Thailand Travel Guide: a visit to the Land of Smiles

Explore the architectural magnificence, culture, cuisine, and nightlife of Thailand with us!

4

THAI ISLANDS EXPLORED

2

THAILAND UNESCO SITES VISITED

4

THAILAND NATIONAL PARKS VISITED

Why should you travel to Thailand?

Located in the center of the Indo-China peninsula, Thailand is the "land of smiles". With its mesmerizing landscape, sun-kissed beaches, graceful culture, and vibrant nightlife, Thailand is a destination that every traveler would love to visit at least once. It is a part of Southeast Asia and the best place to enjoy different water sports, Thai massages, and street food.

There are 5 UNESCO World Heritage Centers in Thailand and 147 national parks. Through this Thailand travel guide, you will be able to find out a plethora of interesting facts. You can also find the best time to travel to Thailand, things to know before you go, and the best places to visit in Thailand.

Thailand is a place that offers holidays for people with different budgets. On islands like Koh Samui, you can opt for a luxurious stay or simple lodging. Various temples and historical sites in Thailand are the other main attraction for travelers. Thailand gives importance to the preservation of the environment. 25% of the country has natural forests and habitats. Thailand is also home to 10% of the world's wildlife.

Interesting Facts Thailand

Flag of Thailand

Thailand's National Animal

Elephant, Siamese Fighting Fish

Thailand National Dish

Pad Thai, Tom Yum

Currency in Thailand

Thai Baht (฿)

Thailand Time Zone

Indo-China Time or ICT (GMT+7)

Best time to visit Asia: weather and climate

Best time to visit Thailand

Thailand is a country you can visit at any time of the year. However, the cold and dry seasons are the best time to visit Thailand. The cold and dry period is between November and early April.

On the West Coast, winter is much more favorable for travelers. It is because you can participate in activities like snorkeling and diving. You can travel to the East Coast throughout the year.

The peak travel season in Thailand extends from November to February. Humidity is less during the season, and the sun's rays are not harsh.

Getting Around in Thailand is Easy

When navigating Thailand, travelers have several transportation options to explore the country's diverse landscapes and vibrant cities. From bustling Bangkok to tranquil islands, visitors can rely on a network of buses, ferries, and trains to move between destinations. Buses offer convenient routes connecting major cities and towns, while ferries provide scenic journeys to Thailand's stunning islands. For longer distances, trains offer a comfortable and leisurely way to travel, allowing passengers to admire the picturesque countryside along the way. To book tickets and plan your transportation seamlessly, you can use services like Bookaway, which offers a variety of routes and options for bus, ferry, and train travel in Thailand.

Things to know before you travel to Thailand

Safety in Thailand

Thailand ranks 117th country in safety among 163 nations in the world. There aren't many problems with safety in Thailand. The number of crimes is comparatively less. However, there are a higher number of scams taking place in the country. Violent protests that occur in Thailand are yet another concern. These demonstrations take place mostly in Bangkok. Petty thievery like pickpocketing happens in crowded areas. Apart from that, Thailand is safe for travelers. However, it is essential to be careful in public transportation. It is because the drivers can charge an extra amount when they realize that you are not from Thailand. Another significant factor to be considered while in Thailand is that one should not show any form of disrespect to the King or the royal family. It can lead to severe penalties.

Visa requirements for Thailand

There is a visa-free entry in Thailand for travelers from 64 countries and territories. People belonging to 18 other countries can receive a Visa on arrival. People traveling from countries like India, Georgia, Mexico, China, and Saudi Arabia can also obtain visas on arrival. However, it is only valid for 15 days. They can apply for an e-visa to Thailand before traveling to the country if their period of travel is more than 15 days. Travelers from Argentina, South Korea, Brazil, Peru, and Chile can travel to Thailand without a visa for 90 days. Travelers belonging to Hong Kong, Mongolia, Laos, Russia, Macau, and Vietnam can also travel to Thailand Visa-free for 30 days. The Thailand Visa requirements might change, therefore it's advised to always check the Official e-visa website of Thailand's Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Responsible Travel in Thailand

Eco-tourism is flourishing in Thailand. It is also because Thailand focuses on preserving its natural habitat and ecosystem. The country has managed to create excellent infrastructure without disturbing the wildlife. To reduce the impact of carbon emissions, Thailand encourages the usage of bicycles and trekking. They are also cost-effective ways of conveyance. The Thai government has taken initiatives to enhance ecotourism as well as sustainable travel in the country. Different departments of tourism, including national parks, wildlife, and plant conservation, close down tourist spots that are heavily visited. It is a method of protecting the ecosystem of that region. The Thailand government has also banned the usage and disposal of single-use plastics in national and regional parks.

