Thailand is a fabulous destination – there are plenty of things to do in Bangkok, great villas in Koh Samui, boat trips and cooking classes to enjoy in Phuket, and a heap of cultural and historic places to visit too. If you’re planning a trip or wondering where to go in Thailand, here’s what you need to know before you go – including a handy fact file with travel tips and trivia, plus advice on money, visas and the weather. And, of course, some cool Thailand hotels!
What to do in Bangkok
Traveller: Anthia Chng
The Thai capital is one of my favourite places to visit. You get delicious food, amazing spas at every corner, and the shopping is great, too. Also, if you’re a fan of Muay Thai like I am, there are lots of gyms to check out.
As for Thailand hotels, I really enjoyed my time at Shama Lakeview Asoke Bangkok. This is actually a serviced apartment just 10 minutes by foot from Asoke BTS station. The Thai capital is easy to navigate via the BTS and MRT systems – similar to Singapore’s MRT and Hong Kong’s MTR. And you get to avoid the infamous Bangkok traffic!
The apartment was clean and spacious, and the service staff hospitable and professional. Our stay was faultless. I loved how you can get your laundry done the night before you leave, so you check out with clean clothes. I think this option would be perfect for those travelling with kids!
There are a few things I need to accomplish during any trip to Bangkok. I like to check out a new café, snack on street food … and visit a Muay Thai gym! Recently, I visited the popular Roast café (Thonglor branch) for brunch with my friends. While it was on the pricier side, the food was really good. In fact, Bangkok is a must-visit for café lovers, and the brunch scene is booming.
Where to stay in Phuket
Phuket Old Town
Traveller: Verne Maree
After a break of some years, Roy and I were itching to get back to Phuket. Thailand is one of our favourite Southeast Asian destinations, and Phuket our favourite Thai island. This time, though, I was hankering after something different from a beach getaway – something with a smidgen of Sino-Portuguese-Thai history and culture.
What’s more, we both wanted to tuck into some authentic green papaya salad and other Southern Thai food. Travel doesn’t have to be all about food – but for us it often turns out that way. Southern Thai cuisine is a melting pot of Thai, Malay, Burmese and Chinese influences, and Phuket was named “Thailand City of Gastronomy” by UNESCO in 2017.
Every Sunday, atmospheric Thalang Road in Phuket Old Town hosts its weekly Walking Market. Food stalls run down the centre of a temporarily pedestrianised thoroughfare lined with restaurants, bars and shops selling clothing, pottery, knick-knacks and more. The amazing food on offer included delicious boiled dumplings stuffed with chicken or prawns, while 40 baht got me a small carton of shredded cabbage piled with egg-coated, wok-fried squid topped with green chilli sauce, yum!
You need to book for the three-Michelin-starred Blue Elephant Cookery School and Restaurant (96 Soi Krabi). An exquisitely restored example of Sino-Portuguese architecture, it was once the Governor’s house. The seven-course Peranakan set meal is a good way to try a variety of high-end, classic Thai dishes – from creamy coconut chicken soup topped with seared foie gras, to king mackerel fillet with red curry sauce.
A great introduction to Phuket food, A Chef’s Tour is a 4.5-hour walking tour that kicks off at 10am on the steps of Phuket Old Town market. It’s a food journey through the various cultural influences that have shaped the cuisine of Phuket – bring an empty stomach!
As for Thailand hotels, Hotel Verdigris is the real deal if you want to continue the feel of Phuket Old Town. Aptly described as “contemporary Eurasian with hints of old-world opulence”, this restored gem is great value and is centrally located in a restored four-storey city mansion at 154 Yaowarat Road.
A houseboat off Phuket
Traveller: Rebecca Bisset
I was invited for a weekend cruise off the coast of Phuket on the Merdeka 3, a custom-made wooden Indonesian phinisi (two-masted boat) that holds up to 14 people. On board, there are four double beds (all ensuite) that open up practically onto the water; it’s amazing to wake up to your own sea view! There are two berths below: these have three beds each and are better for kids. The two large living areas make the set-up feel so spacious; one of them doubles as a massage parlour, with a masseuse available around the clock to sort out those knotty areas. The top deck is great for tanning, drinking cocktails and looking out for meteorites. There are fixed itinerary cruises that visit Krabi or Phi Phi and free-flow charters where you can go wherever and whenever you like.
