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A Beginner's Guide to Thailand
One of the most visited of all Southeast Asian countries; Thailand is a blend of sacred spaces, refined cuisine, vibrant metropolis, incredible beaches alongside crystal waters and jungle landscape hiding ancient ruins and magnificent elephants.
If you're seeking more than just a getaway, the 'Land of Smiles' is what you're looking for. Our travel guide to Thailand provides a taster of what this enchanting, exquisite country offers.
Practical Information: A Seamless Guide to Visiting Thailand
When To Visit
Thailand is tropical and humid for most of the year. The best time to visit is between November and February when temperatures are more manageable, and rain is less common.
There are three main seasons: the cool season when temperatures in the north are lower for longer, the rainy season from May to October when warm humid air causes the south to be wettest (the low season when fewer tourists travel), and the hot season from March to May.
Getting Around
You can get around the country mainly by road or short domestic flights. Flights between Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Koh Samui take no more than two hours. You can also take a shorter flight to destinations like the island of Koh Kood.
Shorter distances can be negotiated by road. We can arrange for you to have private transfers so you are as comfortable as possible. This ensures everything goes smoothly and there’s always someone to answer your questions in English. Your journey may also feature boat transfers, should your itinerary take you between islands.
Currency & Transactions
The national currency in Thailand is the Baht (B). While credit cards are accepted in many hotels, restaurants and boutiques, it's essential to carry cash when visiting more remote areas or street markets.
Sterling (GBP) is easy to exchange on arrival. ATMs are widespread throughout the country, particularly in cities and airports.
Treasures of Thailand: Must-See Sights & Experiences
"Those planning a trip to Thailand must visit the Elephant Hills Tented Camp. Waking up to the sounds of the rainforest, kayaking through stunning limestone karsts, and interacting with the rescued elephants is a true escape into the wild heart of Thailand."
Rikki Poynton, Asia Specialist
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Bangkok
Read MoreHome to the impressive Grand Palace, Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha), The Golden Mount and Wat Saket, Bangkok is a great starting point to spend a few days exploring. If you want a break from gold-clad architecture, a boat ride along the Klongs of Thonburi (Bangkok's historic canals) is a fantastic way to enjoy a different perspective of the city.
For high-end retail, visit the glittering malls of Siam Paragon or Iconsiam – home to designer boutiques and specialist brands. After shopping, take the sky train to the eclectic night and floating markets.
If visiting in November, don't forget to celebrate Loy Krathong or the 'Thai Festival of Lights and Lanterns'. Locals gather around lakes, rivers and canals to pay respects to the Goddess of Water, releasing lotus-shaped rafts made of banana leaves and decorated with incense and candles.
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Chiang Mai
Read MoreFor culture and calm away from Bangkok’s bustling streets, Northern Thailand offers mountains cloaked in paddy fields, traditional culture and ancient temples.
Chiang Mai is Thailand’s second-largest city and offers a more serene pace. Its well-preserved temples and strong artistic heritage make it the perfect place to indulge in private artisan workshop tours.
For excursions into more remote corners of this province and views across to Thailand’s Indochina neighbours at the golden triangle, Chiang Rai is just three hours north by road and home to the unique and distinguished Wat Rong Khun.
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Koh Samui & Ko Pha Ngan
Read MoreWith white sand beaches and crystal waters fringed by forested hills and emerald paddy fields, the beaches and islands of Thailand's east coast are undoubtedly one of the country’s main draws. Most notable are Koh Samui and Koh Pha Ngan – home to exquisite hidden retreats away from its honeypot beaches.
Koh Samui lies amidst palm-fringed beaches, lush greenery and world-class amenities, blending upscale leisure with natural beauty. Just a short ferry ride away, you'll find Ko Pha Ngan – an island famous for its serene beaches, luxury resorts and spiritual atmosphere.
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Phuket & Southern Islands
Read MoreThailand's west coast beaches and islands are a haven for snorkelling and diving. Most of Phuket is mountainous and forested, with swathes of pale sand against turquoise waters and nearby jungle-veiled national parks.
To Thailand’s south, the coastal area of Krabi offers the theatrical limestone landscape of Phang Nga Bay and islands hosting waterfalls and tropical interiors. The pristine and often hidden Andaman beaches will seduce you, so you never want to leave this slice of paradise.
- Bangkok
- Chiang Mai
- Koh Samui & Ko Pha Ngan
- Phuket & Southern Islands
Where To Stay: Hidden Hideaways & Boutique Gems
Luxury Hotels
Some of the best luxury hotels Bangkok has to offer are located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. The Peninsula is a significant addition to the Bangkok skyline, boasting unrivalled panoramic views over the city from every room.
An icon of luxury for over a century, Bangkok's five-star Mandarin Oriental creates an atmosphere of royalty and traditional Thai elegance. The Four Seasons Resort is set amongst rice paddies and plantations in the Chiang Mai area. Its design is inspired by a traditional Thai village, creating a feeling of authenticity.
On the east coast, Six Senses offers a rustic retreat and romantic hideaway on the peaceful northern tip of Koh Samui, with private pool villas and stunning views of the Gulf of Siam.
Phuket presents many well-appointed options sandwiched between the sapphire waters of the Andaman Sea and dense tropical jungle, including Trisara, Anantara Mai Khao and Amanpuri.
Boutique Hotels
While The Siam sits beside the Chao Phraya River – close to the ancient palaces – you would be forgiven for thinking you were staying in a hip rural retreat. 137 Pillars House is an intimate all-suite property enveloped in a lush tropical garden in the heart of Chiang Mai.
In Krabi, the beachfront rooms and pool villas of Tubkaak grant guests stylish yet low-key five-star boutique accommodation. The Sarojin in Khao Lak is a modern Asian-style beach property with proximity to world-class Similan Island diving.
The laid-back Anantara Rasananda offers a hideaway that sets the standard for luxury on the island of Koh Pha Ngan, far removed from the parties the island is famous for.
Taste of Thailand
Thailand has some of the world’s most celebrated cuisine. It won’t be long before you're savouring a freshly prepared Pad Thai, Larb Gai or Som Tam washed down with a Chang or Singha beer. With a bountiful medley of sweet and sour, spice, vibrant salads, sticky rice and a fusion of flavours from neighbouring countries. Thai gastronomy is second to none.
We offer several culinary experiences aimed at helping you learn more about cooking and eating in Thailand, with many of them being hands-on cooking classes.
Tailor-Made Itineraries
At Scott Dunn, we offer classic itineraries that begin in the capital city. Discover Bangkok's architectural gems and get a feel for authentic Thai culture. Our Ultimate Thailand tour takes you north to the second city of Chiang Mai, where bamboo rafting, cooking classes and elephant experiences are abundant. Finally, this three-stop itinerary ends with a restoration in heavenly Phuket.
Our honeymoon to Thailand explores the Klongs of Bangkok. Stay in Khao Sok amidst elephants and jungle on a quiet west coast beach in Koh Lanta. Finish by overlooking the picturesque limestone pinnacles of Phang Nga Bay on the idyllic Koh Yao Noi.
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