Whatever you’re into, Thailand delivers on a great holiday. From serene yoga retreats to booming beach bars, mountain hikes to island dives – and not forgetting the thrilling cities – there are myriad adventures to be had in the “Land of Smiles”.
Friendly, good-natured locals and a veteran tourism industry have maintained Thailand’s place as a traveller’s favourite for generations. But in a country laden with both comparatively unspoilt nature and an ascendent eco-lodge scene, there are still lesser-trodden paths to be found.
This South East Asian favourite is home to a diverse but universally delicious cuisine, with a host more esoteric local flavours hiding in its various regions. It’s also a deeply spiritual place – 93 per cent of the populace practises the national faith of Buddhism, and there are Buddhist temples and meditation centres to visit across the country, as well as being a popular place to come and experience back-to-basics retreats.
Current travel restrictions and entry requirements
Thailand recently dropped quarantine and testing mandates for international arrivals, but it’s still necessary to apply for a Thailand Pass to enter.
To get one, you need to provide passport details, proof of vaccination and a health insurance policy with cover of up to US$10,000. The system then issues you a Thailand Pass QR code, which you present on arrival.
Unvaccinated or part-vaccinated travellers who are able to show proof of a negative RT-PCR or professionally-administered antigen test taken within 72 hours of travel are also allowed entry. You can also upload this to the Thailand Pass application. The Thailand Pass is set to end on 1 July, but visitors will still have to show proof of vaccination or a negative test to enter.
On the ground, face masks are still demanded in crowded public places, including outdoors – but this is set to change imminently to become optional (though recommended. Keep an eye on the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s news page for updates on all of the above.
Best time to go
Weather wise, the best time to head to Thailand is from October to March, when most of the country is clear of the rainy season and milder temperatures kick in – particularly in the north and centre of the country. Some southern islands do still experience rains into November, so check the local weather reports for yours before booking.
Locals will tell you that the best time to experience Thailand is during one of its national festivals, such…
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