The islands are spectacular, with large rust-coloured walls of stone pushing up through the water. Inside these giant formations you’ll find little havens and sometimes an entire enclosed sea, while others have little islands with their own ecosystems, mangroves, bats and other interesting creatures. We took a motor dinghy to explore these places – sometimes, we had to lie flat on the bottom of the boat to get through the openings!
We also rode kayaks provided onboard, cruised along the coast and found ourselves at uninhabited beaches. There were snorkel sets for use too. As the owner Neil Dibb says, “It’s a rustic and cultural experience for people who enjoy being with nature, and who relish private time in the company of good friends and family.”
This was something quite different from the normal places to stay in Phuket and there’s also the Merdeka 1 that’s more modern and is able to hold up to 10 people. You can find out more by emailing sails@spaboat.com or visiting spaboat.com.
Where to stay in Chiang Mai
Traveller: Kate Woodbury
A warm Thai welcome awaits at the Spanish-owned Meliá Chiang Mai, which opened in mid-2022. The hotel’s impressive décor artfully blends Spanish architecture with local Thai hill tribe design and materials, and the modern rooms are spacious, comfortable and tastefully decorated in neutral tones. They include a family room with games, toys and other thoughtful amenities. We stayed in a “Level” room, equivalent to a club room, giving us access to The Level Lounge on the 21st floor with complimentary breakfast, all-day drinks, snacks, evening cocktails with delicious nibbles and sensational views.
There are other great dining options too, including Laan Na offering a Spanish and European menu with a handful of local Thai dishes, the hotel’s flagship fine-dining restaurant Mai Restaurant & Bar, on the 21st floor, and, one floor above, Chiang Mai’s highest outdoor bar, Mai The Sky Bar. Head here to sip on a cocktail and enjoy panoramic views across the city towards the mountains.
If you’re looking for where to stay in Chiang Mai, this Thailand hotel has top-notch facilities, including a deep-blue tiled pool, steam room and sauna, gym, and separate kids’ pool and wet play area. However, the jewel in the crown is the sensational kids’ club, Kidsdom, offering different zones of activities and games for ages three to 18. I also recommend visiting the hotel’s world-class YHI Spa for a massage – mine was the perfect finale to my stay.
melia.com/en/hotels/thailand/chiang-mai
Koh Samui hotels and villas
Villa Blue View
One of the leading luxury villas on Koh Samui, Villa Blue View sits on a hilltop on the island’s north coast, overlooking the Gulf of Thailand. Designed by award-winning architect Gary Fell, it’s a property that features plenty of clean modern lines and open spaces. You’ll be flanked by greenery during your stay, enjoying the nature views all around, from the eagles circling above to the bluest of ocean vistas below.
Blue View’s five spacious ensuite bedrooms are all different, each with its own views, and one with four single beds – ideal for children. A trio of permanent staff is on hand to look after your holidays needs, and a chef is available at a daily rate.
theviewisblue.com | bookings@theviewisblue.com
InterContinental Koh Samui Resort
Formerly the renowned Baan Taling Ngam Resort – Samui’s first-ever luxury resort – the InterContinental Koh Samui Resort is tucked away on the tranquil west coast of Samui, a 45-minute drive from the airport. We can personally vouch for the views from this clifftop property – they’re extraordinary, stretching over the nearby Five Islands and the Ang Thong National Marine Park.
At this Koh Samui hotel there are four restaurants and bars, plus the award-winning Baan Thai Spa by HARNN, loads of kids’ activities at Planet Trekkers, and other fun activities for adults and kids alike.
icsamui.rsvn@ihg.com | samui.intercontinental.com
Banyan Tree Samui
Traveller: Kate Woodbury
Banyan Tree Samui is spread over two steep hills overlooking a picturesque secluded bay and pristine beach. Each of its 88 luxurious villas is situated within a private garden, with a 35-square-metre pool and sundeck. We stayed in a spacious Deluxe Pool Villa, beautifully furnished and decorated in natural calming tones, adding to the serenity. Thoughtful touches include a daily aromatherapy essential oil.
Kayaking, snorkelling and stand-up paddleboarding are among the activities available at this Koh Samui hotel, plus daily wellbeing classes including yoga and sleep meditation. Banyan Tree is famed for its spa and there’s a fabulous range of massages, treatments and therapies available. We tried the Rainforest, a hydrotherapy wellness experience featuring different water therapies such as steam, bucket showers, an ice fountain, a rainforest walk and a vitality pool.
