Thailand Travel Guide

Overview of Thailand

Thailand is a popular travel destination in Southeast Asia and is known for its golden temples, nightlife, tropical islands, welcoming locals, and budget-friendly economy. From the busy streets of Bangkok to the quiet mountains of Chiang Mai and the clear waters of the Andaman Sea, Thailand offers a mix of adventure, relaxation, and discovery.

It's also a great destination for travellers who want to fly one-way, with plans to relocate to the country permanently or to have time to explore before returning home.

Thailand is a top destination for young travellers thanks to its cheap prices, especially compared to the UK or the US. When imagining student travel, you might picture warm weather, delicious food and drink, and plenty of activities and sights to explore. This describes Thailand perfectly.

Thailand is an affordable destination, which makes it a great choice for budget-conscious travellers. Accommodations, food, and transportation are all reasonably priced, which means you can enjoy all that Thailand has to offer without breaking the bank. If you're searching for cheap direct flights to Thailand, you've come to the right place!

If you're looking for a destination that truly has it all, Thailand delivers and here is why.

Top Destinations in Thailand

Bangkok- best city for nightlife

A Thailand visit wouldn't be complete without taking a short or extended trip to its capital city, Bangkok. If you are visiting Bangkok, then the airport you will need to fly into is Bangkok Suvarnabhumi International Airport (also known as Bangkok International Airport).

Bangkok is best known for its various types of markets, from floating markets to walking markets, night markets, weekend markets, amulet markets, and so many more. Every market is distinctive and offers something unique to the visitors, like The Talad Neon Night Market, which is surrounded by neon lights and jazzes the whole shopping experience while offering all the hip activities found at a bar, disco, or club.

Make sure to experience the Thai boxing in Bangkok! Kickboxing, commonly known as Muay Thai, is Thailand's national sport; the whole country is filled with its stadiums and it is a big deal there. In Bangkok specifically, the biggest kickboxing fights are organised either at the Lumpini or Ratchadamnoen stadiums.

Sky bars are popular rooftop bars at the numerous tall hotels across Bangkok that offer a breathtaking 360 view of the entire city. Every sky bar is distinctive and caters to a specific style, mood, and occasion; there are luxury date night spots, hipster hangout spots, live DJS and dancing bars, traditional bars, and more. Lebua Sky Bar and Vertigo are the most common and fan-favourite sky bar places in all of Bangkok.

Koh Samui- best for water sports

Koh Samui, Thailand, is one of the three major islands in the Chumphon Archipelago with Koh Tao and Koh Pha Ngan. When visiting Koh Samui, you'll want to book flights into Samui International Airport (USM). If you are flying domestically or travelling by boat, then there are ports such as Nathon Pier, Lipa Noi Pier, Bangrak Seatran Pier and Haad Rin Queen Ferry Pier.

Koh Samui offers a wide variety of water sports, including snorkelling, scuba diving, jet skiing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. You can also find opportunities for flyboarding, parasailing, and kitesurfing. Boat tours to Ang Thong National Marine Park are also popular, offering opportunities for kayaking and snorkelling. 

Some popular beaches to visit in Koh Samui include Silver Beach, Chaweng Beach, Tongson Beach, Maenam Beach, Lamai Beach, Bophut Beach and many more. If you are wondering how long you should be spending in Koh Samui, then we would recommend having at least 5 days here. This will give you time to explore the different areas of the island, and get a day trip in too. Koh Samui is a large island, and anything less than 5 days would feel rushed.

Chiang Mai- best for temples

Did you know Chiang Mai is home to over 300 temples in the city and surrounding areas? There’s a temple on every corner. Please be sure to dress appropriately when visiting temples—cover your shoulders and knees, remove hats, and remove shoes. Avoid pointing your feet at anyone or the Buddha statues because it is considered disrespectful.

The famous temples charge 20-30 baht for entry, and the smaller ones are usually free if you go out of peak times. If you are in Chiang Mai, then try to visit these famous temples: Wat Phan Tao, Wat Phra Singh, Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Chiang Man and Wat Saen Muang Ma Luang.

Another popular activity in Chiang Mai, Thailand, is visiting elephant sanctuaries and seeing them up close. You also have the options to feed, bathe, and play with the elephants; however, it's strongly advised to do your research to see if the sanctuary is ethical. Some ethical elephant sanctuaries include Elephant Nature Park, Elephant Jungle Sanctuary and Lanna Kingdom Elephant Sanctuary. These locations are all in Chiang Mai.

