Tours

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, it offers very good value for money, whether you are looking at accommodation, food or additional activities. Thai people are also welcoming towards tourists, and tourism is well organised, making it easier to travel even for less experienced visitors.

Before booking a flight, check the current entry requirements, including how long you can stay without a visa, passport requirements and any arrival forms. The next step is to 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 local customs (for example, what to wear in temples and the prohibition on insulting the royal family), the climate in the region you plan to visit and approximate local costs. Save emergency numbers and the address of the Polish embassy or consulate, and find out how to buy a local SIM card and access the internet in Thailand.

Travellers from Europe generally do not need any vaccinations to enter Thailand, but several vaccinations are recommended (including boosters for routine vaccinations and considering hepatitis, typhoid or rabies vaccines depending on your travel plans). The most important thing is to consult a travel medicine doctor a few weeks before departure. They can recommend vaccinations and any preventive medication based on your route, length of stay and travel style. It is a good idea to bring a well-stocked first-aid kit (medicines for diarrhoea and pain, rehydration products, plasters, antiseptics and mosquito repellent with a high concentration of active ingredient). Remember to drink only bottled water, avoid ice from questionable sources and use 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 generally a drier, sunnier season and a period with more rain associated with the monsoon, though the exact pattern varies by region. The months that fall during 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 they are usually brief and tend to occur in the afternoon or evening.

Thailand's official currency is the Thai baht (THB), which is used almost everywhere, from supermarkets to street stalls. You can easily exchange euros or dollars at exchange bureaux, 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 always useful to carry 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. Not far from the capital are the historic ruins of Ayutthaya, the Bridge over the River Kwai in Kanchanaburi and the islands in the Gulf of Thailand. 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. Northern Thailand (Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai and the Golden Triangle area) offers mountains, jungle, hillside temples and local night markets.

When choosing a flight to Thailand, it is worth comparing more than just the price. Also consider the total journey time, number of connections and waiting time between flights. Major airlines offer routes with one connection at hubs such as Doha, Dubai, Singapore or other airports in the region. It is often possible to arrange an open-jaw itinerary, 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 how best to get from there to your hotel. Also check the checked and carry-on baggage limits, along with the conditions for changing your booking.

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. During the 19th and 20th centuries, the country gradually modernised while the monarchy retained a strong position. Modern Thailand combines tradition and modernity, with contemporary 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 a few classic dishes from different categories. Popular choices include pad thai, fried rice, spicy som tam salads, fragrant 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 reasonable prices. For dessert, try mango sticky rice, coconut ice cream or roti pancakes. To drink, try fresh coconuts, exotic fruit juices or Thai iced tea.

There are limits on bringing alcohol, cigarettes and goods above a specified value across the border. The exact limits may change, so check the current guidance from 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 regulations on e-cigarettes and their cartridges. Possessing or using them may have serious consequences. When leaving the country, 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 make it possible to enjoy a full meal for the equivalent of a few to a dozen or so PLN, while Western-style or hotel restaurants tend to cost more. Accommodation ranges from basic 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 for tourist attractions and optional excursions can make up a larger share of your budget.

Pack lightweight, breathable clothes, comfortable shoes for walking around cities, and flip-flops or sandals for the beach. It is a good idea to bring something with long sleeves and long trousers. They are useful in the evenings, in air-conditioned spaces and at 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 are in Phuket and the surrounding area, the Krabi region, including 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 you will find 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 décor, including 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 being polite are 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. At temples, dress appropriately, remove your shoes before entering certain buildings and do not touch Buddha statues. Pointing your feet towards people or sacred places and touching someone on the head are considered impolite.