It’s the place where city chaos meets island serenity, where tuk-tuks thunder past golden Buddhas, and smiles are doled out at every turn.

Discover Thailand, the Land of Smiles, a country renowned for its ever-friendly locals. But there’s so much more to see than just happy faces. From the ancient capital of Sukhothai, with its sleek Buddhas and weatherworn pagodas, to Bangkok’s majestic palace and frenetic street life. The glittering temple complex at Doi Suthep, the night bazaars of Chang Mai, and the hilltribes in the northern jungles. Cruise down south to tropical islands as idyllic as it gets, and fuel your adventure with food that truly earns its worldwide fame.

Thailand travel highlights

Our Thailand trips

Tailor-Made trips

Take four or more on an exclusive trip and tailor your itinerary

Thailand tour reviews

Articles on Thailand

Thailand holiday information

Thailand facts

Local culture of Thailand

Geography & environment

Shopping guide to Thailand

Thailand festival calendar

Food & drink in Thailand

Further reading

Best time to visit Thailand

Health and Safety

Thailand travel FAQs

Visa requirements change often, so we recommend that you check the latest information before you leave. Please visit the relevant consular website of the country you’re visiting for detailed and up-to-date visa information specific to your nationality. Check the Essential Trip Information section of the itinerary for more information. Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months after your arrival date in Thailand and should have a few blank pages left for a new stamp.

Tipping isn’t expected of you in Thailand. Nevertheless, a small gratuity is always appreciated.

You’ll have no trouble finding internet cafes and Wi-Fi access in places like Bangkok and Phuket, however internet may be hard to come by in rural and remote areas.

You’ll have mobile coverage in urban centres, but service may be unreliable outside these areas. Remember to activate global roaming with your provider if you wish to use your mobile while traveling.

Most toilets in Thailand are of the squat variety, however you may find Western-style toilets at some hotels and touristy areas. Soap and toilet paper aren’t always provided so you may like to carry some with you.

  • Bottle of beer = 80-100 TBH
  • Street food snack = 25 TBH
  • Short tuk tuk ride = 50 TBH
  • Market stall meal = 40-100 THB
  • Sit-down dinner at a nice restaurant = 350-1000 THB

Drinking tap water is not considered safe in Thailand. To help the environment, avoid buying bottled water and bring a bottle or canteen with you. Ask your leader where you can access filters to refill your supply.

You’ll be able to use your credit card at major shops, hotels and restaurants, but it’s best to have some cash on hand to make purchases from small local businesses.

You’ll have no trouble finding internationally connected ATMs in Thailand’s major cities, but they’ll be harder to find in rural and remote places. Make sure you have cash when visiting rural areas.

Yes. All peregrine passengers are required to purchase travel insurance prior to their trip. Your insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day. For more information on insurance, go to: Travel Insurance.

While there are no compulsory vaccinations for Thailand and Malaysia, it’s best to be up-to-date with your routine vaccinations before your trip. Recommended vaccinations include Typhoid and Hep A. There is a risk of malaria in some parts of Thailand, so check your itinerary against your government or national travel advisory organisation for the latest information. If unsure, it’s best to visit your local travel doctor before you leave.

As a whole, Thailand is a hassle-free destination for LGBTQI-travellers, and Bangkok, Pattaya and Phuket all have fairly prominent gay scenes. However, Thai people do not generally engage in public displays of affection, regardless of sexual orientation. For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting Equaldex or Smartraveller before you travel.