Koh Tao- best for viewpoints

Koh Tao is mainly for those of you looking for a place to relax, great swimming, and who want to get away from the more touristy areas of Thailand. The waters here are really clear and perfect for snorkelling and swimming. Some popular beaches here include Sairee Beach, Freedom Beach and Sai Daeng Beach.

There are quite a few viewpoints you can visit whilst in Koh Tao, and a few charge a small fee to enter. Some of them require a steep hike, and others, you can arrive by scooter. Here are some you can find around the island.

Mango Viewpoint is located in the hills north of the island and has a spectacular view of Mae Haad and Sairee Beach. The best way to get there is by motorbike, but the streets are steep, and you must be careful. Sai Deang Beach has a view of the southern tip of the island and the southeast side. The view is quite stunning and free of charge. Koh Nangyuan is the most photographed place on the island because the sand links all three together. The price is 200 baht, and you climb the viewpoint and enter the island. 

Airports in Thailand

Suvarnabhumi Airport- Bangkok (BKK)

Many travellers to Thailand don’t get beyond the Bangkok airport (Suvarnabhumi Airport). Yet this underrated city is a fabulous place to stay for a couple of days (at least!) for a thrilling introduction to Thailand.

It is one of the biggest international airports in Southeast Asia, and is one of two international airports in Bangkok, Thailand (the other being Don Mueang International Airport). The airport is located about 16 miles east of downtown Bangkok. It is in Racha Thewa in Bang Phli, Samut Prakan. This airport only has one terminal, but it's one of the biggest terminals in the world, measuring over 6 million square feet.

Airlines that you can book that fly into this airport include Thai Airways, Thai Vietjet Air, Bangkok Airways, Thai AirAsia, Emirates, Singapore Airlines and many more. To get from the airport to Bangkok, the Airport Rail Link connects Suvarnabhumi International Airport with the city centre and takes around 30 minutes.

Phuket International Airport- Phuket (HKT)

Phuket airport is towards the north of the Island, 32 kilometres (20 mi) from the centre of Phuket City. Phuket is a fair-sized airport due to it being a very popular tourist destination. The airport has three terminals: Terminal 2, which is used for international flights; Terminal 3, which is used for domestic flights; and Terminal X, which is used for charter flights.

The airport has facilities such as ATMS / Cash Machines, Currency Exchange, Duty Free, Mobile Charging and even a spa! Did you know you can buy Phuket International Airport lounge passes with Alternative Airlines? You can purchase them for the Coral Executive Lounge at Terminals 1 and 2.

Airlines that fly into this airport include: Thai Airways, Thai Lion Air, Thai Smile, AirAsia, Jetstar Asia Airways, Asiana Airlines, Malaysia Airlines and many more. If you are wondering about transport from the airport to Phuket town, then the airport bus provides a service to Phuket Town. Buses depart hourly and run until 6.30 pm. Otherwise, you can rent a car or hop in a taxi.

Chiang Mai International Airport- Chiang Mai (CNX)

Chiang Mai Airport is an international airport, it's conveniently located, just a 10-minute drive from central Chiang Mai. Did you know that Chiang Mai Airport is an important gateway to Northern Thailand and receives over 130 flights a week from destinations including Bangkok, Singapore, China, Taiwan, Myanmar and Laos?

This airport has many helpful facilities, such as WIFI, Shopping, ATMS, Prayer rooms and much more. Chiang Mai International Airport has one runway and is the hub for the national carrier Thai Airways and Thai AirAsia.

Airlines that fly into this airport include: Nok Air, China Airlines, Korean Air, EVA Air, Cathay Pacific and many more. A few options are available to get to Chiang Mai from the airport, such as a Tuk-tuk, shuttle bus, taxi, train, or bus. It's a 10-minute journey in the car.

Popular Activities

The Big Buddha, Phuket

Phuket Big Buddha, or the Great Buddha of Phuket, is a seated Maravija Buddha statue in Phuket, Thailand. This is a massive tourist attraction as to many visitors it's more than just a landmark. The hike to the Big Buddha in Phuket can take about 2.5 to 3 hours, including stops and exploring the site. The climb itself can be done in roughly 2 hours, but it's recommended to allocate extra time to enjoy the views.

The photos don't exactly do it justice, as it stands at 45 meters (148 feet) tall. The statue is made of concrete and covered in Burmese white marble. This landmark is visible from various parts of the island. 

