Thailand

Thailand is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the planet for a reason. From bustling cities to lush mountains to incredible islands, Thailand has it all:

• Chiang Mai – Thailand’s second city couldn’t be more different than Bangkok. Come for temples, mountains, and affordable prices.
• Koh Chang – Our personal favorite of the eastern Thai island, Koh Chang is still relatively off the beaten path.
• Bangkok – Love it or hate it, there’s no avoiding Bangkok. And no denying the city’s energy.
• Phuket – This tropic island is filled with tourists, and a bit too crowded for our tastes, but still undeniably gorgeous.
• Koh Phi Phi – ​​​​A tiny island that’s just made for Instagram. Popular with backpackers, but worth a visit by anyone.

👉 See all places to visit in Thailand.

🗓️ Best Time to Visit

The best time to travel is during the cool and dry season between November and early April. In the south, the climate differs between the eastern and western coasts. The west coast is more favorable during the winter months, when diving and snorkeling will be at its best. Please be advised that February and March are burning season in the north, which badly affects air quality in places like Chiang Mai.

⚠️ Safety

Generally speaking, Thailand is very safe for solo travel, and most travelers should feel comfortable traveling alone in Thailand. Still, it’s better to be extra cautious, especially when it comes to dealing with strangers and traveling on Thailand’s roads. Additionally, it might be a good idea to purchase travel insurance for Thailand, and check the latest US State Department travel advisories for Thailand. 

👉 Tips & Things to Know

• 😊 – The Land Of Smiles – Thailand is commonly known as “The Land Of Smiles”.
• 🛕 – Temples – There are about 35,000 temples in Thailand.
• 🩳 – Wearing Underwear – If you leave the house without wearing underwear you are technically breaking the law. True story.
• 🧃 – Red Bull – The world-famous energy drink was actually based on and inspired by a popular drink in Thailand called the “Krating Daeng”.
• 🏝️ – Islands – Thailand is made up of about 1,430 islands.

👉 See all Thailand travel tips.

🧳 What to Pack

• ⛱️ – Dry Bag – If you’re planning to go to the beaches (and really you should), you’ll be spending a lot of time on the water.
• 🦟 – Non Deet Insect Spray – The mosquitoes are no joke here. Travel Lemming’s founder Nate even caught dengue fever one time.
• 🎒 – A Good Daypack – You’ll be out and exploring a lot, so a good day pack is helpful to keep your things close.
• 🦺 – Travel Insurance – Traveling during a global health crisis is risky. No wonder the government is now requiring tourists to have travel insurance.

🤓 Facts & Info

• Population – 70 million
• Capital – Bangkok
• Currency – Thai Baht ($1 = 0.65 Thai Baht)
• Language – Central Thai
• Plugs – Type A, B, and C, 230V / 50Hz.

💵 Budgeting & Money

Major establishments take debit/credit cards, but smaller-scale accommodations, tourist sites and restaurants tend to only take cash. ATMs are widely available in Thailand.