With idyllic islands, golden beaches, pristine coral reefs, dense rainforests and exotic wildlife, Thailand is a paradise getaway. But there is much more to it – from bustling cities, vibrant nightlife, five-star hotels and resorts to ancient monasteries, Buddhist monks, colourful hill tribes, floating markets and the famously friendly people. Then there is the mouth-watering Thai cuisine, a harmonious blend of flavours, equally delicious from local street stalls or fancy restaurants and the indulgent Thai massage or spa treatments.
Visit Bangkok, the most exuberant capital city in South East Asia, which itself is enough to justify a trip to Thailand; witness chanting at Wat Pho – temple with the largest Reclining Buddha in Thailand; go temple hopping in Chiang Mai; enjoy a homestay with the hill tribes of the Golden Triangle in Chiang Rai; scuba dive, rock climb, snorkel over coral reefs or indulge in water sports in the dazzling islands of the South; drift around the islands of Phang Nga Bay; scale the limestone cliffs rising dramatically above the white sand beaches in Krabi; trek and spot wildlife in the dense jungles of the North; bathe under Erawan waterfall; learn the fine art of Thai cooking or just get a relaxing massage on the beach.
The cool and dry season of November to March is the best time to visit Thailand when the temperatures range from 29°C to 34°C. The climate differs between the eastern and western coasts in the South. The west coast (Phuket and Krabi) is better from November to March with snorkeling and diving at its best while the east coast (Koh Samui) is good between January and March with lowest rainfall. A great time to beat the crowds and enjoy the cultural highlights of the country is in June.