Your Ultimate Travel Guide
Thailand
Thailand, known as the "Land of Smiles," is a Southeast Asian country with a rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes. Its capital, Bangkok, has the world's longest ceremonial name. Thailand is famous for its beautiful islands, vibrant street food, and unique traditions like the Songkran water festival. The country has never been colonized and is deeply rooted in Buddhism, with magnificent temples and traditions like the "Wai" greeting. Muay Thai is its national sport, and Thai cuisine, including Pad Thai and Tom Yum Goong, is beloved worldwide.
Tourist Advice
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Vaccinations - Be sure to check with your doctor about vaccinations and Malaria tablets, depending on the zone and cities you are visiting!
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Visa - Check if you require a visa to travel or to fill in an entry card.
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Insect Repellent- Bring bugs spray with you.
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Data Roaming- Look into buying an E-Sim card before arriving or buy a sim card at the airport on arrival.
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Banking- Revolute is a great travel bank to have, being accepted everywhere. I also purchased my E-sim card on the app before travelling.
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Safety- Bangkok is not as safe as the islands, so be more vigilant with your belongings and where you travel to alone.
Thailand Facts
Cultural Facts
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The "Wai" Greeting – Thais greet each other with a "Wai," where they press their hands together in a prayer-like gesture while bowing slightly. The height of the hands shows respect, with higher placements reserved for elders and monks.
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Buddhism is Central – Around 90% of Thais practice Theravāda Buddhism, influencing daily life, traditions, and architecture. Monks are highly respected, and giving alms to them is a common practice.
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Respect for the King – The Thai monarchy is deeply revered, and it is illegal to insult or speak negatively about the royal family under lèse majesté laws. The King’s birthday (December 5) is also celebrated as Father’s Day.
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Never Step on Money – Thai currency features the King’s image, and stepping on it is considered highly disrespectful.
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Shoes Off Before Entering – It is customary to remove shoes before entering temples, homes, and even some shops or offices.
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National Anthem Ritual – The Thai national anthem is played twice daily (8 AM and 6 PM) in public places, and people are expected to stand in respect.
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Sanuk: The Love for Fun – Thais believe in “Sanuk,” meaning that everything, even work, should have an element of fun and enjoyment.
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Color Symbolism – Each day of the week has a corresponding color. For example, yellow represents Monday and is associated with the late King Rama IX, leading many Thais to wear yellow on his birthday
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No Public Displays of Affection – While Thailand is known for its friendly culture, public displays of affection (like kissing) are generally frowned upon.
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Rice is Sacred – As a major rice-producing country, spilling or wasting rice is considered disrespectful, especially since rice is seen as a gift from the gods.
Thai Cuisine
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Pad Thai (ผัดไทย) Stir-fried rice noodles with shrimp, tofu, peanuts, eggs, and tamarind sauce.
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Khao Pad (ข้าวผัด) – Thai-style fried rice with meat, eggs, and vegetables.
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Pad Krapow (ผัดกะเพรา) – Stir-fried basil with minced pork or chicken, served with rice and a fried egg.
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Gaeng Keow Wan (แกงเขียวหวาน) – Green curry with coconut milk, chicken, eggplant, and Thai basil.
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Gaeng Daeng (แกงแดง) – Red curry made with coconut milk, meat, and aromatic spices.
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Massaman Curry (แกงมัสมั่น) – A rich, mildly spicy curry with potatoes, peanuts, and beef or chicken.
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Tom Yum Goong (ต้มยำกุ้ง) – Spicy and sour shrimp soup with lemongrass, lime, and chili.
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Tom Kha Gai (ต้มข่าไก่) – Coconut milk soup with chicken, galangal, and lime leaves.
Salads & Appetizers
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Som Tam (ส้มตำ) – Spicy green papaya salad with peanuts, lime, and chili.
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Larb (ลาบ) – Spicy minced meat salad with lime juice, mint, and toasted rice powder.
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Tod Mun Pla (ทอดมันปลา) – Thai fish cakes served with sweet chili sauce.
