Thailand Vacations

In Thailand, respect is a fundamental aspect of Thai people. Thai people believe in politeness and humility, and they expect the same from you. When interacting with local people or entering a shop, show your humility with a greeting known as "wai." It is a gesture involving a slight bow with palms together, which shows respect.

You'll hear the Thai language spoken in the streets. Learning a few Thai words and phrases like "wai" and "Khop khun ka" (thank you) can help you earn respect from the locals. While the Thai language is the official language, English is the unofficial second language. English-speaking travellers, particularly travellers from North America, will find it easy to converse with locals since most Thai people speak English.

Are you a Buddhist practitioner? Well, if you are — Thailand is your gateway to spiritual tourism. It is the land of Buddhism. The Theravada form of Buddhism is predominantly practiced here. The Buddhist practice is deeply ingrained in Thai culture. You will find temples called "wats" at every corner of the country. Monks hold a special place in the hearts of Thai people, and giving alms to monks is a ritual in Thai culture. So, when you are exploring these temples, pay a visit to the monks and immerse yourself in the ritual of giving alms to the monks.

While you are in Thailand, you cannot miss their traditional dress. In fact, wherever you travel, don't forget to try the traditional clothes of that place. It is a part of a cultural experience that you shouldn't miss out on. In Thailand, the traditional clothing includes "chut thai" for women and "pha pha" for men. Get into these traditional clothing and dress up like a local to get a better feel of the place.

Travelling abroad can be a rewarding experience only when you travel at the right time. This is true for every destination. Although you can visit Thailand all year round, it is still advised to visit the country from November till early April. During these months, the heavens stop pouring, and the sky opens up. This is the time when Thailand experiences its cool and dry season. It is a perfect setting for an outing at the beach or visiting numerous heritage and cultural sites. Prior to this period, the rainy season ensures the landscape is green and vibrant, making it perfect for visiting national parks and natural wonders.

If you can't make a trip during the November to April period, pay a visit to this place between March and May months. This period is known as the shoulder season. A season which is in the middle of peak season and off-season. During these months, temperatures rise, and the weather becomes extremely hot. If you choose to visit during this period, here's what you can do:

Visit the water festival: April is the month of Songkran, the new year month. During this month, you can celebrate the new year with water fights and other festivals. It is a unique activity to experience.

Great season for divers: The Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand boasts crystal-clear water, an abundance of marine life, and stunning underwater landscapes. March to May months are perfect for diving activities in these waters.

The best time to travel ultimately depends on what you want to experience. If you seek pleasant weather and a lively atmosphere, November to April is your best bet. On the other hand, if you don't mind the heat, March to May is the best time to visit Thailand.

Why go to Thailand for vacation?

Known around the world as ‘The Land of Smiles,’ Thailand has something to offer just about every kind of traveller. Bangkok’s Grand Palace and most important temples embody the country’s deep connection to its royal family and spiritual life. Foodies will love finding those flavour combinations unique to Thai cuisine. History buffs can explore magnificent ruined capitals like Ayutthaya, Sukhothai, and the western outposts of the Khmer Empire. Those seeking wellness, relaxation and rejuvenation will find plenty of options throughout the country. Meanwhile, Thailand’s southern islands offer some of the world’s best beaches, with food, culture, and wildlife experiences all at your fingertips when you need a more active day.

How long can you vacation in Thailand?

Tourists can stay in Thailand for up to 30 days without a visa, and extend this by another 30 days inside the country for a fee. A tourist visa can be obtained for a stay of up to 60 days, and this too can be extended an extra 30 days for a fee.

How long is a trip to Thailand?

It depends entirely on the traveller, but 10 to 14 days is usually enough for a solid introduction to Thailand. This gives you time to explore some of Bangkok and its surrounds, visit northern cities like Chiang Mai, and enjoy some beach time in the south.

How much is a trip to Thailand?

Budget around US$200 per person, per day for a mid-range Thailand vacation. This usually includes guided sightseeing and first-class accommodations. More luxurious options and private tours will set you back around US$300 per day, while less-inclusive Thailand vacation packages can be had for little more than US$100 per day. 

What currency does Thailand use?

The Thai Baht trades at around 35 to 1 USD. Hotels, larger stores and many restaurants will accept credit cards, but you will definitely need to carry baht for purchases in markets, at small businesses, and from street vendors.

Do I need to tip in Thailand?

