Top Tips for a Holiday in Thailand

Welcome back to The Velvet Runway and this feature about Top Tips for a Holiday in Thailand.

Thailand, known as the “Land of Smiles,” is a dream destination for many travelers. With its stunning beaches, vibrant cities, rich culture, and incredible food, it offers something for everyone. Whether you’re exploring Bangkok’s bustling streets, island-hopping in Phuket, or trekking in Chiang Mai, these top tips will help you make the most of your Holiday in Thailand.

Thailand has been one of the top tourist destinations for many years and there are many good reasons for this; the climate, the rich culture and the low cost of living, to name but a few. If you are planning your first visit to the Land of Smiles, here are a few top tips to make your preparations.

Top Tips for a Holiday in Thailand

Key Takeaways

• Plan Ahead – Check visa requirements, exchange money wisely, and download useful travel apps like Grab and Google Translate for a hassle-free trip.
• Respect Thai Culture & Laws – Dress modestly at temples, be polite when bartering, and remember that vaping and drugs are strictly illegal.
• Travel Smart – Use public transport or Grab instead of taxis, carry cash for small purchases, and visit a mix of cities and islands for a well-rounded experience.
• Try Local Experiences – Enjoy Thai street food from busy vendors, support ethical wildlife tourism, and learn basic Thai phrases to connect with locals.
• Stay Safe & Informed – Be cautious in crowded areas, avoid risky activities, and keep an eye on personal belongings to ensure a stress-free trip.

1. Check Visa Requirements in Advance and Never Overstay your Visa

To enter Thailand, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive and have at least 1 blank page.

Many travelers, including UK, US, EU, and Australian passport holders, can enter Thailand visa-free for up to 60 days. However, if you plan to stay longer, consider a Tourist Visa or an extension at an immigration office. Always check the latest visa requirements before you travel.

You might be planning to stay a few extra days after your visa expires and think it is fine to pay the overstay fine at the airport, think again!

If you overstay the period of your visa, you will get a fine of 500 Thai baht a day up to a maximum of 20,000 baht. You risk being:

• held in detention
• deported at your own expense
• banned from re-entering Thailand for up to 10 years

2. Choose the Right Season to Visit

Thailand has three main seasons:

• Rainy Season (Jun–Oct): Less crowded and cheaper, but some areas may experience heavy rainfall and flooding.
• Cool Season (Nov–Feb): The best time to visit, with pleasant temperatures and minimal rainfall.
• Hot Season (Mar–May): Expect high temperatures and humidity, but great for beach lovers.

3. Book Accommodation in Advance

Thailand’s high season (November–February) sees a surge in tourists, so accommodation prices rise, and popular hotels sell out quickly. If you’re traveling during this time, book at least 2–3 months in advance to secure the best deals and locations.

Staying at a beach resort in Thailand is a dream for many travelers, whether you’re looking for a luxury escape, a romantic honeymoon, or a family beachfront stay. Instead of large hotel chains, try family-run guesthouses, boutique hotels, or eco-resorts for a more authentic and personal experience. These are often more affordable and provide excellent local hospitality.

For a more indulgent stay, Thailand offers luxury beachfront resorts, pool villas, and wellness retreats at reasonable prices compared to Western countries. If you’re on a honeymoon or celebrating a special occasion, splurge on a villa in Phuket, Koh Samui, or Krabi for a memorable experience.

4. Be Aware of Thai Laws – Especially Vaping

Thailand has strict laws, and unknowingly breaking them can result in hefty fines or jail time.

• Vaping is illegal, and bringing e-cigarettes or vapes into the country can result in fines or even confiscation at customs.
• Drug laws are very strict, with severe penalties for possession or trafficking.
• The King and Royal Family are highly respected, and any negative comments about them (even online) can lead to legal trouble under lese majeste laws.

4. Respect Local Customs and Traditions

Thailand has a rich cultural heritage, and respecting local customs is important. Always dress modestly when visiting temples, remove your shoes before entering sacred sites, and avoid touching people’s heads (as it is considered the most sacred part of the body). A respectful attitude goes a long way in Thailand!

5. Learn Basic Thai Phrases

While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, knowing a few basic Thai phrases can enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture. Simple words like “Sawasdee” (hello), “Khop khun” (thank you), and “Mai pen rai” (no worries) can make interactions smoother.

