{"id":2,"date":"2026-04-04T10:04:43","date_gmt":"2026-04-04T08:04:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.conmochila.com\/en\/?page_id=2"},"modified":"2026-04-04T10:04:45","modified_gmt":"2026-04-04T08:04:45","slug":"thailand-travel-guide","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.conmochila.com\/en\/thailand-travel-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"Thailand"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
Have you ever dreamed of grabbing your backpack and traveling to Thailand<\/strong> on your own? Do you want to experience those paradisiacal beaches, cities filled with temples, and tropical landscapes without spending all your savings? More and more people are visiting this Asian destination, and more and more are daring to explore it on their own. Do you want to be one of them?<\/p>\n\n\n\n After many visits to the country and months living in a couple of its cities, we can attest that Thailand is one of the easiest countries to explore and perfect to start your backpacking journey. In this guide, we will explain how. Read carefully!<\/p>\n\n\n\n In Thailand, there’s something called “Visa Exempt,” which means you can stay for 60 days (if you enter by air or land) without the need to obtain a visa, and it’s free of charge. However, if you wish to stay in the country for a longer period, you will need to apply for a Thailand visa.<\/p>\n\n\n\n We explain everything in an easy and practical way in the previous link (coming soon), along with links to articles where we explain how to obtain a visa if you are in other Southeast Asian countries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n And if you’re so comfortable that you decide to stay longer, you can extend your visa in various places.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you’re planning to travel around the country, having a travel insurance for Thailand<\/a><\/strong> is not just a good idea \u2014 it\u2019s essential. Medical costs in private hospitals can rise quickly, especially if you\u2019re moving between islands, doing activities or traveling long distances.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In this guide, we explain what kind of coverage you actually need and how to choose the right option for your trip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you’re already thinking about a trip to Thailand, we’re sure you’ve started looking for flights to Bangkok to get an idea of the price range. That’s why we’re going to leave you some tips when looking for cheap flights to Bangkok and be able to take advantage of the savings you make to spend in the country.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the previous link, we show you step-by-step the process to save on your flights. Check it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Traveling across Thailand often means changing locations frequently, combining cities, islands and different types of transport. In these situations, having a reliable internet connection can be useful to check information, manage bookings or adapt plans on the go.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Using an eSIM for Thailand<\/strong><\/a> can help you stay connected throughout your trip without needing to change your physical SIM card.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The optimal time to visit Thailand is between November and early April. During these months, the weather is pleasantly cool and dry, making it perfect for exploring cities, beaches, and cultural sites. This period also coincides with several vibrant festivals and events, adding to the appeal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you\u2019re looking for a quieter experience and don\u2019t mind the occasional heavy rainfall, consider traveling during the rainy season from June to October. This time brings lush greenery and fewer crowds, though you should be prepared for sporadic downpours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The hot season, from March to June, can be quite intense with high temperatures, particularly in Central and Northern Thailand. Coastal regions, such as the Southern Islands, remain somewhat cooler and are still a good option if you\u2019re seeking sun and sea.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Thailand is relatively easy to travel, but distances between regions can be longer than they first appear. Most trips require combining flights, trains, buses and ferries, especially when moving between the north, the Andaman coast and the Gulf islands. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Bangkok functions as the country\u2019s main transport hub, and nearly every long-distance journey passes through the capital. If you\u2019re planning multiple stops, this guide to getting around Thailand<\/a><\/strong> explains how the country\u2019s transport system connects its main region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Certain vaccines are recommended depending on the type of trip and the duration of your stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The best approach is to schedule an appointment at an international vaccination center well in advance, as waiting lists can be long. There, specialized doctors can advise you, answer all your questions, and provide tailored recommendations. In addition, they will give you essential information on preparing your first aid kit and preventing diseases with basic precautions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Knowledge is power\u2014once you have all the necessary information, you\u2019ll be able to make the best decision for your trip.