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Trip Report: Two Weeks in Thailand (Food, Culture & Island Adventures)

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Ever since our honeymoon in Bali last year, Ally and I had been itching to get back to Southeast Asia—and Ally’s 30th birthday gave us the perfect excuse. Thailand was at the top of our list, and this trip more than delivered. Over the course of two weeks, we explored the bustling energy of Bangkok, the serene mountains and night markets of Chiang Mai, the colorful temples of Chiang Rai, the turquoise waters of Koh Phi Phi, the jungle tranquility of Khao Sok National Park, and the stunning beaches of Railay. We packed our days with massages, cultural experiences, natural beauty, and, of course, incredible food. Here’s a detailed look at our full 14-day Thailand travel itinerary, along with some of the highlights that made the journey so special.


Getting There

Our adventure began with a 15-hour flight from Chicago to Seoul. During our short layover—made slightly longer by a minor delay—we had time to visit a Priority Pass lounge for Korean snacks and drinks. Refueled and refreshed, we then boarded a six-hour flight to Bangkok. We landed just after midnight and quickly called a Grab to take us to our hotel, the Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok. We checked in during the early hours of the morning, tired but excited to finally be in Thailand.

Man enjoying cup noodles, wine, and juice at a modern Korean airport lounge with warm lighting and a relaxed atmosphere before a flight.
Streams of headlights and taillights fill a major road in Bangkok, capturing the city's infamous nighttime traffic against a backdrop of illuminated skyscrapers.

Bangkok: Tailors, Temples, and Street Food

Day 1: Temples and Muay Thai

After a much-needed breakfast at the hotel, we dove straight into the city. Our first stop was Peninsula Tailors, where I ordered two custom suits and a cashmere winter coat—an ideal opportunity to take advantage of Thailand’s reputation for high-quality, affordable tailoring. Even more impressive was the speed of the process, with custom pieces often ready for final fittings and pickup in as little as one week.

We spent the afternoon temple-hopping, visiting the Grand Palace and the famous Wat Pho, home of the Reclining Buddha. The intricate architecture, golden spires, and the sheer energy of the temple grounds gave us an immediate glimpse into the heart of Thai culture, and wandering barefoot across the gleaming tile floors in the tropical heat was an experience all its own.

Golden spires and intricate mosaics adorn the exterior of a temple building at the Grand Palace in Bangkok, set against a clear blue sky.
Woman posing beside the massive golden Reclining Buddha statue at Wat Pho in Bangkok, Thailand, surrounded by ornate temple decor.

Later that evening, we headed to Rajadamnern Stadium for an unforgettable night of Muay Thai fights. We were treated to nine bouts featuring both local talent and international fighters, including two Americans we had a blast cheering for. We opted for VIP Balcony seats, which came with free-flowing beer and snacks—a fantastic perk—though truly, there wasn’t a bad seat in the house. The event itself felt like a major production, complete with kiss cams, dance cams, and t-shirts being launched into the crowd. The energy and adrenaline were exactly what we needed to power through our jet lag.

A vibrant light show fills Rajadamnern Stadium in Bangkok as performers and fighters prepare in the ring, with intricate golden patterns projected onto the dome ceiling above a packed crowd.
Muay Thai fighters in the middle of an intense match at a professional boxing ring in Thailand, with one fighter landing a knockout punch as the referee and audience watch closely.

Day 2: Markets and a Chef’s Table

We started our second day early with a tour to the famous Maeklong Railway Market and Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. The railway market, where vendors hurriedly pull back their goods as trains pass inches away, felt lively and authentic. The floating market was more tourist-oriented but still a fun experience — plus, we got to enjoy delicious panang curry and mango sticky rice.

A brightly colored train slowly approaches through the narrow Maeklong Railway Market in Thailand as tourists and vendors press to the edges, capturing the unique moment with their phones.
Colorful mango sticky rice served in a plastic container at Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, with boats and vendors in the background adding to the vibrant local atmosphere.

Back in Bangkok that evening, we had a bit of a misadventure. Bangkok traffic turned what should have been a 30-minute drive into a 1.5-hour crawl, causing us to miss the first few courses of our much-anticipated dinner at Ōre. Fortunately, the dinner consisted of 30 courses and the staff went out of their way to make sure it was still a special night. Based on the level of service and the courses we did experience, we fully expect to see this restaurant in a future edition of the Michelin guide.

Two chefs carefully plate dishes behind the counter at ORE Bangkok, an intimate dining experience known for its creative tasting menu and modern minimalist aesthetic.
A hand-written tasting menu on cloth at ORE Bangkok showcases an inventive progression of seasonal ingredients, including guava, sundoke, pork ham, lamb rib, and mille-feuille.

