Country guides
Asia
Thailand is the most well-known and popular travel destination in Southeast Asia, and millions of tourists feel the destination's allure each year. The capital, Bangkok, is a thrilling first stop and is a favourite among budget travellers, who can spend their baht its many street markets and affordable electronics shops, and infamous bars. However, once travellers venture away from the bustling city, the natural splendour of Thailand really shines. The limestone karst rock formations and lush rainforests of Khao Sok National Park and other nature reserves are popular spots for jungle trekking, and the crystal-clear waters around the southern beach playgrounds such as Phuket, Koh Pha Ngan and Koh Phi Phi are a paradise for scuba diving and watersports. Many holidaymakers go north to Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai to see the beautiful temples and the famous Hill-Tribes, while the even more adventurous stray off the beaten path to Isaan.
Thailand's unique culture is just as big an attraction however; hundreds of visually stunning Buddhist temples and shrines are scattered across cities and villages, and visitors can tour the ruins of ancient cities such as Ayutthaya to get a sense of the country's long history. No matter what part of the country travellers visit, a holiday in Thailand is an experience to be remembered for a lifetime.
Best time to visit Thailand
The weather in Thailand is divided into three seasons: the cool season (November to February), the hot season (March to May) and the rainy season (June to October). The cool season is usually considered the best time to visit Thailand, as it has the most sunshine and least rain, though the December holidays tend to be busy and the prices inflated, so the overall best months to visit in are November, January and February.
What to see in Thailand
-See the enormous golden statues at the Temple of the Reclining Buddha.
-Take in a Muay Thai match in Bangkok.
-Visit the many Buddhist temples in Chiang Mai.
-Tour the remains of Ayutthaya and Sukhothai, ancient seats of Siamese culture.
What to do in Thailand
-Ride a boat through the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market.
-Laze on the sunny beaches of Phuket.
-Indulge in the infamous nightlife of Bangkok.
-Take a hike to the Lisu Hill-Tribe.
Holiday resorts in Thailand
Thailand has many popular resorts for sun-seekers looking for the perfect beach holiday. Each resort has its own character, varying from lively nightlife to laidback seclusion, and from single's heaven to family-friendly perfection.
Getting to Thailand
Getting to Thailand is fairly easy. There are many cheap direct flights from the UK and even more cheap indirect flights from the UK. There are no direct flights to Thailand from the US, but there are many indirect flights to Thailand from major aiports in the US. Nearly all flights to Thailand arrive at Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok.
Read
Four Reigns by Kukrit Pramoj and Private Dancer by Steven Leather.
Listen
Pumpuang Duangjan and Khruang Sai Orchestra.
Watch
The Beach (2000), Brokedown Palace (1999), The Hangover 2 (2011), and Anna and the King (1999).
Drink
Satho (traditional rice wine).
Eat
Khao phat (Thai-style fried rice), and Pad Thai (traditional fried noodles).
What to buy
Thai silk, precious stones, affordable local clothing, and cheap electronics.
What to pack
A padlock for bags: leaving backpacks in hotel rooms and outside temples gives pickpockets a good opportunity to help themselves.
What's on in Thailand
The colourful Bor Sang Umbrella Festival celebrates traditional craftsmanship every January. Thailand celebrates New Year in April at Songkran. Floating candles and hot air balloons make Loy Krathong the most romantic day in November.
Did you know?
-Thailand is the only country in Southeast Asia that wasn't colonised by a Western power.
-The official ceremonial name of Bangkok is Krung Thep Mahanakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Yuthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udomratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Piman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukam Prasit.
-Popular energy drink Red Bull originated in Thailand and was originally called Krating Daeng (Red Gaur).
A final word
Exotic and enticing, a holiday in Thailand is an unforgettable experience that promises both stunning cultural sights and a bit of fun and relaxation.
Things to do in Thailand
There is so much to see and do in Thailand that few visitors can resist returning. With an expansive coast line and gorgeous tropical islands, the destination is justly famed for its wonderful beaches and laid-back lifestyle, while the inland region offers iconic sights of lush jungles, rolling hills and rice paddies. As a country of Buddhists, there is also an abundance of golden temples and beautiful, spiritually inspired architecture. One word of caution though: to avoid the common fate of temple fatigue, visitors shouldn't try to see too many, and should rather concentrate on a few key attractions and spend some quality time in each of them. In contrast is the buzzing atmosphere of Bangkok, where neon lights and smoggy streets blend with gardens and floating markets to create a unique hybrid of old and new.
One reason why Thailand is such a rewarding sightseeing destination is that it has retained its distinctive identity in the face of significant western influence. That makes visiting here an exciting and exotic experience, whether travellers are resort-loving beach bums or adrenaline junkies exploring hill tribes and river rapids. More good news is that Thailand is blessed with year-round temperate weather, so travellers can visit at any time, though in the months from June to October, rough sea conditions may make some islands unreachable via the ferry system.