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Phuket<\/a><\/strong> is the largest and most touristy island in Thailand. It has plenty of reasons to attract visitors, with its beaches ranging from kilometers-long stretches to just a few meters. However, its allure has captured the interest of tourists from around the world to the point where some consider it a lost paradise.<\/p>\n\n\n Finding secluded corners is impossible, although if you’re willing to move around, you can discover less crowded places. If you’re looking for tranquility, Phuket might not be the best option, but if you’re seeking a beach and party destination, you’ve come to the right place.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Koh Phi Phi<\/strong><\/a> boasts some of Thailand’s most beautiful coves. However, if you’re planning to explore the Andaman Sea and revel in the splendor of this archipelago, it’s best to know the ins and outs of this location to avoid disappointments.<\/p>\n\n\n This archipelago is perhaps the most desired by mass tourism visiting Thailand, partly because its islands host Thailand’s most famous beach, Maya Bay. As a result, these islands, though stunning, can be quite crowded.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The island of Koh Phangan<\/a><\/strong> is renowned for the famous Full Moon Party and is the middle one among the three largest islands in the Gulf of Thailand archipelago.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Despite its fame, not everything on this island revolves around parties. Travelers can choose between small and quiet beaches, perfect for days of relaxation away from the rest of humanity, and other more vibrant beaches where you can do all kind of activities and have the best party of your life.<\/p>\n\n\n But one thing they all have in common is their tremendous beauty, which will make you dream about the days you spent in Koh Phangan for the rest of your life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If Phuket is the largest and most developed tourist island in Thailand, then Koh Samui<\/a><\/strong> is its direct rival. They share many characteristics: considerable size, an abundance of roads, shops, gigantic resorts, hospitals, an array of party bars, and, of course, a variety of beaches, some heavily crowded and others more secluded.<\/p>\n\n\n What sets Koh Samui apart? First, its relative seclusion and manageable size, allowing you to explore it in a day. Getting to the Gulf of Thailand archipelago is more expensive and challenging than reaching many other destinations, which has kept the level of mass tourism lower. It’s often said to be expensive as well, but that’s mostly true for the central area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The most beautiful scenes of the Thai sea embracing fine sandy stretches surrounded by tropical jungles are found on the islands. However, Krabi<\/a><\/strong> is a peninsula on the mainland, and it’s perhaps the only one of notable beauty alongside Hua Hin.<\/p>\n\n\n What makes the province of Krabi unique is that, despite not having the country’s best waters, it does have exceptional lakes and mountains. It’s also an ideal location for witnessing the most spectacular beaches of the Andaman Sea. If you’re interested in tours, this is the perfect spot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Situated in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Tao<\/a><\/strong> is the smaller sister of Koh Samui and also our favorite. If there’s one thing this island is known for, it’s its crystal-clear waters and underwater fauna that have made it one of the primary destinations for scuba diving courses in Thailand.<\/p>\n\n\n But if scuba diving isn’t your thing, Koh Tao also offers several beaches where you can snorkel and explore the underwater world. Rent a motorbike, get some goggles and a snorkel kit, grab a map from the 7-Eleven, and explore the island.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Koh Lipe<\/a><\/strong> is one of the islands in the Adang Archipelago located in the Andaman Sea, southwest of Thailand. It’s part of the Tarutao National Marine Park, and its inhabitants are the Chau Leh, a nomadic ethnic group with a life closely tied to the sea, commonly known as the sea gypsies.<\/p>\n\n\n The island is so small that you can walk from one end to the other without getting too tired. Its three major beaches are true wonders, with Pattaya and Sunrise beaches featuring white, powdery sand as fine as flour, turquoise waters, and coral reefs. It’s truly spectacular!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Comprising a group of islands in the Andaman Sea, southwest of Thailand, and belonging to the Krabi province, Koh Lanta<\/a><\/strong> is a perfect destination for restiing a few days without getting bored. Its lower popularity and tourist influx help it maintain its unique character.<\/p>\n\n\n Blessed with long beaches adorned with coconut trees and bars playing continuous chillout music, Koh Lanta Yai, the largest island in the archipelago, attracts families, couples, and solo travelers seeking peace after weeks of hectic travel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The once lesser-known island of Koh Phayam<\/a><\/strong>, with its peaceful atmosphere and nearly untouched natural beauty, has now become the perfect destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Thailand’s more touristy and crowded areas.<\/p>\n\n\n Very close to the Myanmar border, once home to the Moken and a haven for the most bohemian, Koh Phayam now hosts those who dream of finding a corner of the country that still holds a piece of what travelers used to discover when only a few daring souls grabbed their backpacks and ventured into the most hidden places of Southeast Asia, though that may now be just an illusion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Koh Yao Yai<\/a><\/strong> is a Thai island which name hints at its size, indicating that it’s big and extensive. However, when compared to the enormous Phuket, its dimensions are relative.