Thailand Destination Guide

Thailand is easy!

Thailand has been a major tourism destination for several centuries. This means that the tourism infrastructure is there, and it is well organized.  The transportation network is comprehensive and arrival and departure schedules of flights, overland transfers, and ferries are generally matched  so that travelers can easily get from A to B without too much hassle and lay-over time. Thai people are used to tourists and their quirky ways, the standard of certified guides is good, tour coaches and minivans are in excellent conditions (just remember your pull-over for those cold air-con systems), and the English language skills are acceptable albeit not on par with Malaysia, Philippines, and Singapore for example.

There are amazing experiences awaiting in Thailand whether you are looking for natural wonders, culture, history, adventure or relaxation.

Pick your paradise

If you are looking for beaches in Thailand, you have come to the right place. Thailand used to be full of Robinson Crusoe beaches with no tourists in sight. Of course that has changed a lot, so today Thailand offers the entire spectrum from secluded beaches (yes, they are still there) to mass tourism inferno beaches with rows upon rows of hotels, bars, malls, menus in your very own language, neon lights, and noise all around you. That is why, there is a beach for everyone. But you need to make sure you end up at the right beach for your holiday, because you may end up in Familyland, Sleazyland, or Backtobasicsland, when all you wanted was one of the other Beachlands in Thailand.

No matter which beach atmosphere you are looking for, everyone agrees that the quality of beaches and the natural beauty of the thousands of Thai islands are among the world’s best.

Thai food is yummy and a very important part of social life

Thai cuisine does not need an introduction, but let’s just say that Thai people love food and it shows in their cooking. Meals are not just about filling your stomach – it is a highly valued social activity. Rarely will you see a Thai person eating alone, and in the few instances it does happen, you can be sure that they are uncomfortable and hurrying through their meal with eyes fixed downwards as if in shame.

The best thing about Thai food culture is that food is shared. You do not buy a dish for yourself. Instead you order a number of dishes, place them in the middle of the table, and share the delights. This way you have a wider selection of food at each meal and the social bonds are strengthened by sharing. So if you are going to dinner with Thai friends, don’t expect to have your dish to yourself!

In touristy areas the spicyness will often be toned down for the tourist tongues. Likewise the restaurant options will feature all international cuisines, so if you insist on Italian or Korean, you can find it.

Thailand’s accommodation options cover the full spectrum and Thais know service

All major tourism destinations in Thailand have accommodation options that cover everything from the simplest bungalow or family-run guesthouse to the top international brand hotels. The further away from the main tourist areas you get, the fewer the options will be – not surprisingly.

Hotel standards are high, meaning that a tourist class hotel (often considered a 3-star hotel by the industry) will be equivalent to a 3+ or 4-star hotel in many other countries. High service standards in an integral part of Thai culture, so also the hotel industry benefits from this.