Thailand tours discovery guide

Thailand uses the Thai baht, abbreviated as THB or ฿.

The country’s official language is Thai, also known as Central Thai. Additionally, several regional dialects and minority languages are spoken in Thailand. These include Isan (Northeastern Thai), Kam Mueang (Northern Thai), and Dambro (Southern Thai). English is widely understood in tourist areas. However, learning a few basic Thai phrases goes a long way. “Thank you” (khob khun kha/krap, with the last word changing according to gender and “excuse me” (kho thot) are always appreciated.

Thailand has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, but its weather can be broadly divided into three seasons:

• Rainy season (May-October). This time of year brings frequent afternoon showers, high humidity, and flourishing greenery. Temperatures stay warm, typically between 80-90 F. While storms can disrupt outdoor plans, they tend to be brief and followed by sunshine.
• Cool season (November-February). This is considered the peak tourist season due to its pleasant weather. Temperatures are cooler and more comfortable, ranging from 70-80 F. Furthermore, rainfall is minimal, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
• Hot season (March-April). This is the hottest and driest time of year in Thailand. Sunshine dominates, with little to no rain, and temperatures can soar into the high 90s—even exceeding 100 F in some areas.

No matter when you visit Thailand, you’ll likely experience warm weather. The best season for your trip depends on your preferences for temperature, rain, and crowds. Here’s a breakdown:

• High season (November-March). This is Thailand’s peak tourist season, and for good reason. The weather is delightful, with comfortable temperatures ranging from 70-80 F. There’s also minimal rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. (And with clear skies, you’ll have ample opportunity to snap postcard-worthy photos.
• Shoulder season (April, May, and October). The shoulder seasons in Thailand offer a good balance of good weather and smaller crowds. From April to May, the weather gets hotter, but not as scorching as it does in the hot season. October’s the tail end of the rainy season, with less frequent and intense showers.
• Low season (July-September). Thailand’s rainy season sees frequent afternoon showers and high humidity. While it might not be the ideal time for all travelers, it has its charm. The landscapes are at their most lush, and there are significantly fewer crowds. You’ll also find the best deals on flights and accommodations.

A Thailand trip is always incredible, but having the right stuff in your suitcase makes every day better. Here are some essentials to pack:

• Sun protection. Whether we’re talking big floppy hats, chic sunglasses, or your favorite sunscreens, you need to be ready for sunny days in Thailand. And because Southeast Asia can get very humid, it’s a good idea to bring a fan to help cool you down.
• Lightweight, breathable layers. Thailand is a tropical country with hot, humid weather year-round. Pack loose-fitting, comfortable clothes made from lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
• Full-coverage layers for religious sites. When visiting temples, your clothes should cover most of your body. For men, that means full pants and shirts with sleeves. For women, dresses or skirts that go beyond the knee and tops that cover the shoulders—nothing too tight—will do the trick. A jacket or shawl also works.
• Rain protection. For Thailand tours during the rainy season, take an umbrella everywhere you go. It might be clear during the day, but you never know when a tropical storm might arrive—even if it’s just for 20 minutes. Light, waterproof jackets and shoes will keep you comfortable, too.
• Comfortable walking shoes. Whether you’re strolling around a palace or boarding boats that’ll whisk you to floating markets, you’ll want your most comfortable footwear with you.
• Swimwear. Thailand boasts stunning beaches and islands. Pack a swimsuit or two, a beach cover-up, and a quick-drying towel.
• Small carry-on. On our Thailand tours, you’ll fly in-country several times between provinces. A carry-on bag ensures you’ll have all your essentials close at hand.

Once you’ve reserved one of our Thailand travel packages, we’ll send you detailed information about what to bring. Download the free Go Ahead Tours app before you take off, so you’ll have all the info you need about your trip right in your pocket.

The Land of Smiles contains a captivating blend of ancient temples, stunning beaches, energetic metropolises, and scenic natural beauty. Here are some of the best places to visit in Thailand, catering to a range of interests:

• Bangkok. Thailand’s bustling capital has something for everyone. You can marvel at the grandeur of the Grand Palace, explore Wat Arun’s architectural splendor, take a scenic cruise along the Chao Phraya River, and indulge in the city’s street food scene.
• Phuket. On Thailand’s largest island, you can relax on world-class beaches like Patong or Kata; explore historical sites like Phuket Old Town; indulge in the nightlife; or embark on diving and snorkeling adventures.
• Chiang Mai. The largest city in Northern Thailand, Chiang Mai, boasts rich cultural heritage and laid-back charm. Explore ancient temples like Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, delve into lively night markets, and visit elephant sanctuaries for a unique encounter.

