Thailand has some of the most beautiful white sandy beaches and islands anywhere on earth with awe inspiring views of the sea and massive limestone rock formations. Visitors come to Thailand to see the ancient dazzling gold temples and palaces, bustling cities and markets and experience the lively night life and warm and vibrant culture. Enjoy a rejuvenating Thai massage at a bargain price and enjoy adventurous outdoor activities like rock climbing, surfing or parasailing. For a truly unique experience attend one of the local Muay Thai matches and savour the spicy and tasty Thai cuisine.
This travel guide includes all of my recommended Thailand highlights and essential information when planning a trip to Thailand. Graham and I travelled to Bangkok before our island-hopping tour with stops in Phuket, Koh Phi Phi, Maya Bay, Krabi, Railey Beach and Poda Island.
Thailand Highlights: Top Places to Go
- Bangkok
- Chiang Mai
- Chang Rai
- Phang Nga Bay
- Phuket
- Pattaya
- Krabi
- Koh Phi Phi
- Ko Lanta
- Ko Samui
- Ko Phangan
- Ko Tao
Thailand Highlights: Top Experiences and Activities
Temples – Wat Pho is Bangkok’s oldest and largest temple and is one of highlights of Thailand, with a massive reclining Buddha. It is the home of the royal monastery and school of Thai massage.
Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok is in the same complex as the Grand Palace and is home of the Emerald Buddha, the most sacred image in the kingdom. The complex is stunning and glittering with Ramakien murals along the cloister walls of the temple, dazzling gold buildings, and detailed metal sculptures of Thai mythical creatures.
Wat Arun is named for the Indian God of Dawn and is comprised of five prangs or towers. Climb the steep stairs up the white intricately tiled Wat Arun in Bangkok for panoramic views of the Chao Phraya river. Each of the steps up to the first terrace is guarded by Chinese figures made of colourful ceramics.
Beaches, bays and tropical islands – The island beaches and coves are a highlight of Thailand and are some of the most pristine and stunning places I have ever been to. We did an island-hopping tour of Koh Phi Phi, Phuket, and Railey Beach, Krabi and every island had powdery white sand beaches, azure clear blue water teeming with fish, and massive limestone rock formations rise from the warm, calm waters.
Every visit to Thailand should include a trip to discover one or more of the islands in the Andaman Sea or Gulf of Thailand. Some of the best locations in the Andaman Sea are Ko Phi Phi, Krabi, Maya Bay (The Beach was filmed here), Poda Island, Phang Nga Bay (James Bond Island), Phuket, Ko Lanta, and Railay Beach. In the Gulf of Thailand popular places include Ko Samui, Ko Phangan and Ko Tao.
The islands have a relaxed low key, beachy vibe with a great mix of vibrant social life or seclusion. Socialize with others over drinks and watch a fire juggling show on the beach or be alone with nothing but the sound of the waves washing ashore, the sunshine on your face, and the warm wind through your hair. You can choose whatever suits your mood.
Full moon party and nightlife – Thailand’s nightlife and full moon parties are legendary. The energy, vibrancy, and party atmosphere attract many visitors to Thailand. Popular locations include Khao San Road in Bangkok, Chang Khlan Road or Nimmon Road in Chang Mai, Loh Dalum Beach in Koh Phi Phi, Sairee Beach in Koh Tao, and Patong-Bangla Road in Phuket. Koh Phangan has the most famous full moon party, attracting tens of thousands of people, to all night beach raves with music, fire eaters, fireworks, neon paint, buckets of cheap cocktails, and dancing until sunrise.
Historic sites – Aside from the palaces and temples mentioned elsewhere there are many historical sites and ruins in Thailand. Ayutthaya historical park, just north of Bangkok is a Unesco World Heritage Site that highlights the rise and fall of the Ayutthaya Kingdom in the in the 14th century. The Sukhothai historical park in northern Thailand is one of the country’s most impressive world heritage sites with the remains of a royal palace and twenty six temples. The Jim Thompson house in Bangkok is worth a visit as a great example of traditional Thai teak architecture.
