Overview
Thailand is one of Southeast Asia’s most beloved destinations – a country where golden temples, bustling markets, paradise islands, and world-famous street food come together in one unforgettable trip. From the buzz of Bangkok to the white-sand beaches of Phuket and the jungle-covered mountains of Chiang Mai, Thailand offers something for every kind of traveller. Whether you’re chasing adventure, culture, or just a spot to relax in the sun, this country delivers it all.
For me, Thailand is more than just a place to visit – it’s also where I now call home. I’ve settled in Bangkok, and every day I find myself falling a little more in love with the culture, the food, and the easy-going vibe of life here. There’s an energy to Thailand that you can’t quite explain until you’ve experienced it yourself – a mix of warmth, chaos, colour, and charm that keeps you coming back again and again.
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📍 Top Places to Visit:
- Bangkok – A vibrant capital mixing modern skyscrapers with ancient temples, floating markets, and legendary nightlife
- Chiang Mai – Nestled in the north, famous for its temples, night bazaars, and elephant sanctuaries.
- Phuket – Thailand’s largest island, known for its lively beach resorts and water sports.
- Koh Phi Phi – Famous for turquoise bays and limestone cliffs.
- Ayutthaya – A UNESCO World Heritage site, once the capital of Siam, with stunning temple ruins.
📅 Best Time to Visit:
Cool & Dry (Nov–Feb): The most popular season – perfect weather for exploring cities and relaxing on the beach.
Hot Season (Mar–Jun): Expect high temperatures, great for islands but can be intense inland.
Rainy Season (Jul–Oct): Lush landscapes and fewer tourists, but be prepared for tropical downpours.
💰 Currency & Budget Tips:
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Currency: Thai Baht (THB).
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ATMs are widely available, and card payments accepted in most cities.
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Street food is not only delicious but also budget-friendly – you can eat well for a few pounds.
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For island hopping, book ferries online in advance to save time and avoid queues.
🧳 Good For:
Food lovers
Adventure seekers
Culture enthusiasts
Beach lovers and honeymooners.
Solo travellers and backpackers.
🍽️ Local Dishes to Try
Pad Thai – Stir-fried noodles with shrimp, chicken, or tofu.
Tom Yum Goong – Spicy and sour shrimp soup with lemongrass and lime.
Green Curry – A fragrant coconut-based curry with vegetables and meat.
Som Tam – Spicy green papaya salad with peanuts and lime.
Mango Sticky Rice – Sweet mango with sticky rice and coconut milk.
✈️ How to Get There:
Major international airports: Bangkok Suvarnabhumi (BKK), Don Mueang (DMK), and Phuket (HKT).
Direct flights from London to Bangkok take around 11–12 hours.
Domestic flights are quick and affordable, making it easy to combine multiple destinations in one trip.
Getting Around:
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In Bangkok, use the Skytrain (BTS) and Metro (MRT) to beat traffic.
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Tuk-tuks are fun but agree on the price beforehand.
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Night trains and buses connect major cities like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Surat Thani.
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Ferries and speedboats operate between islands – book ahead in peak season.
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Grab is available in most of the major cities, so taxi’s and scooters can be booked easily.
🌍 Language & Local Etiquette:
Language: Thai, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
A respectful bow with hands pressed together (wai) is a common greeting.
Dress modestly when visiting temples – cover shoulders and knees.
Tipping isn’t required, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated.
My Thailand Highlights
Since settling in Bangkok, I’ve been exploring at every opportunity. One of my first adventures was visiting the Maeklong Railway Market, a traditional market built right along the train tracks, where vendors pull back their stalls just seconds before a train passes through. I paired this with a trip to the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, which gave me a glimpse into local life on the water.
For a quick escape from city life, Koh Samet has become a favourite. Just three hours from Bangkok, it offers soft sandy beaches, turquoise water, and a much slower pace – perfect for recharging. You can reach the stunning island by catching a bus from Ekkami bus station. Back in the capital, I love spending time at Benjakitti Park, a peaceful green space with a lake and skyline views, ideal for an evening stroll.
Bangkok itself never stops surprising me. Neighbourhoods like Silom and Sukhumvit are filled with trendy cafes, rooftop bars, and a lively nightlife scene, while Khao San Road buzzes with backpacker energy. The city’s temples are nothing short of breathtaking – from the riverside beauty of Wat Arun to the sacred atmosphere at Wat Phra Kaew. And, of course, no trip to Bangkok would be complete without exploring its shopping scene: whether it’s high-end luxury at Icon Siam or bargain hunting at MBK Mall, there’s something for every type of traveller.
My move to Thailand was possible because I decided to take the leap and teach abroad and it’s been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. If you’re curious about making a similar move, I’ve written a detailed guide full of tips, advice, and honest reflections on what it’s like. Read my Teaching Abroad Guide here









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Ready to plan your trip?
Thailand has it all – buzzing cities, peaceful temples, tropical beaches, and some of the best food in the world. Whether you’re dreaming of a cultural journey through Chiang Mai, a beach escape to Koh Phi Phi, or a Bangkok city break, I can help you plan your perfect itinerary.
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