Joanna James
Planning a trip to Thailand for the first time? Well, you are going to be spoilt for choice when it comes to things to see, do and experience! As with any destination, proper planning will go a long way to make your getaway one that is unforgettable and rewarding.
You need to be respectful of Thai culture and religious beliefs. Remember to dress conservatively covering legs and shoulders when visiting places like temples; at such sites, you will need to remove your footwear and shoes / caps too. Do not disrespect the monarchy in any way and when the national and royal anthems are played (at places like the cinema) do stand up.
Before heading to Thailand, you may want to consider what season to travel in. The dry season generally runs from November to April and you can expect the best weather with plenty of sunshine; of course, it also means higher accommodation and airfare rates. May to October is the monsoon season and while you will have to face periods of rain, rates are lower and the crowds are fewer too.
When selecting accommodation be it for leisure or business, find a place to stay that not only has attractive rates but is well-placed too; you don't want to end up spending a lot on transport or transfer costs. For example, travellers can look to stay at a Bangkok resort or a hotel Khon Kaen has to offer such as Avani Khon Kaen Hotel & Convention Centre near both the airport and local attractions.
While there is much to experience in Thai cities, do make time to visit some of the country's enchanting islands too. Depending on the time you have, look to enjoy island-hopping adventures to some of these destinations which offer beachside bliss, water sports, sightseeing, nightlife and more. Popular holiday islands in Thailand include Phuket, Koh Samui, Koh Phi Phi and Koh Phangan which is home to the monthly full moon parties.
Just as important as seeing the many attractions is the chance to savour the delectable street food in Thailand. You can easily find street-side eateries and stalls as well as local markets where authentic local dishes are made and sold; the good thing is, many of these are relatively cheap too. Amongst the top choices for foodies to try are pad Thai, tom yum, red and green Thai curries, som tam and mango sticky rice.
No matter where in Thailand you travel to, it is advisable to avoid drinking water straight from the tap; the last thing you want is an upset stomach which may happen. Without taking any chances, stick to bottled or filtered water. An eco-friendly option would be to bring a reusable bottle which you can fill when needed be it at the hotel or resort or for a small fee, from water dispensers on the street.
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