Thailand

Thailand: general info for travelers

Thailand is a Southeast Asian country known for its rich culture, stunning beaches, and delicious cuisine. It is also known as the "Land of Smiles" because of the friendly and hospitable nature of its people. The country is home to numerous temples and historical landmarks, such as the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok, and the ancient city of Ayutthaya. Thailand has a tropical climate with hot and humid summers and warm winters. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Asia, attracting millions of visitors each year.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Thailand, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Thailand: places to visit

Here are some of the top places to visit in Thailand, with a short description of each: 1. Bangkok - Thailand's bustling capital city, known for its temples, street food, shopping, and nightlife.
2. Chiang Mai - A city in northern Thailand known for its beautiful temples, night markets, and opportunities to explore the surrounding countryside.
3. Phuket - A popular island destination in the south of Thailand, known for its beaches, nightlife, and water activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and island hopping.
4. Krabi - A province in southern Thailand known for its stunning beaches, limestone cliffs, and great opportunities for rock climbing, hiking, and water sports.
5. Koh Samui - An island in the Gulf of Thailand known for its beautiful beaches and luxury resorts, as well as its lively nightlife scene.
6. Ayutthaya - A historical city in central Thailand that was once the capital of the Ayutthaya Kingdom, with beautiful ruins and temples to explore.
7. Sukhothai - Another historical city in central Thailand that was once a major center of Buddhist learning, with ruins and temples that date back to the 13th century.
These are just a few examples of the many amazing places to visit in Thailand. Depending on your interests, you might also want to consider visiting places like Pai, Koh Phi Phi, or Khao Yai National Park.
There is more to see and do in Thailand: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Thailand: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Thailand, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Thailand experiences a tropical climate which means it is hot and humid throughout the year. There are three seasons in Thailand - the hot season, the rainy season, and the cool season. The hot season is from March to May, and temperatures can range from 30°C to 40°C. The rainy season is from June to October, and the country experiences heavy downpours and occasional flooding. The cool season is from November to February, and temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C, with cool breezes and clear skies. The best time to visit Thailand depends on your preferences and what you want to do. If you want to go to the beach and enjoy water activities, the best time to visit is between November and February during the cool season. If you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy cheaper accommodation, you can visit during the shoulder season between March and June, or September and October. However, be prepared for some rain during these times.

Thailand: activities and what to do

Thailand is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers, as it offers a wide variety of activities and sports. Some of the most popular ones are: 1. Scuba diving and snorkeling: Thailand is home to some of the most beautiful and diverse underwater ecosystems in the world. The best spots for scuba diving and snorkeling are the Similan Islands, Koh Tao, and the Andaman Sea.
2. Rock climbing: Thailand has some excellent rock climbing sites, especially in the Krabi province. Railay Beach is a popular spot for climbers of all levels.
3. Trekking and hiking: The northern part of Thailand is known for its beautiful mountains and lush forests. Trekking and hiking are great ways to explore and appreciate the natural beauty of the region.
4. Elephant riding: Thailand is famous for its elephant sanctuaries, where visitors can ride and interact with these amazing animals.
5. Muay Thai: Thailand's national sport is a must-try for anyone who wants to experience the country's culture and martial arts heritage. There are numerous gyms and training centers across the country.
6. Golf: Thailand has some excellent golf courses, especially around Bangkok and Phuket.
7. Watersports: From kiteboarding to wakeboarding, Thailand offers a variety of watersports activities that are popular among tourists.
These are just a few of the many activities and sports that you can do on holiday in Thailand. The best way to plan your itinerary is to research activities that suit your interests, budget, and travel style.

Thailand: few words on history and culture

Thailand is a Southeast Asian country with a rich and diverse history and culture. The earliest civilization in Thailand dates back to over 5,000 years ago. Over the centuries, Thailand was influenced by various cultures, from Indian, Chinese, and Khmer, to European colonialism. Thailand's dominant religion is Buddhism, which was introduced to the country over 2,000 years ago. The country is known for its many beautiful temples and stunning Buddhist architecture.
Thai cuisine is also renowned around the world, with its exquisite flavours and unique combination of spices. The culture is also famous for its traditional dance, music, and decorations that are used in famous festivals like Songkran and Loy Krathong. Under King Rama IX, Thailand advanced from being a fairly underdeveloped country to becoming one of the strongest economies in Southeast Asia. Overall, Thailand is a country with a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its traditions, architecture, food, and people.

