The Ultimate Thailand Vacation: Best Places to Visit and Travel Tips

Thailand is quickly becoming one of the most popular travel destinations in the world. With its tropical beaches, flavorful cuisine, rich culture and low prices, it's easy to see why so many flock to this Southeast Asian gem every year. If a Thailand vacation is on your bucket list, here's an overview of the best places to visit and top tips to make the most of your trip.

Overview of Thailand

Located in Southeast Asia, Thailand is home to over 68 million people. It features diverse landscapes, from the mountainous North, to the luxuriant jungles in the interior, to the sandy beaches of the peninsula coasts. Thailand is known for its tropical climate, colorful festivals, history-rich temples, flavored cuisine and the friendly nature of its people. The official language is Thai, although English is widely spoken in major tourist areas. Read about this country in a magazine about life in Thailand.

Top Places to Visit

Bangkok

The capital city of Bangkok blends ultramodern skyscrapers with ancient temples. Top attractions include the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Chatuchak Weekend Market, and Chao Phraya River. Experience a fun nightlife scene, dine on street food and enjoy first-rate hotels.

Phuket

Phuket is Thailand’s largest island, located off the Andaman coast. Relax on idyllic beaches like Patong and Kata, enjoy water sports, take a day trip to Phi Phi Island, party in Patong at night or take in cultural shows like Fantasea.

Chiang Mai 

Chiang Mai offers a more laidback, culturally rich vibe. Top sites are ancient temples like Doi Suthep, night markets for shopping, cooking classes to learn Thai cuisine and elephant camps where you can interact with these majestic creatures. 

Krabi

Krabi features picturesque beaches and islands perfect for snorkeling, like Koh Phi Phi and Railay Beach. Excellent spot for rock climbing too. Stay in hip Ao Nang for nightlife. Nearby is Phang Nga Bay, famous for unique limestone cliffs that jut out of the emerald waters. 

Tips for Visiting Thailand

- The best time to visit is November to March, during the dry season. April’s Songkran Festival celebrates the Thai New Year with a nation-wide water fight.

- Bangkok and Chiang Mai have international airports. You can fly between cities in Thailand quickly and cheaply.

- Tuk tuks and taxis are affordable ways to get around cities. For long distances, domestic flights or overnight trains are options.

- Thai cuisine like pad thai, green curry and mango sticky rice is delicious. Be adventurous and try new flavors!

- Most sightseeing spots, restaurants and hotels cater to English speaking tourists. Learning a few Thai phrases helps though.

With tantalizing cuisine, tropical paradise beaches, rich Buddhist culture and adventure activities, Thailand has something for every type of traveler. Following these tips will help you plan an unforgettable Thailand vacation!