Jump to:
Introduction • Planning • Accommodation • Getting Around • Destinations • Essential Tips • Food • Itineraries • Packing • Conclusion
Introduction
Known as the “Land of Smiles,” Thailand is a country in Southeast Asia renowned for its rich culture, beautiful landscapes, and lively cities. From the beautifully chaotic metropolis of Bangkok to the tranquil, serene islands like Koh Tao, Thailand offers a diverse array of experiences. My guide covers essential information for planning your trip to Thailand based on my personal experiences from my journey through this beautiful country! How did I come to decide to travel to Thailand in the first place? It’s so far away! Here’s how…
By May 2015, I received my diploma and was officially a college graduate, but, in the midst of finishing my physician assistant program applications. I yearned for another trip to celebrate the momentous occasion, but I didn’t know where to go. I considered Europe, but had already gone in 2013 for what was my first backpacking trip in my life. I contemplated over the summer, and called it crazy, but I felt like I was being drawn to Southeast Asia.
It seemed like everywhere I looked, there was an advertisement or a television program mentioning or talking about Thailand. What was even more weird was even amongst my friends at work and even in my martial arts training group, Thailand was the collective response when I surveyed where I should go for my next trip! On my social media feed, I noticed a couple of friends from high school had just returned from studying abroad and teaching English out there, so I took the opportunity and reached out to one of them to ask for her advice. We met for lunch, she gifted me a guide book and about a month later, on September 2, 2015, I was holding on for dear life on a Tuk-Tuk as the driver zoomed through the bustling streets of Bangkok.
Prior to the start of the trip, I knew absolutely very little about Thailand. I wasn’t fond of the cuisine. I had no knowledge of any specific destinations. And to be honest, I skimmed through the guide book and just decided to go with it. Like I said before, I felt that the universe was guiding me to head that way. All I knew was that I just wanted to travel again. I wanted to go on an even larger adventure than my trip to Europe. Let me tell you something, be careful what you ask for. I was in for a wild 2 months. But, little did I know then that Thailand would soon become one of my favorite destinations in the world! I knew after I had returned home, I promised I’d return someday.
Fast forward 7 years later to 2023, I kept my promise, but this time with my girlfriend Nicole. The last time she was in Thailand, she was 10 years old, so this was her first-time traveling Thailand as an adult and I was eager to show her all of the wonderful things Thailand had to offer! Busy night markets with cheap, delicious food; ziplining through rainforests, climbing to the top of mountain temples to scuba diving off the coast of tropical islands, Thailand is no stranger to fulfilling the appetite of an adventurous soul.
And even if you aren’t the adventurous type, Thailand has something for everybody! During my second trip through Thailand, we were able to stay in several luxury hotels, resorts and bed and breakfasts for significantly less than what you would pay for in the United States! Some of the world’s best beaches are located in Thailand. So, if you are looking for a little rest and relaxation, you won’t have to search far in Thailand.
And finally, one of the best things about Thailand is how far the U.S. dollar goes in the region, which makes it less of a burden on your wallet!
Although there are many wonderful things about Thailand, it is still vastly different from most places in the world. It’s still a developing country, so you may encounter things that may make you feel uncomfortable. I always remind prospective travelers to keep an open mind and embrace the cultural and structural differences. You may have to leave your comfort zone a little, but through this guide I can help you be better prepared. I can assist you in tailoring your trip to your comfort and budget. I’ll also expand on important travel and safety recommendations, so that you enjoy your trip while minimizing risks and mishaps.
By reading this guide, you have already taken your first step to planning your unforgettable journey through Thailand!
Planning Your Trip
If you’re like me and live in the United States or even Europe, you are most likely going to be taking a flight to Thailand. I actually don’t know how else you would reach it. Boat or car maybe? Anyway, before booking your ticket, the questions you should ask yourself are (in this particular order):
- When is it a good time to go?
- What are the visa requirements? (Varies by country)
- When are the flights the cheapest to go?
- What is your comfort level? Basic economy, business, first class plane seats? Hotels, hostels, AirBNB, guest houses?
- How much do you need to budget for the trip?
Best time to visit
- Cool Season (November to February): Ideal for most travelers; pleasant weather.
- Hot Season (March to May): Very hot; best for beach destinations.
- Rainy Season (June to October): Heavy rainfall, especially in the south, but fewer tourists and lush scenery.
