Thailand

Thailand Travel Guide Contents

Click below to jump to the sections that interest you most! 👇

About Thailand · Quick facts · Highlights of Thailand · Popular cities in Thailand · Best things to do · What to Eat · What to Pack · Typical Budget · Travel Tips · Thailand Articles

About Thailand

Thailand is a popular tourist destination that offers a unique cultural experience, stunning natural beauty, and delicious food! From the golden beaches of Phuket to the temples and nightlife of Bangkok, there’s something for everyone in Thailand.

From visas to transport, here’s everything you need to know about traveling in Thailand.

Quick Facts about Thailand

• Population: 69.4 million (July 2020)
• Area: 198,120 sq km
• Currency: Thai Baht (THB)
• Language(s): Thai
• Capital City: Bangkok
• Religion: Buddhism
• Government type: Constitutional Monarchy

Highlights of Thailand

Temples and Cultural Sites

Thailand is known for its numerous temples and cultural sites, such as Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Pho, and the Grand Palace in Bangkok. These destinations offer a glimpse into Thai culture and history, making them ideal for cultural and history enthusiasts.

Beaches and Islands

Thailand has some of the most beautiful beaches and islands in the world, such as Phuket, Koh Samui, and Phi Phi Island. These destinations offer turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and great snorkeling and diving opportunities, making them ideal for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts.

Food and Nightlife

Thai cuisine is world-famous for its delicious and spicy flavors, and Thailand offers a wide range of street food, night markets, and restaurants. Bangkok is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with many clubs, bars, and night markets. These destinations are ideal for foodies and party-goers.

Adventure Activities

Thailand offers a wide range of adventure activities, such as trekking, zip-lining, and rock climbing in places like Chiang Mai and Pai. There are also opportunities for elephant riding, bamboo rafting, and kayaking. These destinations are perfect for thrill-seekers and adventure enthusiasts.

Wellness and Spa

Thailand is famous for its wellness and spa retreats, such as Chiva-Som, Kamalaya, and the Four Seasons in Chiang Mai. These destinations offer various programs such as yoga, meditation, detox, and spa treatments, making them ideal for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.

Popular Destinations in Thailand

Bangkok

From the glittering Grand Palace and the Chao Phraya River, to Bangkok street food markets, magical temples, and world-class spas.

Northern Thailand

The White Temple, elephant sanctuaries, the Thai jungles, and hill tribes. From Chiang Mai to Pai and beyond.

Thai Islands

Snorkeling in Koh Phangan, diving in Koh Tao, hiking in Koh Samet, or partying in Koh Phi Phi – your guide to the Thai islands.

Best activities, attractions, and things to do in Thailand

1. Visit Wat Phra Kaew: Located in the Grand Palace complex, this impressive temple is home to a revered statue of the Emerald Buddha.

2. Take a Cruise Along the Chao Phraya River: Enjoy stunning views of Bangkok from a traditional long-tail boat as you cruise along the river.

3. Tour the Historic City of Ayutthaya: Explore the ruins of this ancient capital and take in its unique blend of temples, monuments, and palaces.

4. Enjoy Some Beach Time: Thailand has some stunning beaches for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, or simply relaxing on the sand!

5. Take a Cooking Class: Learn how to prepare delicious Thai dishes from the experts and bring back some culinary skills!

6. Go Trekking in Chiang Mai: Embark on a multi-day trek through the lush jungles of northern Thailand and get closer to nature. There is so much to enjoy in Chiang Mai – check out my full guide here!

7. Take Part in a Water Festival Celebration: Experience the famous Songkran Water Festival and enjoy the unique Thai tradition of throwing water at each other!

8. Enjoy an Authentic Thai Massage: Relax and unwind with a traditional massage as you take in the sights and sounds of Thailand’s cities.

9. Shop for Bargains in Bangkok: Don’t miss out on the opportunity to score some bargains in Bangkok’s bustling markets.

10. Visit the Amazing Temples of Angkor Wat: One of the world’s great archaeological sites, explore over 1000 temples, and enjoy the stunning architecture!

What to Eat in Thailand

Thailand is home to some of the best dishes in the world and is known for street food, spicy curries, seafood, and more.

