Holiday destination

Thailand

Thailand is a long-haul favourite, combining tropical beaches with golden temples and some of the world's best street food. Bangkok is a buzzing gateway, while Phuket, Krabi, Koh Lanta and Khao Lak offer island scenery and clear water. Many itineraries also combine Thailand with neighbouring countries.

Region: Far East

Trip types on sale: Beach, City Break, Adult Only.

Places

Phuket
Thailand's largest island, with beaches and Phang Nga Bay nearby.
View 6 holidays featuring Phuket
Bangkok
The Grand Palace, temples and street food.
View 3 holidays featuring Bangkok
Ko Phi Phi
Islands with clear water and Maya Bay.
View 2 holidays featuring Ko Phi Phi
Krabi
Limestone cliffs, island-hopping and Railay Beach.
View 2 holidays featuring Krabi
Khao Lak
A quiet beach area and gateway to the Similan Islands.
View 1 holiday featuring Khao Lak
Khao Sok
Ancient rainforest and a lake set among limestone peaks.
View 1 holiday featuring Khao Sok
Koh Lanta
A laid-back island of long sandy beaches.
View 1 holiday featuring Koh Lanta

Best time to go

November to April for the Andaman coast around Phuket and Krabi, when it is drier and calmer. The Easter holidays are popular with families.

Who it suits

Families, couples, honeymooners and backpackers alike.

Getting there

Non-stop flights from London Heathrow to Bangkok (BKK) take about 11 hours 30 minutes. Phuket (HKT) and Krabi (KBV) are usually reached with one connection.

Practical

Time: 7 hours ahead of the UK in winter and 6 hours ahead in summer.
Currency: Thai baht
Language: Thai; English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

Typical daytime highs

Cool, dry season (November to February). Typical daytime highs around 30 to 32°C in the cool, dry season (November to February).
Hot season (March to May). Typical daytime highs around 33 to 35°C in the hot season (March to May).
Wet season (June to October). Typical daytime highs around 30 to 32°C in the wet season (June to October).

These are typical ranges, not a forecast.

Things to do

Visit the Grand Palace and Wat Pho in Bangkok
Island-hop around Phang Nga Bay and Ko Phi Phi
Explore Khao Sok's rainforest
Relax on Railay Beach in Krabi
Try street food at a night market
Visit an ethical elephant sanctuary

Questions

How long is the flight to Thailand?

About 11 hours 30 minutes non-stop from London to Bangkok.

When is the best time to visit Phuket?

November to April, the drier season.

Is Thailand good for families?

Yes, with beaches, elephant sanctuaries and easy-going resorts.

UK passport holders should check the latest entry requirements on GOV.UK foreign travel advice before booking.