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Satay (สะเต๊ะ) – Grilled skewered meat served with peanut sauce.
Desserts & Snacks
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Mango Sticky Rice (ข้าวเหนียวมะม่วง) – Sweet sticky rice with ripe mango and coconut milk.
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Khanom Krok (ขนมครก) – Coconut pancakes, crispy on the outside and soft inside.
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Tub Tim Grob (ทับทิมกรอบ) – Water chestnut rubies in sweet coconut milk
Travel Itinerary
I would recommend using Bangkok as your entry/departure round trip point, it is a very well connected city and has a variety of flights to choose from.
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2-3 days is plenty to see everything in the city and climatize before starting your Thailand Travel.
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You can take cheap flights out of Bangkok to various places in Thailand.
Bangkok
Facts about Bangkok
Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, is a bustling metropolis known for its vibrant street life, rich cultural heritage, and stunning temples like Wat Arun and Wat Phra Kaew. The city is home to over 10 million people and serves as Thailand's economic and political hub. It features a mix of modern skyscrapers and historic landmarks, with the Chao Phraya River running through its heart. Bangkok is famous for its street food, floating markets, and lively nightlife. The city's official name is the longest place name in the world, and it experiences a tropical climate with hot and humid weather year-round.
Places to Visit
Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew
The city's most famous landmark, home to the sacred Emerald Buddha.
Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
A stunning riverside temple with a towering spire.
Wat Pho
Known for its massive reclining Buddha statue and traditional Thai massage school.
Chatuchak Weekend Market
One of the world's largest markets with thousands of stalls.
Khao San Road
A backpacker hub famous for nightlife, street food, and cheap shopping.
Chao Phraya River & Floating Markets
Explore the river by boat and visit markets like Damnoen Saduak.
Siam Paragon & MBK Center
Popular shopping malls offering everything from luxury brands to bargains.
Jim Thompson House
A museum dedicated to Thai silk and traditional architecture.
Erawan Shrine
A Hindu shrine in the heart of the city, known for prayers and dance performances.
Asiatique The Riverfront
A lively night market with dining, shopping, and entertainment.
Travel Itinerary
From Bangkok you can take a direct 1hr 15 min flight for the fastest travel time. There are also overnight sleeper trains and buses (around 10 hours) which are cheaper options.
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I would recommend around 4-5 days in order to fit in all of the wonderful things to do and see, this will allow time to explore the old town, the temples and markets, while also including day trips to an Elephant Sanctuary, Grand Canyon water park, and Doi Inthanon National Park.
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If you stay for longer, you can also do an overnight trip from Chiang Mai to Pai or Chiang Rai both around a 3-5 hour drive.
Hotel and Hostel
During my stay in Chiang Mai, I stayed in Mad Monkey Hostel, it offers both private and dorm rooms. The staff are very welcoming, with an open plan reception with an indoor/outdoor swimming pool.
They also offer Pub Crawls in the evening and excursions to various landmarks and places from their Hostel.
Chiang Mai
Facts about Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai, located in northern Thailand, is a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. It was founded in 1296 as the capital of the ancient Lanna Kingdom and is known for its well-preserved temples, including Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, which offers stunning views of the city. Chiang Mai is surrounded by mountains and lush forests, making it a hub for adventure activities like trekking, zip-lining, and visiting ethical elephant sanctuaries. The city is famous for its Yi Peng Lantern Festival, where thousands of lanterns light up the sky. Chiang Mai’s Sunday Night Market is one of the best places to experience traditional Thai handicrafts and street food. It is also a digital nomad hotspot, offering a laid-back lifestyle compared to Bangkok. Despite its modern growth, Chiang Mai retains a charming old-town vibe with its ancient city walls and moat. The weather is cooler than in southern Thailand, especially during the winter months, making it a great escape from the tropical heat.
Places to Visit
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
The most famous temple in Chiang Mai, offering breathtaking views from the mountain.
Wat Chedi Luang
A historic temple with a partially ruined yet stunning pagoda.