Chang Mai and Chang Rai are both located in northern Thailand and are steeped in history. Chang Mai is the largest city in northern Thailand and it is famous for its many ancient temples dating back to the 13th century including the Wat Phra That Doi Suthep and Wat Phra Singh. Chiang Mai also hosts the annual Yi Peng (lantern) festival (usually in November) and many travellers visit the elephant sanctuary or take a cooking class. Chai Rai is further north, and is situated in the golden triangle where the borders of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar converge. The area is hilly and green, with impressive white, black, and blue temples, rivers running through the city and peaceful hill tribe villages nearby.
Palaces – The Rattanakosin Kingdom was the fourth Siamese kingdom and many historical sites in Bangkok, are from this kingdom especially those in the Old City district. The Grand Palace in Bangkok is one of these buildings and was constructed by Rattanakosin, King Rama I. The royal family does not live here anymore but this is where royalty greets foreign guests and holds important ceremonies.
Dusit Palace in Bangkok is a compound of royal residences and government offices and Dusit Park surrounds the palace with lush green gardens and pathways reminiscent of European Parks. The area also houses a zoo, and museums including the Royal Elephant Museum.
Markets and Shopping
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market – Just outside of Bangkok are a series of canals leading to a unique floating market where you can purchase food and all types of goods from vendors who float by in small oarboats and canoes. The market is filled with people and entertainment including live boa constrictors.
The Chatuchak Weekend Market in Bangkok is a maze of stalls with over 200,000 visitors every weekend, more than 15,000 stalls, and 26 sections including food, art, home decor, books, antiques, fashion and more.
No visit to Thailand is complete without a visit to one of its famous night markets. Visit some of the largest night markets at Khao San Road Night Market (Bangkok), Chang Phuak Gate Night Market (Chiang Mai), Bangla Road Street Food (Phuket/Patong), Krabi Night Market in Chaofah Park (Krabi), or Chaweng Night Market (Koh Samui).
Watersports – Snorkel, dive, surf, kayak, canoe, sail or paddleboard in the shallow, warm, crystal clear waters of the Andaman Sea or Gulf of Thailand.
Massages and wellness – The traditional Thai massage include a lot of stretching, assisted yoga poses, and acupressure to relieve stress release all kinds of body pains. You will find many tranquil spas and places to get massages both in salons or on the beach everywhere in Thailand and there are many choices including a foot, head, or fully body massage. The prices are really inexpensive compared to other locations and the quality of the massage is fantastic.
Photograph wildlife – Thailand has many national parks to protect animal species from extinction. You will find elephant sancturaries throughout the country and may be lucky enough to spot a wild monkey on one of the islands.
Sports – Thai Boxing (Muay Thai) – Attend a local match to see the national sport of Thailand which is based on traditional martial arts.
Hiking and rock climbing – With the mountains to the north and large natural limestone formations in the south there are many locations to rock climb in Thailand. Some of the best locations include Railay beach in Krabi, Chiang Mai, Koh Phi Phi, Koh Tao, and Phang Nga Bay in Ko Yao Noi. We stayed in Railay Beach, Krabi which is one of the best places to climb in Thailand.
Food and Drink – Join a cooking class to learn how to make Thai dishes influenced by Chinese, Indian, Malay, and Muslim cultures. Sample the delectable Thai cuisine at a restaurant or at one of the night markets. Great street food is available at the Khao San Road Night Market (Bangkok), Chang Phuak Gate Night Market (Chiang Mai), Bangla Road Street Food (Phuket), Krabi Night Market in Chaofah Park (Krabi), or Chaweng Night Market (Koh Samui).
Thailand: Best Time to Visit
- High season is November to February, and this is the best time to visit with clear skies and cooler temperatures but you can expect prices to be at a peak with bigger crowds.
- Between March – May is the hot season with high temperatures, which is great for a beach holiday but not for sightseeing.
- June to mid-September is the rainy and wet season, with the lowest cost. During the rainy season it doesn’t usually rain all day and storms usually pass quickly.
Thailand: Best Way to Get Around
- Fly – Air travel is very convenient, quick, and affordable between major locations and is recommended as the best way to get around Thailand.
- Your international flight out of or to Bangkok will most often be from Suvarnabhumi Airport and some of the higher end domestic flights also depart from here. Don Mueang International Airport is the old airport, which is now used for budget airlines.
- Bangkok Airlines is a boutique luxury airline. Thai Airlines is the best economy airline. There are also several other low-cost airlines like Thai Smile, Air Asia, Nok Air, Thai Lion Air, Thai Vietjet Air or Kan Air.