Breakfast each day is served at The Edge with extensive buffet of local, Asian and Western choices. Sit on the terrace, enjoy the gentle sea breeze and soak up the views over the resort’s private bay. There’s also the aptly named Sands, a casual beachside restaurant, and, perched high on the hilltop, the resort’s signature restaurant Saffron, perfect for date-night dining. (Don’t miss the special Chef’s Table dinner!)
While this is the perfect romantic retreat, with bespoke experiences for honeymoons and special occasions, families are also welcome. There’s a small kids’ pool, play area and club, and a huge soft lawn to run around on barefoot. The children’s menus are imaginative and fun, and the private pool in each villa is every kid’s dream!
Visiting Khao Sok National Park
Traveller: Melinda Murphy
My girlfriends were coming from the States for an adventure in Asia. Their list of wants for their Thailand hotel and holiday was long: natural beauty, time with animals, and the chance to rough it (but not too rough). Thailand’s Elephant Hills turned out to be the perfect place. The platform tents give the feel of glamping, right smack dab in the middle of Khao Sok, part of Southern Thailand’s largest stretch of primary rainforest.
There’s no riding the animals here. Rather, our days at this award-winning elephant sanctuary were filled with watching and feeding the gentle giants. We even got to give one a bath, which was super fun. My favourite was watching a mother and her baby – so cute! We also went kayaking through the surrounding mangroves.
One night, we boated to the sister resort, a floating raft hotel where we kayaked through the stillest water imaginable; it looked like glass. Here, we saw lots of monkeys in the trees, an absolute thrill for us all. The best part was knowing our tourism dollars were helping the very elephants we’d come to see.
Where to stay in Krabi
Traveller: Siti Shahirah
Our accommodation in Krabi was Andakiri Pool Villa. It was one of the best places we’ve stayed in, with a private pool and an amazing view. The staff were very friendly and offered great service. The only downside was that it was located on the top of a hill, so we had to take shuttles to and from the town centre.
Must-visits include the Krabi Town Night Market, a great place to get souvenirs, while being entertained by gamelan performances. There were also many stalls selling street food. It was absolutely packed, so if you can, come with a portable fan for the heat!
Another highlight is the Krabi Elephant Sanctuary. If you’re looking for what to do in Thailand, visiting an elephant sanctuary is a great idea. However, it’s important to choose one that is ethical. This one is for retired and rescued elephants who previously worked in the tourism and logging industries. It was a great experience learning about each elephant’s history and spending time with them in their natural environment. We also got to feed and walk with them. My 15-month-old specifically enjoyed the private pool at our villa and watching the elephants up close! There’s so much to see and do in Krabi; the beaches are clean and my boy had a good time!
# THAILAND TRAVEL TIPS
The Basics
Population: 71 million
Capital: Bangkok
Religion: Around 95% of the population is Buddhist
Emergency number: 191
Some trivia
- Thailand used to be known as Siam – and yes, Siamese cats are native to this country.
- The town of Kanchanaburi is home to the famous “Bridge Over the River Kwai”, part of the Burma-Siam railway; an estimated 80,000 to 100,000 people died constructing the project during the Second World War.
- At 127 metres high, Phra Pathommachedi in Nakhon Pathom is the tallest stupa in the world
- Thailand is the only country in Southeast Asia that has not been colonised by Europeans.
- Speaking of Europe, Bangkok was once called “the Venice of the East” due to buildings being built on stilts above the Chao Phraya River.
- It is strictly against the law to criticise the monarchy in Thailand.
- Bangkok’s full official ceremonial name is Krung Thep Mahanakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Ayuthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udomratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Piman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukam Prasit.
Key dates
- 13 to 17 April: Songkran Festival. The Thai New Year is celebrated in boisterous fashion (put it this way: you will get wet!).
- 13 October: The anniversary for the passing of King Bhumibol Adulyadej. Thailand’s much-loved king of 70 years died in 2016, aged 88.
Where to go in Thailand
Hot spots include Bangkok, Phuket, Krabi, Chiang Mai, Koh Samui, Koh Phi Phi and Hua Hin. There are five World Heritage Sites in Thailand, including the historic towns of Ayutthaya and Sukhothai.