In my experience, all my trips to Thailand have been at the beginning of September and October and each time, I had no qualms or issues whatsoever.
Monsoon season in Thailand is technically from the months of June – October, so generally, the flights are cheaper as the risk for weather delays and issues are more probable. Although I sometimes encounter rain, with heated temperatures measuring up to 40 ˚C (104 ˚F) on some days, I’d welcome it.
Though, I believe most would agree that November and February are the best times to visit. It’s their dry season. But, expect the prices to be more expensive since the popularity and desire to travel to Thailand peak during this time.
BTH Pro Tip
September–October can be fantastic value if you don’t mind occasional rain.
Visa requirements
Many nationalities can enter Thailand visa-free for up to 30 days. For longer stays, a tourist visa is required, which can be extended in Thailand.
Booking Flights
Once you’ve figured out when you’d like to go and that you meet your visa requirements, then booking your flight would be the next step. Some sites I recommend to find flights are:
- Skyscanner
- Kayak
- Google Flights
- Momundo
- Ovago
- Expedia
Major international airports in Bangkok such as Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK). Other international airports are in Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Krabi.
Remember, cheap flights may result in long layovers whereas direct flights may be faster, yet more expensive. If you’re flexible, flights with long layovers can be a nice experience. If it’s 12 hours or more, choose a flight with a layover in a city you’d like to explore as you could incorporate it into your trip depending on how much time you’ll be spending there. Although in the end, you’ll be paying more when you include accommodation and transportation costs, but it might be worth it if you have interest in exploring Seoul, Taipei or Tokyo, which are some of the popular stops on the way to Thailand.
Also, take into consideration that cheaper flights may mean uncomfortable seats, but it’s also airline dependent. Some cheap economy seats on certain airlines are quite comfortable, for example, Singapore Airlines, but if you are willing to pay a little extra or have some frequent miles to spare, you could upgrade to business or first class. These are long flights, so sometimes a little comfort is worth the extra money.
Here is a list of airlines that I would recommend if flying from USA to Thailand:
- Singapore Airlines
- Emirates
- China Air
- Japan Air
- Delta Airlines
So, it really comes down to Comfort vs Price. Economy on quality carriers (e.g., Singapore Airlines) can feel surprisingly good. If you can swing it, upgrades on long-hauls are worth it.
Budget
Generally, Thailand is considered one of the most budget friendly for foreign travelers.
- Budget travelers
- If you’re conservative or traveling on a shoestring budget, such as a backpacker would, you could manage on $30-50/day or even less. Accommodations would most likely include a hostel, which may cost anywhere between $5-$30 a night, street food or a modest restaurant and an activity/tourist attraction or two.
- Intermediate travelers
- You may spend $50-$150/day. More than likely, a mid-range traveler would be staying in a decent private hotel room, dining in restaurants and purchasing group or private tours and attractions.
- Luxury travelers
- Likely to spend upwards of $150/day. Resorts can be anywhere from $40/day and up, but I would assume the rest of the expenses would be on “non-essential” purchases to spend more than $150/day.
| Style | Daily Budget (USD) | Typical Stay | Food | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Backpacker | $30–50 | Hostel/guesthouse | Street food | Great for solo & social travel |
| Mid‑range | $50–150 | Boutique hotel | Cafés & markets | Best value sweet‑spot |
| Luxury | $150+ | Resort/Villa | Upscale dining | 5‑star comforts for less than home |
Accommodation
Finding accommodation in Thailand is easy. Finding accommodation that fits your comfort level…that’s up for you to decide.
- Budget travelers: Hostels and guesthouses start from $5-10/night.
- Intermediate travelers: Hotels and boutique stays $30-60/night.
- Luxury travelers: High-end resorts and villas from $60-$200+/night.
Hotels
If you are looking for standard and traditional accommodation, then hotels are the tried and true. In Thailand, you will find hotels in every major city and prices are significantly cheaper than reserving a room in the United States. You can find rooms in decent hotels as cheap as $40 a night. Not kidding!
