Thailand

Thailand is a rich and varied country with high standards of luxury and service that are sometimes off the scale. The capital Bangkok twists around the Chao Phraya River and is home to incredible temples, floating markets and happening restaurants and bars. To the south of Bangkok lie the many incredible coastal areas and islands that have made Thailand such a mecca for those in search of sybaritic pleasures. Phuket is a sublime island of rainforests and white beaches by the turquoise Andaman Sea. Khao Lak in the Phang Nga province of southern Thailand leads to the dive sanctuaries of Similan and Surin islands. Head north from Bangkok and there’s a totally different side to Thailand. In this landlocked region is the country’s cultural heartland with Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai offering temples, Buddhist shines, cookery courses and elephant treks through the jungle.

Top Accommodation

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  Amanpuri

  Thailand

  Perfect for travellers who appreciate natural elegance.

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  1 rating

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  Banyan Tree Phuket

  Thailand

  One of the world's finest spa hotels

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  1 rating

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  Phulay Bay, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve

  Thailand

  The resort’s contemporary style includes lavish rainforest shower

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  2 ratings

  1 review

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  Six Senses Sanctuary

  Thailand

  A premier destination spa,

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  1 rating

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Top Restaurants

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  Chiva-Som

  Thailand

  The most dedicated spa-resort in Thailand

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  0 ratings

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  Six Senses Sanctuary

  Thailand

  A premier destination spa,

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  1 rating

  0 reviews

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  Trisara, Phuket

  Thailand

  the most intimate resort in South East Asia

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  0 ratings

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  Six Senses Yao Noi

  Thailand

  Enjoys a prime spot overlooking Phang Nga Bay's limestone karsts

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  1 rating

  0 reviews

Thailand has a tropical climate with hot weather between March and May. The monsoon runs from June to October when it’s still hot and humid with torrential rains. The best time to travel is November to February when it’s cooler. Southern islands are best from June to September.

Transport

Getting there and away

Entry procedures for Thailand, by air or by land, are straightforward: you'll have to show your passport, and you'll need to present completed arrival and departure cards. Flights, tours and rail tickets can be booked online at www.lonelyplanet.com/bookings.

Getting around

Thailand has a wide array of transport options, from motorcycle taxis to rail and everything in betwee. Do a little research before selecting your mode of transport on what is the quickest and most comfortable option.

Health & Legal Requirements

Dangers and annoyances

In Bangkok, unlicensed taxis, recognisable by their black and white licence plates, should be avoided. This is most relevant for solo women travelling at night. Look for licensed taxis that have yellow and black licence plates. Be aware that the number of drink spiking incidents in Bangkok is on the rise.

Take care when leaving valuables in hotel safes. Obtain an itemised receipt for property left with hotels or guesthouses - note the exact quantity (and record the corresponding numbers) of travellers cheques and all other valuables. When you're on the road, keep zippered luggage secured with small locks, especially while travelling on buses and trains.

Widespread political demonstrations and civil unrest in Thailand over the previous two years have led to fatalities and injuries. Turmoil in Bangkok and other parts of Thailand from March to May 2010 resulted in more than 1900 injuries and 80 deaths. In April 2010, the Thai Government declared a state of emergency, which remains in force in Bangkok and many other provinces. Acquaint yourself with, and adhere to, relevant emergency-law provisions wherever you travel in Thailand.

Further conflict and violence is a possibility, so check Thailand's security situation before you travel at home-country government agencies such as the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Travel (www.smartraveller.gov.au) or the US Department of State (travel.state.gov).