Insider Travel Tips

Why go to Thailand for vacation?

Known around the world as The Land of Smiles, a Thailand vacation 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 at your fingertips when you need a more active day. With so many options, don’t be afraid to ask your travel agency to help craft the perfect Thailand vacation for you.

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 much is a trip to Thailand?

Budget around US $200 per person, per day for a mid-range Thailand vacation. This usually includes sightseeing with a travel guide and first-class accommodations. All inclusive Thailand vacation packages and private tours will set you back around US $300 per day, while less inclusive 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 Thai 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, the home of the infamous River Kwai 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 tours that visit its best beaches, head to southern islands like Phuket and Koh Samui. This is where you’ll find Thailand’s luxurious beach resorts and all inclusive options.

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 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 the popular myth, there’s no need to avoid ice in most establishments; it comes from ice-making machines that use filtered water.