If I’m searching for hotel rooms, I typically use these sites:
- Kayak.com
- Expedia.com
- Priceline.com
- Booking.com
- Agoada.com
- Google.com/travel/hotels
- AirBnb.com
Like with anything I do, I always have a checklist of mandatory essential amenities any accommodation must have in order for me to consider reserving a room:
- 24-hour reception
- Free Wi-Fi
- A working air conditioner
- Walking distance or easily accessible by public transport to the city center
Hostels
The first time I traveled around Southeast Asia, I was a 22-year-old backpacker filled with wanderlust, but my budget was tight, so I stayed in budget youth hostels. The hostels I stayed in Thailand were surprisingly very clean and modern.
Here’s a checklist of mandatory essential amenities the hostel must have in order for me to consider reserving a bed:
- 24-hour reception
- Clean sheets and towels
- Lockers for storage
- Free Wi-Fi
- A working air conditioner
- Walking distance or easily accessible by public transport to the city center
Optional amenities, but not mandatory:
- Free breakfast
- Laundry facilities
- Common room/Bar/Social room
Prices for most of the hostels I stayed in Thailand ranged from $7-$25/night, which helped me tremendously since I was on a budget. However, if you aren’t one who doesn’t mind sharing a bathroom and quarter space with strangers who may or may not make a lot of noise, snore or exit and enter the dorm throughout the night, then I do NOT recommend staying in a hostel – well at least in a dorm. Most hostels offer private rooms for an increased price, but still cheaper than a hotel. Something to consider if personal space is mandatory, but you also want to save money on accommodation.
If you are looking to reserve a hostel, here are some sites I recommend:
- Hostelworld.com
- Hostelbookers.com
Hotels
Expect solid rooms from ~$40/night in major cities. I book via Booking.com, Agoda, Expedia, or Google Hotels. My must‑haves: 24h reception, reliable Wi‑Fi, A/C, and easy access to transit.
Hostels
Thailand’s hostels are clean, modern, and social ($7–25/night). Look for lockers, A/C, and 24h reception. Prefer privacy? Many hostels offer affordable private rooms.
Getting Around
In regards to land area, Thailand is not very big, so fortunately, traveling from place to place can be as simple as taking a cheap 45-minute flight within the country.
If you’d like to travel by road, buses and trains can be cheaper than a flight, but it may take hours to reach your destination.
If you’re looking to explore outside of Thailand, there are various buses and trains that connect with neighboring countries like Malaysia, Cambodia, and Laos.
Here are some methods of traveling around Thailand:
- Domestic Flights: Efficient for long distances; budget airlines include Thai Airways, AirAsia and Nok Air.
- Trains: Comfortable for long journeys; scenic routes like the Bangkok to Chiang Mai line or Bangkok to Chumphon, the port with ferries that will take you to Ko Tao, Ko Phangan and Ko Samui.
- Buses: Thailand has an extensive network of buses that are very economical and will take you essentially anywhere in the country. You could pay a little extra for VIP buses, which offer added comfort.
- Local Transport: Tuk-tuks, songthaews (shared taxis), and motorcycle taxis are common. In cities, ride-hailing apps like Grab are useful.
- Ferries/Boats: Thailand is surrounded by the Gulf of Thailand and Andaman sea, in which there are many islands to visit and stay. Luckily, there is a great network of ferries, boats and catamarans that will take you to most islands off the coasts.
Destinations
Jump to:
There are numerous beautiful and interesting destinations within Thailand, but creating a rough itinerary prior to departing can be helpful, especially if your trip is time dependent. Also, knowing a little about each popular destination in Thailand can also guide you to decide if the place is worth visiting or prioritize destinations depending on your preferences.
This is where I can provide some assistance by sharing a small review and my recommendations for the places I’ve been to in Thailand, but I also implore you to do further research on other places that I haven’t been to yet.
Some destinations I have yet to visit, I’ve heard wonderful things about from other travelers while on the road. I will provide a list of those recommended places as well!
Bangkok
Bangkok is a city that never sleeps—an electrifying mix of ancient temples, bustling markets, and ultra-modern skyscrapers.
The Thai capital offers a sensory overload, from the fragrant street food stalls of Yaowarat (Chinatown) to the golden spires of Wat Arun and the serene canals of Thonburi. Explore the Grand Palace or shop in the sprawling Chatuchak Market or if you dare to, navigate through the nightlife along Khao San Road.
With its rich culture, world-class cuisine, and warm hospitality, Bangkok is the perfect start for any traveler in Southeast Asia.
Where to stay?
