Explore otherworldly temples, jungle-clad national parks and beautiful islands scattered across a glistening emerald sea on our hand-picked Thailand holidays
Embark on a journey through Thailand's enchanting landscapes, from ancient temples to lush national parks and picturesque islands scattered across sparkling emerald waters. Glide between majestic golden temples aboard a tuk-tuk, savor the tantalizing flavors of street food at bustling night markets, and witness elephants roaming freely in pristine national parks – Thailand is a realm of unforgettable adventures. As you bask in the warmth of friendly smiles from locals, you'll understand why Thailand has captivated travelers for generations. With a hospitable embrace awaiting you at every turn, all you need to do is decide what wonders to explore – whether it's the opulent grandeur of royal palaces in bustling city centers or the serene beauty of islands teeming with vibrant marine life. Thailand offers the rare opportunity to experience the vibrant energy of a city, the tranquil serenity of a rainforest, and the idyllic charm of a beach all in one remarkable journey. Reach out to us for a personalized chat, and let us tailor-make your perfect Thailand holiday adventure.
Thailand experiences its peak season from November to February, characterized by drier and slightly cooler weather. The hottest period occurs from April to May. From May to October, there is typically higher rainfall, but plenty of sunshine persists, offering great value and less crowded beaches. Seasonal variations exist between beach resorts; for instance, the east coast resorts of Koh Samui and Koh Phangan usually enjoy more sun and less rain from May through June. Northern Thailand tends to be cooler than Bangkok in winter and hotter in summer. For detailed information on the best time to visit Thailand, refer to our month-by-month weather guide.
Thailand holiday highlights
Thailand offers a plethora of experiences, from exploring temples adorned with majestic Buddha statues to savoring the bustling ambiance of Bangkok's streets. As you venture northward, you'll encounter a different world, with earthy flavors in cuisine and lush mountainous landscapes. In Chiang Mai, delve into the vibrant night market scene or learn about the fascinating lives of local hill tribes.
Pairing a mainland stay with Thailand's stunning beaches is seamless, thanks to regular domestic flights. Even remote islands are worth the journey, where traditional long-tail boats offer serene transfers to your hotel. Along Thailand's golden shores, you can relax with a cocktail or indulge in beachfront massages. Venture into the emerald waters for day trips to idyllic islands or protected marine parks for snorkeling and diving adventures.
And let's not forget about the food! Thailand's culinary scene is a delight for foodies, whether you're sampling cheap and delicious bites from street vendors, learning to grind aromatic spices in a city cooking class, or indulging in exquisite dishes at fine dining restaurants.
Where is Thailand?
Located between the Indian and Pacific oceans, Thailand's mainland shares borders with Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, and Malaysia. It boasts over 1400 islands scattered across the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand.
Getting around
Getting around Thailand is convenient, with taxis being the preferred mode of transport for most journeys. Local metered taxis are often more budget-friendly than hotel taxis. The iconic tuk-tuks offer a thrilling way to explore cities and resorts. For multi-center holidays, domestic flights provide the easiest and best value option to combine different regions of Thailand. Traditional long-tail boats and speedboats are available for transfers to remote islands, offering serene and scenic journeys.
Shopping
Shopping in Thailand is an essential part of the experience, with bustling markets offering beautiful silks, teak-carved handicrafts, and unique souvenirs. While department stores usually have fixed prices, most vendors at markets expect haggling, so it's wise to shop around before making a purchase.
Diving & snorkelling
Thailand boasts excellent snorkeling and diving spots, especially during the peak season between November and April when sea temperatures are warm and visibility is high. The Surin and Similan Islands, accessible via land and speedboat transfer from Khao Lak, offer some of the country's best dive sites. Additionally, the eastern coast in the Gulf of Thailand, including Koh Tao and Koh Phi Phi, is popular for snorkeling and diving.
Food & drink
Thai cuisine is renowned worldwide for its diverse flavors and aromatic spices. Must-try dishes include pad Thai, tom yum soup, and various curry dishes like massaman and penang. Sampling street food is a rite of passage, offering a glimpse into the authentic flavors of Thailand. While Thai food can be spicy, eating plain boiled rice can help alleviate the heat. Hotels and resort restaurants often cater to western tastes, but it's advisable to inquire about the spiciness of dishes beforehand.