Getting around is fairly easy and remarkably safe. An excellent bus network connects even far-flung towns with the major cities, while a comfortable sleeper train connects Chiang Mai in the far north with the capital Bangkok. Many people prefer to see the sights via organised tours and air-conditioned buses, but by doing so visitors risk missing out on the fun between attractions, where they will encounter local people in unexpected ways.
Thailand travel info
Electricity
220 volts, 50Hz. Both flat and round two-pin plugs are used.
Language
Thai is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
Money
The unit of currency is the Baht (THB). Currency can be exchanged at the airport, banks, hotels, and bureaux de change. Banks are open Monday to Friday. ATMs are available in most cities and tourist resorts, but there is a surcharge for each withdrawal. Most major credit cards are accepted at hotels and larger businesses, and although Apple Pay is not active in Thailand, Gpay can be used in larger establishments, but cash is still king at most places in Thailand.
Tipping
Tipping is becoming more common in places frequented by tourists. If a service charge is not included in a restaurant bill, customers should add 10 to 15 percent as a tip. Porters and hotel staff will expect a tip; taxi drivers generally won't.
Health
There is no risk of malaria in major tourist resorts or in the cities of Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Pattaya, Ko Samui, and Ko Phangan, but preventions against malaria are recommended in rural and forested areas that border Myanmar, Cambodia, and Laos. Immunisation against hepatitis A, hepatitis B and typhoid fever is also advised; yellow fever vaccination certificates are required for travellers from infected areas. Rabid dogs are fairly common, so travellers should consider rabies vaccination before visiting. Avoid contact with stray dogs and monkeys. If bitten, seek immediate medical attention.
There has been an increase in reported cases of dengue fever, particularly in the south, and Japanese encephalitis is a risk although vaccination is not normally recommended. Outbreaks of leptospirosis occur during the rainy season and after flooding. Travellers should drink bottled water and avoid ice in drinks, and seek immediate medical attention if they suffer from diarrhoea during their visit. The main risks of travel to Thailand include road traffic and other accidents, contaminated food and water, and sexually transmitted diseases. Medical facilities are good in major cities and popular tourist areas, but good medical insurance is strongly advised.
Safety
Though most visits to Thailand are trouble-free, tourists should avoid all political gatherings and marches, and stay well informed about the political situation in the country before and during their stay.
Like many parts of the world, South East Asia has been a victim of terrorism, so travellers should be vigilant in public places. They should also avoid the border regions and shouldn't camp in undesignated areas in national parks. The security situation in the southern provinces near the Malaysian border is unstable and travel to Pattani, Yala and Narathiwat and Songkhla is to be avoided.
Visitors to major cities are advised to secure their passports and credit cards and not carry too much money or jewellery. In Bangkok, visitors should be aware of scams, often involving gems recommended by kind strangers. In tourist areas, particularly at Full Moon Parties on Ko Phan Ngan, travellers should be careful about accepting drinks from strangers, as there have been reports of drinks being drugged. Incidents of sexual assault do occur and female travellers should be cautious.
The monsoon season in September and October (November to March on Koh Samui) brings about flooding in the north, northeast and central regions, causing mudslides and flash floods; visitors planning to trek in the jungle during this time should check conditions with licensed tour guides before leaving.
Local customs
While Thais are well known for their friendliness, they frown on public displays of affection. Visitors must save their beachwear for the beach and respect the custom of taking off shoes when entering a home. Many shops and restaurants will also expect tourists to remove their footwear.
Foreigners should avoid putting their feet on tables or chairs, or pointing their foot toward anyone. The touching of others' hair or heads (rubbing a child's hair, for example) should also be avoided. Thais rarely shake hands, instead using the wai as a way to say hello, to apologise, or show respect. The wai is a prayer-like gesture, made with raised hands. Thais are generally calm and softly spoken people, and tourists should avoid arguing loudly or raising their voices, even when haggling in markets, as this is considered crude and disrespectful.
The Thai royal family is revered and any image of Buddha, large or small, is considered sacred. Partygoers should note that drugs are illegal throughout the country, and that the possession of small quantities can land them in prison.
Doing business
Business culture in Thailand is considerably more relaxed than other Asian countries within the region. However, Thailand shares its neighbours' work ethic and value systems, as well as their emphasis on hierarchy and building relationships. Senior managers must be consulted on all matters and decisions. Appearance and age are important in Thai business culture, as they illustrate social standing and status. Older individuals are generally afforded a great deal of regard in Thailand and business people should become properly acquainted with their associates before they start negotiating.
The concept of 'face' and saving face is important in Thailand. So, if travellers make a mistake, they shouldn't expect it to be pointed out to them, and if a local business associate makes a mistake, it is impolite to draw attention to it or correct them.
