From the hill tribes of the North, to the full moon parties on the Southern islands, there are a myriad of reasons to lure travellers to the beautiful country of Thailand. Always popular with British tourists, every year travellers flock from Thailand flights at Bangkok's airport eager to laze on the beaches and discover the infamous nightlife.
The beaches are as stunning as promised: predominantly white sand, an abundance of palm trees, coral reefs, fish and sparklingly clear turquoise waters. There are villages, resorts and accommodation to suit every type of traveller, be it with a laid-back backpacker-vibe and plenty of cheap diving to high-end, pristine spa resorts set on private coves. The towns are similarly diverse. All flights to Thailand arrive in Bangkok and most travellers spend at least a few days in this bustling metropolis. Along with the notorious red light district, other famous attractions include a number of beautiful Wats (temples), the amazing street markets, where everything under the sun can be purchased at reduced prices, trips by boat along the Chao Praya River and gigantic city parks, such as Lumpini. Chiang Mai epitomises the appeal of Northern Thailand. Set among lush rainforest and mountains, the city dates from the thirteenth century. Shopping and sightseeing are popular activities (there are more than 300 churches) but the town is also the perfect base from which to explore the mountainous Northern region.
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Thailand has two climate zones: tropical savanna in the north and tropical in the south. Northern and central Thailand have three seasons: hot (March through May), rainy (June through October), and cool (November through February). Southern Thailand has intermittent showers year-round, with daily showers in the rainy season, and the temperature is usually in the mid 20s (Celsius).Thailand's monsoon season generally runs from July into November.
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Peak Season:
Northern Thailand’s peak tourist season is the cool season (November–February). The south’s peak season is typically March to May.
Bangkok’s peak season is November to March; prices can be twice as high as in the off season, and hotels are often fully booked.
International visitors come to Chiang Mai December through May, and Thais vacation here March through May.
November to April is Phuket’s peak season, and January to April is the best weather on Ko Samui. The island is particularly busy around Christmas and has another surge of visitors in July and August.
Off Season:
The rainy and monsoon seasons are the off seasons. If you don’t mind the humid and wet weather there are deals on cheap flights to Thailand to be found.
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Thailand’s trains are comfortable, frequent, and on time; although a bit slow, it’s a great way to see the country. Thailand’s buses are very fast (don’t watch the road!), well serviced, and air conditioned. If you’re pressed for time, catch a flight. Thailand has regional airports, and convenient domestic flights are easy to find.
Transportation in a city or resort is typically a taxi, tuk-tuk, rickshaw, pickup, or hired car and driver. Taxis are usually metered in a city; make sure the meter is turned on. Always negotiate the fare for a tuk-tuk or rickshaw before you set out.
Bangkok’s public transportation can get you around town. Chiang Mai doesn’t have buses or taxis, but has lots of covered pickups (songtaos) and tuk-tuks. You can hail a songtao and their fares are reasonable. Many travellers rent motorcycles and bikes in Chiang Mai, but make sure to drive defensively.
Avoid driving in Thailand, both cars and motobikes. Thais drive on the left side of the road, usually at breakneck speeds even around blind corners, and aren’t fussy about driving laws.
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All nationalities require valid passports; it is recommended that they are valid for six months beyond period of intended stay. Travellers entering Thailand are required to prove they have sufficient funds to cover the length of their stay, and should hold documentation for return/onward travel.
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Visas are not required for travel by UK passport holders endorsed British Citizen for periods of 30 days or less (an extension of up to 10 days is possible). Other UK passport holders require a visa and a passport valid for the intended period of stay.
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