6 Most Beautiful Temples To Visit in Bangkok, Thailand
Named the most visited city in the world 4 years in a row, Bangkok sees a lot of tourists. Which......
January 11, 2021
skip ahead
*Disclaimer: this page includes affiliate links and I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. By using my links you’re merely supporting what I love to do: write this blog! I only recommend products/companies that I use myself.
Additionally, World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, I receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. I do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.
"Thailand was built on compassion."
– Bhumibol Adulyadej
Where I've Been
Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Pai, Krabi
My Experience
Over the years Thailand has become a staple destination for backpackers and tourists. One could argue some parts are a little too touristy. It’s anything but an off the beaten path destination (although you can find secluded places/hidden gems within the country) and so I was surprised I loved traveling there as much as I did! The country was stunning, easy to travel through, and the food was INCREDIBLE.
I visited Thailand for a month in the middle of backpacking through parts of Asia in 2019. I first arrived in Bangkok where I stayed for a few days, the first two hibernating in an Airbnb, exhausted from the first 3 and a half months of travel. Then the last three days in Bangkok I jumped on city buses and explored temples, tried various foods, and really got my foot in the Thailand door. From Bangkok I took a bus to Chiang Mai where I saw the Loy Krathong lamp festival and ate at street markets every night! After staying for a few days I rode a motorbike to Pai for 3 days – 3 days that flew by way too fast in the green hippie town that I loved SO much. From Pai I took 2 overnight buses to reach Krabi in the south! Krabi has the tourists I expected but more beauty than I had imagined! I spent a week in Krabi taking island tours, snorkeling, and hiking! I saw so much while in Thailand, but not enough! The country is full of natural beauty and it’s only a matter of time until I return to explore some more.
My favorite expereince in Thailand was the drive to and from Chiang Mai and Pai. The road is twisty and curvy, and in all honesty not that safe of a road to drive on. But it’s a famous drive to take by motorbike as it requires skill and also provides STUNNING scenery. The entire time my jaw was either dropped or I just felt like laughing because of the feelings the views and experience evoked in me – I felt high on life!
My Experience
Over the years Thailand has become a staple destination for backpackers and tourists. One could argue some parts are a little too touristy. It’s anything but an off the beaten path destination (although you can find secluded places/hidden gems within the country) and so I was surprised I loved traveling there as much as I did! The country was stunning, easy to travel through, and the food was INCREDIBLE.
I visited Thailand for a month in the middle of backpacking through parts of Asia in 2019. I first arrived in Bangkok where I stayed for a few days, the first two hibernating in an Airbnb, exhausted from the first 3 and a half months of travel. Then the last three days in Bangkok I jumped on city buses and explored temples, tried various foods, and really got my foot in the Thailand door. From Bangkok I took a bus to Chiang Mai where I saw the Loy Krathong lamp festival and ate at street markets every night! After staying for a few days I rode a motorbike to Pai for 3 days – 3 days that flew by way too fast in the green hippie town that I loved SO much. From Pai I took 2 overnight buses to reach Krabi in the south! Krabi has the tourists I expected but more beauty than I had imagined! I spent a week in Krabi taking island tours, snorkeling, and hiking! I saw so much while in Thailand, but not enough! The country is full of natural beauty and it’s only a matter of time until I return to explore some more.
My favorite expereince in Thailand was the drive to and from Chiang Mai and Pai. The road is twisty and curvy, and in all honesty not that safe of a road to drive on. But it’s a famous drive to take by motorbike as it requires skill and also provides STUNNING scenery. The entire time my jaw was either dropped or I just felt like laughing because of the feelings the views and experience evoked in me – I felt high on life!
25 Things to Do in Krabi That Aren’t Island Tours
Whether you’re tired of islands, seasick from the boats, or just looking for more adventure, I’m here to tell you that Krabi has so much more to offer that just island tours!...
June 15, 2020
Planning Your Own Visit?
Keep Reading
skip ahead
Know Before You Go
Language
The official language of Thailand is Thai.
Currency
Thai baht
SYMBOL: ฿
ABBREVIATION: THB
CONVERSION: The currency rate is subject to change but typically 1 THB ~ $0.30 USD or $1 USD ~ 30 ฿
Plugs Used
Thailand uses plug types A, B, and C with a standard voltage of 230V and frequency 50Hz; This voltage is higher than in the U.S. so as standard rule of thumb, I suggest traveling with a plug adapter with a converter, especially when using hot tool appliances such as a straightener.
Visa
U.S. citizens can travel without a visa to Thailand if staying for less than 30 days. Visa information is subject to changes so double check here.
Health
To check health advisories and what vaccinations are needed to travel to Thailand check the CDC website.
Safety
*Before traveling anywhere you should check the U.S. Government Travel Advisory for your own knowledge.
Overall, Thailand is a very safe country to travel to! It’s a popular destination for new travelers, especially solo, because of how easy it is to travel through. But like anywhere you should follow the basic tips:
My top safety tips:
- Have a lock on your luggage and make sure your day bag has a zipper or is closed to avoid pick pockets.
- Don’t do drugs, party alone, or walk alone at night.
- Take photos of your motorbike when you rent it to avoid being scammed to pay for already existing damages.