Early morning or late afternoon can help avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience. Make sure to dress within the dress code, covering your shoulders and knees, to be respectful, as it's a religious landmark. While you can walk to the top, it's a steep climb. Taxis or motorbikes are also available.

Khao Sok National Park, Khao Sok

Khao Sok National Park is a nature reserve in southern Thailand. It is covered by evergreen rainforest, limestone mountains, deep valleys, lakes, caves, wild animals and much more. Many visitors are drawn to Khao Sok National Park due to its nature, beauty and range of activities.

This place offers Canoeing, rafting and kayaking tours along the river. Most commonly seen animals include birds, such as kingfishers and herons, snakes, frogs, monitor lizards and, if you are lucky, maybe even some wild monkeys. They also have a boat tour around Cheow Larn Lake, where you can see the mountains and caves. One of the most popular activities is experiencing the tropical rainforest on foot with a knowledgeable local guide.

This national park is popular with families, couples and backpackers alike, so it’s worth including in your travel plans for Thailand. It is an incredible adventure playground suitable for all ages.

Best Time to Visit

Dry season: November to February

This is the most popular time to visit Thailand, when temperatures range from 29°C to 34°C. However, the climate varies throughout the country, and you can visit all year round. Expect higher prices for flights, accommodation, and tours, and be prepared for larger crowds in popular areas. A lot of festivals and activities take place at this time of year.

Rainy season: May to October

Unsurprisingly, the cheapest time to visit Thailand coincides with the rainy season. If you’re willing to deal with unpredictable weather, then you could bag a few hotel deals visiting Thailand during this time. If you want to take advantage of cheaper airfare and don’t mind the rain, this might be your best bet for when to travel to Thailand. Temperatures remain high, typically averaging between 26°C and 33°C. While the season brings frequent rain, it also has intervals of sunny weather, especially in the early part of the rainy season.

Shoulder season: April to June

Thailand’s shoulder season lasts from April to June and then again from September to October. Temperatures will peak country-wide around April, but this also means you don't have to compete for a prime spot on the best beaches in Thailand, and hotel rates will be lower. While temperatures can still be high (averaging around 30-34°C), there's a chance of afternoon showers, especially in June. 

Transport

Ferries

Thailand has a well-established ferry network, connecting major islands like Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao, Phuket, Koh Phi Phi, and Koh Lanta. These ferries offer a reliable, cost-effective, and eco-friendly mode of transport for island hopping. The price range for ferries in Thailand depends on the destination. Bus then Ferry Connections from Bangkok to Phuket, Phi Phi Islands, and Krabi: 1,000 – 1,550 Baht.

Tuk-tuks

These iconic three-wheeled vehicles are a popular mode of transport in Bangkok and other cities, offering a unique and sometimes faster way to navigate city traffic. Tuk-tuks are generally open on the sides, allowing passengers to enjoy the sights and sounds of the city. Fares vary depending on distance, time of day, and traffic. Bargaining is a common practice, as prices are often inflated, especially for tourists. 

Motorcycle taxis

These are common and fast modes of transportation in Thailand, particularly in Bangkok and other cities, towns, and villages. They are usually used for short trips and can be found in many locations, especially around transit stations, shopping malls, and office buildings. Motorcycle taxis are a readily available and efficient way to get around, especially in areas with heavy traffic.  Apps like Grab and Bolt offer motorcycle taxi services. 

Food & Drink

Popular Thai dishes

Thai food is widely recognised as some of the world’s finest cuisine. Adapted by most countries around the world, Thai food is now one of the most popular cuisine options.

• 🍜 Pad Thai: Stir-fried noodles. An iconic Thai dish, Pad Thai is usually made with flat rice noodles, combined with seafood (or chicken or pork), egg, sauces and vegetables such as bean sprouts and shallots, served with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, chilli and roasted peanuts (optional). This dish is a delicious balance of salty, sweet and sour.
• 🍛 Gaeng Daeng: Red Curry. The authentic Thai red curry is a happy medium between the yellow and green curry options, it is spicier than yellow curry but not as hot as green curry. The stunning red colour of this curry comes from the crushed red chillies, which make up the paste, which also includes garlic and shallots, lemongrass and blue ginger. Made with chicken breast, the paste is added to coconut milk and vegetables like tomatoes, mushrooms and eggplant.
• 🍲 Gaeng Keow Wan Gai: Green Curry: The spiciest and most common of the three Thai curries, this dish is heavily based on its green chillies, which give it a fiery taste, as well as its green hue. Simmered with coconut milk to add a sweet undertone, and made with chicken breast, this curry incorporates ingredients similar to those of other curries, including vegetables like potatoes, eggplant, lemongrass, and shallots. The seriously spicy kick comes from the green chillies.

