15 guides
Thailand
Temples at dawn, night markets at midnight, and food that quietly ruins you for anywhere else.
- Best time
- Nov – Feb
- Currency
- Thai Baht (THB)
- Language
- Thai
- Visa
- Visa-free 30–60 days
Overview
Thailand is one of those countries that quietly hides its depth behind a very friendly front door. The beaches and full-moon parties are real, but so are the mountain villages up north, the fishing towns on the Gulf, and the alleyway noodle shops that have been open for four generations.
The food is the through-line. Whether you're in a Bangkok basement or a Chiang Mai courtyard, the rules are similar: eat where the queue is Thai, drink the iced tea, and don't be shy about sweating.
It's also one of the easiest countries in Asia to travel. Trains and buses go almost anywhere; a week can turn into three without much of a plan.
“In Thailand you always eat one more meal than you planned to — and every one of them is worth it.”
Films & Shorts
Watch Thailand
Bangkok After Dark
Chiang Mai Slow Days
Island-Hopping the Andaman
Plan Your Trip
Guides & Itineraries
Guide10 min read
Bangkok Street Food: A First-Timer's Map
Itinerary14 min read
10 Days in Thailand: North to South
Guide6 min read
Cafes and Slow Mornings in Chiang Mai
Eat & Stay
Where to Eat & Stay
Where things are
Thailand on the Map
Know before you go
Travel Tips
Eat where locals queue
The best plate of pad kra pao in a neighborhood is rarely on Google Maps. Follow the office lunch crowd at noon.
Dress for temples
Shoulders and knees covered — even in the heat. Most major wats rent sarongs at the entrance for a small deposit.
Cash is king
Cards work in malls and hotels, but everything on the street runs on baht. Withdraw in bigger amounts to avoid fees.
Watch the monsoon
The Andaman coast (Phuket, Krabi) is wettest May–Oct; the Gulf (Koh Samui, Phangan) peaks Oct–Dec.
Frequently asked
