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| Average Temperature (Celcius) |
32 |
33 |
34 |
35 |
34 |
32 |
32 |
32 |
31 |
31 |
31 |
31 |
| Average Rainfall (Inches) |
1 |
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5 |
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11 |
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11 |
16 |
12 |
7 |
2 |
Holiday Highlights
• World renowned white sand beaches
• Lush tropical forests to explore
• A variety of exciting, exotic activities
• Luxurious spa options
• Spectacular cultural sites and architecture
Flight Information
Direct flights from London to Bangkok International Suvarnabhumi Airport are 12 hours and available with Thai Airways, Eva Air and Qantas. Stop-over flights will be longer and are available with Cathay Pacific (via Hong Kong), Emirates (via Dubai), Etihad Airways (via Abu Dhabi), Oman Air (via Muscat). These indirect flights are a great way of breaking up your journey and experiencing a different country re-route to Thailand (stop-overs are free).
Visa Requirements
A visa is not required for stays of up to 30 days. Six months valid passport is required and you must have a return or onward ticket unless a tourist visa is obtained prior to arrival. All visitors are required to prove evidence of sufficient funds during their stay. All travellers should check full entry requirements prior to travel by visiting the FCO website or by contacting the relevant embassy.
Weather
Generally hot and humid year round. November – May tends to be on the drier side with March to May having the highest temperatures. May to November is monsoon season and tends to feature high rainfall. Monsoon season affects the southern regions more so with the heaviest storms hitting around April through October. The ideal time to visit Thailand is from November to February when cool breezes offer a break from the heat.
Language
The official language is Thai. Other languages spoken include Chinese, Malay, and Mon-Khmer. English is spoken as a second language by many.
Currency
The Thai Baht.
Electricity
220V, two or three (grounded) flat or round prongs.
Vaccination & Health
As health requirements change please consult with your GP or specialist travel clinic well in advance of your holiday for specific information related to your travel and medical history. Additional information can be found by visiting NaTHNaC or MASTA Travel health
Dialling Code
001-66
Location
Thailand is located in South East Asia bordered by the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, nestled between Burma and Cambodia with Malaysia to the south.
Transportation
In Bangkok, the BTS Skytrain is the best way to get around most of the major site seeing destinations. Prices are based on length of journey and this service is quite fast and reliable, making it ideal for visitors.
Private Hire Drivers: Hiring a driver is recommended for getting around Thailand. Many very friendly and helpful drivers are available to take you where you want to go. Prices are reasonable, usually around 1000 Baht per day.
Motorbikes & Scooters: Because the streets are quite crowded, you’ll notice many scooters and bikes on the roads of Thailand. Riding on the roads in Bangkok can be quite chaotic and at times stressful for but once you head out of the big city, motorbike or scooter enthusiasts will enjoy the ride. It can be a real treat, though make sure you wear your helmet and beware of potholes and cracks in some roads.
Tuk Tuk: Definitely an experience, but not always reliable, a quick ride on a Tuk Tuk is an experience many tourists enjoy. Prices vary based on distance travelled but are generally under 100 Baht.
Ferries & Catamarans: For some of Thailand’s favourite island destinations the only way to get there is by boat. Ferries and high speed catamaran’s make for an enjoyable journey across the waters. Prices vary depending on destination, up to around 500 Baht.
Food and Drink
The food of Thailand is prized world round for its variety, and its delicious infusion of flavours and spices. In Thailand food is generally cooked with fresh ingredients. Flavours including lime, coconut, coriander, tamarind and chillies help to create Thai cuisine’s unique tang and character.
Thailand is also known for great beverages from locally brewed beers and wines to Thailand’s own rice Whisky, the most popular brand of which is Mehkong. Rice Whisky has a sharp, sweet taste like that of rum.
Festivals & Events
Thailand is known for exciting festivals and events all year round. Here are a few highlights:
Each year, on the 12th lunar month (usually in November) Thailand celebrates Loy Krathong, a festival of lights which sees thousands of ornately decorated banana leafs lit by candles floating on banana leafs down many rivers and waterways all over Thailand.
Every full moon, on the beaches of Koh Phangan the infamous Full Moon Party takes place, featuring live djs, techno, dancing and partying all through the night. Many thousands come to Koh Phangan to take part in these events each month.