Must-visit food markets

• Naka Market: This huge market is open on weekends in Phuket from 4 pm to 11 pm. This busy market is filled with vendors selling fresh produce, seafood, spices, and other essential items. The food area is situated right at the entrance as you walk into the market. You can’t miss it. It is a huge feature of Naka Market, and people travel from all over just to try some of the treats on offer.
• Chiang Mai Night Bazaar: This market is in Chiang Mai and offers a wide variety of food options, from classic Thai dishes like Khao Soi and Pad Thai to international cuisine. Street food stalls also feature spicy noodles, grilled squid, and local specialities like Sai Oua and mango sticky rice. You can find everything from fresh pancakes to meat on skewers. 
• Chatuchak Weekend Market: A weekend market in Bangkok, which is a renowned destination for food lovers. You can find everything from traditional Thai dishes to international snacks. Popular choices include Pad Thai, Som Tam, and various types of noodle and rice dishes. The market also features unique options like Drumstick Duck, Coco JJ Coconut Ice Cream, and Halal Khao Gaeng. 

Visa & Entry Requirements

Visa information

For many nationalities, Thailand offers visa-free entry for tourism or business for up to 60 days. However, starting May 1, 2025, all non-Thai nationals entering Thailand, regardless of visa status, must complete a Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) electronically three days before their arrival.  

If you’re planning a holiday in Thailand, you’ll need a Thailand Tourist Visa to enter the country. This visa comes in two types: a Single-Entry Tourist Visa, which allows up to a 60-day stay, and a Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa, valid for six months with a 60-day stay limit per visit. For more information on getting a visa, visit the Thai Embassy Page.

Passport information

Like most countries, you will need a passport valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry, with at least one blank visa page. You might have to show proof of sufficient funds and a return ticket. Check with your travel provider to ensure that your passport and other travel documents meet the requirements. Renew your passport if you need to. You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Entry requirements

Some things are prohibited, so when entering Thailand, make sure you check the goods you can take in and out of Thailand before travelling. Although it's not a requirement, it's highly recommended to have travel insurance when travelling to Thailand. Vaccinations are not mandatory for entering Thailand; however, several are strongly recommended for most travellers, such as Hepatitis A, Tetanus and Yellow Fever.

What to Pack

Clothing

For Thailand, pack light, breathable clothing, sandals, swimwear, and accessories like sunglasses and a hat to protect you from the sun and heat. If you plan on doing a lot of walking or hiking, then pack some trainers or walking shoes.

Components

Protect yourself from mosquitoes and other insects by bringing bug spray. For Thailand, there are four associated plug types, types A, B and C, so make sure you bring an adapter to charge electronics. Stay hydrated in the heat, maybe consider bringing a reusable water bottle. Consider bringing a portable charger to keep your devices charged while on the go. 

How to Stay on Budget Travelling Thailand

On the whole, it’s a very affordable place to visit and, unless you are keen on expensive resorts, upscale restaurants, and imported goods, you aren’t likely to spend a lot of money. Things just don’t cost a lot.

Western food venues are always more expensive when compared to Thai food. Since some of the ingredients need to be imported, you should expect the prices to be higher than any Thai dishes you’ll find. When you head to the markets, know that you’re going to have to bargain hard. Never take the first price, and don’t be afraid to walk away if you feel like you’re getting ripped off.

Most transport in Thailand, like buses, taxis, tuk tuks, songtaews, and minivans, is all cheap. It's also possible to bargain with tuk-tuks. Unlike taxis, tuk-tuks do not have meters. This means you need to agree on a price before you take off.

Another one of the best tips for how to travel Thailand on a budget is doing a work exchange. This is great for those travelling, as you can work in exchange for accommodation is an amazing way to save money. That way, you can experience living with and learning from locals.

Buy Now, Pay Later Options

If you are looking for cheap flights to Thailand, then you are in the right place! Here at Alternative Airlines, we offer a range of BNPL options to make paying for flights more affordable. Did you know that you can choose to make repayments in the timeframe and frequency that's right for you? Many of our options are interest-free, and you can choose to pay in weekly, bi-weekly or monthly payments. Some of the payment providers we offer include Affirm, Afterpay, Klarna, Clearpay, PayPal and many more.

✨ 🌏 Turn your dream of visiting Thailand into reality this year with flexible payment options and tips from this travel guide. 🌏✨