- Wear a helmet and be careful if you do drive.
- Stay away from animals especially stray dogs.
- Practice good hygiene and don’t drink tap water.
- Get travel insurance!
Apps & Websites to Use
Apps & Websites to Use
- Sunscreen
- Bugspray
- Waterproof Bag
- Waterproof Phone Cover
- Underwater Camera
- Swimsuit
- Sunglasses
- Loose clothes for the beach
- Sneakers or shoes good for hiking and/or climbing
Best Time to Visit
November - March
Overall the best general time to visit Thailand is November – March. That being said, don’t completely write off the less popular months when you might find less tourists and cheaper prices. Thailand is a rather large country with different environments and so while it might be bad time to visit the North, for example, it might be a great time to visit the South.
international airports popular to fly into
Bangkok – Suvarnabhumi Airport
Chiang Mai – Chiang Mai International Airport
Phuket – Phuket International Airport
Transportation & Getting Around
There are many forms of local travel within an area and just as much to get you across the country. In my opinion figuring out transportation in Thailand is very easy!
Public Transportation - Bangkok
Public City Buses
The public buses go throughout the city, and are very cheap (10-12 baht). With apps like Google Maps they’re incredibly easy to navigate as it tells you exactly which stop to go to and which stop to get off. I traveled alone on the public buses and it was my main way of getting around Bangkok besides walking.
BTS Skytrain
The BTS skytrain also navigates throughout Bangkok and is more reliable than the public buses. However it is slightly more expensive at 15 – 60 baht (~$0.50 – $2 USD).
MRT Subway
The MRT subway is similar to the BTS and they can be used interchangeably depending on which is available in the area/most efficient/your preference.
Local Transportation
Whether you’re in Bangkok or another area of Thailand, these are more ways to get around the area.
GRAB
Grab is a ride share app within Thailand that works the same as Uber. I used it several times throughout my trip, mostly when I was in a hurry and didn’t have time for public transportation.
Songthaew
A songthaew is essentially a pickup truck but with a cover over the riders in the back. It is a shared taxi where you tell the driver of your destination, she/he gives you a price and you jump on and then off at your arrival. It’s much cheaper than a personal taxi and almost always under 100 baht depending on the distance.
Tuk tuk/Rickshaw
These mobiles have 3 wheels and are an open vehicle so they’re great for tours. Personally, I never rode one in Thailand because they did come at a steeper price than songthaew’s and were more for the experience than a cheap ride.
Motorbike
Renting a motorbike in Thailand to drive around is very popular. If you choose to drive a motorbike, drive safely be aware, and know that you must have an international drivers license or you are prone to getting pulled over and having to pay a ticket, especially in Chiang Mai.
Transportation Going Across or Coming Into Thailand
Overnight Buses
Overnight buses in Thailand are popular, and not as bad as one might imagine (me)! The seats typically go back and I found it easy to sleep on. Buses can be booked on 12Go.Asia.
Train
Trains are also popular for far trips in Thailand and can be booked on 12Go.Asia.
Flying
Many domestic flights are available throughout Thailand.
Riding in the back of a Songthaew
Van from Krabi to Phuket
Typical Costs
ACCOMMODATION
FOOD
TRANSPORTATION
BUDGET PER DAY
BEST WAYS TO PAY
ACCOMMODATION
Thailand is great when it comes to budget accommodation! Hostels are typically between $4-15 USD, and private rooms in an Airbnb or hotel can vary anywhere between $15-100 USD. I stayed in a boutique hotel my first two days in Bangkok for $15 USD, although it was out of the touristy area and more in a business area. Villas are also available for rent throughout Thailand and you can find a beautiful place for $100 or less, and definitely under $200 USD.
FOOD
The cost of food varies depending the type of food you’re looking for, and how much you eat! Street food can vary from small items to try at 10 – 50 baht ($0.30 – $1.50 USD) and a whole meal at 50 – 150 baht ($1.50 – $5 USD). Inside a restaurant meal prices can vary but I would average 100 – 200 baht ( $3 – $7 USD) give or take. Mostly in Thailand I ate street food where it is a way of life! It both saved me money and was one of my favorite experiences in Thailand!
TRANSPORTATION
Flights across the country can vary but are around $40-100 USD depending on when you book it.
Overnight/ longer bus rides within Thailand are about $15 – $50 USD depending on the distance of the bus.
Shorter van rides (a few hours) depend on location but could be between $5-$15 USD.
Public city buses within Bangkok are 10 baht ($0.30 USD) for no AC and 12 baht for AC ($0.40 USD).
Songthaews (jump on jump off type share taxi) are around 10 – 50 baht ($0.30 – $1.60 USD).
Renting a motorbike for the day is about 150 – 300 baht ($4 – $9 USD).
BUDGET PER DAY
In Thailand I would budget about $30 – 40 USD for a backpacker’s budget. It’s completely possible to spend less than this in a day, but there will also be days where you may spend more on activities and/or transportation. Therefore it balances the budget out.
BEST WAYS TO PAY
In cities and developed areas/places, credit cards may very well be accepted. However, when going to local markets, buying street food, paying for local transportation, going to more remote areas, etc. cash is usually the only form of payment accepted.
