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. Highlights include:

• 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.
• Ayutthaya – Visit the ruins of an 800 year old kingdom at this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

👉 See all places to visit in Thailand.

🗓️ Best Time to Visit

The best time to travel is between November and February. This coincides with the cool and dry season, but before the smoke takes over the north.

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 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.

👉 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.
• 🧃 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 home to about 1,430 islands.
• 🛵 Motorbikes – An easy way to get around, but be careful renting scooters. Technically, you need a motorbike license. And, because many places will rent to them anyway, accidents are very common among tourists.

👉 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 – Breathable clothing. It’s hot an humid here, so you want light fabrics.

🤓 Facts & Info

• Population (2024) – 71.67 million
• Capital – Bangkok
• Currency – Thai Baht ($1 = 36 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.