From
golden temples and tropical islands to bustling cities and tranquil
jungles, this Thailand travel guide covers everything you need - from
key facts and visa info to local customs and essential tips for a
smooth, unforgettable journey.
Country: Thailand
Continent / Region: Asia / Southeast Asia
Capital City: Bangkok
Government Type: Constitutional Monarchy
Population: Approx. 70 million
Official Language(s): Thai
Percentage of Population Who Speak English: ~27% (higher in major cities and tourist areas)
Currency: Thai Baht (THB)
Time Zone (GMT): GMT+7
Driving Side: Left
Electric Plug Type / Voltage: Type A/B/C – 220V
Adapter Needed: UK travellers require a plug adapter
Emergency Numbers: 191 (Police), 199 (Fire), 1669 (Medical)
Travel Time from the UK (London): 11–13 hours (direct to Bangkok)
Best Time/Months to Travel: November–March (cool, dry season)
Main International Airports:
- Visa Requirements: Varies by nationality
- Visa Needed for UK Citizens: Visa-free entry
- Visa Duration / Cost: 30 days (extendable to 60 days for a fee)
- Vaccinations Needed: Routine vaccines; Hepatitis A, Typhoid recommended
Embassy Information (UK Embassy in Thailand):
Average Daily Costs: £35 / £70 / £150+
Tipping Culture: Not mandatory; small tips appreciated
Public Transport Options: Skytrain (BTS), MRT, buses, ferries, tuk-tuks
Approx. Cost of Single Fare: 15–60 THB (BTS/MRT)
Internet / SIM Availability: Excellent 4G/5G; AIS, TrueMove H, DTAC
Main Climate Type: Tropical (hot, humid, and monsoon seasons)
Average Temperature: 22–35°C year-round
Major Cities: Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Pattaya, Krabi
Natural Attractions: Phi Phi Islands, Phang Nga Bay, Khao Sok National Park, waterfalls, jungles, mountains
Popular Destinations: Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Krabi, Koh Samui, Ayutthaya, Pai
Main Religions: Predominantly Buddhism
Cultural Etiquette / Customs:
Cuisine Highlights: Pad Thai, green curry, som tam, mango sticky rice, massaman curry, fresh seafood
Local Festivals:
Famous Landmarks: Grand Palace, Wat Arun, Doi Suthep, Ayutthaya ruins, Railay Beach, White Temple (Chiang Rai)
Overall Safety Rating: Safe, especially in tourist areas
Common Scams: Tuk-tuk overpricing, gem scams, fake tours
Health Risks: Mosquito-borne illnesses, heat exhaustion
Recommended Clinics: International hospitals in Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai
Insurance Recommendation: Full travel insurance recommended
Internet Speed: Very strong 4G/5G nationwide
Useful Phrases:
Must-See Attractions: Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Ayutthaya, Chiang Mai temples, Phuket beaches, Phi Phi Islands, Khao Sok National Park
Unique Experiences: Thai cooking classes, long-tail boat rides, elephant sanctuaries (ethical ones), floating markets, night bazaars
Hidden Gems: Pai Canyon, Koh Lipe, Koh Yao Noi, Nan province, Erawan Falls
Popular Areas to Stay: Sukhumvit (Bangkok), Old City (Chiang Mai), Patong/Karon (Phuket), Ao Nang (Krabi)
Average Hotel Prices: £20 / £50 / £120+
Book A Hotel: You can book your accommodation right here.
Nightlife Areas: Bangkok Sukhumvit, Khao San Road, Pattaya Beach Road, Phuket Bangla Road
Local Drinks: Singha, Chang, Mekhong whisky, Thai iced tea cocktails
Entertainment: Beach clubs, rooftop bars, night markets, Muay Thai shows
Car Rental: Available but driving can be challenging
Domestic Flights: Frequent and affordable
Trains: Nationwide network; sleeper trains popular
Taxi / Rideshare Costs: Cheap; Grab widely used
Best Markets: Chatuchak Market, Asiatique, Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, Phuket Weekend Market
Popular Souvenirs: Thai silk, coconut products, spices, handicrafts, elephant-themed items
Local SIM Card Providers: AIS, TrueMove H, DTAC
Typical Business Hours: 10 a.m.–8 p.m. daily
Tap Water Safety: Not drinkable; use bottled water
Local Apps to Download:
Did You Know?
Thailand is the only Southeast Asian country never to have been colonised by a European power.