Tropical beaches, wild elephants and legendary parties – holidays to Thailand are bucket-list worthy for a reason.
The Land of Smiles
From buzzy cities and beaut beaches to lush jungles, holidays to Thailand have everything you could want from a tropical trip. It’s the combo of chill and adventure that’s been bringing in the backpackers for decades. One day you’re boat-hopping to a secluded island, the next you’re hiking up to a clifftop temple and watching the sunrise after an epic full moon party. You can pick the trip that you really want here – whether that’s the hostel life or a five-star, oceanfront resort, Thailand just gets it.
Thailand’s hotspots
Beach lovers, meet Phuket – it’s Thailand’s biggest island, so we’re talking a mega 360° coastline of dreamy sweeps. Chill out on paper-white sand at Bang Tao and Tri Trang Beach, or soak up the buzz on Patong Beach. If you’re keen for something quieter, Khao Lak is a bit of you. It’s a relaxed spot with national park scenes, a night market and plenty of watersports to get involved with. Koh Samui is the ultimate base for island-hopping, with jungle hikes, local markets and easy access to the rest of the Gulf of Thailand.
Capture the culture
From golden temples in Bangkok to hidden caves in the hills of Khao Lak, the culture here runs deep. Don’t miss Wat Paknam’s giant Buddha or the stunning Dragon Cave Temple. And if you’re into nature, head to Erawan National Park – waterfalls, jungle trails and clear pools make it feel like a real-life movie set. You might even spot wild elephants in Kui Buri, one of the best places to see them roaming free. You can check out our approved experiences to spy them out on a safari or visit the most animal-friendly sanctuaries.
Best time to visit Thailand
The best time to visit is between November and February, with cooler temps, low humidity and hardly any rain. It’s peak season though, so book ahead to secure your spot and don’t be surprised if it’s a bit spenny. For island-hopping, the Gulf of Thailand islands like Koh Samui and Koh Tao are best between July and September. Or on the Andaman side, Phuket and Krabi are best between November to April. Thailand’s monsoon season usually runs from April to October – expect strong winds, choppier seas and heavy rain. Rainy season can still be fun, though, and a lot cheaper. Just pack a rain mac and you’ll be sweet when the skies open.
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Thailand FAQs
For most nationalities including UK, US and EU, no visa is needed for tourists staying up to 30 days. You just need a valid passport with at least 6 months left and a return or onward flight. If you want to stay longer, you can apply for a 60-day tourist visa or extend your stay once you’re in Thailand.
This information is correct at the time of writing. Please make sure you check the FCDO website for the most up-to-date information.
Depending on the time of year, it can get quite humid, so light, breathable fabrics like linen and cotton are ideal. Pack shirts, sarongs and scarves that you can throw in your bag to chuck on if you’re heading into a temple – it’s respectful to cover up from shoulder to knee. Add swimming stuff, flip flops, reef-safe suncream and comfy shoes for walking. If you’re planning on heading into the jungle, some insect repellent is a good idea.
You can buy a Thai sim card when you land or skip the queues by buying and downloading an eSIM to stay connected while you’re away. You don’t need to change your physical SIM and your phone number stays the same. Check out our eSIM page and pick a plan.
You can easily buy alcohol in Thailand, especially in the touristy and party destinations. It’s good to know that buying alcohol in shops is restricted to certain times – you usually can’t buy it between 2-5pm and after midnight. Technically, the legal drinking age in Thailand is 20, although you might notice this is quite relaxed in some places. It’s illegal to drink in temples, government areas or public parks. Bars are everywhere, though, and there’s a thriving nightlife scene especially in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket and the islands.
Absolutely, just say mai phet (not spicy) when ordering. Most restaurants and food stalls are used to tourists adjusting spice levels, but sometimes what the locals consider ‘not spicy’ can still have a little kick.
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Thailand travel advice
Good to know
Passports & Visas
British citizens must have a valid passport to visit Thailand. By law, you must carry your passport with you at all times. British passport holders can visit Thailand for 60 days without obtaining a visa in advance of arrival. For the most up-to-date passport and visa info, visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/thailand/entry-requirements
From 1st May 2025 it’s obligatory for all visitors to Thailand to complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) 3 days before arrival to avoid being denied entry. You’ll need to do this via the official Thai government website or the Thailand Pass app. Have your travel itinerary, accommodation details and passports to hand. Once completed, download the QR code and present it to Thailand immigration upon arrival. And just so you know, you’ll need to show it again when you leave Thailand.
Health and safety
You should take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance to cover you while you’re away. For the latest health and safety information, visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/thailand/health
Healthcare – Thailand has great healthcare in major cities like Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Phuket, with international-standard hospitals and English-speaking staff. In rural areas, services may be more basic. Travel insurance with medical coverage is a must.
Water – Tap water isn’t recommended for drinking. Stick to bottled or filtered water, which is cheap and available everywhere.
Language
Thai is the official language of Thailand. In major cities and tourist hotspots like Bangkok, Chiang Mai and the islands, English is widely spoken – especially in hotels, restaurants and on guided tours. In more rural or off-the-grid areas, English might be limited, but Thai people are famously friendly and will usually go out of their way to help you, even with hand gestures and smiles.
Basic phrases
Here are some helpful Thai phrases you can use while you’re there…
- Hello! How are you? – Sawasdee krub/ka (for male/female)
- Thank you! – Khop khun krub/ka
- Excuse me, do you speak English? – Khor toht, khun phoot pasa ang-grit dai mai?
- How much does this cost? – Ra ka tao rai?
Social Norms & Etiquette
Tipping – Tipping isn’t mandatory, but it’s definitely appreciated. At restaurants, cafés and for tour guides, leaving 10% for good service is standard. In street food settings or taxis, rounding up is common and will earn you points with the locals.
Dress code – Thailand is pretty relaxed, but it’s respectful to be modest in temples, cultural sites or rural areas. The rule of thumb is to cover your shoulders and knees – a light scarf or sarong can be super handy to carry in your bag.
Money
Currency – The official currency is the Thai Baht (THB). Prices are usually listed in baht and cash is king at markets, food stalls and smaller shops.
Exchange – You can exchange money at banks, currency exchange booths, airports and hotels. ATMs are easy to find, too. Tick travel money off your packing list with our foreign exchange service.
Mobile payments – Apple Pay and Google Pay are popping up more in shopping centres and big cities, but cash is still preferred in most local spots and smaller businesses. Most hotels, restaurants and stores accept major credit cards.
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