Thailand – Destination Guide

Thailand, known as the “Land of Smiles,” is one of Southeast Asia’s most beloved destinations. From bustling Bangkok with its golden temples and buzzing street food markets, to the serene beaches of Phuket and Krabi, to the lush jungles of Chiang Mai and Pai, Thailand offers something for every kind of traveller. Whether you’re seeking cultural immersion, tropical relaxation, adventure, or world-class cuisine, Thailand’s mix of tradition and modernity makes it an unforgettable journey.

🏝️ Regions to Explore

🌆 Bangkok

• Thailand’s capital, famous for ornate temples, royal palaces, and lively street life
• Visit the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun
• Explore floating markets and rooftop bars with skyline views

🌴 Phuket & Krabi

• Stunning beaches, limestone cliffs, and turquoise waters
• Gateway to Phi Phi Islands, James Bond Island, and Railay Beach
• Ideal for diving, kayaking, and island-hopping

🌿 Chiang Mai & The North

• Ancient temples, night bazaars, and mountain scenery
• Launchpad for treks into hill tribe villages
• Famous Yi Peng Lantern Festival and ethical elephant sanctuaries

🏖️ Koh Samui, Koh Phangan & Gulf Islands

• Palm-fringed beaches and wellness retreats
• Koh Phangan hosts the world-famous Full Moon Party
• Koh Tao offers some of Asia’s best diving

🌄 Pai & Mae Hong Son

• Laid-back mountain escape with hot springs and waterfalls
• Popular with backpackers, artists, and free spirits
• Stunning drives through winding mountain passes

📅 Best Time to Visit

• Cool Season (Nov – Feb) – Best weather, dry and pleasant, peak tourist season
• Hot Season (Mar – May) – Very hot, but Songkran (Thai New Year) in April is a highlight
• Rainy Season (Jun – Oct) – Lush landscapes, fewer crowds, great deals, occasional heavy showers

✈️ Getting There & Around

• Main International Airports: Bangkok (BKK, DMK), Phuket (HKT), Chiang Mai (CNX), Krabi (KBV), Koh Samui (USM)
• Domestic Travel: Budget airlines (AirAsia, Nok Air, Thai Smile) connect major cities
• Trains: Overnight trains from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Surat Thani, or Nong Khai
• Buses & Vans: Extensive and affordable, though sometimes crowded
• Ferries: Regular services between islands such as Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao, and Phuket

🍲 Food & Drink

• Pad Thai – Stir-fried noodles with shrimp, tofu, or chicken
• Tom Yum Goong – Spicy and sour shrimp soup
• Som Tum – Green papaya salad with chili and lime
• Massaman Curry – Rich, mild curry with peanuts and potato
• Thai Iced Tea – Sweet and refreshing, perfect for the heat
• Street food is a must: satay skewers, mango sticky rice, roti pancakes

🎉 Culture & Etiquette

• Always greet with a wai (palms pressed together) when appropriate
• Dress modestly when visiting temples (covered shoulders and knees)
• Remove shoes before entering homes and temples
• Public displays of affection are minimal, but kindness and smiles are universal
• Bargaining is common in markets but do so politely

🛍️ What to Buy

• Handcrafted silk, silver jewellery, and ceramics
• Spices, teas, and herbal balms
• Tailor-made clothing
• Local art, handicrafts, and night market treasures

💡 Practical Info

• Visa – Many nationalities receive a visa exemption (30–45 days). E-visas also available. Always check official Thai immigration sites before travelling.
• Currency – Thai Baht (THB)
• Language – Thai is the official language, English widely spoken in tourist areas
• Electricity – 220V, plugs Type A, B, C (consider universal adapter)
• Water – Tap water is not safe to drink; bottled or filtered water recommended
• Vaccinations – Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and routine vaccinations recommended
• Travel Insurance – Highly recommended for medical coverage and adventure activities
• Safety – Generally safe; be cautious of scams (especially tuk-tuk or gem scams). LGBTQIA+ travellers are widely accepted in urban and tourist areas, with Bangkok being one of Asia’s most LGBTQ+ friendly cities.
• Internet – Fast and affordable, SIM cards and eSIMs available at airports and 7-Eleven stores. Using an eSIM is our recommended choice while travelling anywhere in the world, and our recommended provider is Holafly. For more information on eSIMs, check out this blog.

🎒 Packing Guide

• Lightweight, breathable clothing – cotton or linen tops, shorts, and dresses for the hot climate
• Modest outfits – long pants or skirts and covered shoulders for temple visits
• Swimwear – bikinis, boardshorts, and rash guards for beach days and water sports
• Sarong or scarf – useful for temple cover-ups, the beach, or as a light wrap in the evenings
• Comfortable walking shoes – for exploring cities, markets, and ruins
• Flip-flops or sandals – easy to slip off at temples and perfect for the beach
• Light rain jacket or poncho – especially useful during the rainy season (June–Oct)
• Insect repellent – essential for evenings and jungle or island areas
• Sunscreen and after-sun lotion – high SPF recommended for the tropical sun
• Reusable water bottle – with filter if possible, to reduce plastic use
• Small backpack or daypack – for day trips and excursions
• Travel adapter – Thailand uses 220V with Type A, B, and C plugs (universal adapter recommended)
• Personal medications and small first-aid kit – include rehydration salts for hot days
• Portable power bank – handy for long journeys or days out exploring
• Lightweight scarf or travel towel – multipurpose and dries quickly
• Waterproof phone case or dry bag – great for boat trips, snorkelling, and island hopping
• Copies of passport, travel insurance, and key documents – keep one digital copy as well
• Optional extras – snorkel mask, GoPro or underwater camera, and earplugs for noisy cities or boats

🌟 Why Visit Thailand?

Thailand blends ancient tradition with modern energy, offering golden temples, vibrant street food culture, world-class beaches, and jungle adventures. Whether it’s relaxing on tropical islands, shopping in Bangkok, trekking in the north, or diving into its rich cultural festivals – Thailand is a destination that keeps travellers coming back time and again.