Thailand

Thailand rewards a little planning, especially when combining Bangkok with northern mountains and southern islands. Start by choosing a comfortable pace: Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and one beach region can fill 10 to 14 days without constant packing. Use Hello’s trip planning tools to organize flights, train journeys, hotel addresses, and day trips in one itinerary. Before departure, check visa rules for your passport with a Thai embassy or consulate. Requirements vary by nationality, and official guidance may require a passport valid for at least six months, onward travel details, accommodation information, or proof of funds. Thailand’s official entry guidance also advises travellers to complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card when required. Thailand’s seasons are regional: the north is generally cooler from November to February, while islands on the Andaman Sea and Gulf of Thailand can experience different rainy periods. Keep plans flexible during monsoon months, particularly for ferries and small domestic flights. Save offline maps, hotel names in Thai, and a copy of your passport; these small preparations make arrival and travel days much easier.

Thailand offers an appealing mix of fast domestic flights, comfortable trains, ferries, buses, and inexpensive urban transport. In Bangkok, the BTS Skytrain and MRT are usually the quickest way through busy central districts, while river boats connect areas near the Chao Phraya. Metered taxis and app-based rides are useful, but confirm that the meter is running or agree on a fare before departure. For short distances, tuk-tuks are memorable; negotiate politely before climbing in. Overnight trains between Bangkok and Chiang Mai are a practical experience, especially in a sleeper berth. Southern routes often combine buses with ferries to reach Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao, Phuket, Krabi, or Koh Lanta. Allow extra time for connections because weather can delay boats. Domestic flights save time on long distances, but airports may be far from town centres. Keep your main luggage light and use a small daypack for ferries and island transfers. Hello’s Hello eSIM, activated before landing, helps with maps, ride bookings, and live transport updates without roaming charges.

Thai food is one of the country’s great pleasures, and every region has its own character. In Bangkok, try pad Thai, boat noodles, grilled pork skewers, and fiery som tam from a busy market stall. Chiang Mai is known for khao soi, a rich curry noodle soup topped with crisp noodles, while southern cuisine brings intense heat, turmeric, seafood, and coconut-based curries. Street food is often freshest where locals are eating; look for high turnover, clean preparation areas, and dishes cooked to order. Start cautiously with chilli if you are not accustomed to it, and say “mai phet” for not spicy or “phet nit noi” for a little spicy. Carry small notes and coins for markets, though restaurants and shopping centres increasingly accept cards or QR payments. Bottled or filtered water is the safest choice for drinking. Travelling with friends? Use Hello’s expense splitting feature to settle shared meals, taxis, and market snacks, while budget tracking keeps spending organized in Thai baht.

Thailand’s famous warmth is easiest to appreciate when paired with respectful habits. Dress modestly when visiting temples: shoulders and knees should be covered, and shoes are removed before entering many buildings. Never climb on Buddha images or treat temple grounds as photo props. A wai, made by bringing the palms together with a slight bow, is a traditional greeting, though a friendly smile and polite “sawasdee” are also welcome. Avoid touching someone’s head, and use your right hand or both hands when giving or receiving important items. The Thai baht is the national currency; keep cash for street stalls, rural transport, and small shops, while carrying a card for hotels and larger businesses. ATMs are widely available, but notify your bank before travelling and keep a backup payment method. Tipping is not compulsory, although rounding up or leaving a modest amount for excellent service is appreciated. Protect yourself from the tropical sun with water, sunscreen, and breathable clothing, and take care around traffic when crossing even quiet-looking streets.