Thailand: A Quick and Handy Travel Guide

Not too far from India, brimming with natural beauty, history and culture, Thailand is a long standing favourite among Indian travellers. The fact that its family friendly and easy on the pocket, only adds to its charm. With its beautiful beaches, friendly locals, delicious food and plethora of shopping options, a stay in Thailand promises to be a memorable one! 

Don’t leave Thailand before you:

See:

1. Wat Pho Temple (Bangkok): Wat Pho, also known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, is regarded as the birthplace of traditional Thai massage. The reclining statue of Buddha is the major attraction of this temple and is a must-visit when in Bangkok.
2. The Grand Place (Bangkok): Located in the heart of Bangkok, on the banks of Chao Phraya River, the Grand Palace is a magnificent building and one of the most popular tourist attractions of Bangkok.
3. Old Phuket Town (Phuket): With its age-old shrines, temples, century-old architecture with a European influence and charming little cafes, Phuket's Old Town makes for quite a fascinating visit.

Do:

1. Chao Phraya River Cruise (Bangkok): Although most activities in Bangkok can be enjoyed with your significant other, couples seeking romantic getaways from the hustle and bustle of the city can go for a dinner cruise on the Chao Phraya River. The extravagant Chao Phraya Cruise promises a truly memorable experience.
2. Elephant Trekking (Phuket): Another one of Phuket’s delightful adventures includes Elephant Trekking. Go deep into the mighty jungles of Phuket, sitting atop a giant and friendly elephant and experience unlimited fun and adventure!
3. Thai Cooking Classes (Bangkok/Phuket): Thai cuisine is one of the most popular, delicious and creative cuisines all over the world. And what could be better than learning how to cook some mouthwatering, aromatic Thai dishes? One can enroll for Thai cooking classes while on a trip to Thailand. These classes are conducted on per day basis, so you can take any number of classes depending on your convenience and the amount of time you have.

Eat:

1. Pad Thai: One of the most delicious dishes in the Thai cuisine and a must-try, Pad Thai is made of stir-fried rice noodles cooked with eggs, red chilli pepper, shrimp, chicken, bean sprouts, fish sauce and tamarind juice.
2. Satay: Another popular dish in Thailand, Satay is made of skewered and grilled meat and is usually served with a delicious peanut sauce. It can be cooked with chicken, beef and pork. For the vegetarians, Satay can be prepared with tofu and soy.
3. Thai Green Curry: A concoction of green chillies, herbs, choice of meat, coconut milk and other ingredients, Thai green curry is served with steamed rice and is an absolute must-try!

Read more about what you can do in Thailand here. 

When to Go:

December to February: Regarded as the ‘cold months’, this is the perfect time to explore Bangkok on foot. In the evenings temperatures can drop below 20 degrees Celcius.

March to May: Although these are Bangkok’s hottest months, it is also the time when Bangkok celebrates the Thai New Year with great festivity and cheer. Sudden bouts of rain are a welcome change and boat cruises, mall shopping and lounging by the pool are highly recommended. Don't forget to carry your sunglasses and buy yourself a hat there!

May to October: Regarded as Bangkok’s ‘low season’, this is a great time to visit the city as you can fetch some great deals on hotels and excursions. The frequent bouts of rain do not deter tourists from indulging in a range of indoor activities like shopping, visiting aquariums and temples as well as entertainment complexes.

Getting There:

By Air: Bangkok is well connected by air to the rest of the world and there are two airports in the city. The Suvarnabhumi Airport is located 25 kilometres east of Bangkok and the Don Mueang Airport located 24 kilometres to the north. Most international and domestic airlines operate at the Suvarnabhumi Airport, which is linked to the city by buses, taxis, and Airport Rail Link, a high-speed train service into downtown Bangkok.

By Train: Bangkok is well connected by rail to the rest of Thailand and to neighbouring countries like Malaysia, Cambodia and Laos. The main railway station of Bangkok is the Hua Lamphong Railway Station where trains from neighbouring countries and other parts of Thailand operate. The Thornburi Train Station (formerly known as Bangkok Noi Station) serves for local or nearby travel.

By Road: Buses to and from other parts of Thailand including Pattaya, Krabi, Phuket and Ko Samui and also to neighbouring countries operate in Bangkok. There are three major bus terminals in Bangkok; the Northern Bus Terminal, also known as Mo Chit, the Eastern Bus Terminal, also known as Ekkamai and the Southern Bus Terminal, also known as Sai Tai. A word of advice; book your bus tickets directly at one of the three public bus terminals and avoid travel agents and private buses, which are not the most reliable.

Getting Around:

Taxi: Taxis are a convenient way of getting around Bangkok. They are easily available throughout the city, especially around places of tourist attractions, shopping malls and hotels. The fare usually begins at 35 baht for the first few kilometres and goes up gradually.

Tuk Tuk: The famed tuk-tuks of Thailand, which are essentially auto rickshaws, are not just a fun way to travel around but are also extremely convenient and economical. Fares depend on the distance travelled, however, an average trip can cost about 30-50 baht. Don’t forget to haggle with the driver for at least 10-15 baht off the proposed fare.

Mass Rapid Transit (MRT): Another quick and efficient way of travelling within Bangkok is the Bangkok MRT. Trains arrive every 5 to 7 minutes and also connect to the BTS Skytrain at Sukhumvit and Silom stations. The MRT runs across most places with tourist attractions. 

What to Pack:

1. Light cotton clothes and sunblock for the hot and humid weather
2. Umbrella, especially if you are travelling during monsoon
3. Travel adapters and converters (electricity in Thailand is 220 V)
4. Mosquito repellents. 
5. Swimming and beach gear, if you plan to visit Phuket and the Phi Phi Islands

A cosmopolitan city life, a shoppers delight, pulsating nightlife and a foodies paradise, Thailand has everything for everyone! So what are you waiting for?