BTH Recommends
Silom Serene Boutique Hotel • Lub d – Siam Hostel • Everyday Hostel Bangkok
If you’re looking for accommodation in Bangkok, here are the neighborhoods I recommend staying in:
- Sukhumvit
- Siam
- Silom
They are central with many affordable hotels and hostels with various places nearby to eat and shop. Easily accessible to the Metropolitan Rapid Transit (MRT) and the Bangkok Mass Transit System (BTS Skytrain), which can virtually take you anywhere in the city.
- Silom Serene Boutique Hotel – https://silom-serene-a-boutique-hotel.mydirectstay.com/
- A boutique hotel located in the Silom neighborhood within 1 km from the famous Lumphini Park and just a few minutes away from Patpong Night Market on Silom Road. If you are looking for luxury style rooms at a great price, I recommend this hotel.
- Lub d – Siam Hostel – https://lubd.com/destination/bangkok-siam
- Located in the Siam neighborhood, Lub d – Siam hostel is very clean with excellent staff and comfortable dorms. If you are looking for an accommodation with great value, then I recommend this hostel.
- Everyday Hostel Bangkok – https://www.everydaybangkokhostel.com
- Vibrant decoration and hospitable staff. This hostel is located in the Siam neighborhood and only a 5 minutes walk away from Samyan MRT station. Breakfast and coffee is available for purchase in the lobby. The rooms are comfortable with air conditioning; however it is still hostel quality.
Where to eat?
- Vertigo Rooftop Restaurant – Great drinks and skyline view of Bangkok for an ultimate dining experience. Food is more expensive, but you are paying for the experience.
- Villa Cha Cha – For cheap food and people watch on Khao San Road. It’s a tourist trap, but the portions and service were decent.
What to do?
- Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew
- Iconic cultural sites where you can learn more about the history of Bangkok.
- Entrance cost is about 500 baht ($15 USD)
- Wat Sa Ket (The Golden Mount)
- Beautiful hill on top of the only hill in Bangkok with panoramic views of the city.
- Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
- Beautiful riverside temple.
- Chatuchak Weekend Market
- Extensive market with diverse goods.
- Khao San Road
- Backpacker hub with nightlife and budget accommodations.
Chiang Mai
Nestled in the mountains of northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is a city where history, nature, and adventure blend seamlessly. Known for its ancient temples like Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, the city also boasts a thriving night market scene and a laid-back atmosphere that contrasts with Bangkok’s energy. Beyond the old city walls, visitors can explore lush jungles, visit ethical elephant sanctuaries, and trek to remote hill tribe villages. Chiang Mai offers a perfect mix of culture and adventure.
Where to stay?
The Nimman hotel
https://www.thenimmanhotel.com • $25-45/night for a private room
A hotel situated in the Nimman area known for its vibrant street life and bustling social scene. It is an excellent choice for travelers visiting Chiang Mai, offering a family-friendly environment alongside many helpful amenities designed to enhance your stay. Rooms at The Nimman hotel provide air conditioning, and guests can stay connected with free wifi.
There are plenty of Hostels in Chiang Mai that are very comfortable and accommodating. I stayed at the Hug Hostel, which is no longer in operation anymore. I recommend staying in these neighborhoods:
- Old city
- Chinatown
- Nimman
Where to eat
Chiang Mai Night Bazaar
A popular and bustling market located at 104/1 intersection of Tha Pae and Chang Klan Road Chang Klang, Chiang Mai 50100 Thailand. It is a great place to taste various street foods of Thai specialties. Best dishes to try: Pad Thai, Mango Sticky Rice, Crispy Thai Spring Rolls. Also consider joining a street food tour, which can be purchased through your reception or at the location.
What to do?
- Old City Temples: Wat Phra Singh, Wat Chedi Luang.
- Doi Suthep: Mountain temple with panoramic views.
- Night Bazaar: Popular for shopping and local food.
- Elephant Sanctuaries: Ethical elephant experiences where you can interact and take care of elephants amongst locals.
- Zipline Tours: Zipline through rainforests for a thrilling adventure with magnificent views. Located outside of Chiang Mai or Pai.
- Thai Cooking Class: A wonderful way to immerse in Thai culture by learning to cook traditional Thai dishes.