Thailand: how to move around on holiday

There are several means of transport to reach and visit Thailand, depending on where you are starting your journey from: 1. Airplane: This is the most common and convenient way to reach Thailand. The country has two main international airports- Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and Phuket International Airport (HKT). Many major airlines operate daily flights to Thailand.
2. Train: If you are coming from neighboring countries like Malaysia, Laos, or Cambodia, you can take a train to Thailand. The train journey can be a scenic and affordable option.
3. Bus: You can also take a bus to Thailand from neighboring countries. The bus service is comfortable, and the fares are also affordable.
4. Car: You can drive to Thailand if you are coming from neighboring countries. However, driving in Thailand can be a bit challenging due to the language barrier and different driving laws.
Once you are in Thailand, the best means of transport to get around are local taxis, tuk-tuks, buses, and trains. To hire a car to visit Thailand, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Thailand: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Thailand with a full stomach:D
Sure, here are some of the main typical foods of Thailand and their descriptions: 1. Tom yum goong: This is a spicy soup made with shrimp, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, fish sauce, and lime juice. It's a favorite dish of many people because of its tangy and spicy taste.
2. Pad Thai: This is a popular noodle dish made with stir-fried rice noodles, tofu, bean sprouts, eggs, shrimp or chicken, peanuts, and a sweet and sour tamarind sauce. It's a filling and flavorful dish that's often sold by street vendors.
3. Som tam: This is a green papaya salad made with shredded green papaya, cherry tomatoes, green beans, peanuts, fish sauce, lime juice, and chili peppers. It's a refreshing salad that's often served with grilled meats and sticky rice.
4. Massaman curry: This is a mild and creamy curry made with beef or chicken, potatoes, onions, peanuts, and a blend of spices like cinnamon, cloves, and bay leaves. It's a comforting dish that's perfect for cooler evenings.
5. Khao soi: This is a curry noodle soup made with egg noodles, chicken or beef, coconut milk, and a blend of spices like turmeric and coriander. It's a rich and savory soup with a little bit of spice.
6. Mango sticky rice: This is a popular dessert made with sticky rice, fresh mangoes, and coconut milk. It's a sweet and creamy treat that's perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

Thailand: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Thailand can be both affordable and expensive for tourists depending on your budget and travel style. Generally, accommodation, transportation and food are reasonably priced in Thailand. However, the cost of tours, activities, and nightlife can add up quickly and push up your overall expenses. Thailand also offers luxury experiences, such as high-end resorts and spas, which come with a higher price tag. It's best to research and plan your budget beforehand based on your preferences and priorities.

Thailand: where to find accodation

There are multiple options to look for accommodations in Thailand. Some of the most popular platforms are: 1) Booking.com: This platform is widely used by travelers across the world to find the best accommodation deals.
2) Agoda: Agoda is a popular platform for finding affordable accommodations in Thailand, with a wide range of options.
3) Airbnb: For travelers looking for unique and authentic accommodations, Airbnb is a great option.
4) Expedia: Expedia offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to budget hostels and guesthouses.
5) Hostelworld: For budget travelers, Hostelworld is a great option as it offers a wide range of hostels and dormitories.
It's always a good idea to read reviews from other travelers before booking your accommodation to get a better sense of what to expect.
You can check hotel prices in Thailand here:
Booking.com

