Thailand

We've spent years here. Here's what you actually need to know.

Exploring Thai Destinations

Exploring the Uncharted Corners of the World

Bangkok
Bangkok Pai
Pai Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai Krabi
Krabi Phuket
Phuket

Explore Thailand

A curated collection to get you inspired.

Thai Island
Thai Island
Phuket
Phuket
Krabi
Krabi

Survival Guide

Your Ultimate Guide to Mastering Survival Skills

Getting Around
Top Things to Do
Best Time to Visit
Do's and Don'ts
Fast Facts

The Latest in Bangkok

Tips, tricks, and inspiration for your next travel experience.

Best Time to Visit Thailand

Best Time to Visit Thailand

Visit Thailand between November and February for perfect weather and vibrant cultural festivals.

Thailand Travel
Travel to Bangkok

Top Reasons You Should Travel to Bangkok

Discover Bangkok's exquisite cuisine, tropical beaches, and ancient temples.

Thailand Travel
Must-Visit Bangkok

5 Must-Visit Places in Bangkok

From Ayutthaya's history to Phi Phi's beauty - Bangkok's most unforgettable spots.

Thailand Travel
Read More

Where to Go

Thailand isn't one place - it's four completely different experiences. Here's how to think about it.

Bangkok
First-timers
Bangkok
Temples, street food, nightlife - every energy at once
→ Northern Thailand
Culture
Northern Thailand
Chiang Mai, Pai - mountains, night markets, real pace
→ Southern Islands
Beaches
Southern Islands
Krabi, Phuket - limestone cliffs, turquoise water, island hops
→ Eastern Thailand
Off the beaten track
Eastern Thailand
Pattaya, Koh Chang - fewer tourists, more local life
→

When to Go (Honestly)

There's no bad time to visit Thailand - but there's definitely a wrong time for certain regions. Here's the honest version.

✅
November – February
Cool & Dry - Best Time
The sweet spot. Temperatures are cooler (25–30°C), skies are clear, and most of the country is at its best. Peak crowds and prices in December–January, but worth it.
⚠️
March – May
Hot & Humid - Manageable
Thailand's hottest months. Bangkok and the north push 38°C+. The islands are calmer. Songkran (Thai New Year water festival) is mid-April - uniquely brilliant if you lean into it.
🌧️
June – October
Rainy Season - Know Before You Go
Not as bad as people think - rain is usually afternoon showers, not all-day. Bangkok and the north are fine. Some islands (Koh Samui side) get flooded - check your specific destination.
Brandon

"We visited in September. It rained most afternoons for an hour, then cleared. We paid half the price for accommodation and had places almost to ourselves. For Chiang Mai specifically, the green season is underrated."

Brandon Willoughby - Co-founder, Escaped the 9 to 5

Experiences

Top Tours & Activities in Thailand

Handpicked from Viator - book with free cancellation.

Full-Day Tour from Bangkok
Ayutthaya Full-Day Tour from Bangkok
UNESCO World Heritage temples, ancient ruins and river views - the classic Thailand history day.
Book on Viator →
Four Islands Tour Krabi
Four Islands Speedboat Tour - Krabi
Railay, Chicken Island, Tup Island and Poda in one day. The best introduction to the Andaman coast.
Book on Viator →
Chiang Mai Doi Suthep
Doi Suthep Temple & Chiang Mai City Tour
Thailand's most visited temple sits above Chiang Mai at 1,676m. A half-day with views that justify the drive.
Book on Viator →

Things Most Guides Won't Tell You

The stuff that actually matters once you're there.

Get a SIM card at the airport, not the city
The airport counters (DTAC, AIS, True Move) are legitimate and get you connected before you leave arrivals. City phone shops are often more expensive and harder to navigate. 30-day unlimited data runs 300–500 THB (≈$9–15 USD).
Use Grab, not street taxis in Bangkok
Street taxis in Bangkok often refuse to run the meter and quote tourist prices. Grab (Thailand's Uber) gives you upfront pricing and a tracked driver. Download it before you land. Bolt is often cheaper in Chiang Mai.
Cash still wins in most places
7-Eleven, large restaurants, and hotels take card - but markets, street food, tuk-tuks, and smaller guesthouses are cash-only. ATMs are everywhere but charge 220 THB ($6.50) per withdrawal. Bring a Wise or Revolut card to minimize fees.
Temple dress code is real, but simple
Shoulders and knees covered for temples - that's it. Most temples sell or lend sarongs at the entrance for 20–50 THB. Don't overthink it. Wat Pho and the Grand Palace are the strictest; locals are used to tourists getting it wrong the first time.
Brandon Nick

"We didn't write this from a press trip. We built our lives here."

Brandon & Nick - Escaped the 9 to 5
Meet The Escapers →

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