Wat Phra Singh
Home to one of Thailand’s most revered Buddha images.
Chiang Mai Old City
Wander through ancient city walls, temples, and charming streets.
Doi Inthanon National Park
Visit Thailand’s highest peak, waterfalls, and pagodas.
Grand Canyon Water Park
It was originally a limestone quarry that filled with rainwater, creating a large natural reservoir. Over time, it was transformed into an adventure water park with giant inflatable obstacle courses, zip lines, cliff jumping spots, and kayaking.
Elephant Nature Park
A responsible elephant sanctuary where you can observe and care for rescued elephants.
Night Bazaar & Sunday Walking Street
Great places for shopping, street food, and live performances.
Warorot Market
A traditional market where locals shop for food, clothes, and souvenirs.
Cooking Class
Learn to make authentic Thai dishes at a local cooking school.
Travel Itinerary
If you are coming from Chiang Mai, the fastest way to travel is with a flight to Koh Samui (if you have time spend a few days there) and from Koh Samuai a 45 minute ferry to Koh Phangan.
When I was travelling we went from Chiang Mai to Udon Thani where we took a bus to Laos, after Laos we returned to Udon Thani, took a flight to Surat Thani and a 2 hour ferry to Koh Phangan.
Hotel and Hostel
During my stay in Koh Phangan, I stayed in the Lazy Shenanigans Hostel, it offers both private and dorm rooms. Located near the Had Rin Beach, it was the perfect location and sociable setting for the Full Moon Party.
The hostel also features an outdoor pool with a swim up bar, and a restaurant on site!
Koh Phangan
Facts about Koh Phangan
Koh Phangan is a tropical island in the Gulf of Thailand, known for its famous Full Moon Party on Haad Rin Beach, as well as its stunning beaches, lush jungles, and vibrant wellness scene. The island offers a mix of lively nightlife, peaceful yoga retreats, and outdoor adventures, including diving at Sail Rock, hiking to Khao Ra, and exploring waterfalls like Than Sadet. Over half the island is a national park, making it a paradise for nature lovers. It is accessible by ferry from Koh Samui and Surat Thani, with the best time to visit being the dry season from December to April.
Places to Visit
Beaches
Haad Yuan Beach
A secluded paradise just a short boat ride from Haad Rin.
Bottle Beach (Haad Khuat)
One of the most beautiful and remote beaches, accessible by boat or jungle trek.
Thong Nai Pan Noi & Thong Nai Pan Yai
Twin bays with golden sand, clear waters, and luxury resorts.
Haad Rin Beach
Famous for the Full Moon Party, but also great for sunbathing during the day.
Nature & Viewpoints
Khao Ra Viewpoint
The highest peak on the island with breathtaking panoramic views.
Dome Sila Viewpoint
A scenic hike near Haad Yuan with stunning coastal views.
Than Sadet Waterfall National Park
A historic waterfall where Thai King Rama V once bathed.
Paradise Waterfall
A hidden jungle waterfall near Chaloklum.
Phaeng Waterfall & Viewpoint
A short hike leads to one of the best viewpoints on the island.
Temples & Cultural Sites
Wat Phu Khao Noi
The oldest temple on the island, offering peaceful meditation spots.
Chinese Temple (Guan Yin Temple)
A beautiful, colorful temple with great views over Chaloklum Bay.
Sunset and Chill Bars
Amsterdam Bar
One of the best spots for a sunset drink with panoramic views.
Three Sixty Bar
A hilltop bar with 360-degree views of the island.
Zen Beach
A famous beach for sunset yoga, fire shows, and drum circles.
Nightlife and Party
Haad Rin Beach
The heart of the Full Moon Party and home to lively beach bars.
Eden Garden Party
A hidden beach club with great electronic music.
Guys Bar & Backyard Club
Two of the best underground party spots on the island.
Travel Itinerary
Krabi
If you are coming from Koh Phangan, the fastest way to travel is with a ferry from Koh Phangan to Donsak Pier (2.5 hours). From Donsak Pier to Krabi Town or Ao Nang (3 hours)
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Total travel time: 5.5/6 hours.