Thai cuisine incorporates ingredients like lemongrass, coconut milk, garlic, ginger, and mint, along with fish sauce called nam pla. The infamous durian fruit, known for its strong aroma, is either loved or loathed by visitors. Other exotic fruits include longan, lychee, rambutan, and mango, often served with sticky rice and coconut cream for dessert.
Regional variations in cuisine are noticeable, with the south offering more seafood and spicy curries, while the north serves milder dishes with sticky rice. A kantok dinner, featuring authentic Lanna dishes served on a low table with traditional dance performances, provides a glimpse into northern Thai culture. For travelers' safety, it's recommended to drink bottled water during your stay in Thailand.
The Complete Dubai Tour Planned by Experts
- Vibrant Bangkok’s endless shopping and intriguing nightlife
- Awe-inspiring sunsets and rock-climbing amid towering limestone cliffs in Krabi
- Humbling temples, elephant sanctuaries, national parks and the captivating Golden Triangle in northern Thailand
- Snorkelling and diving off small islands such as Koh Samui, Koh Lanta and the Koh Yao islands
- World-famous cuisine – whether you fancy speedy street food, three-course fine dining, or your own creation in a hands-on cooking class.
Northern Thailand & Laos
From Thailand's mountainous north to the ancient Lao city of Luang Prabang, this itinerary includes a spectacular three-night cruise down the Mekong River
- Discover the shimmering golden temples around Chiang Mai.
- Encounter majestic Asian elephants in the steaming jungle ou... more
11 NIGHTS
From £6399 pp(inc. flights)
Resorts & hotels in Thailand
Discover the finest Thailand hotels with SkyTrak Travel, ranging from charming rural retreats to sophisticated pool villas. From boutique beach hideaways nestled on Koh Samui to contemporary luxury resorts conveniently located near Bangkok’s BTS Skytrain, Thailand offers a diverse array of accommodations to suit every preference. Whether you seek seclusion or city center convenience, grand opulence or intimate ambiance, there is a hotel tailored to your desires. Each property boasts impeccable service and distinctive Thai-inspired decor, ensuring an unforgettable stay. With breathtaking ocean vistas, idyllic wedding venues, and indulgent spa facilities, our hand-picked selection of Thailand hotels promises an exceptional experience tailored to your preferences.
Discover Thailand multi-centres
Explore the enchanting blend of urban excitement and tropical serenity with our classic 'Bangkok & Beach' multi-centre holiday package, offering the perfect fusion of city thrills and beachside relaxation for an unforgettable Thailand getaway. For an added dose of adventure, immerse yourself in the cultural treasures of Northern Thailand, where ancient temples, elephant sanctuaries, and vibrant hill tribes await. If one beach destination isn't enough, indulge in combinations featuring two or more of Thailand's stunning coastal gems. Our curated selection of Thailand multi-centre destinations caters to every preference, whether you crave the vibrant energy of the city, the tranquillity of the beach, or the rich cultural heritage of the region. Choose from our handpicked hotels, many of which offer exclusive benefits for SkyTrak Travel customers. Contact us at 02085708283 or visit our store to speak with one of our Personal Travel Experts and create your bespoke holiday with SkyTrak Travel.
Grand Palace
Nestled in the bustling center of Bangkok, the Grand Palace stands as one of the city's most renowned tourist attractions. For 150 years, this magnificent palace served as the official residence of the King, his court, and the government. With its rich history and architectural marvels, the Grand Palace offers a wealth of exploration opportunities that visitors are sure to cherish. However, it's crucial to remember the strict dress code enforced at this site. To ensure entry, visitors must adhere to proper clothing attire.
The Golden Triangle
Located at the confluence of the Mekong River and the Ruak River, the area known locally as Sop Ruak transforms into the renowned Golden Triangle where Burma/Myanmar, Laos, and Thailand converge. Positioned along the Thailand riverbank, visitors can enjoy panoramic views across to Burma/Myanmar and Laos, or opt for a rental boat to explore the area more closely. Amidst the surroundings, you'll find market shops, Buddha and elephant statues, and ample signage confirming that you've indeed reached the Golden Triangle.
Floating Markets
Exploring the floating markets of Bangkok is an unforgettable experience not to be missed. These markets, set up on charming boats, offer a unique opportunity to shop for local fruits, souvenirs, and indulge in authentic Thai cuisine at floating restaurants. Among the notable floating markets within Bangkok city limits are Khlong Lat Mayom and Taling Chan. However, it's worth noting that once you board a boat, you may find it difficult to resist the temptation to purchase something, so be prepared to shop!