6. Exchange Money Wisely and Carry Some Cash for Small Purchases

Thailand’s currency is the Thai Baht (THB).  Don’t bother changing money in your home country; prepare clean notes and change them at one of the many Super Rich booths that can be found in Bangkok; you might need to change a few dollars at the airport for taxi fares, other than that, change in the city.

ATMs are widely available, but they charge a withdrawal fee. Using Wise, Revolut, or Monzo travel cards can help reduce exchange rate losses.

While credit cards are accepted in major hotels and restaurants, many small vendors, markets, and street stalls only take cash. Make sure to carry some Thai Baht (THB) for convenience when shopping or dining locally.

7. Master the Art of Bartering

Aside from supermarkets and department stores, you can barter with the vendor, especially at night markets, where you can get as much as 25% off if you negotiate.

Thai vendors actually expect customers to haggle but you should be sensible about it and not to offend them with a silly price. Start by offering around 50-60% of the asking price, then negotiate to a fair middle ground.

8. Download Useful Travel Apps

Make your trip smoother with these handy apps:

• Maps.me or Google Maps – Great for offline navigation.
• Grab – Thailand’s version of Uber for taxis and food delivery.
• Google Translate – Helpful for language barriers.
• LINE – The most popular messaging app in Thailand.
• XE Currency – To check real-time exchange rates.

9. Use Public Transport or Rideshare Apps

Bangkok’s traffic can be overwhelming, so avoid taxis in busy areas. Instead, use the BTS Skytrain, MRT subway, tuk-tuks, or Grab (Thailand’s version of Uber) for affordable and convenient travel. For intercity travel, domestic flights and overnight trains are great options.

10. Try Local Experiences

Thai street food is delicious, cheap, and a must-try! However, stick to stalls that have a high turnover of customers to ensure freshness. Dishes like Pad Thai, Som Tam (papaya salad), and Mango Sticky Rice are great starting points for first-time visitors.

Avoid unethical animal tourism, such as riding elephants or visiting tiger temples. Instead, support ethical sanctuaries like Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai, where rescued elephants are cared for responsibly.

11. Pack Light but Smart and Take Mosquito Repellent

Thailand is warm year-round, so lightweight clothing is ideal. However, if you’re visiting temples, carry a scarf or sarong to cover your shoulders. Also, pack mosquito repellent, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.

Make sure to apply mosquito repellent prior to going out in the early morning and after dark. Dengue Fever is rampant in tropical countries; there is no cure for this disease and mosquitos are major carriers, while malaria is only found in remote parts of the north. 

12. Visit Both Cities and Islands

Thailand is more than just beaches! While Phuket and Koh Samui are stunning, don’t miss out on Chiang Mai’s cultural charm, Bangkok’s lively energy, and the historical ruins of Ayutthaya.

A mix of city and island experiences will give you a well-rounded trip.

13. Get a SIM Card or eSIM for Connectivity

Staying connected is important for navigation and communication. Upon arrival, you can buy a Thai SIM card at the airport or opt for an eSIM if your phone supports it. AIS, TrueMove, and DTAC are reliable network providers.

14. Stay Safe and Respect the Law

Thailand is generally safe, but petty theft can happen in crowded areas. Keep an eye on your belongings, be cautious with alcohol purchases, and respect local laws—especially regarding drugs, which carry severe penalties.

Final Thoughts on Top Tips for a Holiday in Thailand

Thailand is an incredible destination, offering a perfect blend of stunning landscapes, rich culture, and delicious cuisine. Whether you’re exploring bustling Bangkok, unwinding on the beaches of Phuket, or trekking through Chiang Mai’s lush mountains, a well-planned trip will help you make the most of your experience.

By respecting local customs, staying aware of laws, and traveling smart, you’ll have a smoother, more enjoyable adventure. From bartering at lively night markets to indulging in authentic Thai street food, every moment in Thailand offers something unique.

Most importantly, travel with an open mind and embrace the local way of life—whether that means hopping on a tuk-tuk, chatting with friendly street vendors, or learning a few Thai phrases. Thailand is known as the “Land of Smiles” for a reason, and with the right preparation, you’re sure to have a trip full of unforgettable memories!

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