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Cost: 1,000–1,300 THB (30–40 euro).
Railay Beach
Take a longtail boat from Ao Nang Beach to Railay Beach.Boats run frequently from morning until evening (every 20–30 minutes).
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Travel time: 10–15 minutes.
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Cost: 100–150 THB (3–5 euro) per person, one way.
Krabi/Railay Beach
Facts about Krabi/Railay Beach
Krabi, a stunning province in southern Thailand, is known for its limestone cliffs, clear waters, and beautiful islands like Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta. One of its most famous destinations is Railay Beach, a secluded paradise only accessible by boat due to towering cliffs. Railay features four main beaches: Railay West for sunsets, Railay East for nightlife, Phra Nang Beach with its famous Princess Cave, and Tonsai Beach, a rock climber’s haven. Popular activities include rock climbing, kayaking, snorkeling, and hiking to breathtaking viewpoints. The best time to visit is from November to April, when the weather is dry and the sea is calm.
Places to Visit
Visit Railay Beach
Go rock climbing on Railay’s iconic limestone cliffs.
Explore Ao Nang & Enjoy the Nightlife
Take a longtail boat to nearby beaches.
Enjoy beachfront dining and lively bars along Ao Nang Beach.
Hike to the Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Sua)
Climb 1,237 steps for breathtaking views over Krabi.
Explore the meditation caves and Buddhist statues.
Take a Dip in the Emerald Pool & Blue Pool
Swim in the natural Emerald Pool inside Khao Phra Bang Khram Nature Reserve.
Walk further to the stunning Blue Pool, a crystal-clear thermal spring.
Relax in the Klong Thom Hot Springs
Soak in the natural hot springs surrounded by lush jungle.
Kayak Through Ao Thalane Mangrove Forest
Paddle through stunning limestone canyons and mangroves.
Spot wildlife like monkeys and colorful birds.
Visit the Krabi Night Market
Try local street food, shop for souvenirs, and enjoy live music.
Hotel and Hostel
Hostel World, Booking.com and Agoda are all great websites to find accommodation for your next Krabi/Railay beach.
Travel Itinerary
If you are travelling from Krabi to Koh Phi Phi there are two boat options. A ferry or a speedboat:
Ferry
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Klog Jilad Pier (main ferry pier in Krabi)
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1.5-2 hours
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First ferry at 9:00am, runs 2-4 times daily, depending on the season
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400–600 THB (12–18 euro)
Speedboat
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Ao Nang (limited services, usually speedboats only)
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45 minutes
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900–1,500 THB (25–45 euro).
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Hotel and Hostel
Hostel World, Booking.com and Agoda are all great websites to find accommodation for your next stay on Phi Phi Island.
Koh Phi Phi
Facts about Koh Phi Phi
Koh Phi Phi is a stunning island group in Thailand’s Andaman Sea, famous for its crystal-clear waters, towering limestone cliffs, and vibrant nightlife. The main island, Phi Phi Don, is the only inhabited one, offering lively beach parties, resorts, and restaurants, while Phi Phi Leh is home to the iconic Maya Bay, made famous by The Beach movie. Popular activities include snorkeling, diving, rock climbing, and kayaking through hidden lagoons. The island has no cars, so visitors explore on foot or by boat. The best time to visit is from November to April, when the weather is dry and the sea is calm.
Things to Do
Visit Maya Bay
Famous for The Beach movie, this stunning bay on Phi Phi Leh features turquoise waters and towering limestone cliffs.
Hike to the Phi Phi Viewpoint
A 20–30 minute uphill hike for the best panoramic views of the twin bays of Phi Phi Don.Go at sunrise or sunset for the most breathtaking scenery.
Go Snorkeling & Scuba Diving
Explore vibrant coral reefs and marine life at Shark Point, Hin Klang, and Loh Samah. Bay.Swim with blacktip reef sharks at Shark Bay.
Take a PADI dive course if you're interested in learning to scuba dive.