- Ferries and boats are convenient and sometimes the only mode of transportation betwen the islands of Thailand. When we arrived in Railay Beach we had to hop off of a ferry on to a longboat. Then we had to jump into the water from the longboat holding our luggage above our heads as this was the only way to get to shore.
- If you are island hopping ferries are one of the best and most picturesque ways to get from island to island. Find routes and schedules here.
- Tourist boats along the Chao Phraya river in Bangkok are very convenient to visit the various temples and sites in the city. Explore the Chao Phraya and Khlong Saen Saeb express boat services for routes and schedules.
- Trains – If you are not in a hurry there are comfortable trains that offer a unique experience to travel between cities and towns at a reasonable cost. A popular route is the train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. Look on the State Railway of Thailand website for schedules, pricing, and options to buy tickets..
- Skytrain – In Bangkok the Skytrain (elevated mass transit rail line) is easy to access and to get around to the main areas of the city. Trains can be crowded at peak times of the day.
- Bus – Private and public busses are available with direct routes to many towns and cities in Thailand at an affordable cost. Its quicker to fly but faster and more reliable to take a bus over the train. Some busses are not air conditioned, there are reports of petty theft on busses, and safety can be a concern due to road conditions and drivers.
- Car – Personally I would avoid renting a car and driving, particularly in Bangkok. Bangkok has extremely congested traffic but good public transportation. Other hazards of renting a car include accidents involving motorcycles or aggressive and reckless drivers. Enforcement of traffic laws is poor and there is a risk from drunk drivers. In less populated areas stray dogs may dart across the road or lie in the middle of it.
- Some people rent a car in Phuket because taxis are expensive to get around. Others rent a car because they want to access more remote areas including around Chiang Mai. If you do decide to rent a car you need an international drivers license, and toll roads are common throughout Thailand, and are typically cash only. Avoid driving at night particularly in rural areas that are not lit.
- Tuk Tuk – Always negotiate your tuk tuk fare before you start. Tuk tuks are a traditional method of transportation throughout Thailand in a three wheeled open vehicle. They are fun to try and good for short distances, but they are often either equal in price or more expensive than a taxi.
- Taxi – Metered taxis are relatively cheap and easy to find in Bangkok. Currently there is no Uber in Thailand but there is a another similar option called Grab App.
Thailand: Essential Information
Language
- Thai is the national language.
- English is widely spoken by some in tourist areas but not by everyone.
Religion
- About 94% of the population is Buddhist, 5% are Muslim, 0.5% are Christian and 0.5% are other religions.
- Most Muslims reside in the southern tip of Thailand.
Currency & Money
- The Baht (B) is the national currency.
- ATM’s can be found outside bank branches at minimarts and department stores with an English language option available.
- Credit cards are accepted in major hotels and restaurants.
Thailand uses European style round pronged plugs, Type C, or 3 round pins, Type O with 220-240 volts and 50 hertz. Some outlets are hybrid with type A or B flat prong plugs but North Americans will still need an adaptor for the voltage to avoid damaging devices.
| Visa | Tourist Visa is not required for Canadians, Americans, UK, Australia and New Zealand for stays of up to 30 days. If staying 31- 60 days apply for a tourist visa. If longer, apply for an extended stay visa at the nearest Thai embassy. |
| Time Zone | UTC +7:00 or GMT + 2 hours. This is about 12 hours ahead of US Eastern Standard Time. Daylight savings time is not observed. |
| Electricity | 220 volts, 50 hertz, Type C or Type O. Most outlets are hybrid where you can use different types of plugs. European style two round prongs fit most outlets although some will also take two flat parallel prongs like in North America (Type A&B). You need a converter for appliances that are 110 voltage to avoid damage to your devices. |
| Capital City | Bangkok is the capital city and largest city with a population of nearly 11 million people. |
| Sports | Muay Thai (Thai boxing), a traditional martial art, is the national sport. |
Thailand Highlights: Local Taboos, Norms, and Customs
Buddism and religious customs
- Behave respectfully in front of images of the Buddha and at temples (Wats).
- When entering temples tuck your feet behind you or to the side and avoid stepping over others.