With an early morning flight to Chiang Mai on the horizon, we turned in for the night ready for the next chapter of our journey.


Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai: Temples, Flavors, and Northern Charm

Day 3: Arrival and Exploration in Chiang Mai

On day three, we caught a morning flight to Chiang Mai and checked into the serene The Inside House, where we splurged on the stunning Doi Suthep Pool Suite. The suite featured a large glass-walled private pool, an outdoor soaking tub, and beautiful views overlooking the city. It was the perfect blend of modern luxury and classic Thai design, offering a peaceful retreat after long days of exploring.

Relaxing poolside suite at Inside House in Chiang Mai, with legs stretched out on a bed and a serene private pool just outside the open sliding glass doors.
Elegant lobby of The Inside House hotel in Chiang Mai, Thailand, featuring a traditional Thai chandelier, marble floors, lush greenery, and a centerpiece table adorned with vibrant red floral arrangements.

While we waited for our room to be ready, we walked to Wat Phra Singh, a beautiful temple near our hotel. We then made a lunch stop at Khao Soi Lung Prakit Kad Kom, a Michelin-recommended restaurant famous for serving khao soi, Chiang Mai’s most iconic dish. Ally was especially excited to try this restaurant because it had been featured on her favorite show, Somebody Feed Phil. The khao soi was absolutely delicious, and our meal cost us less than $2 USD — a testament to the incredible value of dining in Thailand. 

Golden Buddha statue at Wat Phra Singh in Chiang Mai, Thailand, surrounded by intricate floral offerings and smaller Buddha figures, with a radiant halo backdrop inside the temple’s richly decorated interior.
Traditional bowls of khao soi served at Khao Soi Lung Prakit Kad Kom in Chiang Mai, Thailand, featuring rich curry broth, crispy noodles, and chicken, accompanied by lime, pickled mustard greens, and shallots.

We spent the rest of the afternoon relaxing with a beautiful tea service at the hotel and treating ourselves to massages at the on-site spa. We grabbed dinner at Tikky Café, which offered delicious fruit smoothies alongside an extensive menu of Thai dishes. It was the perfect casual spot after a busy day of exploring Chiang Mai. Later that evening, we ventured out to explore the bustling Kalare Night Bazaar and surrounding markets, where we enjoyed live music, cold drinks, and tried our hand at shooting pellet guns at stuffed figurines.

Colorful motorbikes line a lively street outside a vibrant bar near Chiang Mai Night Market, Thailand, glowing with neon lights and rainbow décor as locals and tourists gather to enjoy the nightlife.
Tourist aiming a pellet rifle at a carnival-style shooting game booth inside Kalare Night Bazaar in Chiang Mai, Thailand, surrounded by colorful lights, prize displays, and playful market atmosphere.

Day 4: A Day in Chiang Rai

On day four, we took a full-day trip to Chiang Rai, starting with visits to the surreal Blue Temple and the thought-provoking Black House. The Blue Temple, known for its vibrant sapphire interior and intricate murals, felt both modern and mystical. In contrast, the Black House presented a darker, more avant-garde experience with its collection of haunting artworks and animal remains.

Intricately detailed dragon statue guarding the entrance to Wat Rong Suea Ten (Blue Temple) in Chiang Rai, Thailand, with vibrant blue and gold temple architecture against a clear sky.
Traditional Thai-style roof of the Baan Dam Museum (Black House) in Chiang Rai, Thailand, partially hidden among tall trees, showcasing the museum’s distinctive dark architecture and forested setting.

After the morning’s sightseeing, we stopped at Cafe Lista for a much-needed coffee and Thai iced tea break. Refreshed, we continued to the iconic White Temple, a dazzling work of contemporary art filled with gleaming white facades and mirrored accents. The White Temple was easily one of the most impressive stops of the day, blending traditional Buddhist elements with imaginative modern symbolism. After spending a few hours at the temple, we headed back to Chiang Mai, arriving just in time for dinner at The Inside House’s restaurant, GHIN.

Woman in white outfit smiling in front of the intricate white carvings of Wat Rong Khun in Chiang Rai, Thailand, during golden hour.
Man standing at the ornate entrance of Wat Rong Khun, the iconic White Temple in Chiang Rai, surrounded by detailed white sculptures and morning light.