- BTH recommends: Zabb E Lee Thai Cooking School – https://zabb-elee-cooking.com/
- Yoga and Meditation Retreats
Koh Pha-Ngan
Koh Pha-Ngan is one of Thailand’s tropical gems. A part of a trio of islands nestled in the Gulf of Thailand, it is mostly renowned for its legendary Full Moon Parties at Haad Rin Beach. If the party culture is not your thing, there are still plenty of stunning beaches, lush jungle treks, and a laid-back island culture that offers serene retreats with hidden coves, yoga centers, and eco-friendly resorts. Adventure seekers can explore waterfalls, hike through tropical trails, or snorkel in crystal-clear waters. Ko Pha Ngan delivers a perfect blend of excitement and relaxation, making it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Thailand.
Where to stay?
BTH Recommends
Hideout Hostel (Haad Rin) • Sunset Hill Resort • Absolute Beach Front Resort
- Hideout Hostel – https://hostel-hideout.hotels-in-kophangan.com/en/
- Hideout Hostel is located in the center of Haad Rin, the beach where the Full Moon Party takes place. It’s also only a 5 min walk from the beach, which makes it easy to catch a beautiful sunrise or sunset. Since it is located in the center of Haad Rin, there are plenty of shops, bars, and restaurants only a few steps away from the hostel.
- Sunset Hill Resort – https://www.sunsethillresort.com/
- Boutique resort with scenic ocean view with a beautiful pool and tranquil environment. Recommended by a fellow traveler friend of mine.
- Absolute Beach Front Resort – https://absolutebeachfrontresort.asia/
- Located directly on Baan Tai Beach. There is a beautiful pool and direct access to the beach with luxury style rooms available.
Where to eat?
- Pantip Market
- One of the most popular night markets on the island, offering a wide variety of food including traditional Thai food as well as fast food like burgers, pasta, pizza, etc.
- Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar
- An excellent seafood restaurant located on the beach. I recommend going at night for a more romantic atmosphere. Service is great as well.
What to do?
- Full Moon Party on Haad Rin Beach
- For about 200 baht ($6 USD), attend one of Southeast Asia’s biggest parties. Every month, roughly 20,000 people occupy Haad Rin Beach with live music, numerous food and drink stalls and shops. Be prepared for an unforgettable night – or forgettable night…depending on how much you drink.
- Wat Phu Khao Noi
- Buddhist temple with a great viewpoint on the island
- Secret Beach
- A beautiful beach off the beaten path with white sands and tranquil waters to swim. Catch a sunset and sip on some cocktails, fruit shakes, or enjoy a plate of traditional Thai food available at nearby vendors.
Koh Tao
A diver’s paradise! Tucked away in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Tao is a small island with a big reputation—especially among divers and backpackers. Famous for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and laid-back island vibe, Koh Tao is one of the best (and most affordable) places in the world to get scuba-certified. But there’s more to this island than what’s beneath the surface. From stunning viewpoints and hidden coves to lively beach bars and jungle hikes, Ko Tao strikes the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re here to dive, snorkel, or simply soak up the tropical vibes, this little slice of paradise won’t disappoint.
Where to stay?
Blue Diamond Resort
An terrific family friendly resort located just a 2 min walk away from the beach. Villas are available at a great value with access to their luxury pool. The hostel is near popular landmarks, such as John Suwan View Point and Mango Viewpoint.
Where to eat?
- Sairee Cottage Restaurant
- Location right on Sairee Beach with indoor and outdoor seating. We recommend going at sunset or at happy hour for delicious food at a great value.
- In Touch Restaurant – Sairee Beach
- Location right on the beach with beautiful sunsets. Food is delicious and reasonably priced. Excellent place to go with a group of friends or family.
What to do?
- Snorkel at Koh Nang Yuan
- Koh Nang Yuan is a small island just a few hundred meters off the coast of Koh Tao.
- I recommend booking a snorkel tour from any agency that should include entrance fee. It can be quite crowded on Koh Nang Yuan.
- Accommodation options are available to stay on the island.
- Obtain your Open Water diving license at one of the many diving schools on the island
- We recommend Master Divers School (PADI Certified)
- Sairee Beach
- Popular beach with various restaurants, shops and activities
- John Suwan viewpoint
- A 15 minute hike with beautiful views of Koh Tao.
- Love Koh Tao viewpoint
- Enjoy a magnificent view of the Gulf with photo opportunities in front of the colorful I love Koh Tao sign with a good selection of local Thai snacks, beers and ice-cold fruit shakes.