Each November the Phimai long boat Festival takes place. This is a traditional festival also features music and entertainment presentations, though the long boat race itself draws many visitors.
Shopping
Thailand is in many ways a shopper’s paradise with its variety of both designer clothing deals at Bangkok’s malls and boutiques, hand crafted suits and silks, and many deals on gifts and locally made treasures available at the many markets. In Thailand there’s a shopping experience to suit all tastes and budgets.
Beaches
Thailand is known for its beaches. Beyond the bustling city of Bangkok beaches are the life force of Thailand and the main reason thousands of visitors flock here each year. Here are a few of the most popular beaches in Thailand:
Patong Beach, Phuket: This is one of Thailand’s most popular beaches, and therefore one of its most crowded. It is very inviting and attractive with its long soft white sandy shores, warm water and proximity to shopping, hotels, and some of the island’s best nightlife. This is an ideal beach destination for those who like to party, not so much for those seeking peace and calm.
Kata Beach, Phuket: Much quieter than the bustling Patong Beach, this is a very quiet, relaxed beach featuring great scenery, and warm waters ideal for surfing in the winter months. Not an ideal beach for those with younger children but great for peace-seeking adults or those with older children.
Hua Hin: Very close to Bangkok, this is a very popular beach for local and tourist families alike as the waters are calm and warm.
Koh Kood: This island is relatively untapped for tourism and therefore offers many beautiful, unspoilt and quiet beaches. Some coastal areas can be rocky, but the peaceful atmosphere is truly ideal for those wanting to relax and get away even from other toursts. Swimmers and kayakers enjoy Khlong Chao Bay best but Tapao Beach and the very private Ta Tin Beach (accessible only by boat) are some of this island’s true gems for those who like to wander on foot or rest on the sand.
Lamai Beach, Samui: Ultimately Samui draws partygoers and shopaholics. Many of the beaches in this area can be quite busy, though Lamai manages to strike a balance providing great scenery, safe and enjoyable swimming, and a vibrant nightlife for when the sun sets.
Haad Rin, Koh Phangan: If you’re looking for the ultimate party beach, this is one of Thailand’s best. The Full Moon Party happens here every month and with it comes drinking, partying, music and mayhem. If that’s what you’re looking for then this is your best beach. During the daytime, this beach is also home to golden sand, nice scenery, and great swimming.
Railey Beach, Krabi: This beach is known primarily for its fantastic opportunity for great sport, including rock climbing, swimming, snorkelling, kayaking and more. The beach is also incredibly quiet and relaxing and one of the most idyllic places in all of Thailand.
Long Beach, Koh Lanta: Long Beach features over 3 miles of soft golden sand fringed by trees, and warm deep calm waters perfect for swimming. Even on a busy day the long stretches of beach allow it to feel peaceful and relaxed.
Sport
Thailand participates in many sports including football, Muay Thai Boxing, Kraabi Krabong, and volleyball, all very popular here. Golf is also becoming very popular in Thailand; try Pattaya for some great golf courses.
Additionally water sports such as parasailing, snorkelling, fishing, rock climbing and reef diving can be done almost anywhere among these islands, though Krabi is the ideal place for more extreme outdoor sports. Scuba Diving is ideal in Koh Samui. Kite surfing is fantastic in Hua Hin, Koh Phangan, and Pattaya.
Nightlife
Certain parts of Thailand have pumping nightlife so for night owls Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket (Patong) abd Koh Samui (Chaweng) are the focal points of an abundance of funky bars and nightclubs. Other resorts tend to me much more low key but still have lots of local bars and restaurants to savour.
People & Culture
Religion: Thailand’s population is 95% Buddhist and 4% Muslim with 1% other religions including Christianity, Confucians, Taoist, and Hindus. Thai people are generally very tolerant and respectful of all faiths, cultures, and religions.
Thailand is made up of 75% ethnic Thais, 14% Chinese and 11 % Indian, Malay and Khmer people groups.
Thailand is known as the land of smiles. The people tend to be very welcoming and friendly, and are often known for their light-heartedness and playful spirit. Thais tend to avoid conflict and strive for peace and harmony in all relationships. Thai society is non-confrontational so yelling, public disputes or criticism should be avoided. Mutual respect is very important in Thai culture.
Tourist Board
For further information visit the Thailand Tourism Board.
Time Difference
GMT + 7
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