Thailand

Golden Temples and Dreamy Beaches

Discover Thailand, a land of vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and rich history. From bustling cities and serene temples to lush jungles and crystal-clear waters, Thailand offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re seeking cultural experiences, culinary delights, or tropical getaways, Thailand promises an unforgettable journey in a truly enchanting destination.

Thailand at a glance

Location: Located in Southeast Asia, Thailand covers an area of around 513,000 km². It shares borders with Burma to the west and north, Laos to the north and east, Cambodia to the southeast, and Malaysia to the south. The country also has a vast coastline along the Gulf of Thailand to the east and the Andaman Sea to the west.

Capital: Bangkok

Population: approx. 70 million

Official languages: Thai

Currency: Thai Baht (THB) – €1 is worth approximately 38 THB

Time difference: +5h in summer and +6h in winter compared with Western European time.

Flight time: 11h average flight time from Europe (direct)

Tips: it is customary to leave around 10% of the bill in restaurants, 100 THB/day for a guide and 50 THB/day for the driver.

Health: No vaccinations are required for travelers from Europe. Malaria is being eradicated in tourist areas, but not in the border regions of Laos and Myanmar. Dengue fever is steadily spreading throughout the country.

Entry formalities: Passport valid for at least 6 months from date of arrival – No visa required for a tourist stay of less than 30 days

In your suitcase: an adapter for type A, B or C electrical sockets, sun cream, light, covering clothing for visiting the temples, as well as warm clothing for cooler evenings, depending on the season and the region visited.

Good to know: Avoid stepping over anything or entering a house or temple without taking off your shoes and covering your shoulders, arms and legs. Respect the royal family by stopping when the national anthem is played.

5 good reasons to visit Thailand

Visit one of the 40,000 Buddhist temples the country boasts

Eat street food, with never the same meal twice due to the vast variety of cuisine

Experience the giant water fight during Songkran, the Buddhist New Year water festival

Discover the Buddhist culture and religion, practiced by 95% of Thais

Take part in the release of glowing lanterns during the Yi Peng Festival in Chiang Mai

Get inspired

Travel Journals

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Preparing your trip to Thailand

How to get to Thailand?

Many airlines offer daily flights from Europe to Bangkok. By booking in advance, you can expect to pay around €600 for a round-trip ticket. This price may vary depending on the season

When to visit Thailand?

Thailand has a tropical climate, characterized by three main seasons: the hot season, the rainy season, and the cool season.

During the hot season (March to May), temperatures can be very high, ranging from 30°C to 35°C in most regions of the country.

The rainy season (June to October) is marked by frequent showers, often short bursts of rain followed by clear skies. Temperatures remain warm, but humidity is very high. This is, however, a good time to avoid crowds and benefit from lower prices.

The cool season (November to February) is the most pleasant time to visit Thailand, with milder temperatures and lower humidity. Average temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C, making it the ideal time to explore the country without being overwhelmed by the heat.

How long to stay in Thailand?

The ideal duration of a stay in Thailand largely depends on the traveler’s interests, preferences, time, and budget. However, it’s recommended to plan for at least 2 weeks to fully appreciate the country’s cultural, natural, and culinary diversity.

For a visit to the must-see destinations like Bangkok, Ayutthaya, Chiang Mai, and one or two beaches in the south, a 10 to 14-day stay is usually enough. If you want to explore certain regions in more depth or engage in specific activities such as scuba diving, mountain hiking, or meditation, a 2 to 3-week stay would be more suitable.

How to get around in Thailand?

Thailand is known for its variety of transport options, their efficiency, and affordable prices. Depending on your itinerary, you can combine different modes of transport to optimize your trip.

Airplane: Domestic flights are a fast and convenient way to travel between regions, especially if you have limited time and need to cover long distances. Several local airlines offer regular flights between major tourist destinations (Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phuket, Trat, Koh Samui, etc.).
Train: Thailand’s railway network is well-developed, offering comfortable journeys at affordable prices. Trains are particularly popular for traveling between Bangkok and cities like Chiang Mai (night trains available), Ayutthaya, and Surat Thani (to reach the southern islands).
Bus: Economical and convenient, public buses connect most major cities. For long-distance travel, there are night buses and VIP buses that provide a higher level of comfort.
Taxi and Tuk-Tuk: Taxis and tuk-tuks are widely available in urban areas. However, be sure to negotiate the price before getting in, especially if there’s no meter.
Car: Renting a car is an option for travelers who want to explore the country at their own pace. However, roads are often congested, particularly in major cities, which can make driving experiences quite chaotic. Renting a car with a driver can be a good compromise to make the journey more pleasant.
Motorbike and Scooter: Renting motorbikes and scooters is popular in tourist areas and islands. Caution is advised, however, due to the high number of road accidents.

Where to stay in Thailand?

Thailand offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. Some of the most popular options include:

Hotels: From luxury hotels to budget-friendly establishments, you’ll find options for all tastes and budgets in all major cities and tourist destinations in Thailand.
Hostels: Ideal for budget travelers, hostels offer affordable accommodation in dormitories, and sometimes in private rooms.
Guesthouses: Typically located in historical neighborhoods and more rural areas, guesthouses are family-run establishments offering affordable lodging in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Vacation Rentals: Travelers looking for a more private and exclusive experience can rent a villa or vacation home in most major cities and on the islands. Rental prices vary depending on the services offered (such as a cook, housekeeper, or driver).
Beach Bungalows and Resorts: On the islands, many bungalows and resorts offer accommodations with direct beach access. Some establishments also offer luxury amenities, such as pools and on-site restaurants.
Homestays: For a more authentic and immersive experience, some Thai families offer rooms in their homes, giving travelers the opportunity to delve deeper into the local culture.

What budget to expect for a trip to Thailand?

The budget required for a trip to Thailand depends on several factors, including the duration of the stay, the type of accommodation chosen, planned activities, meals, and mode of transportation.

For budget travelers, it is possible to keep costs under 50€ per day by opting for dormitory accommodation in a hostel, street food meals, public transportation, and free or low-cost activities.

For those seeking a bit more comfort, a budget of 50 to 100€ per day is reasonable, with options for hotel or guesthouse rooms, meals at local restaurants, and travel by public transport or tuk-tuks.

For travelers preferring luxury and comfort, the daily budget will depend on the choice of hotels or resorts, taxis or private cars for transportation, and dining at mid-range or upscale restaurants.