Pad Thai

Oh boy, this is a must-try. Imagine, stir-fried rice noodles jazzed up with tofu or shrimp, bean sprouts, eggs, and that zesty tamarind sauce. This baby was born in the city of Ayutthaya, but you’ll find it on practically every street corner in Bangkok. I remember my first Pad Thai, sitting on a tiny stool at a busy street stall, watching the vendor toss the noodles in a flaming wok. The taste? Like a Thai symphony in my mouth! Savory, sweet, sour, and spicy all at once. I was hooked. Who needs fancy dining when you’ve got street food this good?

Green Curry

Green Curry or Kaeng Khiao Wan, it’s the Hulk of Thai cuisine. Don’t be fooled by its color, it’s as spicy as the midday Thai sun. Originally from Central Thailand, your taste buds will appreciate the harmony of coconut milk, green chilies, and a plethora of herbs. That first bite in a charming little restaurant in Chiang Mai? I swear I saw stars, it was that good. Try it in any traditional Thai restaurant and brace yourself for an explosion of flavors. Trust me, you’ll be getting seconds.

Som Tam

Some like it hot, and if that’s you, then welcome to Som Tam land. This punchy green papaya salad hails from the northeast region of Isan, but it has since swarmed the entire country. My first encounter? An accidental order in a bustling Bangkok market, resulting in watery eyes and a new-found love. It’s a fiery combo of chili, lime, fish sauce, and the crunch of unripe papaya – like a roundhouse kick from a Thai boxer! But don’t worry, even in the heat, there’s sweetness to balance it out.

Tom Yum Goong

This spicy shrimp soup needs no introduction. Tom Yum Goong, a perfect harmony of hot and sour with a citrusy twist, is truly a comfort food of the Gods. This concoction originated from Central Thailand, but its fame has spread far and wide. My first sip? A rainy day in Phuket, and I swear it felt like a warm Thai hug. If you’re in the mood for a spicy, tangy treat, then this soup will take you to cloud nine.

Mango Sticky Rice

Sweet tooth, rejoice! Thailand’s beloved dessert, Mango Sticky Rice or Khao Niaow Ma Muang, will not disappoint. Found everywhere, this dessert originated in the farming villages of northeastern Thailand. Picture this – my first bite, under a beach-side cabana in Koh Samui, a ripe mango, sticky rice, and rich coconut milk, it was like tasting a tropical paradise. If there’s one dessert to dream about, it’s this one. You don’t have to like rice or mangoes to fall in love with it. Yes, it’s that good!

Thai Tea

Alrighty, brace yourself for this one, folks. Also known as Cha Yen, this sweet, creamy beverage is your best bet to beat the scorching Thai heat. It’s like a sweet, creamy hug on a hot day. Trust me, the first time I tasted it in a bustling Bangkok market, I thought I found the secret elixir of life. A strong brew of Ceylon tea, combined with condensed milk and sugar, served over crushed ice and often topped with evaporated milk – it’s like having a dessert in a glass! You’ll find it in just about every street corner in Thailand. So, when in Thailand, skip the latte and sip on this heavenly brew. It’ll be love at first gulp, I guarantee it!

Khao Soi

Okay, Khao Soi. Where do I begin? This is one of the Northern Thai cuisine’s crown jewels. Originating from Chiang Mai, this curried noodle soup gives comfort food a whole new meaning. I still remember my first taste, in a quaint little café tucked away in the old town of Chiang Mai. The creamy coconut milk curry, the tender chunks of chicken, the soft boiled noodles underneath, and the crispy noodles on top, it was like the Beatles’ reunion in my mouth! If you’re anywhere in the north, hunting down a bowl of Khao Soi should be top of your to-do list. If you’ve got a thing for noodles, this dish will be your new obsession, trust me on this!

