If you are in the midst of planning your first trip to Thailand and are feeling overwhelmed, you are in good company. I had no idea what to expect when I went the first time.
But it proved to be among the easiest, most welcoming places to visit. This is not going to be one of those guides that tells you that you have to see everything or crams in buzzwords
It’s just a real chat about what it’s like, what you need to know, and a few things I wish someone had told me before I went.
Why Go at All?
First off, Thailand is brilliant. It’s friendly, affordable, and there’s something for everyone. You can sit on a beach all day or wander through ancient temples. You can party all night or have a quiet cup of tea in the mountains.
Best part? It’s easy for beginners. Loads of people speak English, there’s a big travel community, and it’s well set up for visitors.
When to Go
This is one of the most common questions I get.
There are three main seasons:
- Cool and dry (Nov–Feb): Best time. Not too hot. Less rain. Also busier.
- Hot (Mar–May): It’s really hot. Like, sweating all day, hot.
- Rainy (Jun–Oct): Rains often, but usually short, heavy bursts. Things are greener, prices are lower.
If you want easy, go in winter. But honestly, Thailand’s fun any time—you just plan around the weather.
Visa Stuff
Most people can get in without much fuss. From the US, you get 30 days on arrival if you fly in. You don’t usually need to show much except your passport and sometimes proof of onward travel.
Just check your own country’s rules before you book. Better to be sure.
Where to Go
Thailand’s big. You can’t see it all at once. Don’t try to. Pick a couple of places and do them properly.
Bangkok
Chaotic but fun. Temples, markets, and street food. It’s busy, but there’s energy to it.
Chiang Mai
In the north. More relaxed. Great for temples, night markets, trekking, and cooking classes.
The Islands
Loads of options. Phuket’s busy. Koh Lanta’s chill. Koh Samui is in between. Koh Tao is for diving.
Ayutthaya
Old ruins, easy day trip from Bangkok. Worth it if you like history.
Choose based on what you actually want to do, not what looks good on Instagram.
Getting Around
It’s surprisingly simple.
- Flights: Cheap if you book early. AirAsia, Nok Air, Thai Lion Air.
- Trains: Overnight ones are fun. Bit slower, but an experience.
- Buses: Cheap and pretty comfy. VIP ones have big seats and snacks.
- Tuk-tuks: Negotiate the price first.
- Taxis: Insist on the meter or use Grab (like Uber).
- Scooters: Popular, but be careful. Wear a helmet. Loads of tourists crash.
I used everything. Don’t overthink it.
What to Pack
I always packed too much. You don’t need much.
- Light clothes—it’s hot.
- A jumper for chilly buses.
- Decent walking sandals or trainers.
- A swimsuit.
- Clothes that cover the shoulders and knees for the temples.
- Sunscreen—it costs a fortune there.
- Basic meds. Pharmacies are everywhere, but it’s nice to have your own stuff.
Don’t bring loads of shoes. They’ll just weigh you down.
Food and Water
The food is honestly one of the best parts. Don’t be scared of street food. It’s often safer than empty restaurants because it’s made fresh and always busy.
Just watch them cook it and go to the places with lines.
Water: Don’t drink from the tap. Bottled water is cheap. Most hotels have refill stations too.
If you’re new to spicy food, tell them “not spicy.” Thai spicy is no joke.
Money Tips
Cash is king in most places.
ATMs charge a fee for foreign cards, so take out a bit more at once if you can.
Markets, street stalls, small shops—cash only. Bigger places might take cards, but don’t count on it.
Staying Safe
Thailand is generally safe. Just have some common sense.
- Don’t leave your stuff unattended.
- Just don’t get so wasted that you wander off by yourself.
- Be careful on scooters.
- Beware of the standard scams (somebody trying to convince you a temple is closed so they can sell you a tour, overpriced tuk-tuks).
Nothing too frightening, just plain old travel smarts.
Culture Stuff
Thai people are polite and appreciate it when you are too.
- Dress modestly for temples—cover shoulders and knees.
- Take off your shoes before entering homes or certain shops.
- Don’t touch people’s heads.
- A smile goes a long way.
They’re used to tourists, but a bit of respect makes things nicer.
A Few Final Thoughts
If you’ve never traveled to a place like this, the anticipation can be overwhelming. But honestly? Once you’re there, you’ll find it’s simple.
People are friendly. The food is amazing. The scenery is stunning.
My best advice? Don’t attempt too much on a single trip. Take it easy, enjoy where you are, and talk to people. Sometimes, the best moments are the little ones you didn’t even plan.
And if at all in doubt, ask someone. You’d be surprised how willing people are to lend a hand.
So yeah—pack a backpack, buy a plane ticket, and go visit Thailand. It’s worth it. And you’ll likely want to return, again and again.