Check out my blog post: 5 Things To Do in Ko Tao
Koh Samui
Koh Samui is the ultimate island escape, offering a little something for every kind of traveler. You’ll find luxury resorts, lively nightlife, serene beaches, or jungle adventures, this Gulf of Thailand gem has it all. Visit the famous Big Buddha Temple, then walk around the lively streets of Chaweng or discover hidden waterfalls and quiet palm-fringed shores. Koh Samui blends relaxation with exploration with beachside bliss, island hopping, or indulging in world-class Thai cuisine. I promise you, Koh Samui is a destination that delivers.
Where to stay?
We recommend staying in the Chaweng Beach area, which has numerous resorts and hotels available for reasonable prices. Here’s our recommendation:
- First Bungalow Beach Resort – https://www.firstbungalowsamui.net/
- Beautiful resort with comfortable luxury rooms located on a beach front. We recommend this accommodation for the price, location and scenery.
Where to eat?
- The Sunset | Bar and Restaurant
- Located close to the Big Buddha, this restaurant offers picturesque sunset views on Koh Samui. The atmosphere is very cozy and relaxed. Food is delicious. We recommend tapas as an appetizer and anything off of the seafood menu.
What to do?
- Chaweng Beach
- The most popular beach on Koh Samui. Popular for nightlife and water activities.
- Ang Thong National Marine Park
- Kayaking, snorkeling, and pristine beaches.
- Big Buddha
- Prominent landmark and temple.
- Football Golf tour at Samui Football Golf
- 18 challenging holes of kicking a soccer ball into a large hole.
Khao Sok National Park
A nature reserve located in southern Thailand containing dense jungle, a giant lake with beautiful limestone tower formations, which may be explored via safari, hiking, rafting, canoe or kayak on the Sok river.
Where to stay?
Chiewlan Camp and Resort (Surat Thani)
Located just 15 minutes outside of Khao Sok National Park, this resort is situated along a small river with a beautiful and serene accommodation. Private bungalows with air conditioning and beautiful views of the resort and landscape.
Where to eat?
When we visited, we just ate at the accommodation, which has a restaurant in the lobby that serves excellent homemade Thai food and breakfast. Otherwise, not many restaurants to choose from due to the nature of the location.
What to do?
- Khao Sok Tour
- Check available tour packages. Stay on the lake in a raft house or floating village. Hike scenic jungles with beautiful waterfalls or kayak around the serene lake where you can immerse yourself in nature and create unforgettable memories.
Ao Nang/Krabi
BTH Recommends
Hideout Hostel (Haad Rin) • Sunset Hill Resort • Absolute Beach Front Resort
Ao Nang is a vibrant coastal hub of Krabi. It’s definitely the perfect base for exploring Thailand’s breathtaking Andaman coastline! You’ll be surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, and pristine beaches. If you’re an adventurer and/or beach lover, then this place will be paradise. You can island hop to the popular Railay beach, the Phi Phi Islands or even The Beach, as made famous by Leo DiCaprio’s movie, by taking longtail boats. You can kayak through mangrove forests, or rock climb those towering limestone cliffs. Just a few minutes away is Krabi, which offers endless opportunities for exploration with its mix of laid-back beach bars, local markets, and lively nightlife. Ao Nang and Krabi are must-visits on any Thailand itinerary.
Where to stay?
Holiday Style Ao Nang Beach Resort
https://holidaystyleresortkrabi.com • $28/night for a private room with a queen bed
A beautiful resort with a beach located across the street from the hotel. Stay in one of the most popular cities in Thailand for a great price in an excellent location
Pak Up Hostel
https://www.pakuphostel.com/ • $15-25/night for mixed dorms.
An incredible hostel with a clean facility and vibrant bar where you can meet and socialize. The hostel is in a great location in Krabi within walking distance to a night market and Chao Fah Park Pier with longtail boat services to Railay Beach.
Where to eat?
- Ao Nang Landmark Night Market
- An excellent place to walk with a ton of exciting, inexpensive food options.
- Cozy House Bar and Restaurant
- A great place with live music and tasty food options. I recommend their Pad Thai.
What to do?
- Railay Beach
- Famous for rock climbing and stunning scenery.
- Tiger Cave Temple
- Offers a challenging hike to the top of a small mountain with a buddhist temple on top with panoramic views.
