Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Chapter 1
How to Make the Most Out of This Guide
This guide contains a broad range of information to aid you as your plan your trip to Thai-
land. Each section has valuable information on how to make the most out of your holiday
with insider tips and background information on Thailand all in one digestible guide. There
are so many destinations in Thailand that it can be difficult to decide which ones are right
for you. This guide will help you narrow down what you want to see and do while providing
insight into how to have the ultimate trip.
Since Thailand has been such a popular destination for the last few decades there is a wealth
of information out there in the form of formal guidebooks, personal travel blogs, and official
Thai websites. There are hotels and hostels dotting the tourist trail and plenty of transporta-
tion options to take you from the mountains to the cities to the islands. Thailand remains a
low cost destination that attracts all sorts of travelers, from backpackers to divers to business
travelers to families, and this guide was written with all of them in mind. Whether you like
to book everything in advance or land and figure things out as you go this guide will help
you find your way.
To help you start the planning process, Chapter 3 gives an overview of things to know and
how to get started with your planning your trip. There is information about entrance re-
quirements, what to pack, what NOT to pack, and other useful tidbits on where to go in the
amount of time you have.
Chapter 4 covers the north of Thailand and gives a rundown of the most common sights and
activities in the hills. There are treks, motorbikes, rafting, and even cooking classes all wait-
ing for you to explore! Thailand borders with Laos and Myanmar in the north so while most
tourists come from Bangkok there are also many connections to the neighboring countries.
Nearly all visitors pass through the capital at least once so to learn about the sights, sounds,
smells and sensations of Bangkok check out Chapter 5. There are many great day trips out
of Bangkok so if you have a few extra days then consider visiting the floating markets of
Damnoen Saduak and Amphawa, and the old capital of Thailand at Ayutthaya.
The highlight of Thailand for many is Chapter 6, the islands, beaches and southern coast.
You can skip ahead to this chapter if that is what you have been waiting for but don't forget
