Thailand travel guide: everything you need to know

As the tourism hub of Southeast Asia, Thailand is a vacation hot spot with white sand beaches, lush mountain jungles and a strong cultural heritage marked by intricate temples and historical landmarks. Known as the “Land of Smiles,” friendly locals await arriving tourists with open arms and open minds. In addition to breathtaking sights and kind residents, Thailand’s affordability and close proximity make this an ideal retreat for travelling Aussies.

Recent headlines reporting on political turmoil, physical attacks and other crimes are deterring safety-conscious travellers from visiting this beautiful destination. But overall, Thailand is a safe nation to visit. All it takes is a few precautions to embark on a carefree adventure to this gem. Being mindful of the country’s cultural etiquette, understanding areas to avoid and securing the proper travel insurance are all important to ensuring a positive travel experience. Read on to learn more about travelling to the exotic and historic Kingdom of Thailand.

Quick Travel Notes

Etiquette & Customs: As one of Southeast Asia’s most popular tourist destinations, locals are accustomed to and tolerant of foreigners traipsing across their beaches, visiting their sacred temples and climbing their tallest peaks. To show respect and appreciation for their customs, read below for tips on cultural etiquette.

Ecotourism: Conservation volunteers are highly welcome to help propel Thailand’s ecological improvement efforts. Programs like the Thai Elephant Conservation Project give visitors an opportunity to do good while enjoying Thailand’s incredible culture and surroundings.

Transportation: Bus, train, taxi, samlor: You name it, Thailand has it. Getting around the country is easy, affordable and a cultural experience in itself. Read on to learn more about getting around in Thailand.

Temperature & Weather: Like most tropical locales, Thailand’s climate is often warm, with a mean annual temperature of 28 degrees celsius, and humid. For travellers seeking to enjoy hotter temps, March to May is the time to go. Cool and comfortable months are from November through February while June through October mark Thailand’s rainy season.

Do, See & Explore

• North: With spectacular peaks, spirited hill tribes (indigenous people of Thailand) and low-key setting, Chiang Mai offers tourists a change of pace and a calming reprieve from Thailand’s bustling city of Bangkok. Encircled by mountains, Chiang Mai is home to seven national parks that offer unique hiking, camping and recreation.
• Northeast: Thailand evokes images of sparkling sands and pristine beaches, but there is another side to this tropical getaway. The Northeast region of Thailand, known as Isan, runs along the Mekong River and offers visitors access to spectacular monuments like the ancient Khmer ruins. If you visit this lesser-travelled region of Thailand, make a stop at the breathtaking Pha Taem National Park which overlooks the Mekong River and Laos.
• East: Beach lovers will enjoy strolling along the coast and catching rays along the Gulf of Thailand in Pattaya. In addition to the beach, visitors can also immerse themselves in the local culture by visiting the Sanctuary of Truth. The all-wood temple pays homage to Buddhist and Hindu art and architecture with its age-old displays of sculptures based on traditional Buddhist and Hindu motifs.
• Central: As the capital of Thailand, Bangkok is known for its cosmopolitan flare, complete with skyscrapers, wild nightlife and adult entertainment that keep tourists flocking year after year. Amid the hustle and bustle of the big city there are plenty of tourist attractions, like the ruins of Ayutthaya and the Wat Po Temple, that give visitors a taste of local flavour and a peek into Thailand’s cultural roots.
• Southern: The Southern region of Thailand is home to beautiful Phuket, a favourite destination for Travelling Aussies. Particularly Western Phuket where there is a wide variety of beaches that range from peaceful and serene to heavily trafficked and rowdy. As the country’s largest Island, Phuket hosts a wealth of activities to suit both families and singles alike.