Things to Do in Thailand

About Thailand

Thailand mixes old and new in ways that shouldn't work but do. Buddhist monks in saffron robes check their phones outside centuries-old temples, while glass towers loom over neighborhood spirit houses where people still leave daily offerings. You can ride a tuk-tuk through Bangkok's traffic-choked streets in the morning and swim at an empty beach by afternoon. The Thai concept of "sanuk"—finding joy in the moment—shows up everywhere. Temples are quiet. Markets are not. Limestone cliffs jut from green-blue water along the coast, and waterfalls hide in jungle thick enough to block the sun. The food balances sweet, sour, salty, and spicy in dishes that take years to master. Lemongrass and chili smoke rises from street stalls every night. Thais don't just tolerate tourists—they seem to like having them around, and you'll notice the difference.

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 smooth 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) has 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.