How to Get the Best out of Your Trip to Thailand – A tourist hotspot that you’ll never forget

Tipped to be one of Asia's most popular tourist hotspots, Thailand is a land full of breathtaking beaches, cultural attractions and recreational highlights. While one may not be able to experience all that this vibrant Asian nation has to offer during a single holiday, there are certain steps tourists can take to make sure they don't miss the best of Thailand. Here are some guidelines on how to make the most of their getaway in captivating Thailand.

Alex Kovacheva, Bangkok Thailand View from a Boat to Wat Arun, CC BY-SA 4.0

1. Time Your Visit

While Thailand is promoted as a year-round holiday destination those who wish to enjoy everything the country has to offer should time their visit to coincide with the months when sunny skies prevail. This is due to the fact that most outbound excursions, adventure activities and water sports are unavailable during the rainy months of the year which typically last from May to October. The official tourist season in Thailand coincides with the sunniest months of the year so all travellers should ideally try to visit the country between November and April. Budget travellers should keep in mind that this is also the most expensive time of the year to vacation in the country as the large influx of visitors drives up the cost of accommodation and other tourist commodities.

2. Stay in Strategic Rests

Another way to maximize how much one experiences during a Thai getaway is to select hotel bases that are conveniently situated. Whether one is only visiting Bangkok or heading straight for the beaches of Koh Samui or the mountains of Chiang Rai, securing a strategically situated rest can make a big difference in how much one can see and explore during the time available in each location. A Pattaya beach resort or a mountain rest by Avani Hotels & Resorts may fit your bill in terms of creature comforts but it is necessary to consider the location of the base as well.

3. Start with Bangkok

As the main reason why most tourists and especially backpackers head to Thailand in the first place, no trip to the country would be complete without spending a few days in its vibrant capital. Home to such iconic attractions such as the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat Arun or the Temple of Dawn as well as the Jim Thompson House Museum and Wat Traimit, the bustling city is also a foodies and shopaholic's dream destination thanks to its sprawling street food markets and towering department stores. Don't forget to tour the unique floating markets on the Chao Praya River or sign up for a cruise on a converted rice barge by nightfall in this dynamic city revered for its hospitality.

4. Pack Light

Another way to make your Thai vacation a memorable getaway is to pack only what is required. Lugging around several pieces of luggage can make any holiday a miserable experience and a tropical landscape such as Thailand does not warrant multiple items of clothing, footwear and other accessories that are necessary for cold climate holiday locations. Clothing made from cotton and other breathable materials will prove invaluable during a vacation in Thailand where the heat and humidity and serious matters. In addition to a few conservative dress options for visiting temples and other state institutions all travellers need to pack are a few t-shirts, shorts and bathing suits while flip flops and sneakers will suffice as far as footwear goes. Don't forget to carry bug repellent and sunscreen in your day bag.

5. Pick Up a Skill

One of the ways travellers can capitalize on their Thai sojourn is by picking up a valuable skill during the days or weeks spent in the country. Signing up for a Thai cooking class is a popular option among seasoned visitors as one gets to take home the tips and tricks of preparing delectable Thai delicacies. Learning to surf or scuba dive in Thailand is also recommended as the country has countless beaches and water sports hotspots ideal for beginners.