Thailand Backpacking
Thailand is a riot of colour, scenery and experiences. It’s a very easy country to travel around, costs are low and it enjoys a laid back culture which has made it a must-visit on most travellers’ timetables for many years. From the hustle and bustle of Bangkok to wild treks in the north to the blissfully peaceful islands in the south, there is so much to see and do, it’s no wonder many people end up staying on longer than planned.
Thailand is a year-round destination, although the dry season from November to February is generally considered the best time to visit. The monsoon season is between July and October; however, this shouldn’t put you off going at this time. The rain helps keep the air a little cooler, it makes the vegetation lush and just watching the late afternoon downpours (often accompanied by colourful lightening displays) is an experience in itself.
Thailand is generally an inexpensive place to visit, particularly if you stay in one of the many low cost beach huts and hostels and eat from stalls on the street. Travelling around the country is also very economical; the trains, boats and buses are frequent and comfortable. Whilst the Thai baht is prone to fluctuation, you can generally get by on around 20 dollars a day, particularly on the islands when all you want to do is chill.
Bangkok is a fascinating place to visit. Behind all of the considerable traffic noise, diesel fumes, shopping malls, high rise hotels and crowds lies a capital rich in history and culture. There is so much to see and do, that you could easily spend a week there and not get bored. The main attractions include a number of beautiful ‘wats’ (temples), the incredible Grand Palace, Jim Thompson’s House, the floating market, the National Gallery, shopping for cheap tailoring on the Silom Road…..the list goes on. Most travellers head to the bargain accommodation on the Kao San Road, which also has a number of lively bars and clubs: as much fun as this area is, it’s not the place to stay if you’re looking for a quiet retreat.
No visit to Thailand would be complete without a trek to witness the wild beauty of the north and its elephants. You’ll be spoiled for choices when it comes to finding treks as every hostel, hotel and information centre in Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai will be willing to sell you one. Expect to see experience some wonderful mountain scenery, hilltop villages and tribes, elephant rides and river rafting.
It’s generally a wise idea to leave the islands in the south until last, because once you arrive, it can be very hard to leave! Which ones you choose to visit may largely be dictated by the season, as the west side is generally drier November to March, whilst the east side is better from April to October. Phuket and Ko Samui are two popular choices, but you’ll need to do your research to find the spots which have been less affected by mass-market tourism (they do still exist). The island of Ko Phangan is eternally popular with backpackers, not least of all due to the infamous ‘full moon parties’ which take place over 24 hours on the beaches (mainly centred on Hat Rin). Even if you’re not lured by the idea of all-night revelling, the island has a lot to offer: mostly in the form of rest and relaxation, cold Singha beer and tasty curries. Other islands which might appeal for the same reasons are Ko Chang, which is easily accessed from Bangkok, and Ko Lanta, not far from Krabi.
From visiting temples and shrines, to elephant riding, world-class golfing or even foot massages and kayaking, there is so much to explore and experience in Thailand that all the guidebook reading in the world would not be enough to prepare you for being there in the streets, talking to locals and fellow tourists, and discovering new things to do or see. The literal translation of ‘ Thailand’ is ‘ Land of Smiles’. The people are very friendly and welcoming to tourists.
Quick Facts
- Capital city: Bangkok.
- Borders: Burma (north-west), Laos (north-east), Cambodia (south-east) and Malaysia (south).
- Time Zone: UTC+7
- Population: approx 65 million
- Languages: Thai (official), regional and ethic dialects.
- Religions: Buddhist (95%), Muslim (3.8%), Christian (0.5%), Hindu (0.1%), other (0.6%).
- Currency: Thai Baht (THB, exchange rate approx. 33 Baht to 1 US dollar).
History
Thailand (historically known as ‘ Siam’ until 1939), is the only South-East Asian country which has never been colonised by a European power. The unified Thai kingdom had been established since the mid-14 th Century, and the current King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX), is the world’s longest-reigning monarch. Thailand had been a Japanese ally during World War II, and then an ally of the US following the war. Thailand is now a democratic country and there is no military presence in public places; all services function normally.
Hot Spots
Top Cities
Bangkok, a city which never sleeps and is abuzz with tourist and local hangouts to explore. Ayutthaya is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, being one of Thailand’s old capitals. Chiang Rai is a beach town which serves as the gateway to the ‘Golden Triangle’ of Thailand, Laos and Burma. Pattaya is one of the major tourist destinations, known for its great beaches.
Top Islands
Ko Phi Phi is where the The Beach (2000, Leonardo DiCaprio) was filmed, and remains popular with backpackers. Ko Samet is the nearest island beach from Bangkok. Ko Tao is famous for scuba-diving adventures. Phuket is the most famous of Thailand’s island beach escapes and remains very popular with tourists today.
Shopping
Visit the night markets, particularly Suan Lum Night Bazaar in Bangkok and the Night Bazaar in Chiang Mai. The atmosphere is vibrant and you can find an array of handicrafts, Thai silks, streetwear, electronics and local foods to enjoy.
Food & Drink
Thai food is now widely available in Western countries, yet the authentic experience always trumps. Expect to pay as little as 20 Baht for a bowl of pad thai noodles from a local vendor.
Coconut juice
Widely available, and great for cooling the body.
Thai iced tea (chaa yen)
Bright orange in colour, very strong and sweet, and usually served with condensed milk. Add some water if it gets too sweet.
The original ‘Red Bull’
Thailand ’s ‘Krathing Daeng.’ Distributed in glass bottles with the red bull logo, the caffeine content is equivalent to three shots of espresso.
Thai whisky (lao)
A rice-based liquor.
Transport
Train
The State Railway of Thailand has a very informative website at www.railway.co.th where you can email your bookings in advance.
Ferries
Various options available between ‘slow’ and ‘speed’ boats. Thailand is famous for its Long Tail Boat (reua hang yao), great for travelling shorter distances in shallow waters. Not so practical if you are in a hurry.
Buses
The Thai government provides all information on bus routes and rates at their Transport Company website www.transport.co.th.
Songthaew
Similar to a pick-up truck (see: Burma – Transport), though also operates within cities as taxi services. Check prices with driver before you hop on.
Tuk-tuk
Three-wheeled vehicles, with an assortment of sizes and shapes. Check prices with the driver before you hop on.
Motorbikes
Can hop on one for a short trip as a taxi service (around 5 baht), or rent one for the day (around 150 baht). You should have either a Thai Driver’s License or an International Driver’s Permit to rent.
Cars
Starting prices for small-size vehicles without insurance is around 600 baht. Drivers are also available with hire (and highly recommended, as local traffic can be rather overwhelming).
Taxi
Available in Bangkok, rare in other towns. Only take taxis with a meter.