Essential Tips
Knowing a few key travel tips can make your journey smoother, safer and more enjoyable. This section covers everything you need to navigate Thailand with confidence. Here’s what you should know before you go!
Eating out
- Street food is safe and delicious; follow the crowds for the best spots.
- Night markets offer a wide variety of local dishes.
- Restaurants range from budget-friendly to fine dining.
Food and Drink Recommendations
Make a bingo card and be sure to not leave Thailand without trying these dishes – as long as you don’t have any allergies.
- Pad Thai: Stir-fried noodles that are served best from street vendors. You can mix in chicken, beef or shrimp and add any level of spice you desire. Just be warned, Thai chilies will kick your ass.
- Tom Yum Goong: Spicy shrimp soup that hits the spot after a nice cold dive.
- Som Tum: Green papaya salad that is very refreshing. I like to order as an appetizer.
- Massaman Curry: Rich, mild curry that is not very spicy.
- Panang Curry: My top favorite curry.
- Mango Sticky Rice: Don’t knock it until you try it.
- Thai Iced Tea: Sweet and refreshing. Nicole’s favorite.
- Fruit Shakes: Freshly blended tropical fruits. I recommend Passion Fruit shakes.
- Local Beers: Chang and Singha are popular and very inexpensive.
Cultural Experiences
- Thai cooking classes: Available in major cities and tourist areas.
- Traditional dance shows: Experience Thai culture through dance and music.
- Festivals:
- Songkran – Thai New Year, which is annually on April 13-15
- Loy Krathong – the very popular Festival of Lights, which occurs annually on November 15
- Full Moon Party on Ko Phangan – once a month on the full moon. Check local calendars for exact dates.
- Thai Massage: Available everywhere; from street-side parlors to luxury spas.
- Yoga and Meditation Retreats: Found in peaceful locations like Chiang Mai and Koh Samui.
Cultural Etiquette
Do:
- Dress Modestly: Especially when visiting temples.
- Remove Shoes: When entering homes and temples.
- Respect the Monarchy: Speaking ill of the royal family is illegal.
- Use a Wai: A traditional Thai greeting involving a slight bow with hands pressed together.
Don’t:
- Touch someone’s Head: It is considered the most sacred part of the body.
- Point Your Feet: It’s considered disrespectful; avoid pointing them at people or religious objects.
Language
Thai is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Here are some useful phrases I learned that seemed to be appreciated:
- Hello = Sawasdeeka (for females) Sawasdeekrap (for males)
- Thank you = Khop Khun ka (for females) Khop Khun karap (for males)
- Yes = Chai
- No = Mai chai
- Spicy = Phet
Tipping
Not customary, but appreciated. Round up taxi fares and leave small tips for good service
Electricity
- Voltage: 220V, 50Hz.
- Plugs: Types A, B, C, F. Bring a universal adapter.
Currency
Thai Baht (THB): ATMs are widespread. Credit cards are accepted in most hotels and restaurants, but cash is handy for markets and street food.
Sample Itineraries
7 Days: City + Island
- Days 1–3: Bangkok — Grand Palace, canal tour, rooftop sunset, Chatuchak.
- Days 4–7: Fly to Koh Samui or Koh Tao — beaches, snorkel/dive, Ang Thong NP
14 Days: Classic Thailand
- Days 1–3: Bangkok.
- Days 4–6: Chiang Mai — temples, cooking class, elephant sanctuary.
- Days 7–10: Gulf Islands — Koh Tao (dive) or Koh Phangan (chill/party).
- Days 11–14: Krabi/Ao Nang — Railay, island‑hopping, Tiger Cave.
Packing Guide
Here’s a quick guide on packing essentials for Thailand:
- Light, breathable clothing + rain layer
- Temple‑ready outfit (shoulders/knees covered)
- Comfy sandals + walking shoes
- Universal adapter (Types A/B/C/F), power bank
- Dry bag for boats, quick‑dry towel
- Basic meds: pain reliever, antihistamine, rehydration salts
- Bug repellent & sunscreen
Apps
Grab • 12Go Asia • Google Maps/Translate • XE Currency
Conclusion
Thailand is a country of contrasts, from the frenetic pace of Bangkok to the tranquil beaches of the islands. Its rich cultural heritage, delectable cuisine, and warm hospitality make it a must-visit destination. With this guide, you are well-prepared to explore and enjoy all that Thailand has to offer.
See you out there!
