The mountains in the north of the country are inhabited by various ethnic groups that you will get the chance to meet when undertaking a trek. They include the Lisu, the Hmong, the Karen, the Akha and the Lahu peoples.
The defining image of Thailand is that of its heavenly beaches. And what they say about them is true: they are simply wonderful. Fine white velvety-soft sand, coconut palms, turquoise waters – the very epitome of delight. Make the dream a reality. There are beaches to suit all tastes. From party beaches such as those in Phuket to the famous Koh Lanta, and not forgetting the virtually deserted Koh Tarutao – it's simply up to you to choose whichever suits you best.
Thailand might easily be referred to as the land of smiles. Its people are incredibly gentle and welcoming. You will be well received wherever you go. The way in which the Thai people are ready to do anything when it comes to assisting you or providing you with directions simply has to be seen.
Any traveller will tell you the same thing: Thailand is the ideal destination for first-time visitors to Asia. Everything is easy here. They know how to treat tourists better in Thailand than anywhere else. Everything is in place to ensure visitors receive a warm welcome. Don't go looking on the map for anywhere else. A trip to Thailand is ideal for your first adventure.
Thai cuisine enjoys a wonderful reputation. The fine combination of the sweet and the savory, the numerous specialties, the charm of the street stalls – there's always something to delight your taste buds, and without compromising your health.
Bangkok is a huge city with dense crowds and pollution that at times peaks at high levels. Described like that, it's not exactly the stuff of dreams. However, Bangkok has a crazy charm that makes it impossible to resist. It has an incalculable amount of heritage to offer, and a single lifetime would not be enough to explore and experience it all. Bangkok is a city of stark contrasts, blending its darkest and most depraved sides with the beauty of its religious monuments and the gentleness of its way of life.
A trip to Thahiland is ideal for first-time travellers to Asia, but less so for experienced travelers who might find the destination over-saturated with tourism.
Discover all our travel ideas for a trip in Thailand.
Travel tips from our local agencies in Thailand.
Top places to discover.
Thailand is the most tourist-oriented country in Asia. Here is all the essential information you need to travel to this beautiful and attractive country.
British nationals must have a passport valid for at least six months after the date of entry. No visa is required for stays of less than 30 days.
There are no mandatory vaccinations required, but make sure you have yourself immunized against Typhoid and Hepatitis A. It is also advisable to get vaccinated against rabies and Japanese encephalitis.
The official language is Thai. English is spoken absolutely everywhere.
Six hours ahead in summer and seven in winter. When it is 12:00 pm in Paris it will be 6:00 pm or 7:00 pm in Bangkok, depending on the season.
International dialing code: +66
The internet is available absolutely everywhere. It is always possible to connect somewhere, whether in cybercafes, hotels, restaurants or bars.
The electricity supply is 220 volts, with US style plugs and sockets. So you will need to take an adapter with you.
Thai Embassy in the UK
29-30 Queen's Gate
South Kensington
London SW7 5JB
+44 20 7589 2944
British Embassy in Thailand
14 Wireless Road Lumpini
Panthum Wan
Bangkok 10330
Tel: +66 2 305 8333
Info.Bangkok@fco.gov.uk