Day 5: Cooking, Massages, and Mango Sticky Rice

On day five, we spent the morning learning to make some of Thailand’s most famous dishes at Zabb E Lee cooking school, located in the heart of Chiang Mai. After a colorful market tour where we picked out fresh herbs and vegetables, we got hands-on in the kitchen, cooking (and devouring) spring rolls, pad thai, tom yum kung, panang curry, and mango sticky rice. Each dish was explained step-by-step, and the small group size meant we had plenty of personal guidance and tips from our cheerful instructor.

Colorful fresh produce and spices on display at a bustling local market in Chiang Mai, Thailand, featuring tropical fruits, herbs, and vegetables like banana flowers, kaffir limes, ginger, and chili peppers.
Bamboo-roofed pavilion at Zabb E Lee Cooking School in Chiang Mai, Thailand, surrounded by tropical plants and casting soft shadows in the afternoon sun.

After another elegant afternoon tea at the hotel, we indulged in massages at Makkha Spa, a tranquil retreat tucked down a quiet lane in the old city. The treatments were luxurious and deeply relaxing, incorporating traditional Thai techniques that left us feeling renewed. Capped off with yet another serving of mango sticky rice as a post-massage treat, we returned to our hotel full and blissfully relaxed, finishing the night with room service and a peaceful dip in our private pool.

Beautifully plated mango sticky rice served with herbal tea at Makkha Spa in Chiang Mai, Thailand, presented on wooden trays with orchid garnishes and a decorative bowl of red rose petals in the background.
Tranquil outdoor soaking tub nestled among tropical plants beside a private plunge pool at Inside House in Chiang Mai, captured in the soft glow of evening light.

Koh Phi Phi: Island Adventures

Day 6: Traveling to Koh Phi Phi

The next morning, we caught an early flight to Krabi, followed by a transfer to Klong Jilad Pier and a ferry ride to Koh Phi Phi. The boat ride offered our first glimpse of the island’s stunning turquoise waters and distinctive cliffs rising straight from the sea. Upon arrival, we checked into Panmanee Hotel, a clean, recently renovated spot tucked on a quieter street just a short walk from the heart of town.

Cluster of vibrant yellow and white frangipani flowers blooming on a tree in Koh Phi Phi, surrounded by lush green leaves under a clear blue sky.
Refreshing Aperol Spritz and cold beer on a wooden table with a beachfront view of Koh Phi Phi’s limestone cliffs and turquoise water in the background.

After settling in, we spent the afternoon wandering the island’s narrow, winding lanes, browsing souvenir shops, and enjoying a beachside drink with our toes in the sand. As the sun began to dip toward the horizon, we found a quiet stretch of beach to sit and watch the sky erupt into brilliant shades of orange and pink. That evening, we grabbed dinner at a cozy Italian restaurant before turning in early in preparation for the next morning’s sunrise adventure.

Silhouetted boat drifting past a towering limestone cliff at sunset off the coast of Koh Phi Phi, with soft pastel clouds lighting up the sky.

Day 7: Maya Bay and Return to Krabi

We started day seven early with a sunrise tour to Maya Bay, arriving just as the first light began to glow over the famous white sands. The bay, made iconic by the movie The Beach, was breathtaking in the early morning calm, with crystal-clear waters and towering limestone cliffs creating a scene straight out of a dream. Due to ongoing conservation efforts, tourists are no longer allowed to swim at Maya Bay—but that didn’t detract from the experience. In fact, we spotted several baby sharks darting around in the shallows, a sign of the bay’s recovering marine ecosystem. Having the beach mostly to ourselves was a magical experience and made the early wake-up call completely worth it.

Sheer limestone cliffside rising above emerald waters near the entrance to Maya Bay on Koh Phi Phi, captured in the soft light of morning.
Woman posing on the soft white sand of Maya Bay, Koh Phi Phi, with calm aqua water and dramatic cliffs in the pastel morning glow.

Our tour also included a stop at Pileh Lagoon, where we swam in the warm, emerald-green water surrounded by dramatic rock faces that felt like the walls of a secret paradise. Next, we passed by Viking Cave, an important cultural site known for its ancient wall paintings and as a home to highly prized bird nests used in traditional Chinese delicacies. At Loh Samah Bay, we took a peaceful snorkeling break, marveling at the vibrant coral and tropical fish in the sheltered, calm waters. Finally, we stopped at Monkey Bay, where playful monkeys scrambled across the rocks and low-hanging trees, eyeing the visitors with mischievous curiosity. 

Man standing ankle-deep in clear turquoise water at Maya Bay, Koh Phi Phi, framed by towering limestone cliffs in the early morning light.
Longtail boat cruising through the emerald waters of Pileh Lagoon, surrounded by steep limestone cliffs on Koh Phi Phi Leh.