Itinerary ideas
- Beach Break: Bangkok – Koh Samui – Koh Phangan – Phuket
- Highlands: Bangkok – Lopburi – Sukhothai – Chiang Mai – Chiang Rai
- Heartland: Bangkok – Kanchanaburi – Ayuthaya
Staying safe and healthy
The usual mosquito-borne diseases are common enough in Thailand, so make sure you’ve sprayed and covered up. Also be aware of cutaneous larva migrans; it’s a rash caused by dog hookworm that’s sometimes contracted on Thailand’s beaches (sounds awful, but it’s very easily treated with medication!). There are snakes around – we’ve seen some ourselves – so tread carefully when you’re off the beaten track.
Cultural things
While you’re there, please don’t…
- Wear your shoes into a temple or someone’s home.
- Raise your voice unnecessarily; anger and aggression are signs of disrespect in Thailand.
- Touch a Thai person on the head.
- Use your feet to point at anything.
Before you go, read …
- Sightseeing by Rattawut Lapcharoensap – short stories by a young award-winning Thai-American author
- A Child of the Northeast by Kampoon Boontawee – written in 1976 and set in the 1930s, this book tells of a family from the Isan region of Thailand.
- Bangkok 8 by John Burdett – the seamier side of Thailand is represented here (namely, the bars and brothels) but it’s a suspenseful and entertaining read.
Before you go, watch …
- Uncle Boonmee Who Can Recall His Past Lives – winner of the Palme d’Or at Cannes, this film centres around the last days of the title character.
- The Legend of Suriyothai – the story of Queen Suriyothai who died in courageous fashion in 1548 in a battle against Burmese invaders.
- The Big Boss – if you’re a martial arts fan, you’ll love this Bruce Lee flick, which was filmed entirely in Thailand.
They said it…
“In Thailand’s history there have been dissensions from time to time, but in general, unity has prevailed.” – Bhumibol Adulyadej, King of Thailand (1946-2016)
“Bangkok is a rejuvenating tonic; the people seem to have found the magic elixir. Life, a visitor feels, has not been wasted on the Thais.” – Bernard Kalb, author
“Sanuk is the Thai word for fun, and in Thailand anything worth doing, even work, should have some element of sanuk. This doesn’t mean Thai people don’t want to work or strive. It’s just that they live more in the moment, and do their best to enjoy it.” – Anonymous
Important questions for Thai travel
Do I need a visa?
Passport holders from over 60 countries, including the UK, the US, Canada, Singapore and Australia do not require a visa for stays not exceeding 30 days. See the official visa website here.
What time is it in Thailand?
Thailand is 7 hours ahead of GMT, 1 hour behind Singapore and 3 hours behind Sydney.
What’s the money situation?
The official currency of Thailand is the Thai baht (THB). Foreign currency and travellers cheques can be exchanged at banks and Thai baht withdrawn at ATMs throughout the country. Credit cards are also widely accepted.
When’s the best time to visit Thailand?
The weather in Thailand is generally hot and humid across most of the country throughout most of the year. Avoid Bangkok and the inland areas in April when the weather is scorching. Beach lovers should be aware that the weather varies on the east and west coasts. On the west coast (Phuket, Phi Phi and Krabi), the southwest monsoon brings heavy storms from April to October. On the east coast (Koh Samui, Koh Phangan), most rainfall is between September and December.
What’s the lingo?
Thai is the official language, but most locals have at least a rudimentary understanding of English. Here are some phrases to get you started:
-
- Hello: Sawadee ka (female) / Sawadee krab (male)
- What is your name? Khun cheu arai?
- My name is __: Di-chan chuh __ (female) / Pom chuh __ (male)
- How much? Tao rai ka? (female) / Tao rai krub? (male)
- Thank you: Khorb khun ka (female) Khorb khun krab (male)
- Yes: Chi
- No, thank you: Mai ao ka (female) / Mai ao krab (male)
Last but not least
Is there anything I should know about meeting the locals?
To say hello in Thai, perform a wai: place your hands together close to your chest and dip your head in a slight bow.
What’s a must-try dish?
Pad Thai: rice noodles stir-fried with eggs and chopped firm tofu, flavoured with tamarind pulp, fish sauce, dried shrimp, garlic or shallots, red chillies, palm sugar, and served with lime wedges and chopped roasted peanuts. But there are so many other options!
What should I buy as a souvenir?
Thai silk, spa products, Thai cookbooks.
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