Thailand has a way of charming the hearts of all who visit. Whether you’re drawn to its pristine beaches or the chaotic city streets that ignite the senses, the diverse settings and sites blending old and new capture the imagination. Discover the main reasons why travellers fall in love with this destination, where a daily ritual or simple meal is treated as a celebration.
1. Idyllic islands
When you think of Thailand, chances are you picture perfect tropical beaches. From Koh Phangan, famous for its lively full-moon parties, to the tranquil shores of Koh Lanta, there is an idyllic island for every kind of traveller. Go diving into the clear waters, relax in the shade of palm fronds, explore hidden coves and wander the warm sand hand-in-hand.
Phuket is a convenient beach option with a range of things to do, as is Koh Samui in the Northeast. Perhaps most famous is Krabi with its towering limestone cliffs shooting out of turquoise waters and range of premium places to stay.
2. Extraordinary wildlife
Beyond its beaches, Thailand is a haven for nature lovers. The countryside is spectacular, whether you’re trekking through the jungles of Chiang Mai or navigating the rivers of Kanchanaburi.
The country is home to several national parks where you can spot exotic animals such as elephants, tigers and a variety of birds in the wild. Erawan National Park, with its seven-tiered waterfall, is a must-visit for those who enjoy hiking, and you have the chance to end with a cooling swim in a natural pool.
3. Affordable luxury
Your money goes further than you might expect in Thailand, giving you scope for luxury experiences without the price tag. You can find Thailand holidays designed for honeymooners with high-end resorts and pampering spa treatments and fast-paced family-friendly itineraries filled with exhilarating experiences from city tours to water sports.
With accommodation, food and transport relatively cheap, you have more spending money for activities, ensuring an unforgettable trip every time.
4. Welcoming atmosphere
Thailand is a country where hospitality runs deep, and everywhere you go you’ll be met with a genuine smile. Locals are eager to chat and share stories and teach you about Thai culture, whether you’re at a food market or heritage site.
If you’re really keen to connect with communities rather than simply sticking to the tourist trail, consider heading off the beaten track into more rural areas and doing a homestay experience. Here you will live with a family following their typical way of life, cooking with them and exploring their immediate countryside.
5. Fascinating heritage
An ancient past informs Thailand’s modern culture, with thousands of years of history for tourists to explore in centuries-old heritage sites where kingdom capitals once stood and temples still inhabited by monks. These relics and temples are some of the most beautiful and spiritual in the world.
Chiang Mai is an excellent cultural base. You can explore the mountaintop Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a glittering gold masterpiece founded in the 14th century, and head south to the UNESCO town of Sukhothai to see medieval monuments. offering breathtaking views of the city below. In the capital Bangkok, the stunning Grand Palace and Wat Pho, home to the famous Reclining Buddha, provide insight into Thailand’s deep-rooted traditions in the middle of modern life.