Thailand Travel FAQs - Detailed Answers from Threeland Travel

What is the best time to visit Thailand?

Thailand is beautiful year-round, but your ideal time depends on what you want to do. The cool, dry season (November-February) is the most comfortable for sightseeing and beach days - days are bright and humidity is lower. March-May is hot, which can be great for beach lovers and island-hopping but less pleasant for long temple walks. The green/monsoon season (June-October) brings daily showers (often short and heavy), fewer crowds, and lush scenery - it’s a great time for lower prices and peaceful beaches. If you love festivals, plan around Songkran (mid-April) for water festivities or Loy Krathong/Yi Peng (Nov) for lanterns. At Threeland, we’ll tailor your trip to the season you prefer - whether that’s lively high season or a quieter green-season escape.

Do I need a visa to travel to Thailand?

Visa rules depend on your nationality and entry method. Many passport holders receive a visa exemption for short stays (typically around 15-30 days), while others need a visa on arrival or to apply for a tourist visa in advance. If you plan a longer stay, multiple entries, or special activities (work, volunteering), different visas apply. To avoid surprises we check the latest entry rules for your nationality when you book; Threeland can help with visa guidance and provide the documents you need for a smooth arrival.

Is Thailand safe for tourists?

Yes - Thailand is a well-travelled destination and generally very safe. Most visits are trouble-free: locals are friendly, and tourism infrastructure is excellent. The main things to watch for are petty theft in crowded markets and traffic-related risks (Thai roads can be busy). Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps at night, keep valuables secure, and follow local advice. When you travel with Threeland, we work with vetted partners and experienced guides so you can explore confidently.

How many days should I spend in Thailand?

That depends on how deep you want your experience to be. Suggested trip lengths:

• 7-10 days - Good for first-timers: Bangkok + Chiang Mai + one beach/island.
• 10-14 days - Great for a north-to-south loop: Bangkok → Chiang Mai → Ayutthaya/Sukhothai → Phuket/Krabi/Koh Samui.
• 2+ weeks - Comfortable pace to add off-the-beaten-path places (Pai, Kanchanaburi, Khao Sok, Koh Lipe).

We build itineraries to fit your pace - from relaxed beach stays to activity-packed cultural trips - and advise how many days to allocate to each spot.

What is the best way to travel around Thailand (train, bus, flight)?

Thailand’s transport network is versatile:

• Domestic flights are plentiful and time-efficient for long distances (Bangkok↔Chiang Mai, Bangkok↔Phuket, Bangkok↔Koh Samui).
• Trains offer scenic, relaxed travel (the overnight sleeper to Chiang Mai is popular).
• Buses and minivans are cheap and frequent, ideal for medium-distance travel.
• Ferries/speedboats connect islands.

If you prefer comfort and time savings, we’ll recommend flights for long legs and private transfers or trains for scenic stretches. Threeland coordinates all logistics so your transfers are seamless.

What are the must-visit places in Thailand?

There’s so much to love. A balanced starter list:

• Bangkok - Grand Palace, Wat Pho, floating markets, buzzing street food.
• Chiang Mai - ancient temples, mountain scenery, night markets, and festivals.
• Ayutthaya & Sukhothai - UNESCO ruins and history.
• Phuket / Krabi / Koh Samui / Koh Phi Phi / Koh Tao - beach and sea adventures.
• Khao Sok National Park - jungle, lake stays, and wildlife.
• Pai & Chiang Rai - relaxed mountain towns and unique temples.

We mix iconic sights with quieter local experiences so you see both the highlights and Thailand’s soul.

Which are the best islands in Thailand (Phuket, Koh Samui, Koh Phi Phi, etc.)?

Each island suits a style:

• Phuket - big island with a wide range of hotels, activities, and good transport links.
• Koh Samui - balance of relaxation and upscale options.
• Koh Phi Phi - dramatic scenery (busy in high season).
• Koh Tao - top for diving and laid-back vibe.
• Koh Lanta & Koh Lipe - quieter, family-friendly or remote paradise.
• Similan / Surin Islands - world-class diving (seasonal).

Tell us your vibe - party, family, diving, quiet retreat - and we’ll recommend the best island match.

What are the top things to do in Bangkok?

Bangkok is a feast for the senses:

• Visit Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew (Emerald Buddha) - arrive early to avoid crowds.
• Explore Wat Pho (Reclining Buddha) and try an authentic Thai massage there.
• Cruise the Chao Phraya River and visit the riverside communities.
• Hunt street food in Chinatown (Yaowarat) or at night markets.
• Shop at Chatuchak Weekend Market or boutique malls for unique finds.
• Enjoy rooftop dining and vibrant nightlife or a cultural performance.

With Threeland you can have skip-the-line access, private temple tours, and evening food tours to taste the best stalls.

Is Chiang Mai worth visiting?

Yes - Chiang Mai has a relaxed, cultural charm many travelers fall in love with. Highlights: ancient city walls and temples, Doi Suthep for sunrise/sunset views, hands-on cooking classes, hiking and hill-tribe visits, ethical elephant sanctuaries, and lively night bazaars. The city’s festivals (Yi Peng lantern release, Songkran celebrations) make it especially magical. We recommend 3-4 days to really soak it in.