A service charge is often added to bills in Thailand. Beyond this, tipping is not usually expected, though it’s always welcome, particularly in higher-end hotels and restaurants. Taxi drivers are usually tipped around 10 percent.

Where to vacation in Thailand?

Bangkok is ‘the Big Mango,’ where Thailand’s diversity and energy come together in one thrilling city. The capital is a superb sightseeing, shopping, dining, and nightlife destination, but it’s also a good base for exploring nearby regions like the former capital, Ayutthaya, and Kanchanaburi, home of the infamous River Khwae Bridge. To see a gentler side of Thailand, head to the cities and hills of the north. Chiang Mai enchants visitors with its rich history and laid-back pace, while Chiang Rai’s white temple is one of the most intricate and beautiful in Asia. For Thailand’s best beaches and ultimate relaxation, head south to islands like Phuket and Ko Samui.

What to pack for a trip to Thailand

When Thais say their country has three seasons, hot, hotter, and rainy, they may be smiling, but they’re not joking. Light, breathable fabrics are key. Be sure to pack items that cover your shoulders and knees at a minimum for visiting palaces and temples. Slip-on shoes will save you a lot of time as well. The hilly regions of the north are the only parts of Thailand that get cool (between November and February), and even then, a light sweater is usually enough.

Is Thailand LGBTQ+ friendly?

Thailand has long been a popular LGBTQ+ vacation spot, and the local LGBTQ+ community is proud and visible, particularly in Bangkok. The country actively welcomes LGBTQ+ visitors and ‘third gender’ identities are a widely accepted part of Thai culture. In March 2024, Thailand’s Senate voted overwhelmingly in favour of legalizing same-sex marriage, and as of mid-2024, bills aimed at increasing legal recognition for Trans and gender-diverse individuals are pending. Public displays of affection however are a no-no, regardless of orientation.

Can I drink the tap water in Thailand?

You should avoid drinking tap water in Thailand, though it’s usually fine for other purposes like bathing or brushing your teeth. Despite popular myth, there’s no need to avoid ice in most establishments. It comes from ice-making machines, not tap water. 

What is the basic etiquette in Thailand?

Thai etiquette has more nuances than any visitor will be expected to master, but remembering a few simple points will make all the difference:

• The Thai bow, or wai, is done by putting your hands together in a prayer position and giving a small nod. The more respect being shown, the higher the hands are usually placed. Foreigners aren’t expected to wai first, but you should certainly return the gesture if it’s offered. Add the word Sawasdee, if you like. You’ll hear this a lot in Thailand, since it means hello, goodbye, thank you, and serves as an apology.
• Always take off your shoes before entering a Thai home or temple, and never step on the threshold. This is said to offend the spirits living there and bring bad luck to residents or worshippers.
• Despite Thailand’s heat (and captivating beaches), shoulders and knees should always be covered when entering temples or palaces, and avoid having potentially disrespectful graphics on your clothing. 
• Do not touch a Thai person’s head—even a child’s—and don’t point your feet at someone or prop them up on tables. Do not touch monks at all, and give your seat up for them if requested.
• Absolutely do not insult or make jokes about Thailand’s monarchy. Even stepping on a coin to stop it rolling away can offend, since it features an image of the King. Western versions of the story of Anna Leonowens and the King, including the musical The King and I are also banned in Thailand. 
• Always ask, and offer a small payment before taking photos of the locals. Even if they always seem to be smiling, this is only polite.
• Don’t point with your finger. Use your whole hand to indicate something.
• Don’t snap your fingers to attract a server. Instead, smile, extend your hand palm down, and gently flex your fingers in an upside-down ‘come here’ gesture.

Thai food is a renowned cuisine all across the world, be it in America or India. Its vibrant flavours, aromatic spices, and balance of sweet, salt, and sour make Thai food unique, special, and tasty. While you are there, don't miss the "pad thai" delicacy. "Pad thai" is a stir-fried rice noodle made with rice, noodles, egg, tofu, bean sprouts, and peanuts. To make it flavourful, the dish is flavoured with tamarind paste, fish sauce, and chilli.

Tea, beer, juice, or fresh coconut water - whatever your choice of drink is, you'll find them abundantly. Thai iced tea is a common drink in Thailand made from Thai tea leaves, sugar, and milk. You'll get tea in every part of the country. On the other hand, If you are looking for a cool drink to cool down your body, Singha and Chang beer are your best bet. They are local brands which are widely available and pair well with spicy cuisine.