Thailand Education Visa: Your Guide to Studying in the Land of Smiles
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Thailand Travel Guide: Explore, Eat, and Experience Like a Local
THAILAND TRIP PLANNING
So you’re looking for the ultimate Thailand travel guide…Known as the land of smiles, Thailand has it all, from beautiful white beaches, incredibly diverse street food, stunning temples, and a very strong culture that is impossible to resist
Whether you’ve come to Thailand for an adventure or simply get cheap massages, I can guarantee you that once you finish this Thailand travel tips guide, you will want to pack up and go.
This country has easily become my favorite in Southeast Asia. As a result of spending quite some time there, I put together this Thailand travel guide of things to do and avoid during your travels.
Table of Contents
Quick Guide to Traveling in Thailand
Currency: Thai Baht
Electricity socket: This country has 230V and 50Hz electricity. Most places have a two-prong round or flat socket power outlet. Be sure to carry a universal travel adaptor, so that all your electronic devices can still be used.
Language: When traveling to Thailand, the language barrier is at an all-time high. Most English-speaking locals work in the hospitality industry, around the islands, etc… up north in small villages not so much. Expect to smile and node a lot. Here are a few basic Thai phrases to help you out, while traveling.
Festivals and Celebrations: When planning your trip to Thailand. Try to plan your trip in accordance with certain Thai festivals and celebrations such as the festival of lights (Loy Krathong) and the water festival (Songkran) as these are great opportunities to experience Thai culture and get some pretty sweet pictures/videos at the same time.
Thailand Safety Tips
All in all, Thailand is a very safe place, but then again, always be vigilant of your surroundings like anywhere as some locals will try to scam you. Just make sure to educate yourself on the various Thai Scams.
The #1 danger in Thailand, is motorbikes. There is over 5000 death per year, that’s about 14 per day. From personal experience, falling off a scooter is not fun. I never leave home without travel insurance.
There are 2 companies I recommend, Safetywing for the typical month-to-month traveler and World Nomads for the adventure traveler, as they also cover electronic devices.
NOTE: I strongly recommend that you also get an international driver’s license in advance if you are planning to drive a scooter while in Thailand.
Thailand Visa
Most countries are given a 60-day visa when entering Thailand by air and 15 days when entering by land. If you wish to stay longer than 60 days, you have 2 options, pay 1900 Baht at the immigration office or by doing a visa run to the border of Laos, Myanmar, or Cambodia.
If you wish to stay longer than 30-days, simply head over to your local Thai embassy (before departure) and apply for a Tourist Visa which will give you 60 days. Please note as well that more and more countries in Southeast Asia are demanding proof of departure, before allowing you to enter. So, make sure you come ready and have all the necessary arrangements booked in advance.
BEST TIME TO VISIT THAILAND
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How To Get Around Thailand
Thailand is fairly easy to get around, just make sure to book in advance as these shuttles or busses do fill up fast. I personally recommend using 12Go or Bookaway for all your transportation needs as it will save you loads of time and communication errors. In peak seasons, remember to book well in advance.
Thailand Daily Travel Budget
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TOURS AROUND THAILAND
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What to Pack for Thailand
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BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN THAILAND
Thailand is one of those countries you just have to experience—and once you do, good luck not wanting to come back. This place has everything. Whether you’re after a chill, coconut-in-hand beach getaway or an all-out adventure where you’re ziplining through jungles and getting daily massages (because why not?), Thailand delivers. To make sure you don’t miss out, I’ve put together a list of must-visit spots that you absolutely need on your itinerary—because trust me, FOMO is real when it comes to this country.
1. Bangkok
Get lost in the sauce! This busy tropical metropolis is at the centre of all the action. It’s the wildest place on earth…or Asia in my opinion! Just take a deep breath, you got this!
Most travellers typically land in Bangkok and spend a few days here, but others tend to go straight to the islands. Those who skip out on Bangkok usually end end regretting, so don’t let that be you.
Bangkok is full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Make sure to check out the famous Chatuchak weekend market if you can, this place will blow your mind. (it’s basically a giant flea market) but with exotic animals for sale etc…
Last but not least, make to go eat your heart out at the night markets in Bangkok.
Fair warning…Bangkok might steal your heart, and before you know it, you’ll be searching for a condo and calling it home. And while you’re in Bangkok, why not get a Sak Yant Tattoo…
TrueLove @ Neverland (Husky Cafe)
In Bangkok you will find loads of cafes, this one is one of my favourites. I mean how could you not love coffee and puppies.
Getting around Bangkok
Navigating this city, can be quite overwhelming your first time around, so I highly recommend taking a tour of the city on your first day.
Here’s a few of my personal favourite tours. Maeklong Railway Market , after why not hop on a Tuk Tuk and go for a ride around town and to top off the night why not do The Chao Phraya Dinner Cruise.