What are the best beaches in Thailand?

Thailand’s beaches cover every taste:

• Railay (Krabi) - dramatic limestone cliffs and stunning bays.
• Phuket - multiple beaches from lively Patong to quieter Kata/Karon.
• Koh Samui - family friendly and spa retreats.
• Koh Lipe & Koh Phi Phi - exceptional snorkeling and scenery.
• Ngapali and islands in the west - quieter, pristine sands.

Whether you want water sports, island hopping, or quiet hammock time, we’ll help select beaches that match your wish list.

What Thai dishes should I try?

Thai food is a highlight:

• Pad Thai - tasty stir-fried noodles.
• Tom Yum Goong - hot and sour prawn soup.
• Green / Massaman curry - aromatic, coconut-based curries.
• Som Tam - spicy papaya salad.
• Khao Soi - northern coconut curry noodle soup (Chiang Mai specialty).
• Mango sticky rice - must for dessert season.

Threeland Travel can arrange food tours and cooking classes so you can learn to make your favorites.

Where can I find the best street food in Bangkok or Chiang Mai?

• Bangkok: Chinatown (Yaowarat), Bang Rak, and the Khlong Toey area for authentic eats; night markets like Rod Fai and Chinatown’s late stalls for variety.
• Chiang Mai: Sunday Walking Street, Chang Phuak Gate for khao soi, and local wet markets for breakfast specialties.

We always recommend eating where locals queue - it’s usually the best sign of freshness and flavor. Threeland guides take you to trusted stalls and explain what to order.

What cultural etiquette should I follow in Thailand?

Thailand values respect and calm:

• Always remove shoes before entering temples and some homes.
• Dress modestly at religious sites (cover shoulders and knees).
• Use a gentle wai (palms together) to greet or say thank you.
• Never touch someone’s head and avoid pointing feet at people or religious objects.
• Show respect to the monarchy in conversation (avoid political comments).

Our guides provide a short etiquette briefing so you’ll feel comfortable and respectful throughout your trip.

What is the Songkran Festival and should I experience it?

Songkran (mid-April) is Thailand’s New Year and a national celebration famous for its water-splashing. It’s both a joyful water fight in the streets and a time for merit-making at temples and family gatherings. If you enjoy lively cultural experiences, Songkran is unforgettable - but plan ahead (book early) and be ready to get wet. Threeland can help you balance the festive fun with quieter cultural moments so you experience both sides.

What are Thailand’s famous temples and landmarks?

Key landmarks to visit:

• Wat Phra Kaew & Grand Palace (Bangkok) - Thailand’s spiritual heart.
• Wat Pho (Bangkok) - Reclining Buddha and massage school.
• Wat Arun (Bangkok) - riverside temple at sunrise.
• Doi Suthep (Chiang Mai) - hilltop sanctuary with panoramic views.
• Wat Rong Khun (White Temple, Chiang Rai) - contemporary art-meets-religion.
• Ayutthaya & Sukhothai - ancient kingdoms with evocative ruins.

We pair visits with local stories and optional private ceremonies if you’re interested.

What are the best hotels in Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai?

Thailand has options for all tastes: boutique riverside stays and five-star palaces in Bangkok, beachfront resorts and private villas in Phuket, and charming heritage hotels and jungle retreats in Chiang Mai. At Threeland we select properties based on location, service and value - and we can create hotel lists tailored to families, couples, or solo travelers with direct booking links and insider perks.

Is Thailand a budget-friendly destination?

Yes - Thailand offers excellent value. Street food, local transport and budget hotels keep costs low, while luxury options remain more affordable than many global destinations. Whether you want a backpacker itinerary or a high-comfort private tour, Threeland will design a plan to match your budget without sacrificing quality.

How much does a trip to Thailand cost?

Costs depend on season, length, and style:

• Budget: roughly $40-60/day (guesthouses, street food, public transport).
• Mid-range: $80-150/day (3-4 star hotels, some guided tours, domestic flights).
• Luxury: $200+/day (5-star hotels, private drivers, exclusive experiences).

Multi-day private packages and seasonal events (Songkran, Loy Krathong) will affect price; Threeland provides transparent quotes that list all inclusions so you can plan confidently.

Can I use USD in Thailand or do I need Thai Baht?

The official currency is the Thai Baht (THB). Larger hotels, some tour operators, and duty-free shops may accept USD, but everyday purchases require baht. ATMs are widespread in cities and tourist areas. We advise carrying some cash in baht for markets and small vendors, and we can offer practical tips on safe currency exchange during your trip.

Is it safe to rent a scooter in Thailand?

Scooters are a convenient way to explore, but safety varies by road conditions and rider experience. Helmets are mandatory and many rental providers require an international driving permit (and it’s safer to have proper insurance). Traffic can be unpredictable, especially in cities and during high season. If you’re inexperienced, we recommend hiring a driver or arranging private transfers with Threeland. For confident riders, we’ll advise the safest routes and reliable rental shops.