In this Thailand travel guide, the best time to visit is the cool season, from November to February, when the days are dry, the skies are clear, and the islands are at their best. The hot season brings beach weather and festivals, while the rainy season brings green landscapes, fewer crowds, and lower prices.

Getting around is easy and cheap: domestic flights connect Bangkok with Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Krabi, sleeper trains run north and south, and songthaews, tuk-tuks, and boats handle the rest. Agree on a tuk-tuk fare before you ride, and use the meter in Bangkok taxis. The currency is the baht, cash is king in markets and small towns, and for official travel information, start with the Tourism Authority of Thailand.

Thailand is a safe and friendly destination, including for families and solo travellers. A few habits help: greet people with a wai, dress modestly for temples, remove your shoes where asked, and never point your feet at a Buddha image. Learn a few Thai words; even a simple khop khun opens smiles everywhere.

Where you stay shapes the trip. In Bangkok, a small hotel near the river puts you between the temples and the night markets. In Chiang Mai, a guesthouse in the old city gives you mornings with monks and evenings with street food. This Thailand travel guide recommends booking the first nights in advance, then leaving room to follow a recommendation, a festival, or a detour.