Explore Northern Thailand
After exploring the islands & Bangkok, make your way to Chiang Mai to breathe in the fresh mountain air and dive into outdoor adventures like white-water rafting, trekking, mountain biking, and visiting remote hill-tribe villages.
While up North, consider renting a scooter and doing the Mae Hong Son Loop which is one of the coolest things to do in Northern Thailand. Thew views…are unreal!
From exploring the stunning temples, eating Khao Soi and chilling out in Pai, here are some of my favorite things to do in Northern Thailand:
Avoid Northern Thailand during Burning Season for a more comfortable and pleasant experience, as the air quality can be poor and the environment smoky.
2. Pai
Tucked away in the mountains near the Myanmar border, Pai is a tiny hippie-meets-vegan paradise that will absolutely steal your heart—but first, it will test your stomach. Getting there is no joke. The drive is 144 km of pure motion sickness, featuring 762 winding turns that will have you questioning every life choice that led to this moment. Pro tip: Pack some Gravol and prepare for the possibility of an impromptu bus-wide puke fest (because yes, it happens).
But don’t let that scare you off—Pai is 100% worth the ride there is so many things to do in Pai. Once you arrive, you’ll find yourself surrounded by stunning landscapes, chill vibes, and some of the best bougie street food in Thailand. There’s no rush here, so stay a few days (or a week, you won’t regret it) and soak it all in. While you’re at it, rent a scooter—Pai is the perfect place to learn, and trust me, it beats walking after one too many mango sticky rice feasts.
3. Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai might not be Thailand’s biggest city, but don’t let that fool you—this place delivers. It’s basically the ex-pat capital of Thailand, and for good reason. Making it easy to form a community.
The food scene is insane, the vibe is effortlessly chill, and the mix of travelers, digital nomads, and adventure junkies just keeps growing. With a population of around 127,000, it’s a cultural hotspot where you can sip fresh coconut at a street market by day and dive into deep convos at a trendy café by night.
And if you time it right, you’ll get to witness Yi Peng, one of the coolest lantern festivals in the world, where thousands of glowing lanterns light up the night sky. Whether you’re here for the temples, the food, or just the energy, Chiang Mai is a must-visit.
4. Chiang Rai
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So you’re looking for the ultimate Thailand travel guide…Known as the land of smiles, Thailand has it all, from beautiful white beaches, incredibly diverse street food, stunning temples, and a very strong culture that is impossible to resist
Whether you’ve come to Thailand for an adventure or simply get cheap massages, I can guarantee you that once you finish this Thailand travel guide, you will want to pack up and go.
This country has easily become my favorite in Southeast Asia. As a result of spending quite some time there, I put together this Thailand travel guide of things to do and avoid during your travels.
If you’re planning to visit elephants, make sure to choose an ethical tour where they’re treated with care and respect. Here’s one I highly recommend:
🐘 Ethical Elephant Experience 🐘
Looking for a responsible and ethical way to see elephants in Thailand? Here’s a highly recommended sanctuary where they are treated with care and respect.
Book Your Ethical Elephant ExperienceGo Island Hopping in the Islands
Once you got your dose of Northern Thailand, it’s time to board a plane and head south! In this section I’ll give you my best Thailand travel tips, so you ca navigate these islands like a pro.
As you may of heard, Southern Thailand is paradise. With beautiful beaches everywhere you look it’s hard to decide where to go first.
Depending if you want to party hard or relax like a king, you have a few options…
For an epic party scene, make your way to Phi Phi or Koh Phangan. If you’re looking to unwind in paradise, I recommend Koh Samui, Koh Lipe, and Koh Tao for a more relaxed vibe.
Just note that most of these islands are extreme tourist spots, meaning you might be disappointed with what you see. (ex: McDonalds)
5. Koh Tao
Once
6. Phuket
Once
7. Koh Lipe
Once
8. Koh Samui
Once
9. Koh Phangan
Once
10. Krabi
Once
Things To Do in Thailand
Thailand Travel Tips: Things to Avoid in Thailand
Thai Street Food
If you’re a foodie at heart (and let’s be real, who isn’t?), there are way more ways to experience Thailand’s incredible spicy cuisine than just eating your weight in street food—though, no judgment if that’s the plan. One of the best ways to dive deeper? Join a food tour. The guides are walking encyclopedias of Thai flavors, and they’ll take you straight to the good stuff without the guessing game. Here are a few epic food experiences you should absolutely check out:
Cooking Classes in Chiang Mai – Want to level up your Thai cooking skills and make some new travel buddies? These classes are a perfect mix of hands-on fun and delicious rewards. Bonus: You’ll never have to settle for sad takeout Pad Thai again.