English is the language of business in Thailand, but translators are often needed. Business hours are from 8am to 5pm or 9am to 6pm, with an hour for lunch. Dress styles tend to be quite formal, but due to the humid climate, heavy suits are rare. However, meetings with senior management tend to be slightly more formal and jackets are usually worn. Men generally wear shirts, slacks and a tie, while women wear below-the-knee skirts and blouses. Pantsuits for women are quite rare.
Shaking hands is not a popular form of greeting and the wai (putting a prayer-like gesture in front of oneself and bowing slightly) is more acceptable. The higher the hands compared to the face when bowing, the more respect is meant by the wai. It is customary to wai first to those older than oneself. When addressing others, Thais use first names rather than surnames, preceded by Kuhn for both men and women. As with many Asian nations, giving gifts to business associates is generally a good idea. When receiving gifts, foreigners shouldn't open them in front of the giver. They should also wait to be introduced to others, as it is an indication of rank. Often the hierarchical structures favour the elders in a group and respect must be given accordingly.
Duty free
Travellers to Thailand do not have to pay duty on 200 cigarettes, 250g tobacco or equivalent amount of cigars or 1 litre of alcohol. Goods to the value of THB 20,000 per person for holders of tourist visas are allowed; family allowances are double the individual allowances. Prohibited items include firearms and ammunition, fireworks, and drugs, and trafficking in drugs carries the maximum penalty. Restrictions apply to meat imported from countries affected by BSE or mad cow and foot-and-mouth diseases. Antiques or objects of art and religious articles may not be exported without a license.
Communications
The international country dialling code for Thailand is +66. The outgoing code is 001, followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 00144 for the United Kingdom). Travellers can purchase local prepaid SIM cards for unlocked phones, and WiFi is available in cities and holiday resorts.
Passport & Visa
Travellers entering Thailand must have sufficient funds to cover the length of their stay, and are recommended to hold documentation for return or onward travel. Visitors who are using the 30-day visa exemption must enter Thailand by air or land; it is highly recommended that passports are valid for six months beyond travel.
Entry requirements
US passports must be valid for six months beyond date of arrival. No visa is required for tourist stays of up to 30 days.
British nationals with passports endorsed 'British Citizen' or 'British National (Overseas)' do not require a visa for stays of up to 30 days. British travellers carrying passports with other endorsements should check official requirements.
Canadian Passports must be valid for six months beyond date of arrival. No visa is needed for touristic stays of up to 30 days.
Australian passports must be valid for six months beyond date of arrival. No visa is required for touristic stays of up to 45 days. APEC Business Travel Card holders endorsed for travel to Thailand may stay up to 90 days.
South African passports must be valid for six months beyond date of arrival. No visa is required for touristic stays of up to 30 days.
Irish passports must be valid for six months beyond date of arrival. No visa is required for stays of up to 30 days.
Passports from New Zealand must be valid for six months beyond date of arrival. No visa is required for touristic stays of up to 45 days. Holders of APEC Business Travel Cards endorsed for travel to Thailand may stay up to 90 days.
Useful contacts
Thailand Tourist Office: +66 2 250 5500 (Bangkok) or www.tourismthailand.org
191 (Police), 1155 (Tourist Police), 1669 (Ambulance).Embassies / consulates in other countries
Royal Thai Embassy, Washington DC, United States: +1 (0)202 944 3600
Royal Thai Embassy, London, United Kingdom: (also responsible for Ireland) +44 (0)20 7589 2944
Royal Thai Embassy, Ottawa, Canada: +1 (0)613 722 4444
Royal Thai Embassy, Canberra, Australia: +61 (0)2 6206 0100
Royal Thai Embassy, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 (0)12 342 5470
Royal Thai Embassy, Wellington, New Zealand: +64 (0)4 496 2900
Embassies / consulates in Thailand
United States Embassy, Bangkok: +66 (0)2 205 4000
British Embassy, Bangkok: +66 (0)2 305 8333
Canadian Embassy, Bangkok: +66 (0)2 646 4300
Australian Embassy, Bangkok: +66 (0)2 344 6300
South African Embassy, Bangkok: + 66 (0)2 659 2900
Irish Embassy, Bangkok: +66 (0)2 016 1360
New Zealand Embassy, Bangkok (also responsible for Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar): +66 (0)2 254 2530
Climate in Thailand
Thailand experiences high temperatures and levels of humidity throughout the year. The hottest months are between March and May, and monsoon season runs from June to October. In September and October, much of the country suffers from flooding, particularly in the north, northeastern and central regions. The cool season is the best time to visit Thailand, and runs from November to February. Temperatures are fairly consistent throughout the year, especially in southern regions, and range between 74F (23C) and 86F (30C).