Thailand: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
Thailand is a very popular destination for tourists around the world. According to the Thailand Ministry of Tourism and Sports, Thailand received approximately 39.7 million tourists in 2019. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of tourists has decreased significantly in 2020.
In terms of crowded periods, Thailand has peak tourism seasons during the months of November to February, which is the cool and dry season, and from July to August, which is the summer vacation period in many countries. During these times, many popular destinations can be quite crowded. The shoulder seasons, between March to June and September to October, may have fewer tourists and sometimes have better deals on accommodations and activities.
Thailand is generally a safe country for tourists, but like any other tourist destination, there are some places that should be avoided. For example, some parts of Bangkok are known to be more dangerous than others, especially at night. Tourists should also be aware of the risk of scams and petty crime, such as pickpocketing and theft, in crowded areas such as markets, tourist hotspots, and public transportation. To avoid falling victim to such crimes, it's important to stay vigilant, keep valuables like passports and wallets in a secure place, and avoid carrying large sums of cash.
Overall, Thailand is a safe and welcoming country with friendly people and a vibrant culture, but it's always a good idea to exercise caution and common sense to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Thailand on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Thailand: events for tourists

Thailand is known for its vibrant culture and unique festivals and events.
1. Songkran Water Festival: This is the Thai New Year celebration, which takes place in April, and is known for its water fights and traditional celebrations.
2. Loy Krathong Festival: This is often called the "Festival of Lights," where Thai people float decorated baskets on the water, and there are fireworks and parades.
3. Full Moon Party: This takes place on the island of Koh Phangan during every full moon, and is known as a wild beach party with music, drinks, and dancing.
4. Phi Ta Khon Ghost Festival: This takes place in June or July in Loei Province, and is a unique event where people dress up as ghosts and parade through the streets.
5. Vegetarian Festival: This takes place in October in Phuket, where locals and visitors follow a strict vegetarian diet for nine days.
6. Elephant Festival: This takes place in Surin in November, where elephants are celebrated with parades, performances, and competitions.
7. Thai Boxing Matches: Thai boxing, or Muay Thai, is the national sport, and matches take place throughout the country.
These are just a few of the many unique festivals and events that Thailand has to offer.

Thailand: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Thailand, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Sure, here's a recommended two-week itinerary for a typical tourist in Thailand: Day 1-3: Bangkok - Explore the historic sites such as the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew, and Wat Pho - Shop at Chatuchak Weekend Market or Pratunam Market - Enjoy the nightlife in Khao San Road or the trendy Thonglor area Day 4-5: Ayutthaya - Take a day trip to the ancient capital of Ayutthaya and visit the temples - Take a boat ride along Chao Phraya River Day 6-7: Chiang Mai - Experience the authentic Thai culture and visit the Doi Suthep Temple - Explore the Night Bazaar or Sunday Walking Street Market Day 8-9: Pai - Take a scenic drive to Pai, a small hippie town - Relax and soak in the hot springs - Trek to waterfalls or visit the Pai Canyon Day 10-12: Phuket - Soak up the sun on the beautiful beaches of Patong or Kata - Take a boat trip to Phi Phi islands or James Bond Island - Visit the beautiful Wat Chalong Temple Day 13-14: Koh Samui - Enjoy the stunning views at Namuang Waterfall and the Big Buddha Temple - Take a dip in the refreshing waters of the Hin Ta and Hin Yai rocks This is just a sample itinerary, and can be adjusted based on your preferences and travel style. Make sure you give yourself enough time to explore each destination and get the most out of your trip.