What to Pack for Thailand

1. Lightweight Clothing – Trust me, in the Thai heat, you’ll thank your lucky stars for every breathable piece of fabric you’ve got. I learned this the hard way, packing jeans for my first trip. Now? Linen and cotton are my new best friends.
2. Swimwear – The Thai beaches are waiting! You’ll be so stoked you remembered your swimsuit when you see those crystal-clear waters. Just don’t forget a quick-dry towel, unless you enjoy the ‘sandpaper rubdown’.
3. Flip Flops – You might be tempted to pack those cute sandals, but unless you want to nurse blisters while others enjoy the full moon party, bring those trusty flip flops. I repeat, leave the stilettos at home!
4. Sunscreen – Look, lobster is a great look for, well, lobsters. Lather up with some good SPF, unless you want to spend your vacation a shade of ‘sunburn red’.
5. Bug Spray – Tropical paradise comes with its own mini army of mosquitoes. First time I forgot my bug spray, I ended up looking like a connect-the-dots puzzle. Lesson learned.
6. Power Adapter – Trust me, an Instagram-free holiday is not what you want. Save yourself the trouble and bring a universal adapter. In Thailand, they use Type A, B, C, and O plugs.
7. Travel Medicine Kit – I love Thai street food, but sometimes it doesn’t love me back. Stock up on some basic medicines. You’ll be glad you did when the infamous ‘Bangkok Belly’ strikes!
8. Waterproof Phone Case – Fancy a boat ride or a wild Songkran water fight? Better get that phone some swimwear too. Take it from someone who’s lost a phone to the Thai waters – it’s not fun!
9. Rain Poncho – Rain showers can be sudden in Thailand, and they have a knack for timing, like when you’re visiting the Grand Palace. Pack a compact rain poncho – fashionable? No. Practical? Absolutely.
10. Temple-Appropriate Clothing – Thai temples are nothing short of magnificent, but they require some respectful attire. That means covering your shoulders and knees. On my first temple visit, I almost got turned away for wearing shorts. Now, I always pack a sarong or a light scarf in my daypack. It’s the Swiss Army knife of travel gear – handy for temple visits, a beach cover-up, or even a makeshift towel. No matter how hot it gets, you’ll have to keep your knees and shoulders covered. It’s a small price to pay for an enlightening experience.

Typical budget for Thailand

Thailand, oh what a paradise for budget travelers! For as little as $30-50 a day, you can live like a Thai king (or queen!). How, you ask? Let me break it down for you.

Now remember, these are ballpark figures, my friends. Thailand can be as cheap or as extravagant as you make it!

Budget Category	Bangkok	Chiang Mai/Northern Thailand	Phuket	The Islands
Accommodation (per night)	Budget Hostel: $5-10, Mid-range Hotel: $20-50, Luxury Hotel: $80+	Budget Hostel: $4-8, Mid-range Hotel: $15-35, Luxury Hotel: $60+	Budget Hostel: $10-15, Mid-range Hotel: $30-60, Luxury Hotel: $90+	Budget Hostel: $10-20, Mid-range Hotel: $40-70, Luxury Hotel: $100+
Food (per day)	Street Food: $1-3 per meal, Restaurant: $5-15 per meal	Street Food: $1-2 per meal, Restaurant: $4-10 per meal	Street Food: $2-4 per meal, Restaurant: $6-20 per meal	Street Food: $2-4 per meal, Restaurant: $6-20 per meal
Transportation (per day)	Public: $1-3, Taxis/Tuk Tuks: $3-10	Public: $1-2, Taxis/Songthaews: $2-8	Taxis: $5-15, Motorbike Rental: $8-10 per day	Ferries: $6-12, Motorbike Rental: $8-10 per day
Activities (per day)	Sightseeing/Temples: $1-3, Nightlife/Entertainment: $10-30	Sightseeing/Temples: $1-2, Trekking/Elephant Experiences: $20-50	Beaches: Free-$2, Excursions (e.g., boat tours): $20-50	Beaches: Free-$2, Diving/Boat Tours: $20-70

Keep in mind, these are just estimates based on average prices as of my last visit. Prices can fluctuate depending on the season and your bargaining skills.

And remember, when budgeting for your trip, it’s always good to have a little extra tucked away for emergencies (or souvenirs).

Visiting Thailand: What to know before you go

📌 It is important to be aware of cultural customs when visiting Thailand. Always show respect for elders, dress modestly in temples, and refrain from public displays of affection.

📌 English is not widely spoken in Thailand, so it’s useful to have some basic Thai phrases to help you get by.

📌 Tipping is not expected in restaurants or for taxi rides, but a small gesture will always be appreciated.

📌 The main unit of currency is the Thai Baht (THB). Credit cards are accepted at most major establishments, but it’s always good to have some cash on hand as well.

📌 When traveling around Thailand, make sure that you have adequate travel insurance in case of any unexpected costs.

📌 Street food is generally safe to eat, but be sure to look for signs of hygienic preparation and avoid any uncooked food or anything that might have been sitting in the sun.

📌 Finally, it’s always a good idea to drink bottled water rather than tap water.

Thailand articles