After a magical morning on the water, we caught the afternoon ferry back to Krabi and checked into Centara Ao Nang Beach Resort & Spa, where the laid-back beach vibe was a welcome change of pace. We wrapped up the day with a beachfront dinner at REEVE Beach Club, enjoying cold drinks, fresh seafood, live music, and a lively fire show that lit up the night sky.

Group of boys playing soccer on Ao Nang Beach in Krabi, Thailand at sunset, with a traditional longtail boat and distant islands in the background.
Tuk-tuks and motorbikes driving along a busy tree-lined street in Ao Nang, Krabi, with shops and traffic during the golden hour.

Khao Sok National Park: Jungle Escapes and Floating Camps

Day 8: Elephant Hills Jungle Camp

After breakfast, we were picked up by Elephant Hills and transferred to their Jungle Camp in Khao Sok National Park, set deep within the lush rainforest. Upon arrival, we settled into our luxurious tented accommodations, which blended the adventure of camping with the comfort of a boutique hotel.

A woman poses confidently on a grassy field at Elephant Hills Jungle Camp, with limestone cliffs and lush greenery rising behind her.
A man relaxes in a hammock on the shaded balcony of his jungle tent at Elephant Hills, surrounded by lush tropical greenery in Khao Sok National Park.

That afternoon, we had the incredible experience of feeding and interacting with rescued elephants. We learned about each elephant’s unique rescue story and the extensive conservation efforts that Elephant Hills supports. The guides taught us how to prepare the elephants’ medicine balls—a sweet and healthy treat packed with nutrients—and we got to feed them to the elephants alongside fresh fruits and sugar cane. Observing these gentle giants up close, as they happily munched on their treats and bathed in the mud, was truly one of the most memorable moments of the trip.

Asian elephant standing peacefully at an ethical sanctuary in Thailand, with a backdrop of lush green mountains and a herd grazing in the distance under a cloudy sky.
Smiling couple posing with two rescued elephants at an ethical elephant sanctuary in Thailand, highlighting responsible wildlife tourism and up-close animal encounters in a natural setting.

Later, we set out for a peaceful canoe ride down the Sok River. Gliding along the calm water, we were surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and dense, vibrant jungle, while monkeys rustled in the trees overhead. The scenery felt almost otherworldly, as if we had been teleported to Pandora. As night fell, we gathered under the stars for a delicious dinner, accompanied by a lively cultural show performed by local schoolchildren.

Canoers paddle along the Sok River beneath towering limestone cliffs and dense jungle foliage in Khao Sok National Park, Thailand.
Macaque sitting in a tree in Khao Sok National Park, scratching its head while surrounded by dense tropical foliage.

Day 9: Floating Lake Camp Adventure

After breakfast, we boarded a longtail boat and journeyed across the serene waters of Cheow Lan Lake to Elephant Hills’ Lake Camp. Our accommodations for the night were floating luxury tents, each perched atop the emerald waters with breathtaking views of the national park. The tents were simple yet elegant, offering comfortable beds, running water, and private decks where we could step directly into the lake for a refreshing swim. It was the perfect blend of rustic adventure and modern convenience, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the natural beauty of Khao Sok while still enjoying a few welcome comforts.

Passengers aboard a traditional longtail boat cruise through the scenic limestone peaks and emerald waters of Cheow Lan Lake in Khao Sok National Park.
Luxury safari-style tents float serenely on the emerald waters of Cheow Lan Lake at Elephant Hills Lake Camp, backed by dense jungle in Khao Sok National Park.

The day was packed with activities: we spent time swimming off our decks, kayaking through hidden lagoons and narrow jungle channels, and venturing on a guided jungle trek to a remote bat cave. The cave, tucked deep within the cliffs, was filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and the eerie flutter of bat wings overhead. As evening approached, we returned to camp just in time to watch the sun set, casting a golden glow across the lake. After sunset, we enjoyed another hearty and satisfying dinner at the floating camp restaurant, surrounded by the sounds of the jungle at night.

A woman enjoys a refreshing swim in the clear green waters of Cheow Lan Lake, with jungle-covered mountains forming a breathtaking backdrop at Elephant Hills Lake Camp.
Man watching a serene sunset from a floating deck at Elephant Hills in Khao Sok National Park, with soft reflections on the lake and mountain silhouettes in the distance.

