying in touch while in Thailand. All incoming calls while in Thailand are FREE, regardless of where they originate. Pay the local rate for local calls and use a cellular phone in Thailand as you do at home. And unlike home, your Thailand SIM card and cell phone service are prepaid, so there is no need for a contract.
PUBLIC HOLIDAY
Closure of tourist sites can occur at short notice on public holidays and our team will give guests advice about this situation.
New Year: (December 31-January 1)
Makha Bucha Day (Date varies, February or March)
Chakri Memorial Day (April 6)
Songkran Festival (April 13–15)
Labor Day (May 1)
Coronation Day (May 4)
Visakha Bucha Day (Date varies, May or June)
Asalha Bucha Day (Date varies, July)
Beginning of Buddhist Lent (Khao Phansa, Date varies, July)
Queen Mother’s Birthday / Mother’s Day (August 12)
King’s Birthday / Father’s Day (July 28)
Chulalongkorn Day (October 23)
Constitution Day (December 10)
SAFETY
Thailand is known for its friendly locals and welcoming atmosphere, often referred to as the “Land of Smiles.” However, like any tourist destination, it’s important to remain aware of your surroundings and take some basic precautions. The Thai government and local authorities have put in place measures to ensure the safety of tourists, and Thailand has a relatively low crime rate compared to other countries. However, petty theft and scams can occur, particularly in busy tourist areas.
SHOPPING
Very few visitors leave Thailand without any souvenirs in bags because the country is a supermarket that offers amazing choices, good quality, and cheap prices! Some even granted Thailand ‘the shopping mecca’ for all kinds of shopaholics: shopping malls, department stores, local markets, quirky boutiques, etc. Some provinces in Thailand, for instance, Kanchanaburi, are famous for their rich resource of valuable jewels like rubies and sapphires. Also, Thailand owns abundant lists of exotic fruits that will tease your taste buds. If you want to bring some for your friends or relatives, why not try the dried fruits? They are convenient to carry and do not spoil for a short time.
TIPPING
Tipping in Thailand, it is not mandatory but 10% tip is always appreciated. Travel with some cash, as it means you can easily a tip for your tuk tuk driver, porter or waiter. Tipping is not customary in Thailand. Locals tend not leave a tip.
WATER
Tap water in Thailand is not considered safe to drink. It’s recommended to only drink bottled mineral water, which is readily available in hotels, shops and restaurants, or purified water. Avoid having ice in your drink as it might have been made with tap water.
