Traveling to Thailand
The ease with which one travels through Thailand, coupled with extraordinary hospitality makes Thailand one of the most visited countries in South East Asia. The cherry on top of the sundae is the abundance of culture and mouth-watering food which will have you coming back for more.
Thailand has plenty to offer eager visitors and is an easy gateway into Asia for first-time travelers to the continent.
Learn the true meaning of the word cosmopolitan in Bangkok, learn about Buddhism in the ancient capitals of Ayutthaya and Sukhothai, cultivate a love for (affordable) diving on Koh Tao or learn about the plight of the Thai Elephant in one of the very few (!) ethical elephant sanctuaries in Thailand.
Hop on a tuk-tok or Songthaew and whizz around the plethora of temples each city has to offer. Indulge in copious amounts of Pad Thai and Mango sticky rice and never skip out on a local market!
Travel around Thailand
There are a few things you can count on when traveling in Thailand: There is always some form of transportation around – regardless of the time – and you will never go hungry.
Fly: Although travel by train and bus is often the cheaper (and more scenic) option, both take considerable time. Domestic flights can be an easy way to see more, in a short time span.
Thailand by train: If you have time, take the scenic route and travel around Thailand by train. Trains are on time, comfortable (choose between 1st, 2e and 3e class) and have an onboard dining experience (either a dedicated food carriage or street vendors hopping on and off the train as it stops. Check routes and tickets online.
Thailand by bus: Traveling around different parts of Thailand by bus is easy and comfortable. Tickets can be bought at the main bus station, from the bus driver or even online.
Discover Thailand with a few useful tips
- Tipping in Thailand: Not customary, (always appreciated though).
- Tourist Simcard Thailand: Can be purchased directly at the arrivals hall in the airport from one of three providers dtac, AIS, and TrueMove. Show your passport and have your picture taken (new law since 2017) to receive your sim. Simcards are valid for 7 (299 Baht) or 15 days (599 Baht).
- Thai Temple dress code: The general rule is to cover knees and shoulders for both men and women. Additionally, women should cover their cleavage. Thailand can be very hot in summer, bring along a simple sarong to cover up your summer outfit when visiting temples.
- Vegetarian Thai Food: Being a vegetarian in Thailand is very easy.
Places to Visit in Thailand
Key Facts About Thailand
Capital |
Bangkok |
Main Languages |
Thai |
Population |
69.8 million |
Currency |
Thai Baht (฿) |
Main religion |
Buddhism |
Time Zone |
UTC+7 |
Plugs types |
A, B, C |
Driving |
Left side of the road |
Number Tourist Police |
1155 |
Practical information for visiting Thailand
HOW TO GET THERE
Fly: Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) in Bangkok; Don Mueang International Airport (DMK) in Bangkok; Phuket International Airport (HKT); Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX)
ACCOMODATIONS
Find a list of comfortable accomodations ranging from local guesthouses to luxury hotels.
BUDGET
Average Daily Budget: $60
Meals $15 a person; hotel accomodations $20- $60; activities and transportation $10
WHEN TO GO
November to April
November to February: Mild Weather
January to March: Visit the islands
November to April: Go Scuba Diving
VISA REQUIREMENTS
Depending on the country of origin visitors can stay for up to 90 days; costs depending on the country of origin
TOURS & ACTIVITIES
Snorkling on a tropical island, Tuk Tuk tours, explore local markets, daytrips from Bangkok and so much more
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Blogposts on Thailand
Exploring the Most Beautiful Forests in Thailand: A Journey Through Lush Greenery and Conservation Efforts
Ethical Elephant Sanctuaries in Thailand
There are plenty of so-called ethical elephant sanctuaries in Thailand. Read on how to spot a true ethical sanctuary amidst the hundreds of imposters in Thailand.
Guide to Visiting Temples in Ayutthaya in a Day (Incl. Map & Itinerary)
Discover all the temples in Ayutthaya and plan your perfect day trip from Bangkok including a map, transportation guide and itinerary.