- Dress modestly and don’t wear shorts in temples and cover shoulders and knees. Sandals must be removed before entering temples.
- Monks are considered a sacred institution. Don’t touch the monks.
- It is prohibited for monks to touch a woman or to receive anything directly from her. Women should avoid sitting next to monks on public transit or elsewhere.
Monarchy
- Thailand is a monarchy and the royal family is highly revered. Many Thais have photos of their king and queen posted in shops.
- Never insult the monarchy as this is considered highly offensive and could even result in jail sentences.
- Treat currency with images of the royal family respectfully.
Body language
- The head is conserved a sacred part of the body to Thais. Don’t touch people’s heads, even children.
- Feet are considered the lowliest part of the body. Don’t point your feet at someone or rest your feet up on a table as it is considered rude.
General
- The national anthem is played twice a day at 8am and 6pm on radios or other public intercoms. It is considered respectful to stop what you are doing and listen to the anthem in silence.
- Thais are generally very friendly and helpful. Confrontation is considered extremely rude and offensive and losing your temper is an embarrassing loss of face.
- Bargaining is common but avoid being overly loud or aggressive.
Thailand: Food and Drink
Green or red curries – A spicey dish made with homemade curry paste and fresh ingredients including red or green curry, coconut milk, and sometimes massaman curry. Curries are served with a side of rice and a protein such as chicken, pork, beef, shrimp or tofu.
Khao Pad – Thai fried rice is delicious, sometimes spicy and with or without meat. A common dish included fried rice served in a fresh pineapple.
- Pad Thai is a dish made from rice noodles, pan fried with fish sauce, sugar, lime juice tamarind, peanuts and egg combined with chicken, seafood, or tofu.
- Beverages – Sample fresh fruit juices and fruit shakes, coconut water, Thai coffee or iced milk tea (Cha Yen). Chang beer and buckets of liquor are sold near the beach during full moon parties.
Seafood – Fresh seafood dishes are abundant in Thailand so be sure to try the freshly caught fish, prawns, shrimp, lobster, crab, and oysters.
- Chok – rice porridge eaten for breakfast.
- Khao Khai Chiao – omelet with rice.
- Khao Tom – Thai style rice soup.
- Rice noodles and Chili peppers are common in many Thai dishes.
- Mango or papaya sticky rice (Kao Niew Ma Muang) is a traditional dessert made of sweet, thick sticky rice with coconut cream and a side of fresh mango or papaya.
Street Food
- Satay meat skewers – grilled marinated meat in a tasty sauce.
- Kluay Tod – deep fried bananas in coconut and sesame seeds.
- Poh Pia Tod – fried spring rolls with sweet chili sauce.
For the more adventerous
- Chicken Feet – typically cooked in a soup, in salads or deep fried.
- Malang Tod – fried insects such as grasshoppers that are seasoned and sold as street food. Fried scorpion is a similar dish.
- Tu-Rian – products like ice cream, pastries, or chips made from the Durian fruit which has a strong, potent smell.
- Larb Mote Daeng – Red ant eggs and ants.
- Goong Ten – Live shrimp, known as dancing shrimp.
- Pla Chon Pao – roasted snakehead fish stuffed with lemongrass and salt.
Thailand: Health and Safety
- Although you can drink the water in Bangkok, many locals and tourists drink bottled water and it is widely available everywhere. Outside of Bangkok water standards vary but may be safe in many towns and cities. Bottled water is recommended, particularly for travellers who can get an upset stomache when drinking water in new places.
Healthcare and emergencies
- Emergency number is 191 for police and emergencies. Tourist police can be reached 24 hours a day at 1155 and they will speak in English. Call 1699 for ambulance services and 199 for the fire department. In Bangkok the response time of a public ambulance can vary and there is an option to call a private ambulance at 1724 or 1719. It will cost you more but you are likely to get to the hospital and be treated quickly.
- No vaccinations are required to travel to Thailand but standard vaccinations are recommended including polio, diphtheria, tetanus, hepatitis A& B, measles, mumps, rubella, cholera and typhoid.
- There have been cases of malaria and dengue fever in Thailand so be sure to use insect repellant to prevent mosquito bites.
- Private medical facilities in cities often have better resources than public facilities, or services in rural areas of Thailand. You may need to provide proof of insurance coverage or a deposit before treatment. Evacuation can be very expensive so make sure you have travel insurance to cover it.
