Thailand
Climate |
Things to do |
Getting around
Thailand offers an unbeatable combination of Eastern exoticism and Western modernism that brings ten million people a year to the country's gorgeous beaches and magical countryside.
The Thai people are renowned for being friendly and hospitable, in spite of the massive influx of foreign visitors over the last few years. Billed as the "Land of Smiles", Thailand has an extraordinary diversity of flavours and sights to experience. A lot of people are pleasantly surprised at how modern the country is, with its up-to-date facilities. Nowhere is this more evident than in the vibrant capital Bangkok, where a burgeoning 21st century city is growing around centuries-old relics and icons.
Thailand is celebrated for its outstanding beaches from the secluded sands of Koh Chang near Cambodia, to the world-famous full-moon parties of Koh Phang-Nga and the luxury of Phuketís beach resorts. And of course there is the wonderfully rich and accessible culture to explore, from the temples of Bangkok to the hill tribes of Chiang Mai.
Thailand also remains an inexpensive destination with something to offer travellers of every budget - and the tourists that descend on the country are often every bit as varied and interesting as the colourful inhabitants.
Add to all these, the delectable food and a perfect climate and you too will fall in love with this exciting and hospitable country.
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Climate
Thailand enjoys a tropical climate with an average temperature of 28ƒC throughout the year. The best time of year to visit is between November to March, outside the monsoon season when the weather is warm but not stifling.
There are three distinct seasons. In general, the weather is hot and dry from March through May, wet from June to September and cooler and dry from October to February.
During the hot season, from March to May, temperatures soar to well over 30ƒC and the sun is very hot. Be sure to use plenty of sun block, wear a hat and don't spend too long out in the sunshine. Be aware that it is the monsoon season between June and late September.
You can expect torrential rainfall but the weather remains hot. Rain showers lasting 10-30 minutes can produce a considerable amount of rainwater.
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Things To Do
Thailand has more to offer than perfect beaches and great food. There is a fascinating wealth of history and culture, superb nature reserves, and the intriguing cities of Bangkok and Chiang Mai to discover and explore. Here are some essential highlights of the country.
Bangkok
Although this is a city full of highlights, most visitors' first experience of Bangkok can be negative. At first glance it is crowded, stressful and perpetually blocked up with traffic but the city's vibrancy and cultural richness more than make up for it.
There are numerous wats and extraordinarily beautiful buildings to see, including the world's largest teak building, the magnificent Vimanmek Palace. You'll also find endless fascination in the daily life of the city as it thrives on a mixture of the ancient and the modern, and the markets are fabulous places to discover the true spirit of the city. The nightlife is of course legendary, and when the sun goes down be prepared for a roller coaster ride of experiences.
The Grand Palace ñ Bangkok
The Royal Palace complex with its gleaming golden spires and roofs is the magnificent centrepoint of Bangkok's cultural attractions. There are numerous buildings and museums to view, and at least half a day is required to do them justice.
The Palace is no longer inhabited by the Royal family, and several rooms are open to the public, including the European style main hall and more traditional Dusit Hall.
The adjoining Wat Phra Kaeo contains the well-travelled Emerald Buddha (made of jasper) which has healing powers attributed to it and consequently has been stolen several times over the centuries. In the gallery are murals depicting the Ramayana and at the gates, huge multi-coloured demon guardian statues protecting the temple from evil.
Throughout the Grand Palace, and indeed in all wats (temples), you must dress modestly, wearing long trousers or skirts, covered shoulders, and enclosed shoes (no sandals).
Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is Thailand's most visually striking and attractive city. Founded in 1296, it is rich in history and very compact, so walking is an ideal way to explore the more than 300 temples and sites of interest contained within its boundaries.
Thailand's second largest city, Chiang Mai is very different in character to Bangkok. The atmosphere is noticeably less frenetic than the capital. Partly this could be due to the temperature; located far into Northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is always a welcome few degrees cooler than the capital. But it is also due to the influence of the local people who dilute the Western influence that predominates in Bangkok.
The packed clubs of the capital are here replaced by a more relaxed nightlife - the bars are less crowded while people are more inclined to soak up the cultural attractions such as the markets and frequent festivals where a different kind of energy prevails. Meanwhile the surrounding hills are home to many indigenous hill tribes opening up intriguing possibilities for trekking.
Koh Samui
With its palm-fringed beaches of golden sand, Koh Samui is the perfect island you see on all the postcards. Located just off the south-east coast it is easily accessible from Surratham and Phuket by coach and ferry, or by plane from elsewhere in the nation.
Once a backpackers' Mecca, the island has rapidly developed a tourist infrastructure, although there are still a few unspoiled beaches and peaceful villages to discover. Clean water and year-round good weather means conditions are ideal for diving, snorkelling and swimming.
There is a fair amount to see and do away from the beach as well. The coconut groves that produce over two million fruits each month are certainly an ubiquitous sight in the island, but there are also cultural attractions such as the Big Buddha and the secret Buddha Garden in the interior of the island. The Butterfly Garden and the Snake Farm will introduce you to the various creatures that fly, crawl and slither throughout Thailand and Southeast Asia, although the latter does have live displays of animals fighting each other which might not be to everybody's tastes.
For most people though, Koh Samui is the place to find a beach and relax in the sun, at least until it goes down and the famous nightlife swings into action.
Ayutthaya
Thailand's ancient capital was home to over 30 successive royal rulers before its destruction by the Burmese in the 18th century. At its peak, European traders rated its gilded monuments and expansive building complex as the equal of anything back home.