Take a Longtail Boat Tour
Visit Monkey Beach, where wild monkeys roam the shoreline.
Explore the Viking Cave, known for its ancient cave paintings and bird’s nest harvesting. Cruise to Pileh Lagoon, a breathtaking emerald-green lagoon surrounded by cliffs.
Party at Loh Dalum Beach
Experience fire shows, beach bars, and all-night parties at places like Slinky Bar & Stones Bar. Try the famous "Bucket" drinks – a must for nightlife lovers.
Relax at Bamboo Island
A peaceful island with powdery white sand and crystal-clear water, perfect for snorkeling and relaxing.Accessible by boat from Phi Phi Don.
Swim with Bioluminescent Plankton
Take a night snorkeling tour to see the glowing plankton underwater – a magical experience!
Explore the Hidden Lagoon at Wang Long Bay
A secret cove with dramatic cliffs and emerald waters, accessible only by boat or kayak.
Travel Itinerary
If you are travelling from Krabi to Koh Phi Phi there are two boat options. A ferry or a speedboat:
Ferry
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Klog Jilad Pier (main ferry pier in Krabi)
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1.5-2 hours
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First ferry at 9:00am, runs 2-4 times daily, depending on the season
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400–600 THB (12–18 euro)
Speedboat
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Ao Nang (limited services, usually speedboats only)
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45 minutes
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900–1,500 THB (25–45 euro).
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Hotel and Hostel
During my stay in Phuket, I stayed in Fin Hostel, but unfortunately, since my stay there are no longer running. Hostel World, Booking.com and Agoda are all great websites to find accommodation for your next Phuket trip!
Phuket
Facts about Phuket
Phuket, Thailand’s largest island, is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage. Located in the Andaman Sea, it boasts famous spots like Patong Beach, known for its lively party scene, and Kata and Karon Beaches, ideal for a more relaxed vibe. The island is also home to the Big Buddha, a 45-meter-tall statue offering panoramic views, and the charming Old Phuket Town, filled with colorful Sino-Portuguese architecture. Phuket serves as a gateway to breathtaking islands like James Bond Island and the Similan Islands, making it a popular destination for snorkeling and diving. With its mix of adventure, luxury resorts, and street food markets, Phuket attracts all kinds of travelers year-round, though the best time to visit is November to April for sunny, dry weather.
Things to Do
Relax on Phuket’s Best Beaches
Patong Beach – Lively atmosphere, nightlife, and water sports.
Kata & Karon Beaches – Quieter, great for families and surfing.
Freedom Beach – Secluded and beautiful, accessible by boat or hike.
Nai Harn Beach – Less crowded, perfect for relaxing and swimming.
Visit the Big Buddha
A 45-meter-tall white marble statue offering panoramic views of the island. Located on Nakkerd Hill, near Chalong.
Explore Old Phuket Town
Walk through Sino-Portuguese buildings, street art, and colorful shophouses.
Visit Thalang Road for local cafés, temples, and museums.
Take a Boat Tour to Phi Phi Islands & James Bond Island
Phi Phi Islands – Maya Bay, snorkeling, and stunning cliffs.
James Bond Island (Phang Nga Bay) – Famous limestone karsts and sea caves.
Watch a Sunset at Promthep Cape
One of Phuket’s most famous sunset viewpoints with breathtaking ocean views.
Enjoy the Nightlife on Bangla Road
The heart of Phuket’s party scene, with bars, clubs, and street performances in Patong.
Visit the Wat Chalong Temple
Phuket’s largest and most important Buddhist temple, beautifully decorated.
Take a Day Trip to the Similan Islands
One of Thailand’s best spots for diving and snorkeling, with crystal-clear waters.
Experience the Phuket Elephant Sanctuary
A responsible and ethical way to interact with rescued elephants.
Shop at Night Markets & Try Local Street Food
Phuket Weekend Night Market – Great for souvenirs and Thai snacks.
Malin Plaza (Patong) – Seafood, Pad Thai, and mango sticky rice.