Floating Market Food Tour – Imagine cruising through a vibrant market, hopping from boat to boat, and grabbing freshly made Thai dishes straight from the water. If you love a bit of chaos with your cuisine, this one’s for you.
Ayutthaya Food Tour – About 80 km north of Bangkok, this UNESCO World Heritage Site isn’t just about ancient ruins—it’s also home to some next-level Thai food. Think grilled river prawns, rich boat noodles, and an all-around feast fit for a king (or just a very hungry traveler).
Whatever you choose, just make sure you bring your appetite—you’re gonna need it.
Food Courts
Whatever you do, don’t sleep on the food courts in Thailand. I know, I know—“food court” sounds like a sad tray of soggy fries at a mall back home, but trust me, this is a whole different game. These spots are goldmines for insanely good (and cheap) street food without having to dodge motorbikes or sweat through your shirt in a market. You’ll find everything from perfect pad kra pao to fresh mango sticky rice, all at prices that make you question why you ever paid $15 for a mediocre takeout back home. Pro tip: Most food courts run on a prepaid card system, so load it up, feast like a king, and then get your unused cash back at the end. Top help you out I put together a list of the best Food Courts in Bangkok.
The Ladyboy culture
Ladyboys, or Kathoeys, are a big part of Thailand’s cultural landscape, and unlike in many other countries, they’re widely accepted. Thanks to Buddhist philosophy, which focuses more on the soul than the body, transitioning from male to female isn’t seen as a huge deal—it’s just a natural part of life. Over time, Kathoeys have become almost iconic, drawing curiosity from travelers worldwide. But beyond the glitz of cabaret shows and the stereotypes, they’re just people living their truth. If you get the chance, strike up a conversation—you’ll find many are hilarious, confident, and full of personality.
Where to stay in Thailand
Accommodations in Thailand come in all shapes and sizes. From tiny pods all the way to a luxurious villa with a private pool. It all depends on what you’re ready to spend. There’s really no shortage of places to stay when exploring Thailand. Below is a map of the main strip in Bangkok called Sukhumvit, where all the major malls and night markets are etc…
View accommodations below with VRBO or Booking.com
Thai Scams to watch out for
Thailand is an absolute paradise—but let’s be real, it’s also home to some next-level scam artists. And trust me, these guys aren’t amateurs; they’ve been perfecting their craft longer than you’ve been planning this trip. There’s a scam for literally everything—taxis, temples, tuk-tuks, you name it. That’s why having a translator (or a good dose of skepticism) can save you from some serious headaches.
To keep you one step ahead, I’ve put together a list of the top scams in Thailand that travelers fall for way too often. Read it, remember it, and don’t let some smooth talker convince you that the Grand Palace is “closed for a special holiday.”
And if you ever find yourself in a situation that feels off, don’t panic—just reach out to the Thailand Tourist Police. They’re there to help, and unlike that “friendly” guy trying to sell you a tuk-tuk tour, they actually have your best interests in mind. Stay sharp and happy travels!
Sex Tourism
Thailand’s wild nightlife has given it a bit of a reputation when it comes to sex tourism, especially in spots like Bangkok, Pattaya, and Phuket. While it’s no secret that the industry exists, it’s more of a gray area—technically illegal but widely tolerated. The scene ranges from go-go bars and “massage” parlors to full-blown red-light districts that draw in curious travelers and seasoned veterans alike. But here’s the thing—Thailand has way more to offer than just neon lights and ladyboy shows. If you’re visiting, don’t be that guy who only talks about Soi Cowboy. Go explore the food, the culture, and the hidden gems too—you might just find something even better than a cheap thrill.
Diving and snorkeling in Thailand
Thailand is an underwater paradise that’s practically made for explorers. With its crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and breathtaking reefs, it’s no wonder divers flock here from all over. Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned pro, a Similan liveaboard trip is the ultimate way to dive into the beauty of Thailand’s underwater world. The Similan Islands, a stunning group of nine islands in the Andaman Sea, are famous for their pristine coral reefs and an abundance of sea creatures—get ready to be amazed!
These liveaboard trips usually span a few days, giving you the chance to hit multiple dive sites and really soak in everything Thailand’s waters have to offer. And if you’re looking to get certified, many trips offer PADI courses, so you can get that scuba license on a budget! Not into diving? No worries—most trips also offer snorkeling options so you can still get up close and personal with the colorful marine life without going too deep.
But wait, there’s more! If you’re after another epic dive spot, make sure to check out Koh Tao. This island in the Gulf of Thailand is a diving hotspot, known for its clear waters and rich underwater life. Plus, it’s perfect for beginners with affordable PADI courses. Getting there is easy too—just hop on a ferry from Chumphon or Surat Thani on the mainland, and you’ll be ready to dive in.
Whether you’re liveaboarding around the Similans or snorkeling in Koh Tao, Thailand’s underwater world is one you’ll never forget. With all that clear water, marine life, and diving options that won’t break the bank, it’s the perfect place to make some unforgettable memories.
