Hi Wayne – check out my guides to where to stay in Bangkok and where to stay in Phuket for hotel suggestions there. I don’t have one for Samui, but with kids I’d recommend the Lamai Beach area or maybe up north near Fisherman Village. I also stayed at the Melia Samui and it was very family-friendly.

For Bangkok, be sure to take them to the shopping malls as they’re such an experience. Terminal 21 is cool because it’s themed like different parts of the world. and Em Wonder has a fun vibe as well. And then there are also a ton in Siam (MBK Center, centralwOrld, Siam Paragon, etc). Also of course the Grand Palace, and I’d suggest a sunset or nighttime river cruise as well. Then take them through some night markets. And maybe a day tour to a floating market. Lots to do in Bangkok.

In Phuket, you already know I’m sure about the shows, waterparks, etc. Of course a boat tour to the islands is great, especially if they like exploring, snorkeling, etc.

The one thing I’d say about your itinerary is just be aware that Phuket and Samui are on opposite sides, so you’ll need to fly between them. I don’t think it’s an issue, but flights to Samui can get expensive. If you wanted to cut Samui, you could alternatively go to Krabi / Ao Nang and get a similar experience.

Anyway, check out those guides and if you have any more specific questions, just let me know.

-Nate

Many young people from all over the world come to Thailand for backpacking and “gap year” trips. In general, Thailand is a very safe place for visitors. The biggest things to pay attention to are motorbike safety. Many young foreigners ride even though they aren’t licensed and trained, and that can lead to bad results. Also make sure to wear lots of repellent, as dengue can be an issue. But in terms of violent crime, Thailand’s crime rate is less than that of the US, UK, Canada, or France.

Hi Darren – it really depends what type of travel you like. Especially if traveling overland, it is true that Thailand and Cambodia are relatively easy places to plan on the go.

Hi Bill –

It depends what you’re looking for, but personally I would suggest visiting one of Thailand’s amazing island or mountain destinations. Bangkok is a world class city and there is definitely enough to keep you busy for a month if you are the kind of traveler who likes to go deep into a city. But it’s an entirely different Thailand outside of Bangkok, so I’d suggest visiting somewhere else. It’s a short flight to Koh Samui, Krabi, or Phuket, which are home to tons of amazing beachfront destinations. You could also go north and visit the mountains, checking out Chiang Mai, Pai, or Chiang Rai. If you want to stay closer to Bangkok, it is only a couple hours over land to Pattaya, or a few more and a ferry to visit my favorite Thai island, Koh Chang.

Whatever you do, it sounds like a great trip! Have fun in Thailand!
Nate

Hi Cam! First, congrats on your first solo trip abroad – Thailand is a great choice! I would suggest just being sure to be back in Bangkok at least one night before your flight, and you should be fine. There are plenty of quick and easy affordable flights from Bangkok to elsewhere in the country. You could go to Chiang Mai if you want jungles, mountains, and temples. Or fly to Krabi and visit Ao Nang if you want beach. Or to Koh Samui if you want an island.

If you’re really worried about it, I would suggest checking out Koh Chang. It is a beautiful island and one of my favorites in Thailand. You can access it by bus/ferry combo from Bangkok.

Hi Sofie – going either way is generally fine, in my opinion. The one thing I’d avoid is spending time in the north during March or April, which is burning season in northern Thailand. Otherwise, I think whatever works for your schedule is just fine. In general, you will find more volunteer opportunities in the north. Check out Vanessa’s Worldpackers review for tips on how to find them.

Hi Rachel – that sounds like a great plan. Those are three of the largest destinations in Thailand and all three have airports with frequent flights between them.

I’ve really enjoyed reading your articel! Thank you for the tips!!

Thanks for your perspective Tony. My point is just that tuk tuks are a relatively affordable means of travel, at least for anyone used to US or Europe prices. I agree they are more expensive in Bangkok, but in much of the rest of the country (such as the islands) they are essential to getting around if you don’t have a scooter.

But for short hops why not walk? At a starting meter price the taxis are air conditioned and super cheap. Bangkok to airport (45 minutes) is baht as example or about $5 US. Or, good luck on Tuk tuk!

Sounds like a lot of fun! And I think that means you’ll be there for Songkran!