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What this destination does offer is an almost deserted island, with beautiful pristine beaches and spectacular vegetation. Don’t go there looking for parties or crowd, as it is ideal to relax or to be alone. Or close to it.<\/p>\n\n\n It’s even surprising that tourism has given this Thai island a break, as it’s home to one of the most beautiful stretches of sea in the country. Remarkably, there isn’t a single bar, beach shack, or even street vendors on the island.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Very popular among Russians, Chinese, as well as Thais, Koh Larn<\/a><\/strong> is a small island off the coast of Pattaya. Some guides omit mentioning it due to the tourist invasion it once suffered and its proximity to a city known in the West for its reputation in the sex tourism industry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, letting these biases make you forget about this beach destination would be a mistake.<\/p>\n\n\n Koh Larn boasts genuinely beautiful vegetation and beaches. If you venture beyond the main bay – which, during high season, can indeed resemble a theme park – you’ll find lovely cafes with views, small eco-friendly hotels, beaches with few people, and some genuinely picturesque local areas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Despite being Thailand’s second-largest island, Koh Chang<\/a><\/strong>, located in the Gulf of Thailand, often goes unnoticed among foreign tourists, which contributes to its relaxed atmosphere.<\/p>\n\n\n Although it doesn’t have the country’s best beaches, which doesn’t imply they’re unattractive by Southeast Asian standards, it has its advantages: it’s not as far from Bangkok as some other islands, boat trips to nearby islands are possible, and its prices are very reasonable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n On the island of Koh Kood<\/a><\/strong>, there isn’t much to do if you don’t like water. Its main attractions are its pristine beaches, where crowds are scarce, waterfalls, century-old trees, and a few giant Buddha statues.<\/p>\n\n\n However, it’s not the right destination if you’re seeking a party, or even if you’re looking for some action, as there are only a few restaurants and fewer drinking spots.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Moreover, Koh Kood doesn’t have any 7\/11 convenience stores, and they’re not expected either, which speaks a lot about its personality and the island’s desire to remain calm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For a while, there was a myth saying that Koh Maak<\/a><\/strong> was the most beautiful island in Thailand, mainly due to the difficulty to access it and minimal tourist industry. Those were times when it was relatively unknown. Nowadays, it’s a bit more popular, but not excessively so.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Comparisons are unavoidable but necessary in Koh Maak’s case, as it’s located next to Koh Kood, which is a bit larger and has more to offer. Additionally, Koh Kood is undoubtedly more popular and attracts more travelers.<\/p>\n\n\n Perhaps what we love most about Koh Maak is that the island has chosen to stay away from tourist crowds. There are limitations on the number of rental motorbikes, foreign businesses are not allowed on the island, and strict rules prohibit littering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Koh Samet<\/a><\/strong> is often referred to as the “beach of Bangkok” due to its proximity to the capital. However, far from being an idyllic place, high prices, crowds, and numerous boats docking on its beaches can sometimes overshadow its beauty.<\/p>\n\n\n Furthermore, on windy days, the eastern beaches have strong currents, making them less enjoyable. We were so disappointed that we only recommend this island if you’re desperate for a beach and have ruled out all the others for some reason or another.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It’s common to think that in a tourist-heavy country like Thailand, everything would be crowded and overrun by international brands. While this doesn’t take away from the undeniable beauty of places like Phuket or Koh Samui, these islands are typically enjoyed for their vacation atmosphere.<\/p>\n\n\n\n But if you’re looking for nature and remote spots, those also exist. Our guide to Koh Surin<\/a><\/strong> aims to reveal a paradise far removed from the tourist industry.<\/p>\n\n\n It’s not easy to reach Koh Surin, and that’s one of the reasons it hasn’t become overcrowded. But another significant reason is that it’s considered a protected natural park, hosting a marine environment that some consider among the top 10 in the world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The western Andaman Sea in Thailand is one of the best places in the world when it comes to marine environments. The Koh Surin archipelago has snorkeling spots ranked among the top 10 globally.<\/p>\n\n\n\n But if you think about diving, the best spot in the entire country and one of the top 10 worldwide is off the coast of Khao Lak, and we introduce it to you in this guide to the Similan Islands<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n This small group of nine islands\u2014of which only six are accessible\u2014is known for being home to many turtles, so it’s quite common that when you swim in its beautiful snorkeling areas, you’ll find yourself surrounded by them. And to protect these marine animals, three of the islands are completely closed to the public.