Thailand

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Thailand

Azure waters lap the edges of sugar-sand beaches. Sizzling food fills street markets with mouth-watering smells. Palaces glitter and temples inspire. Elephants splash through lakes and waterfalls pockmark spinach-green rainforests.

Travel in Thailand offers countless life-changing experiences. Read on to find yours…

When to go to Thailand 

Thailand’s best weather is between November and February, making these months a good time to travel. The Christmas holidays are a very popular time for package tourists, so be wary of this if you want to avoid crowds. March to May brings hot and dry weather, whereas the monsoon season from June to July sees the country drenched in rain, dyeing the landscapes an alluring green. The rainy season is an enjoyable time to travel if you want to avoid tourists.

 

 

Where to go in Thailand

Culture seekers can explore the glittering palaces, gilded temples and bustling night markets of Bangkok or uncover some of Thailand’s most ancient treats at Sukhothai.

Those looking for something more adventurous can trek through the jungles and hills in the north of the country to meet the tribal villages or head to one of the islands scattered around the mainland to scuba dive or kayak in and out of the karsts piercing through the water’s surface.

In short, there’s something for almost everyone here. It just depends on whereabouts you go...

Still can't decide where to go? Our trip planners can help...

Wildlife spotting in Thailand 

Sun bear, tiger and leopard can be spied in the thick forest of Khaosok National Park. Monkeys set up home in the crumbling temples. Ethical elephant experiences can be found across the country. Thailand’s wildlife is incredible, and it’s well worth seeking it out on a trip there.

More things to do in Thailand: Culture, adventure and festivals 

Food and drink in Thailand 

Thai food has become increasingly popular over the years, and rightly so.  With pad thai (noodles smothered with egg, peanuts and fish sauce), coconut-flavoured curries and a variety of rice dishes to choose from, you'll be spoilt for choice. A great place to sample authentic Thai cuisine is at the food markets, where you can pick at treats from each stand while soaking up the atmosphere. Here's just a few of our favourite dishes...

Where to stay in Thailand

Whether you're after a hut on a beach on a quiet Thai island or want to indulge in some luxury at one of the top hotels in Bangkok, Thailand offers accommodation to suit all tastes and all budgets...

6 Thailand hotels that help the community

Read More

Health and saftey in Thailand 

Check the NHS Fit For Travel site and consult your GP or a travel health clinic for advice on which vaccinations you should have before visiting Thailand. You should use insect repellent to ward off the mosquitos and take sensible precautions to prevent other bites and stings. 

Getting there and around

International airports 

Suvarnabhumi Airport (Bangkok)
Phuket International Airport
Chiangmai International Airport
Samui International Airport

Domestic flights

Domestic flights connect Bangkok to the rest of Thailand, and you can fly direct from the capital to Koh Samui, Phuket, Krabi, Chiang Mai and numerous other destinations. Air Asia offer good value domestic flights.

Bus

Comfortable and air-conditioned busses can be taken around Thailand and are also a good way of getting to the boardering countries of Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar and Malaysia. 

 

Boat

If you have time on your side and want to see the country from the water that runs right through the heart of it, then a Mekong River trip is for you. Check out our Mekong trip guide to find a boat trip that works best for you.

 

Train

The State Railway of Thailand consists of four lines that connect all four corners of country, making for a great slow and scenic travel option.   

 

 

Facts and figures 

Capital:
Bangkok 

Population:
69 million 

Languages: 
Thai is the official language of Thailand. English is widely spoken

Currency: 
Thai Baht is the official currency of Thailand. Although ATM's are widely available in the main hubs, it is advised you take cash with you when visiting smaller, less visited islands. 

Time zone:
GMT+7 

International dialling code: 
+66

Voltage: 
220 V 

Visas:

British passport holders do not need a passport to enter Thailand for travel of less than 30 days. Be aware that you may be asked for evidence of return flights or onward travel.

 

For the latest Thailand travel advice, check the Gov.uk foreign travel advice

Onward travel 

You've made the effort to travel to Thailand, so why not explore it's incredible neighbours while you're there? 

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