Thai food encompasses many delicious dishes—but ultimately, the best way to discover your favorite is by exploring the country’s culinary scene yourself! Here’s a sampling of the most popular foods to try during your Thailand travel:

• Pad Thai. This stir-fried noodle dish is a classic for a reason. Rice noodles are stir-fried with protein (chicken, pork, shrimp, or tofu), vegetables, egg, and a flavorful tamarind-based sauce. It’s a crowd-pleaser with a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and sour flavors.
• Tom Yum Goong. This hot-and-sour shrimp soup is another iconic Thai dish. Made fragrant by lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and chilies, it packs a flavorful punch with refreshing sourness. Shrimp, mushrooms, tomatoes, and a lime wedge complete this delightful soup.
• Chicken curry. If you love curry, Thailand is the place to be. Every restaurant prepares its curry just a little differently, depending on local ingredients. Expect a delicious mix of lemongrass, coconut milk, shallots, coriander, and garlic, along with chilies to spice it up.
• Thai coconut pancakes. Got a sweet tooth? Satisfy it with one of Thailand’s favorite street foods: creamy, crispy, and delightfully sweet coconut pancakes. These bite-sized, mouthwatering snacks can be found wherever street foods are sold. They’re perfect as a quick snack or a sweet ending to a meal.

Hungry for more Thai food suggestions? Check out our blog on foods to try in Thailand →

We recommend spending nine to 22 days on a Thailand tour. Trips on the shorter end of this range will allow you to hit some of the country’s most popular sites—places like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Chiang Rai—while longer itineraries should give you more freedom to explore. If you’d like to spend time on Phuket, Koh Samui, and other, smaller islands, choose a longer tour.

Whether seeking adventure, relaxation, cultural experiences, or culinary delights, Thailand offers it all. Here are some of the most popular things to do there:

• Tour the Grand Palace in Bangkok. The official residence of the Siamese royal family for over 200 years, the Grand Palace is the cultural heart of Thailand. A must-see for any visitor to Bangkok, its temples are covered in glistening gold and filled with colorful statues and opulent carvings.
• Visit an elephant sanctuary in Chiang Mai. In Thailand, elephants are a revered national symbol. Many sanctuaries, including ChangChill in Chiang Mai, provide a haven for rescued elephants. You can visit one to learn more about these beautiful animals and see them up close.
• Relax on the beaches of Phuket or Krabi. Thailand boasts some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, and places like Phuket and Krabi are popular tourist destinations with stunning sands and clear waters. You’ll also find some of the best diving and snorkeling on the planet.

A vibrant country of contrasts, Thailand attractions go well beyond typical tourist fare. Here are some unique adventures that await you:

• Sail through the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. This commercial center is unique because vendors and shoppers do business from their own boats. You’ll sail along, jockeying for space as people haggle for the best produce, food, and other local specialties. If you want to soak in the energy, pull up to a flower market—it’s considered one of the best places to get a glimpse of Thai life.
• Visit the Temple of the Reclining Buddha. Also known as Wat Pho, this 16th-century temple is one of the oldest in Bangkok. The temple’s centerpiece is its 150-foot-long, 50-foot-tall, gold leaf-covered statue of the Buddha reclining on his side. (It’s one of the largest Buddha statues in Thailand!)
• Sample teas at an oolong plantation. A visit to an oolong tea plantation isn’t just about the tea itself; it’s about time-honored traditions, connections to the land, and the warm hospitality of the Thai people.

By understanding and practicing the cultural norms of this beautiful country, you’ll show respect for Thai traditions and have a more positive and enriching experience. Here are some things to be aware of:

• Respecting Thai culture. Thailand is predominantly Buddhist, and temples are sacred places. When visiting one, dress modestly (with shoulders and knees covered) and remove your shoes before entering. Avoid physical contact with monks, and always give them the right of way. Finally, don’t photograph monks without permission.
• Bargaining. At markets and with street vendors, bargaining is expected. Be polite and have fun with the negotiation process.
• Greetings and demeanor. The wai is a traditional Thai greeting, made with palms pressed together at chest level. The deeper the bow and higher the hands, the more respect is conveyed. A slight wai with a smile is appropriate for everyday greetings.
• Public displays of affection (PDA). Avoid excessive PDA, which can be seen as disrespectful.