Today, the city makes for a peaceful and rewarding excursion from Bangkok. Rent a bicycle and spend a day exploring the many ruins, contemplating decapitated Buddha statues still carefully tended by local people.
Markets
Thailand has excellent markets scattered throughout the country, reflecting the wonderful diversity of its people and products. Try the fabulous night market in Chiang Mai, Bangkok's irrepressible Chatuchak weekend market and the floral fantasia of the all-night Bangkok flower market.
No purchase in the marketplace can be made without the requisite bout of haggling. Remember: bargain hard, but keep your sense of humour.
Adventure Sports
Geographical diversity and an enthusiasm for meeting tourist needs means that Thailand is the perfect destination for diving, rock climbing, canoeing, trekking and elephant riding. Head north to the area near Chiang Mai for trekking and mountain biking, while the islands of the south are perfect for diving and snorkelling.
Krabi is a rock-climbing centre of international renown and most climbers visiting the country will want to explore the hundreds of routes here.
Health care is generally good in Thailand but remember to take out appropriate insurance before indulging in any adventure sport.
Phuket
Thailand's largest island and most popular beach resort Phuket is an intensely beautiful place. The growth in popularity with overseas visitors has meant that in parts the resorts have taken over, but the natural splendour of the bay's limestone karsts and the pristine beaches shines through and makes this one of the world's best sun, sea and sand destinations.
Lazing on the beach isn't the be all and end all to life on Phuket however. The interior contains a range of moderately high mountains and hidden valleys that are perfect for trekking, while in the towns of the island you'll find energetic communities with great traditional attractions as well as more modern facilities. Off the coast, the Andaman Sea is one of the world's premier dive sites, clear waters, rich maritime life and plenty of unexplored but accessible sites mean that scuba divers come here year round, and there are some great secluded islands nearby where you can easily escape the crowds.
Most visitors stay in Patong Beach, although there are plenty of other places to stay around the island.
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Getting Around
More good news for visitors: Thailand has a world class transport infrastructure and is certainly the best in the region. Through using buses, boats and trains you can reach any destination you choose in style and comfort - and at a very reasonable price. The roads are good, except in rural areas where a bumpy ride is likely. Public buses are mostly air-conditioned and enjoy very comprehensive route coverage.
By Train
Trains are a very comfortable and enjoyable way to cover long distances - especially if you book a sleeper berth. Although more expensive than buses, the ability to move around, interact with other passengers, and sleep the night away are significant compensations. Prices vary according to the class of travel, journey distance and whether a sleeper berth is required. Two pieces of advice: Book well ahead and bring your own food.
There are four main railway lines, plus some side routes. The main routes radiate from Bangkok: north to Chiang Mai; south to Hat Yai; east to Ubon Ratchathani; and north-east to Nong Khai. Good timetables in English are available free of charge at Hualamphong train station in central Bangkok, near Chinatown.
Two rail passes are available from the State Railway of Thailand (SRT): The 20-day blue pass costs THB2000 for unlimited 2nd class travel; and the 20-day red pass costs THB3000 for 1st class travel. Note that sleeping berths and air-conditioned compartments involve a supplementary charge.
By Bus
The bus service is astoundingly efficient and comprehensive. Most services are air-conditioned - sometimes to the point where blankets are handed out. Free drinks, snacks, pillows and on-board movies or karaoke are also standard issue. From Bangkok, buses leave from one of four main stations according to the general direction of the destination. Thus, you would leave from the Northern Terminal for Chiang Mai, and the Eastern Terminal for Cambodia.
By Car
Most large cities have vehicle rental facilities. The most useful will be 4-wheel drive jeeps or vans, while motorbikes and scooters are popular for day-trips and inter-city exploring. A valid international driver's license is needed, and insurance is a must.
Most rental places will have pre-insured their vehicles - ask, in the nicest possible way, to see proof of this. If none is forthcoming it is advisable to walk away, even if it does seem discourteous. If you have an accident while riding in or on a rental vehicle, you are in for a hard time.
A valid International Driving License is required if you wish to hire a car in Thailand. Your passport and driving license must be carried with you at all times when driving. To rent a vehicle in Thailand, you must be 21 years of age.
Driving is on the left and you must overtake on the right hand side. Seatbelts must be worn where fitted. The speed limit in cities is 60km per hour (35mph) and 90-100km per hour (52-60mph) on open roads outside the city where signed. Road signs are in both Thai and English. Avoid driving in Bangkok - the traffic is a nightmare.
Consumption of alcohol and other stimulants while driving is not an uncommon phenomenon, nor are traffic accidents (the two aren't completely unrelated). A shortage of ambulances makes it hard for accident victims to receive medical assistance quickly.
By Air
Although ground transport is very efficient in Thailand, internal flights can be a good option when you want to cover a long distance in a short time. Thai Airways International and Bangkok Airways have excellent route coverage on both an internal and regional level.
Naturally, prices vary but, as a guide, expect to pay (from Bangkok) roughly THB2000 to Phuket and THB1800 to Chiang Mai. For international flights a THB500 departure tax is payable at the airport check-in counter; the domestic departure tax is a more modest THB50. Samui Airport and Sukhothai airports are fully owned by Bangkok Airways, which imposes a tax of THB500 for every journey.
By Boat
Boats and ferries are required to get you from the mainland to the offshore islands in the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand. Tickets are generally bought on board and prices depend largely on the speed of crossing. During the rainy season (Jun-Oct), a reduced service may be in operation.
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