Crime and safety
Be diligent and take reasonable precautions to stay safe while travelling in Thailand.
Crime
- Petty crime, such as purse snatching, pickpocketing and theft, is common by motorbikes. Watch your belongings carefully in crowded areas, wear a cross body bag, and avoid dark, isolated alleyways. Thefts of belongings can occur on cross country busses and vans. Keep passports and cash in a safe place, preferably in a safe and not on your person.
- Take precautions to avoid common scams including sale of fake gems or jewellery, running a tab and being charged exhorbitant amounts for drinks at bars and nightclubs, having your passport withheld for alleged damage while renting motorcycles and fraudulent credit card transactions, or disputes with tuk tuk or taxi drivers.
- Avoid drinking excessively or leaving drinks unattended while partaking in nightly entertainment, including in Koh Pha Ngan and Koh Tao, particularly during full moon parties, Songkran, and other events in popular tourist locations. Don’t take food, beverages, gum or cigarettes from strangers. Robberies and sexual assaults have occurred.
Adventure tourism and equipment rentals
- Avoid driving or riding motorcycles in Thailand, even if you are an experienced motorcyclist. Many helmets don’t meet international safety standards and rental scooters and motorcycles are often poorly maintained.
- Use a well-established and reputable company that has insurance if you participate in adventure sports, such as zip-lining, rock climbing, speleology, elephant trekking or parasailing.
Water safety
- Riptides in coastal areas can be strong, including in the popular destinations of Cha-am/Hua Hin, Koh Samui, Pattaya, Phuket and Rayong.
- If stung by a jellyfish, seek immediate medical assistance. Deaths have occurred due to contact with poisonous jellyfish off Koh Lanta, Koh Pha Ngan, Koh Phi Phi, Krabi and Phuket.
- Exercise extreme caution when swimming or practicing water activities. Rent water sports equipment from reputable companies that meet international standards. Don’t swim when there is a red flag.
Road safety
- Accidents involving vehicles and pedestrians are extremely frequent in Thailand. Pedestrians and cyclists should be particularly careful. You should always use elevated walkways/pedestrian bridges whenever possible, especially in Bangkok.
- Hazardous road conditions, adverse weather conditions, local disregard for traffic laws and drunk driving result in frequent accidents.
- Some vehicles may drive against the flow of traffic and on the sidewalks, particularly motorcycles.
- Drunk driving and accidents are much more frequent around the western New Year (January 1) and Thai New Year (Songkran, mid-April).
Weather
Thailand is vulnerable to earthquakes and tsunamis, as well as flooding, landslides and cyclones during the rainy season. Watch for local advice and heed warnings about storms and weather events.
Demonstrations and terrorism
- There has been political instabilty and protests in Thailand, particularly in Bangkok. Research the current political climate in the areas you are travelling to before visiting Thailand.
- In the Thailand–Myanmar border areas in the provinces of Mae Hong Son and Tak there is occasional violence, and clashes between government forces and drug traffickers.
- Avoid travel in the border area near Malyasia, through Narathiwat, Pattani, Songkhla, and Yala in the southern provinces. Security is unpredictable and separatist insurgents periodically perpetrate violent attacks like shootings, bombing, and arson. Martial law and heavily enhanced security measures are in place.
Thailand Highlights: Things to Know
Tipping
The rules for tipping in many western countries does not apply in Thailand and is not expected. However, many Thais have become accustomed to tips from western tourists, it is becoming more common for locals to tip, and every baht will be appreciated.
- Some high end restaurants charge a 10% service charge and if this is included on the bill no additional tip is required. Otherwise a 10% tip is polite and up to 15% may be tipped if service is exceptional. At an inexpensive eatery, round-up and leave the change. Tips are not expected if you order food or drink at a counter.
- Add a few coins or leave the change for the bartender to tip for drinks.
- At hotels tip 20 Baht per bag to porters and bellhops that assist you. Housekeepers are not always tipped but they will appreciate a 20-50 Baht tip.
- Tip massage therapists, spa technicians, and salon employees 10-15%. 15% is more typical with a Thai massage. Hotel spas may add the tip as a service charge so check the bill.
