Discover extraordinary Thailand

Thailand brings together exotic beaches, tropical nature, lively cities and a rich culture in one destination that is relatively easy to reach from Europe. You can combine sightseeing in Bangkok and its temples with relaxing on the islands and trips into the jungle or to waterfalls. Compared with many other countries in the region, value for money is very good for accommodation, food and additional attractions alike. Thai people are also welcoming towards tourists, and tourism is well organised, making travel easier even for less experienced visitors.

Before booking a flight, check the current entry rules, how long you can stay without a visa, passport requirements and any arrival forms you may need to complete. Next, arrange travel insurance that covers medical treatment and any sports you plan to take part in. It is also a good idea to check basic customs (for example, what to wear in temples and the ban on insulting the royal family), information about the climate in the region you plan to visit and typical local costs. Save emergency numbers and the address of the Polish embassy or consulate, and find out how to get a local SIM card and use the internet in Thailand.

Tourists arriving from Europe generally do not need any mandatory vaccinations to enter Thailand, but several are recommended. These may include booster shots for routine vaccinations and considering vaccines for hepatitis, typhoid or rabies, depending on your itinerary. The most important thing is to consult a travel medicine doctor a few weeks before departure. They can recommend vaccinations and any medication-based prevention suited to your route, length of stay and travel style. It is a good idea to bring a well-stocked first-aid kit (medicine for diarrhoea, pain and dehydration, plasters, antiseptic and mosquito repellent with a high concentration of active ingredient). Remember to drink only bottled water, avoid ice from uncertain sources and apply high-SPF sunscreen regularly.

Thailand has a tropical climate, so it is warm all year round. The main differences are in rainfall and humidity. There is usually a drier, sunnier season and a period with more monsoon-related rain, though the pattern varies by region. The months that correspond to winter in Europe are often considered the most pleasant for travel. Temperatures are high but less oppressive, and there is usually less rain. During the rainy season, downpours can be intense but are usually brief, occurring mainly in the afternoon or evening.

Thailand's official currency is the Thai baht (THB), which is used for almost all payments, from supermarkets to street stalls. You can easily exchange euros or US dollars at exchange bureaus, banks, airport exchange counters and shopping centres. Rates are usually better away from the airport. ATMs are widely available, but they usually charge a fixed local bank fee, so it is a good idea to bring a multi-currency card or one with low foreign exchange fees. You can pay by card at hotels, larger restaurants and shops, but cash is still the norm at markets and street food stalls, so it is worth carrying some baht.

Bangkok is a classic stop, with its palaces, temples (including Wat Pho, Wat Arun and the Grand Palace), floating markets and canal cruises. Historic ruins in Ayutthaya, the Bridge on the River Kwai in Kanchanaburi and islands in the Gulf of Thailand are all within reach of the capital. In the south, the beaches and cliffs around Krabi, Phuket, Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta are popular, as are Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao on the other side of the peninsula. In the north (Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai and the Golden Triangle area), you will find mountains, jungle, hilltop temples and local night markets.

When choosing a flight to Thailand, compare more than just the price. Consider the total journey time, number of connections and layover times. Major airlines offer flights with one connection at hubs such as Doha, Dubai, Singapore or other airports in the region. It is often possible to book an open-jaw trip, flying into Bangkok and returning from another city. Check which airport you will arrive at (Bangkok has two: Suvarnabhumi, BKK, and Don Mueang, DMK) and the most convenient way to get from there to your hotel. Also check the checked and carry-on baggage allowances and the booking change conditions.

For much of its history, Thailand was known as Siam. It is one of the few countries in the region that was never formally colonised by a Western power. Successive dynasties established their capitals in places including Sukhothai, Ayutthaya and, eventually, Bangkok, developing a culture shaped by Theravada Buddhism. In the 19th and 20th centuries, the country gradually modernised while the monarchy retained a strong position. Modern Thailand combines tradition and modernity, with major cities, tourism, industry and local customs visible in temples and markets.

Thai cuisine is known for combining sweet, spicy, sour and salty flavours, so it is worth trying several classic dishes from different categories. Popular choices include pad thai, fried rice, spicy som tam salads, aromatic tom yum and tom kha soups, and green, red or massaman curries. Be sure to try street food from carts and small eateries, where you can often find some of the best and freshest dishes at very good prices. For dessert, try mango sticky rice, coconut ice cream or roti pancakes. Drinks include fresh coconuts, exotic fruit juices and Thai iced tea.

Limits apply to the amount of alcohol, cigarettes and goods above a certain value that you can bring across the border. The exact limits may change, so check the current guidance in official sources before travelling. Bringing in certain medicines containing psychotropic substances without the appropriate medical documentation is prohibited or heavily restricted. Thailand has very strict rules on e-cigarettes and their cartridges. Possessing and using them can have serious consequences. When leaving, take care when buying souvenirs made from shells, coral, ivory or Buddha figurines. Some may be prohibited from export or require permits.

Prices in Thailand vary by region and standard, but for many tourists the country is still less expensive than most European destinations. Street food, simple eateries and local markets let you enjoy a full meal for the equivalent of a few to a dozen or so Polish zlotys, while Western-style or hotel restaurants tend to cost more. Accommodation ranges from simple guesthouses and hostels to luxury hotels and villas with private pools. Tuk-tuk rides, app-based taxis and local transport are also inexpensive, while tickets to tourist attractions and optional excursions can account for a larger share of your budget.

Pack lightweight, breathable clothing, comfortable shoes for walking around cities, and flip-flops or sandals for the beach. Bring something with long sleeves and long legs for evenings, air-conditioned spaces and temples, where modest dress is expected. High-SPF sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and mosquito repellent are essential. Also pack a basic first-aid kit, photocopies of your documents, a payment card and cash, as well as chargers and, if needed, a universal plug adapter.

Some of the best-known resorts include Phuket and its surrounding area, the Krabi region around Ao Nang, and the islands of Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta. The island trio in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao, is also very popular. Closer to Bangkok are Pattaya and Hua Hin, while further east are islands such as Koh Chang and Koh Samet.

Popular souvenirs include Thai spices, curry pastes, teas and ready-made mixes for preparing local dishes at home. Silk products, lightweight clothing, colourful trousers, handmade bags and jewellery are also popular. Markets offer plenty of home decorations, wooden carvings, lanterns, paintings and handicrafts. Take care when buying souvenirs made from shells, ivory or the skins of exotic animals.

In Thailand, staying calm and polite is very important. Raising your voice and arguing in public are frowned upon. Respect for the royal family, religion and Buddhist monks is essential, so do not joke about them or show disrespect in any way. In temples, visitors are expected to dress appropriately, remove their shoes before entering some buildings and avoid touching Buddha statues. Pointing your feet towards people or sacred places, as well as touching someone on the head, is considered impolite.