Thailand: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Thailand described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Ayutthaya is a historical city located in central Thailand, about 80 kilometers north of Bangkok. It was once the capital of the Kingdom of Siam, and it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city h... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ayutthaya
- Bang Saen is a popular beach town located in the Chonburi province of Thailand. It is known for its wide sandy beach, clear blue water and laid-back atmosphere. The town has a range of accommodations,... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bang Saen
- Bangkok is the capital and largest city of Thailand, located in the central part of the country. It has a population of over 8 million people and is known for its vibrant street life, ornate shrines, ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bangkok
- Chiang Mai is a city located in the northern part of Thailand known for its rich culture, historical significance, and beautiful temples. It was founded in 1296 and served as the capital of the ancien... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chiang Mai
- Chiang Rai is a city located in the northern part of Thailand. It is known for its beautiful landscapes, historical sites, and a rich cultural heritage. The city has a population of approximately 200,... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chiang Rai
- Chonburi is a province located in the eastern part of Thailand, with its capital in the city of Chonburi. It is situated along the Gulf of Thailand and is known for its beautiful beaches, bustling sea... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chonburi
- Chumphon is a coastal province located in the southern region of Thailand. It is approximately 500 kilometers south of Bangkok and borders the Gulf of Thailand to the east. The province has a populati... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chumphon
- Hat Yai is a popular city located in Southern Thailand, around 55km north of the Malaysian border. It is the largest city in Songkhla Province, with a population of approximately 160,000 people. Hat Y... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hat Yai
- Hua Hin is a beautiful seaside resort town situated on the Gulf of Thailand, about a 2-3 hour drive south of Bangkok. It is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike due to its stunning beac... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hua Hin
- Kanchanaburi is a province in western Thailand, known for its natural beauty, rich history, and cultural attractions. Some of the top attractions in Kanchanaburi include the Bridge over the River Kwai... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kanchanaburi
- Khao Lak is a beautiful coastal town located in the Phang Nga province of Thailand. It is situated on the west coast of the Andaman Sea and is known for its stunning beaches, clear water, and lush gre... CONTINUE here for a trip to Khao Lak
- Khao Yai is a popular destination located in the Nakhon Ratchasima Province of Thailand, approximately 3 hours from Bangkok. It is a beautiful national park known for its lush forests, waterfalls, wil... CONTINUE here for a trip to Khao Yai
- Ko Sam Roi Yot is a coastal national park in Thailand, located in Prachuap Khiri Khan Province. The name "Ko Sam Roi Yot" translates to "300 peaks island" which refers to the numerous limestone peaks ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ko Sam Roi Yot
- Koh Chang is a beautiful island located in the eastern part of Thailand's Trat Province, near the border with Cambodia. It is the second-largest island in Thailand after Phuket and is characterized by... CONTINUE here for a trip to Koh Chang
- Koh Jum (also known as Koh Phu) is a small tropical island located in the Andaman Sea off the west coast of Thailand, close to the popular tourist destinations of Krabi and Koh Lanta. The island is kn... CONTINUE here for a trip to Koh Jum
- Koh Kood is a beautiful island located in the eastern part of Thailand, situated close to the Cambodia border. The island is known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, lush rainforests, and... CONTINUE here for a trip to Koh Kood
- Koh Lanta is a beautiful island located in the Andaman Sea in the Krabi Province of Thailand. It is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, lush tropical forests, and laid-back atmospher... CONTINUE here for a trip to Koh Lanta
- Koh Mak is a small island located in the Gulf of Thailand, about 40 kilometers from the mainland. With a total land area of just over 16 square kilometers, Koh Mak is known for its pristine beaches, c... CONTINUE here for a trip to Koh Mak
- Koh Phangan is a tropical island located in the Gulf of Thailand. It is famous for its beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and world-renowned full moon parties. The island is home to a mix of jun... CONTINUE here for a trip to Koh Phangan
- Koh Samet is a small island located in the Gulf of Thailand, around 200 kilometers southeast of Bangkok. It is one of the nearest islands to the capital and is popular among both locals and tourists. ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Koh Samet
- Koh Samui is a beautiful island located in the Gulf of Thailand, it is the second largest island in Thailand after Phuket. The island has many stunning white sand beaches and crystal clear waters whic... CONTINUE here for a trip to Koh Samui
- Koh Tao is a small island located in the Gulf of Thailand, famous for its sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and abundant marine life, making it a popular destination for snorkeling and scuba diving... CONTINUE here for a trip to Koh Tao