- Round up taxi fares if service is good but it is not mandatory. Bus and tuk tuk drivers do not normally receive tips.
- Tips for private drivers will reflect the length of the ride and service provided such as assisting with luggage. 50 Baht is appropriate a driver who helps with your bags and when the commute is shorter. For longer trips, of a couple of hours or more, with a driver who drives safely, and considers your need for breaks, a 200-500 Baht tip is typical.
- 10% of the price of the tour is a general guideline for tipping tour guides.
Taxes
- Thailand charges a VAT tax of 7% on most goods. Within 60 days of the date of purchase, tourists can redeem purchases above 2000 Baht at one store, at customs counters at airports by presenting receipts. Goods must be purchased from stores displaying the “VAT REFUND FOR TOURISTS” sign.
- The government charges a tourist tax of 150 Baht if arriving by land or sea. If you arrive by air you will be required to pay 300 Baht.
Toilets
- At a hotel or other Western-style accommodations, you’ll have access to a sit-down toilet that meets North American standards.
- In major cities like Bangkok, Chiang Mai or Phuket you are also more likely to find western style toilets in public places like modern restaurants, shopping malls, air conditioned attractions (e.g. palaces and museums), and airports. Gas stations may have either western toilets or squat toilets.
- In rural areas the traditional squat toilet is common in many public restrooms or another type of toilet called a “bum gun” or “bidet shower” which is essentially just a small hose attached to the wall next to the toilet bowl.
- Most public toilets don’t have toilet paper, so you will need to carry some with you. Also bring hand sanitizer and/or hand wipes.
- In many locations you will need to discard toilet paper in a garbage can not down the toilet. Most toilets in Thailand aren’t designed to process toilet paper.
- It’s customary in Thai culture to remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or certain public places like temples including restrooms in these locations.
Sex tourism
One thing that was really surprising to us when we travelled to Thailand was how open and obvious the sex tourism industry is. It is common to see older western men on “dates” with really young Thai women or men sometime 60 year younger. Many people travel to Thailand for this purpose and hire a “girlfriend” to spend their holiday with them and keep them company.
While we were walking in Phuket along Bangla road we were stopped constantly by people trying to get us to attend a “ping pong” show or to come watch female go go dancers in skimpy outfits at the local bars. Other sex tourism entertainment like ladyboy shows or naked sushi (eathing suschi off of a naked woman) are not uncommon.
When we went for a massage we looked for the windows that specifically said “no happy endings”.
The experience felt sleazy and was a turnoff for us to see this everywhere. It was more common in Bangkok and Phuket and less so on the smaller islands we visited.
Thai massages
Thai massages are amazing and are so inexpensive I had one nearly every day. At about $10-15 Canadian per one hour massage it was a bargain and the massages were so helpful to reduce back pain, increase range of motion and flexibility, to relax, and to soothe aching feet after a day of walking around site seeing. Normally, there is tea served after the massage and you leave feeling completely rejuvinated.
Full moon parties
Beach parties, typically called full moon parties are common on many of the islands. Large groups of people, sometimes up to 30,000-40,000, congregate on the beach, particularly during a full moon, to dance until dawn. Beaches are lined with fire dancers, alcohol vendors with buckets full of drinks, loud music and dj’s and glow in the dark paint stands.
Wildlife
Be cautious around wildlife – don’t feed them, don’t get too close, and watch your belongings! One of my favorite memories of Thailand was when we were laying on beach chairs at Railay Beach and a whole troop of monkeys came swooping into our resort and took over the place. They swung through the trees above us and jumped up and down on the massage beds in the spa above. They will grab whatever is in reach and take it and they especially like cameras or other shiny items.
On a day trip to monkey island near Ko Phi Phi, one tourist on our boat was bit and another woman was swarmed when she brought out a banana to feed them. As our tourist guide warned us “the monkeys are not your friends”.
Other advertised tourist activities included rides on elephants and pictures with live tigers. The tigers are drugged to restrain their natural instinct to attack you while you get a selfie with them. The elephants are kept in captivity and many believe that the use of elephants or tigers for our entertainment is a form of animal cruelty.
Feeding fish in the ocean is illegal and punishable by a 100000-baht fine and up to 1 year in prison. Do not feed fish in the ocean and avoid boat tour operators who encourage tourists to do so.