Planning your Thailand Adventure
In this Thailand travel guide, I want to be as direct as possible with you. Here are few things to take note of when traveling to Thailand. There’s three-season, hot, cool, and wet. The hot season is from March-May, the “cool-season” is from November-February and the wet season is from May-October.
Make sure to plan around the season especially if you want to experience Pai, do not go during burning season. The air is filled with smoke as the farmers are burning their crops. It’s not pleasant!
Budgeting
To contrary belief, Thailand is not THAT cheap anymore. Ten years ago, it was a “free for all” per se. These days expect to spend roughly $30-$50 per day on food and a nice hotel room. If you plan on doing activities, add another $50-60. If you want to go cheaper you definitely can, it just depends on how cheap you want to go.
If you decide to go the Hostel route, you can expect to pay between $20-$30 for food and accommodation per day. It all depends on what you want and what your budget is.
Packing essentials for Thailand
All depending on when you visiting Thailand, here’s what you need. If you’re going to Pai (Northern Thailand), it gets hot during the day and really cold at night during the winter months. You can literally see your breath at night. Come prepared.
One of the most important things to bring when backpacking is a day bag. One bag I highly recommend and personally use is the Nomatic travel bag. It’s by far the most versatile bag on the market. Whatever your needs are, they have a quality bag for you.
A few other optional items you might require while traveling is a Language Translator, Ear Plugs (if you decide to stay in a Hostel), and a small portable first aid kit.
For a Free copy of my digital Thailand travel guide packing checklist, just let me know where to send it below!
The Basics
Currency: Thai Baht
Electricity socket: This country has 230V and 50Hz electricity. Most places have a two-prong round or flat socket power outlet. Be sure to carry a universal travel adaptor, so that all your electronic devices can still be used.
Thailand Visa: Most countries are given a 30-day visa when entering Thailand by air and 15 days when entering by land. If you wish to stay longer than 30 days, you have 2 options, pay 1900 Baht at the immigration office or by doing a visa run to the border of Laos, Myanmar, or Cambodia.
If you wish to stay longer than 30-days, simply head over to your local Thai embassy (before departure) and apply for a Tourist Visa which will give you 60 days. Please note as well that more and more countries in Southeast Asia are demanding proof of departure, before allowing you to enter. So, make sure you come ready and have all the necessary arrangements booked in advance.
Safety: All in all, Thailand is a very safe place, but then again, always be vigilant of your surroundings like anywhere as some locals will try to scam you. Just make sure to educate yourself on the various Thai Scams.
The #1 danger in Thailand, is motorbikes. There is over 5000 death per year, that’s about 14 per day. From personal experience, falling off a scooter is not fun. I never leave home without travel insurance.
There are 2 companies I recommend, Safetywing for the typical month-to-month traveler and World Nomads for the adventure traveler, as they also cover electronic devices. NOTE: I strongly recommend that you also get an international driver’s license in advance if you are planning to drive a scooter while in Thailand.
Language: When traveling to Thailand, the language barrier is at an all-time high. Most English-speaking locals work in the hospitality industry, around the islands, etc… up north in small villages not so much. Expect to smile and node a lot. Here are a few basic Thai phrases to help you out, while traveling.
Festivals and Celebrations: When planning your trip to Thailand. Try to plan your trip in accordance with certain festivals and celebrations such as the festival of lights (Loy Krathong) and the water festival (Songkran) as these are great opportunities to experience Thai culture and get some pretty sweet pictures/videos at the same time.
Transportation: Thailand is fairly easy to get around, just make sure to book in advance as these shuttles or busses do fill up fast. I personally recommend using 12Go or Bookaway for all your transportation needs as it will save you loads of time and communication errors. In peak seasons, remember to book well in advance.
Travel insurance: simple & flexible
You can buy and claim online, even after you've left home. Travel insurance from WorldNomads.com is available to people from over 130 countries. It’s designed for adventurous travellers with cover for overseas medical, evacuation, baggage, and a range of adventure sports and activities.
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WorldNomads.com provides cover for what's important for travellers from over 130 countries. By focusing on what you need and leaving out what you don't, World Nomads prices are some of the most competitive online. - Flexibility when you need it most
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All WorldNomads.com members have access to up-to-date travel safety alerts, as well as travel safety advice and tips online through the World Nomads Travel Safety Hub. - More than just great value travel insurance
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We want to make sure you get the most from WorldNomads.com. You can find out more about why travel insurance is important for your trip. If you have any questions about your travel insurance or travel safety in general, please contact WorldNomads.com directly.
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Zero Dead Ends is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon and affiliated sites at no additional cost to you. Please note I only link to products & services I personally use or trust. See disclaimer.
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