- Krabi is a province in Thailand located on the south-western coast of the country, facing the Andaman Sea. It is characterized by stunning limestone cliffs, sandy beaches, and crystal-clear waters. Th... CONTINUE here for a trip to Krabi
- Lampang is a province located in northern Thailand. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, beautiful temples, and natural attractions such as the Limestone caves, the Doi Luang National Park, and... CONTINUE here for a trip to Lampang
- Mae Hong Son is a northern province in Thailand, known for its beautiful mountains and unspoiled natural beauty. It is home to many ethnic groups, including Karen, Lisu, Hmong, and Lahu tribes. Mae Ho... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mae Hong Son
- Nakhon Ratchasima, also known as Khorat, is a city located in the northeastern region of Thailand, approximately 250 kilometers from Bangkok. It is the capital city of the Nakhon Ratchasima Province a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nakhon Ratchasima
- Nakhon Sawan is a province in central Thailand, located approximately 240 km north of Bangkok. It is known for its scenic landscapes, particularly its rivers and forests. The province has a rich histo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nakhon Sawan
- Nakhon Si Thammarat is a city in southern Thailand, located in the province of the same name. It is one of the oldest cities in Thailand, with a rich history dating back over a thousand years. The cit... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nakhon Si Thammarat
- Pai is a small town located in northern Thailand's Mae Hong Son Province. It is a popular destination among tourists due to its picturesque scenery, laid-back atmosphere, and numerous outdoor activiti... CONTINUE here for a trip to Pai
- Pattaya is a popular coastal city located in the Chonburi Province of Thailand. It is located approximately 150 kilometers southeast of Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand. Pattaya is a renowned tou... CONTINUE here for a trip to Pattaya
- Phayao is a province in northern Thailand, located about 700 kilometers from the capital city of Bangkok. It is known for its picturesque lake and scenic landscapes, as well as its rich history and cu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Phayao
- Phitsanulok is a city located in the northern region of Thailand. It is the capital of Phitsanulok Province and is located about 377 kilometers north of Bangkok. The city is well-known for its rich hi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Phitsanulok
- Phrae is a province in northern Thailand, known for its rich history and cultural heritage. It is famous for its teak forests, traditional Thai architecture, and ancient ruins. Phrae is also a major c... CONTINUE here for a trip to Phrae
- Phuket is a province located in the southern part of Thailand, known for its beautiful beaches, clear blue waters, and stunning landscapes. It is the largest island in Thailand and is known as the "Pe... CONTINUE here for a trip to Phuket
- Prachuap Khiri Khan is a province in the southern region of Thailand, located on the western coast along the Gulf of Thailand. The province is about 281 kilometers south of Bangkok and is known for it... CONTINUE here for a trip to Prachuap Khiri Khan
- Pranburi is a small coastal town located in the Prachuap Khiri Khan province of Thailand. It is located about 30 kilometers south of the popular tourist destination of Hua Hin. Pranburi is known for i... CONTINUE here for a trip to Pranburi
- Railay Beach is a beautiful and secluded area located in the Krabi province of Thailand. It is one of the most popular destinations in Thailand for rock climbing, thanks to its striking limestone clif... CONTINUE here for a trip to Railay Beach
- Rayong is a province in eastern Thailand, located on the coast of the Gulf of Thailand. It is known for its beautiful beaches, warm weather, and delicious seafood. The province has a rich culture and ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Rayong
- Si Racha is a district in the Chonburi province of Thailand. It is located on the east coast of Thailand, approximately 100 kilometers southeast of Bangkok. Si Racha is famous for its seafood, includi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Si Racha
- Songkhla is a historic city located in southern Thailand, near the border of Malaysia. It is situated on the eastern coast of the country, facing the Gulf of Thailand. With a population of over ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Songkhla
- Sukhothai is a province in the north-central region of Thailand that was once the capital of the Sukhothai Kingdom, which existed from 1238 to 1438. Today, Sukhothai is known for its well-preserved ru... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sukhothai
- Sure, Surat Thani is a city located in southern Thailand, on the banks of the Tapi River. It is the largest city in the Surat Thani Province and a popular transit hub for exploring nearby attractions ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Surat Thani
- Trat is a province located in the southeastern region of Thailand bordering Cambodia to the east. It is known for its many islands, including popular destinations like Koh Chang, Koh Kood, and Koh Mak... CONTINUE here for a trip to Trat
- Ubon Ratchathani is a province located in the northeastern region of Thailand. It is famous for its ancient temples, lush green jungles and beautiful waterfalls. The city of Ubon Ratchathani is the pr... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ubon Ratchathani
- Udon Thani is a city in northeastern Thailand, located about 560 kilometers from Bangkok. It is the fourth largest city in the country and the capital of the Udon Thani Province. The city is known for... CONTINUE here for a trip to Udon Thani


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