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Thailand travel
The three decisions that shape a Thailand trip — when you come, what you spend, and which coast you point at.
Almost every question about travelling in Thailand collapses into three: when, how much, and where. They are not independent. Thailand runs two opposing monsoons, so "the rainy season" is a question with a different answer on each coast, and the month you pick decides which islands are pleasant and what a room costs.
The three guides below are meant to be read in that order — season first, then budget, then destination. Each one states its assumptions and the date it was last checked, because a travel guide that will not tell you when it was written is not much use.
Hub last reviewed by the ThaiThuk desk. Individual pages carry their own published and updated dates.
When to come
Region by region rather than one national verdict, because a single "best time to visit Thailand" answer is wrong for half the country.
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The best time to visit Thailand, month by month
Every month matched to the region, island or festival that suits it, with the two monsoons explained.
What it costs
One worked example rather than a range. The assumptions are stated so you can move them.
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The 1,000-baht day: a line-by-line Thailand budget
Bed, food, transport and a treat, itemised, with the date the prices were checked and where the number breaks.
Where to go
Access and season matter more than beach photographs. Each island entry notes how you get there and when it is worth the journey.
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The Thai islands that still feel like a secret
Koh Kood, Koh Lipe, Koh Kradan, Koh Mook, the Krabi lagoons and Koh Tao — with what it takes to reach each.
Before you fly
Entry rules change without much warning. Check the visa hub rather than trusting a screenshot.
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Thailand visas and immigration
Entry rules, exemption lengths and the reasons travellers get refused at the border.
Elsewhere on ThaiThuk
- Thai culture — The festival calendar, if you want to time a trip around one.
- Thai food — What to eat once you land.
- Pattaya — If the Gulf coast is on the itinerary.