Thailand is possibly the most-visited country in south-east Asia. Here is Thailand travel guide you need to enjoy Thailand.
The irresistible combination of fine beaches, ancient monuments and civilisations and renowned cuisine makes a holiday here an absolute must. Follow this Thailand travel guide.
These Thailand travel tips will guide you on your trip to Thailand.
Where is it?
Thailand is in south-east Asia, bordering Malaysia to the south, Myanmar (Burma) to the north, and Cambodia and Laos to the east. It benefits from coastal stretches both in the Indian Ocean and the Gulf of Thailand.
Where can I stay?
Thailand is a popular country to visit – Bangkok is a 24-hour city with hotels to match whilst smaller cities and coastal resorts have also made the most of the constant tourist trade.
Travellers are becoming more sophisticated, however, which has resulted in a number of boutique hotels opening to cater for the discerning guest.
For those who love the beach, try the luxury of Aleenta; a small, private beach hotel which houses just 17 suites and 2 private villas.
With unspoilt beach on your doorstep, an infinity pool and romantic breakfast and dinner settings, beach-life rarely gets better.
Alternatively, go for the lights and sounds of Bangkok, where you could stay at the Ibrik City; a very chic hotel right in the middle of the business district and next to the famous “Blue Elephant” cooking school.
With just three rooms, this is a modern yet homely hotel and great transport connections mean that this boutique hotel is the ideal base for days and nights in Bangkok.
What can I see?
Thailand is renowned for its ancient monuments, stupas and temples.
From the sheer architectural delight of the Phimai Temple, a Hindu/Buddhist temple, to the ancient stupas in the Sukothai Historical Park, there’s much to learn about civilisations hundreds and thousands of years old and the way they affect the people of Thailand today.
Don’t miss the busy and colourful markets either, and make sure that you spend time sampling the fabulous food for which Thailand is so well known.
Venture away from the beaches to the rivers and mountains of Thailand’s interior to sample a simpler way of life, or take in the energy of Bangkok with a city visit.
How do I get around?
You can hire a car to get around Thailand, but it may be easier to take the train. Bangkok city is serviced by a Sky train and boat service, so there’s no need for any other transport to get you around.
Outside Bangkok and closer to the coast, use the buses and trains to get about.
The trains may be slower than you’re used to, but they’re comfortable. On the other hand, the buses are fast and furious, but they are cheap and air-conditioned.
You have lots of choices in Thailand for a vacation and you need to figure out exactly what you plan to do while you are there.
Your first stop will be in the capital, Bangkok and you should plan to stay there for a few days, especially if this is your first visit to Thailand.
There are river boat dinners, short ½ day trips to beautiful temples, and longer jaunts to the old capital, Ayudhaya, or visit the site of the Bridge on the River Kwae in Kanchanaburi for some WWII history.
If you like the beach, you have numerous choices.
You can go to Pattaya, which is about 1 ½ hour drive from Bangkok, or you can catch a short flight to Phuket or Koh Samui.
If you really want to see pristine beaches and emerald water, go to Krabi. You can dive, snorkel, or swim to your heart’s content.
If you prefer cooler weather, head up north to Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai and visit the temples and hill-tribe people.
Local handicrafts, the Golden Triangle, and more await you in Northern Thailand.
For a very laid back vacation (my favorite), head to the northeast to an area referred to as Isaan (or Isan, or Esarn).
This is a an area that includes Udorn Thani, Korat, Khon Kaen, Surin and some more smaller towns and villages.
The pace is slower, the people friendlier and the cost of living about 50% less than in the touristy areas.
I have been to Pattaya, Phuket, Koh Samui, Bangkok and many other cities in the Land of Smiles.
My favorite is Khon Kaen. Located about a 55 minute flight from the old Don Muang Airport, Khon Kaen is an excellent mix of old and new.
I can watch Netflix or sit on a picnic table under thatched roof overlooking the river while I eat my jumbo prawns and drink a cold Singha.
I can visit a number of temples or go to a clubs. I can hang out with the expatriates neat the Sofitel Hotel or go to night market at the University.
I can have dinner at a restaurant along the man-made lake while half the city is out jogging.
I can go shopping at malls and outlet store that compare to any in the United States. I can even call and have pizza or chicken delivered to my hotel room.
No matter what you are looking for, Thailand has it all. And it will be a lot cheaper than where you live now.
You can spend your days at the beach and your nights pursuing dreams of youth at all the nightspots.
You can relax on a small island or go trekking in the jungles. Whatever you want to do, you can do it in Thailand.
I hope this Thailand travel guide helps you.