Thailand tours & vacations

Thailand’s warm, tropical climate varies by region, offering unique experiences wherever you go.

On the mainland, November to February brings cooler, drier days, perfect for exploring. If you’re heading to the Gulf Coast, October to January sees the most rain with the northeast monsoon season but does offer a time with fewer crowds. On the west coast, places like Phuket come alive from November to April with ideal conditions for island hopping.

Learn more about the best time to visit Thailand

Often considered the epicenter of Buddhism, religion permeates daily life in Thailand and is home to golden temples and orange-robed monks symbolizing the nation’s deep spirituality. Visitors should be respectful of monks and dress modestly when visiting a temple (cover your knees and shoulders and remove your shoes).

Thailand’s history is rich with influences from Khmer, Dvaravatia and Malay cultures. Ancient capitals like Sukhothai and Ayutthaya offer glimpses into the past with their intricate ruins. In the last 30 years, Thailand has seen political power change hands many times but despite this, its economy continues to grow due to its strong tourist industry.

Festival seasons bring Thailand to life. In November, Loy Krathong and Yee Peng light up the waters and sky with candles and lanterns, while April’s Songkran transforms the country into a joyful New Year’s water fight. In February, the Chiang Mai Flower Festival fills the street with vibrant blooms, flower parades and celebrations.

Thai food has everything from spicy dishes packed with chilies to milder coconut-based curries. With street stalls and night markets all over the country, it's really easy to pick up a snack wherever you are in Thailand. On many Intrepid trips, you'll be given the opportunity to have dinner with a local family – this offers a great chance to see how meals are prepared and learn more about the local culture.

Things to try in Thailand

Pad Thai (Phat Thai)

A well-known dish but for good reason. This delicious plate of stir-fried rice noodles garnished with peanuts is full of flavor and can be served with fresh prawns, chicken, tofu or vegetables.

Tom Yum (Tom Yam)

Usually prepared with stock, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves and chilli, this soup is widely available in Thailand and has been popularised around the world. 

Green curry

One of many curries that Thais do so well. Green curry consists of chicken, Thai eggplant and chillies bathed in a coconut milk-based sauce.

Som tam (green papaya salad)

This northern dish of shredded raw papaya, cherry tomatoes and green beans is a tantalizing mix of sweet, spicy and sour flavors.

Coconut water

For a super fresh thirst quencher, try coconut water straight from the husk.

Tropical fruit

Fruit shakes and fresh fruit juices are widely available from markets and restaurants – make the most of all the tropical fruits of Thailand.

Nestled in South East Asia, Thailand boasts a diverse geography bordered by Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia and Malaysia with coastlines on the Andaman Sea and Gulf of Thailand. Its landscape spans from tropical beaches and islands in the south to misty mountains and dense jungles in the north.

In bustling Bangkok, the capital is a lively mix of skyscrapers, street vendors and temples, while rural areas offer a quieter, traditional lifestyle.

1. Chiang Mai

This northern mountainous city is bursting with all the best of Thai culture. Stroll through some of its 300 temples or dive into a cooking class to unlock the delicious secrets of Thai cuisine. When the sun dips, hit the lively Night Bazaar's street food scene and cap the evening with a foot massage worth raving about. For a bit of adventure, cruise the mountain roads and swing by ChangChill to hang out with the elephants. What’s a trip to Thailand without meeting its gentle giants?

2. Krabi

The waters surrounding Krabi are dotted with hundreds of limestone karst islands. Kayakers and rock climbers will love exploring them, while others can travel to the nearby floating villages or just relax on one of the region's perfect beaches.

3. Phuket

Welcome to Phuket, one of Thailand’s most recognizable gems. Paddle through emerald-green waters, where towering limestone karsts jut out dramatically from the sea. Along Kata Beach, dive into a blend of lively shops and nightclubs that buzz after dark. Each beach here has its own vibe, from laidback to action-packed – think Thai boxing exhibitions, snorkeling galore and, of course, scenic swimming.

4. Hilltribe Country

In the heart of Hilltribe Country, you’ll find life moves at a refreshingly different pace. Hike along buffalo trails through the colorful H’mong, Karen and Lisu villages and when night falls, finish the day with a homestay with warm local hosts who share their stories and traditions. Perhaps you’ll enjoy a traditional home-cooked meal set against the mountain scenery.  

5. Bangkok

Whether you're travelling by tuk-tuk through the crazy streets, cycling along backroads or taking a longtail through the Khlongs, the journey in Bangkok is definitely half the fun. Drop into the stunning Grand Palace, see the reclining Buddha at Wat Pho and wind your way through floating markets.

6. Sukhothai

This former capital is a history buff's heaven. Nicknamed the 'Dawn of Happiness', Sukhothai still recalls Siam's golden age with its superb statues, marvelous monuments and lotus flowers in full bloom. A trip to the night market is a real eye-opener; try everything from fried rice to fried bugs.

7. Ayuthaya

Modern meets ancient in Ayuthaya. The current city intertwines itself with the remnants of what was once one of Asia's great capitals. Walk the streets in search of clues to its imperial past and hire a bike to ride through the countryside, exploring the area's ruins.

Learn more about the top places to visit in Thailand

The official currency of Thailand is the Thai Baht (THB). 

Credit cards are usually accepted by hotels, large retailers and tourist sites but are less commonly accepted by smaller vendors and family-run restaurants in rural areas. Market stalls and street vendors will not accept credit cards. In Thailand, cash is king!

ATMs are widely available in larger cities but are less common in small villages or rural areas. Make sure you have enough cash before leaving urban areas.