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In terms of beach tourism in Thailand, Khao Lak<\/a><\/strong> is considered a secondary destination. It doesn’t have the fame of Phuket or Koh Samui, but it\u2019s not as remote as, for example, Koh Kood. But that’s not a bad thing; on the contrary. It’s a town with very beautiful beaches, much nicer than the popular Ao Nang in Krabi.<\/p>\n\n\n And it\u2019s also the gateway to some of the best paradises in the region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Hua Hin<\/a><\/strong> will never be the destination for those who have very few days in Thailand and want to experience its best beaches, as they are not spectacular. However, those who opt for a quiet and pleasant place with good restaurants and hotels might find it to be the perfect spot for a two or three-day getaway.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The city is worth visiting, as it was the residence for several Thai monarchs and has become a retreat for many retired Westerners.<\/p>\n\n\n Hua Hin, the favored coastal city of the Thai royal family, is more enjoyable on weekends and it is ideal for those who want to escape a bit from international tourism. There are Thai night markets, a water park, and plenty of seafood restaurants.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n Sooner or later, you’ll find yourself in Bangkok<\/a><\/strong>, even though we’re not big fans of big cities, we acknowledge that the capital of Thailand has a lot to offer.<\/p>\n\n\n Spend a night near Khao San Road and experience its backpacker atmosphere, visit floating markets like Amphawa, witness the Thai people’s affection for the king at the Royal Palace, marvel at enormous Buddhas (Wat Intharawihan) and reclining Buddhas (Wat Pho), explore the city by navigating the Chao Phraya River, and try your first local dishes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Devote a couple of days of your trip to this bustling city. After that, the rest of the country will seem like a haven of peace.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If there’s a city in the northern part of the country that we believe every traveler should include in their Thailand itinerary, it’s Chiang Mai<\/a><\/strong>. The capital of the province of the same name welcomes tourists from all around the world every day, captivating them with its cultural richness, temples (don’t miss our guide to the temples of Chiang Mai, coming soon), nature, and markets.<\/p>\n\n\n Anchor yourself for a couple of days, take excursions to its surroundings, and get lost in the labyrinthine alleyways of the historic center. There’s nothing like ending the day with a traditional Thai massage or enjoying the views from Wat Phra That Doi Suthep.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The historical city of Ayutthaya<\/a><\/strong> is one of Thailand’s main tourist destinations. The ruins of the former capital of the kingdom are today the Ayutthaya Historical Park, which was recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1991.<\/p>\n\n\n With a unique and decadent history, once being a major center of diplomacy and world trade, Ayutthaya is now an archaeological ruin, characterized by the remains of large prangs (towers) and Buddhist monasteries of monumental proportions that give an idea of the city’s size and the splendor of its architecture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![]()
BEFORE YOU GO<\/h2>
BEFORE YOU GO<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Thailand Tourist Visa<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Travel Insurance for Thailand<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Flights to Bangkok<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Internet and eSIM in Thailand<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
When to Go to Thailand<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Travel Tip<\/strong>: Check out our article on the best time to visit Thailand<\/a><\/strong> for month-by-month climate information.<\/p>\n\n\n\nGetting Around Thailand<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Vaccines<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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BEACHES<\/h2>
Beaches<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Phuket<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Koh Phi Phi<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Koh Phangan<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Koh Samui<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Krabi<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Koh Tao<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Koh Lipe<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Koh Lanta<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Koh Phayam<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Koh Yao Yai<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Koh Larn<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Koh Chang<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\nKoh Kood<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\nKoh Maak<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Koh Samet<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\nKoh Surin<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Similan islands<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Khao Lak<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Hua Hin<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\nCITIES<\/h2>
CITIES<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Bangkok<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Chiang Mai<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Ayutthaya<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Sukhothai<\/h3>\n\n\n\n