Thailand travel guide

Overview

Thailand remains one of Southeast Asia's easiest countries to travel around, with a well-worn route between Bangkok, Chiang Mai in the north, and island destinations like Phuket, Koh Samui, and Krabi in the south. Bangkok is the usual entry point — a sprawling, intense city that rewards a few days before heading elsewhere. The north offers temples, mountains, and a slower pace; the islands and southern beaches are the main draw for sun-focused trips.

November to February is generally the most comfortable time to visit, with cooler, drier weather. March to May gets very hot, and the rainy season (roughly June to October) brings regular downpours, particularly on the Andaman coast, though showers are often short.

Getting around

• Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports serve Bangkok; domestic flights connect quickly to Chiang Mai, Phuket, and other regions
• Bangkok's BTS Skytrain and MRT subway are efficient ways to avoid the city's notorious traffic
• Overnight trains and buses connect Bangkok to the north and other regions at a lower cost than flying
• Ferries and domestic flights connect the southern islands; book ahead in peak season

Mobile data and connectivity

Compare live BrisqNet eSIM plans for Thailand before you fly. Install the eSIM before departure so it's ready to help with navigation, ride-hailing apps, and translation from the moment you land in Bangkok.

• Coverage is strong in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and the main tourist islands; more remote rural and island areas can have weaker signal
• Ride-hailing and food delivery apps are widely used in Thai cities and rely on a working data connection
• If your trip includes multiple Southeast Asian countries, check whether a regional plan suits your itinerary better than a Thailand-only plan

Practical tips

• The currency is the Thai baht; cards are accepted in cities, but cash is essential for markets, street food, and smaller islands
• Dress modestly when visiting temples — shoulders and knees covered, shoes removed before entering
• The head is considered sacred and the feet unclean in Thai culture — avoid touching people's heads or pointing your feet at others or at Buddha images
• Street food is a genuine highlight, but stick to stalls with high turnover and visible hygiene practices

FAQs