Things to Do in Thailand

About Thailand

Thailand unfolds like a vivid dream where ancient temples pierce through morning mist, golden Buddhas watch over bustling streets, and the scent of lemongrass and chili dances through night markets. This is a land where contradictions harmonize beautifully—where monks in saffron robes scroll through smartphones, where gleaming skyscrapers shadow centuries-old spirit houses, and where tranquil beaches exist mere hours from frenetic urban energy. The Thai smile, the famous "sanuk" philosophy of finding joy in every moment, permeates everything from chaotic tuk-tuk rides to serene temple visits. Here, limestone karsts rise dramatically from emerald waters, jungle canopies shelter hidden waterfalls, and every meal becomes a celebration of flavors that dance between sweet, sour, salty, and spicy. Thailand doesn't just welcome travelers—it embraces them with genuine warmth, offering transformation through its intoxicating blend of spirituality, natural beauty, and irrepressible zest for life.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Download the Grab app for reliable, metered transportation in cities—far safer than negotiating with tuk-tuks. For Bangkok, purchase a Rabbit Card (BTS) for seamless skytrain travel. Overnight sleeper trains offer excellent value between major cities. Always use registered metered taxis at airports and insist drivers use the meter.

Money: Carry cash for markets and street food; many vendors don't accept cards. ATMs charge 220 baht foreign transaction fees—withdraw larger amounts to minimize costs. Notify your bank before traveling. Exchange rates are better in Thailand than at home; avoid airport exchanges. Keep small bills (20-100 baht) for tipping and small purchases.

Cultural Respect: Never touch anyone's head or point your feet at Buddha images or people. Remove shoes before entering temples and homes. Dress modestly at religious sites—cover shoulders and knees. Stand respectfully during the 8am and 6pm national anthem. The monarchy is deeply revered; never criticize the royal family, as it's illegal.

Food Safety: Eat where locals eat—busy street stalls with high turnover are generally safest. Avoid ice in rural areas but it's safe in cities. Drink only bottled water with sealed caps. Start slowly with spicy food to avoid stomach upset. Wash hands frequently and carry hand sanitizer. Peel fruits yourself when possible.

When to Visit

Thailand's climate divides into three distinct seasons. The cool, dry season (November-February) offers ideal conditions with temperatures of 25-30°C, minimal rainfall (under 50mm monthly), and crystalline skies—perfect for beaches and trekking, though expect 30-40% higher prices and crowded attractions. December-January peaks with Christmas and New Year travelers. The hot season (March-May) brings scorching 35-40°C temperatures and humidity, with April's Songkran Festival (13-15th) transforming the country into a joyous water fight. Prices drop 20-25% and beaches are less crowded, ideal for budget travelers who can handle heat. The rainy season (June-October) features afternoon downpours (150-300mm monthly) but rarely all-day rain, with lush landscapes and 40-50% lower prices making it excellent for cultural exploration in the north. Southern islands like Koh Samui buck trends, enjoying dry weather July-September when Phuket and Krabi see rain. October's Vegetarian Festival and November's Loy Krathong (exact dates vary by lunar calendar) offer spectacular cultural experiences. Families should visit December-January; budget travelers thrive May-October; couples seeking romance should choose November or February's pleasant weather with fewer crowds.