Required vaccinations for traveling in Asia

Vaccinations & anti-Malaria tablets for Thailand

Vaccinations for Thailand are necessary. WHO and CDC recommend different vaccinations that travelers can take while going to Thailand. Most travelers have to take vaccines for Hepatitis A and Typhoid. These diseases occur due to the contamination of water and food. All travelers have to take vaccinations for Measles and other routine vaccines for Chickenpox, Polio, and Diphtheria-tetanus. It is essential to take vaccinations for Japanese Encephalitis, Malaria, Rabies, Yellow Fever, and Hepatitis B. Always consult a travel clinic to get the best advice depending on your Thailand Itinerary.

Spoken languages in Thailand

The official language of Thailand is Thai. However, most people in Thailand can also speak and understand English. You can communicate without any issues in Bangkok and other tourist areas. It is because most people can converse in English in these places. You can use Google Translate or other applications if you have to communicate in Thai. You can also learn some words and greetings for convenience. Nowadays, English has gained acceptance in Thailand. Many consider English a common language in Thailand.

Things to do add to your bucket list while traveling to Thailand

Bangkok City Trip

Bangkok city is most suited for travelers who love to explore historical and religious places. It also offers enthralling nightlife and a variety of options for shopping. Bangkok has a tropical climate throughout the year, which attracts several travelers. Bangkok is also famous for its mesmerizing architecture, wall paintings, and several palaces, museums as well as parks. There are many lively cafes and restaurants as well. The Grand Palace, built-in 1782, is the most renowned landmark in Bangkok. It has been the home of The Thai King and the royal family for more than 150 years. The Grand Palace is also the seat of the royal court and the administrative system of the country. There are many striking and impressive buildings within the Grand Palace. Wat Phra Kaew or the temple of the Emerald Buddha is one such location within the palace. It is a sacred site, and travelers have to take care of their dress code while visiting the temple. Wat Arun Temple is a Buddhist temple in Bangkok. It is famously known as the ‘temple of dawn.’ In the mornings, the temple glows because of the light that reflects off from its surface. The best time to view Wat Arun is either during sunset or sunrise.

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

It is the most popular Floating Market in Thailand. It provides great opportunities for photography and also for exploring. You can catch the place at its liveliest during the mornings. It is an hour away from Bangkok. You can get to the Floating Market easily by joining a tour or arranging your own transportation. One of the visual highlights of the place is the fruit and flower vendors. They conduct trade directly from their small wooden boat. It is a unique market and is different from other floating markets in Thailand.

Koh Samui Island

The coastline of Koh Samui has many beaches. It is also one of the most popular destinations in Thailand. The famous beaches near the island are Chaweng Beach and Lamai Beach. There are several Buddhist temples, walking streets as well as night markets in Koh Samui. Another highlight of the place is the walking street starting from the Fisherman's village to the Wharf Samui. Big Buddha is yet another attraction of the island. There are waterfalls and a national park called Ang Thong Marine National Park on Koh Samui island. The secret Buddha Garden is a place not much explored by tourists. However, it has several statues in the middle of a jungle.

The Historic City of Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya is known as the ‘land of Wats’ and is a small city. It has several archaeological sites like temples and palaces. It is located 80 kilometers from Bangkok. Ayutthaya Historical Park is one of the UNESCO World Heritage centers in Thailand. It is a land suited best for photographers. Wat Mahathat and Wat Phra Sri Sanphet are two monasteries in Ayutthaya. Don't forget to add this amazing place to your Thailand itinerary.

Koh Phangan: stunning beaches and Full Moon Party!

Described as the daily capital of Thailand, Koh Phangan is an island with stunning beaches, such as Leela Beach, Secret Beach (Haad Son), and Haad Rin beach. This beach is famous for its Full Moon party that takes place every month. Koh Phangan is the 5th biggest island in Thailand and there's enough to explore, such as island hopping at the Ang Thong National Marine Park, chilling at Amsterdam Bar with laid-back reggae vibes, crossing the sandbank at Haad Mae to reach Koh Mae.

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a Buddhist temple in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is known for Wat Phra. Doi Suthep is another name for Wat Phra. It is a Buddhist temple and a Sacred site for the Thai. Several shops are also present close to it. Doi Suthep-Pui National Park includes Wat Phra and Bhubing Palace. It is great for bird watching but also other wildlife, such as the black bear, golden cat, and Malayan Porcupine have been spotted. If you're a lover of hiking trails, opt for the moderate Doi Suthep Monk Trail which also features a waterfall. A beautiful hike that is mostly shaded. You can always come back to our Thailand travel guide to learn more about the country and the places to visit before you plan your trip!