Thailand
Thailand is a hugely popular holiday destination with its mix of temples, tropical islands, terrific jungle regions and sprawling capital city as a travel hub.
Thailand travel guide
In recent years it is safe to say that Thailand has become one of the most popular tourist destinations with travellers of all kinds. The country provides so much diversity in terms of cities, areas and activities that there is literally something for everyone.
Unless you are laser-focused and wedded to a certain type of holiday, the best recommendation right off the bat is to take a trip that exposes you to the varying aspects of Thailand so that you truly see the country from all angles.
There is so much more than just backpacking and Full Moon Parties if you plan a top travel itinerary ahead of time, get things lined up and can just kick back and enjoy the ride.
For a start you are almost certain to fly into Bangkok if it is an International flight. The city is big. Like really, really big at over 8,000,000 in population. So if it is your first time in a huge Asian city then drink in the atmosphere of frenetic roads, sprawling markets and the exceptional historical sites like the iconic Grand Palace and its Emerald Buddha.
What you do and where you go after you have sampled the Thai capital city is up to you... but we have a few things in mind to suggest!
It is hard not to be blown away by the beauty of Thailand's many temples.
The north means jungle trekking and enchanting elephants
To the north of Bangkok you will find Chiang Mai. The most fun way to travel between the cities is to catch a sleeper train through the night. The journey will take around 12 hours and you can pay for a private berth with bunk beds in it, rather than have to hole up for the evening in the shared train cabin. It is both affordable and a brilliant way to make the trip. You can expect to arrive in the early morning and start your day of exploring fresh from a good night's sleep.
By far the most inviting and unique part of Thailand is Chiang Mai. It is a stunning place with remnants of the old city walls and moats serving as ghosts of the past. Traditionally a cultural and religious centre, there are splendid temple sights that can be visited in the surrounding area; chief among them being Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh (also known as the Gold Temple).
You should absolutely be respectful of local customs when in these temple sites with locals happy to receive you in their places of worship, but also expecting that you conduct yourself appropriately, much in the way you would in any European church.
The area has numerous hills and the option to visit some wonderful places that let you sample the natural world and Thai wildlife. While there are a few options to consider, you should 100% take the chance to visit the Elephant Nature Park. It is an unbelievable place that cares for elephants that were formerly used in the logging industry and often have lifelong ailments. Their philosophy is that we should let elephants be elephants, so no riding is allowed and you can not generally interact as closely as some other 'experiences' - however this fabulous organisation, run by world renowned conservationist Lek Chailert, is the place to visit to get close to Elephants in the truest and most authentic way, while also helping to raise funds to protect these magnificent animals. The team from Elephant Nature Park will even pick you up from your hotel and take you to the park if you book a day trip. There are longer options to stay there within the grounds themselves - imagine waking up to the sound of trumpeting elephants who are joyously free!
Paradise islands in Thailand
Not all of Thailand's islands are the same. Some are the quintessential party places with the stereotypical Full Moon parties and wild side to Thai holidays. Some are wilder in a different way with jungle areas and lots of trekking opportunities, whereas others are just incredible to kick back, relax and chill as the Asian sun beats down on you.
it is a good idea to plan your itinerary to include a trip to at least one of the islands; all easily reached by a short plane or boat trip depending on where you are in the country.
The best islands in Thailand can be categorised so you know the vibe already when you arrive:
- Phuket: Big party island with stunning natural beauty and some exquisite villas to book.
- Koh Lanta: A wonderful hideaway in tranquility and a staggeringly beautiful place to stay.
- Koh Phangan: The place to go for Full Moon parties that you have no doubt heard all about.
- Koh Samet: Best island for nature with a national park only a few hours drive/boat from Bangkok.
- Koh Phi Phi: Famously featured in Leonardo Di Caprio's film 'The Beach', the island is stunning and a also place to party.
- Koh Samui: Perfectly positioned island to book a hotel on the west side and watch the sunset from your private villa.
- Koh Yao Yai & Koh Yao Noi: These islands look untouched, natural and are super different to the bustle of Thailand's cities and busier islands. This is the perfect place for a serene stay in a boutique hotel.
Travel destinations in Thailand
Ayutthaya: Located to the north of Bangkok and accessible easily by train, the ancient city of Ayutthaya contains stunningly beautiful temples and historic sites.
Bangkok: The amazing capital city of Thailand that is the perfect place to start your adventure. Check out the ancient temples, the modern markets and sample some amazing food!
Chiang Mai: Brace yourself for an experience like no other as you enter the jungle paradise of Chiang Mai. Temples, elephants, night markets and friendly locals.
Khao Lak: As exquisite Asian areas to kick back in a resort go, Khao Lak has to be right up there with the best. Easily accessible within an hour from Phuket.
Koh Chang: A relatively unspoilt paradise with a tropical jungle interior filled with rivers, waterfalls, hiking trails surrounded by waters and a coral reef.
Koh Lanta: One of the most beautiful of all of the islands in Thailand, Koh Lanta is situated just offshore from Krabi on the Andaman coast and is definitely worth checking out if you are on that side of the country.
Koh Phi Phi: A beautiful archipelago of 6 small islands located in the Andaman Sea, and also part of Thailand’s Hat Nopparat Thara-Ko Phi Phi National Park.
Koh Samet: The island of Koh Samet is a popular Thailand getaway with its 14 beautiful beaches, a breathtaking setting and a variety of great hotels to choose from.
Krabi: A lovely province located on the mainland of Thailand on the stunning Andaman Coast and is an area definitely worth checking out.
Pattaya: Close enough to Bangkok to visit for a weekend, pretty Pattaya is a stunning seaside resort on the east coast of Thailand with lots to offer visitors.
Phuket: A total bucket-list destination because of its spectacular setting and diverse offerings, the island of Phuket in Thailand is a dream come true.