An Elephant Experience
Encountering elephants is a cherished experience in Thailand, where these majestic animals hold a special place as a national symbol. Across the country, there are various ways to interact with them. For a luxurious encounter combined with upscale accommodation, consider visiting the award-winning Elephant Hills. This tranquil tented camp offers unique opportunities to meet and learn about these incredible creatures in a relaxed setting.
Thai. English is widely spoken at beach resorts.
For travel to Thailand, ensure you possess a valid EU 10-year passport with an expiry date extending at least six months beyond your intended departure from the country. Visas are only necessary for stays exceeding 30 days (29 nights), obtainable from the Thai Embassy.
Standard electrical supply in Thailand is 220 volts AC, operating at 50Hz. Two-pin plugs are standard for electrical connections.
Experience the vibrant cultural tapestry of Thailand through its diverse events and festivals:
• April: Join in the exuberant Songkran traditional New Year celebrations across the country..
• June, September to October: Immerse yourself in the International Festival of Dance & Music held in Bangkok.
• December: Commemorate His Majesty the Late King's Birthday, a significant event celebrated nationwide.
Navigate through cities and resorts in Thailand conveniently with tuk tuks, the preferred mode of transportation for many visitors.
Religion
Theravada Buddhism prevails in Thailand, with minority religions including Islam, Christianity, Hinduism, and Sikhism.
Etiquette
• Respect for the royal family is paramount in Thai culture; avoid any expressions of disrespect..
• Displays of anger are considered uncouth; maintain composure in social interactions.
• Treat Buddha images with reverence, refraining from climbing on them or any behavior deemed disrespectful.
• Public displays of affection are discouraged; limit physical contact between couples in polite settings.
• Avoid pointing your feet at individuals or objects, as it is considered impolite.
• Refrain from patting Thai individuals on the head, as it is regarded as disrespectful.
Acknowledge satisfactory service by tipping porters and hotel staff. In restaurants where a service charge is not included, tipping between 10-15% is customary.
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Min (°C) | 27 | 28 | 30 | 31 | 30 | 30 | 30 | 30 | 29 | 29 | 28 | 26 |
| (°f) | 81 | 82 | 86 | 88 | 86 | 86 | 86 | 86 | 84 | 84 | 82 | 79 |
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °C | 32 | 33 | 34 | 35 | 34 | 33 | 33 | 33 | 32 | 32 | 31 | 31 |
| High °F | 90 | 91 | 93 | 95 | 93 | 91 | 91 | 91 | 90 | 90 | 88 | 88 |
| Low °C | 63 | 64 | 68 | 75 | 84 | 86 | 86 | 82 | 81 | 75 | 70 | 64 |
| Low °F | 21 | 23 | 25 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 25 | 25 | 24 | 21 |
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| mm | 0 | 10 | 50 | 110 | 180 | 180 | 180 | 170 | 220 | 190 | 40 | 10 |
| Days | 2 | 2 | 5 | 8 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 21 | 22 | 16 | 5 | 2 |
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| (°C) | 28 | 28 | 29 | 30 | 30 | 30 | 30 | 29 | 29 | 29 | 29 | 28 |
| (°F ) | 82 | 82 | 84 | 86 | 86 | 86 | 86 | 84 | 84 | 84 | 84 | 82 |
Find Your Inner Peace in Thailand's Spiritual Heart
As you wander through the bustling streets of Thailand, you'll discover a land where ancient traditions meet modern charm. From the golden temples to the vibrant markets, every moment in Thailand is an opportunity to connect with the present. The scent of incense wafts through the air, transporting you to a world of serenity and tranquillity. The warm smiles of the Thai people envelop you like a warm hug, inviting you to slow down and savour the moment. Whether you're exploring the sacred city of Chiang Mai, practicing yoga on the beach in Koh Samui, or simply sitting in silent contemplation at a hilltop temple, Thailand is a haven for those seeking inner peace.
In Thailand, you'll find a sense of balance and harmony that's hard to find elsewhere. The gentle flow of the canals, the soft rustle of palm trees, and the sweet song of birdsong create a symphony of sounds that soothe the soul. As you delve deeper into this enchanting country, you'll discover that even in the midst of chaos, there's always a quiet moment to be found. Let Thailand be your guide to inner peace, your sanctuary from the world's noise and distractions. Allow yourself to be swept away by its beauty, and let your spirit find its own path to serenity and bliss.