Day 10: Lake Kayaking and Return to Ao Nang

The next morning, we set out for one final adventure on Cheow Lan Lake, joining a guided kayaking tour through the still waters and hidden jungle inlets. Paddling quietly along the shoreline, we spotted a family of otters, monkeys swinging from branch to branch, hornbills flying above the trees, and heard the calls of gibbons echoing across the lake. The tranquility and raw beauty of the scenery made for a perfect farewell to Elephant Hills.

A man paddles a bright yellow kayak on the calm, turquoise waters of Cheow Lan Lake, with floating tents of Elephant Hills Lake Camp and misty mountains in the background.
Dusky langur perched on bamboo stalks in the jungle of Khao Sok National Park, Thailand, surrounded by dense greenery.

After returning to camp, we enjoyed a final lunch overlooking the lake before boarding a boat back to the mainland. From there, we made our way back to Ao Nang and checked once again into Centara Ao Nang Beach Resort & Spa, grateful for a peaceful night of rest after our unforgettable jungle adventure.

A man relaxes outside his floating tent at Elephant Hills Lake Camp, taking in the peaceful views of Cheow Lan Lake and the surrounding jungle-covered cliffs.

Railay Beach: Secluded Luxury and Stunning Cliffs

Day 11: Railay Beach Retreat

On day eleven, we caught a morning transfer to Railay Beach, arriving by boat to the stunning shoreline where dramatic limestone cliffs meet soft white sand. We checked into the luxurious Rayavadee Resort, a hidden gem tucked into lush tropical gardens. Our villa felt like a private sanctuary, blending seamlessly into the natural surroundings with elegant Thai decor and thoughtful touches.

Towering palm trees frame the rugged limestone cliffs surrounding Rayavadee Resort, capturing the lush, tropical beauty of Railay Beach in southern Thailand.
Rayavadee Resort’s beachfront infinity pool surrounded by palm trees and sun loungers, with stunning views of the limestone cliffs and turquoise waters of Railay Beach.

We kicked off our stay with a leisurely lunch by the pool, where we shared a “Thai pizza” topped with rich panang curry—a creative and delicious twist on a classic dish—alongside refreshing cocktails under the swaying palms. Afterward, we treated ourselves to a relaxing afternoon massage at the resort’s spa, set in a peaceful pavilion surrounded by lush jungle greenery.

Tropical poolside refreshments at Rayavadee’s Pool Bar, featuring a fresh coconut, a fruit-infused cocktail, and local snacks with a backdrop of loungers and dramatic limestone cliffs.
Serene spa treatment room at Rayavadee Resort featuring twin massage tables, tropical-inspired decor, and a tranquil design perfect for couples’ relaxation.

That evening, we enjoyed a magical twilight dinner at The Grotto, the resort’s famous cave restaurant. Nestled under a natural cliff right at the beach, The Grotto offered an unforgettable setting. We dined on steak and fresh seafood as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a soft golden glow across the cliffs and creating a dreamlike atmosphere that made the evening feel truly special.

Romantic beachfront table at The Grotto, Rayavadee Resort, set against the dramatic backdrop of limestone cliffs and a serene Andaman Sea sunset.

Day 12: Relaxation at Rayavadee

On day twelve, we spent the day lounging by the pool, swimming in the warm, clear waters, and wandering along Railay’s stunning beaches. The dramatic cliffs towering over the shoreline created a breathtaking backdrop everywhere we went, and we enjoyed watching adventurous rock climbers scale the limestone walls as we relaxed on the beach. The relaxed, car-free atmosphere of Railay beach felt like a hidden slice of paradise.

Woman relaxing in the infinity pool at Rayavadee Resort in Railay, gazing out at the beach and surrounding cliffs under a sunny blue sky.
Man standing barefoot on Railay Beach in Krabi, Thailand, with longtail boats and dramatic limestone cliffs behind him.

That evening, we dined at one of the resort’s restaurants, where I decided to challenge the kitchen to serve my crab curry “ped mak mak” (“very, very spicy”). The chefs delivered with enthusiasm, preparing a dish so spicy it left me sweating and laughing between bites. Staff members kept peeking out from the kitchen to see how I was handling the heat, and we all shared a few laughs over the fiery experience.

Woman holding a cocktail and smiling on Railay Beach at sunset, with towering limestone cliffs and calm sea in the background.
Elegant Thai dinner spread at Krua Phranang in Rayavadee, featuring rich crab curry, lamb shank massaman curry, jasmine rice, and delicate rice noodle nests with herbs and a soft-boiled egg.

Bangkok: Final Flavors and Farewell

Day 13: Return to Bangkok

In the morning, we departed Rayavadee to begin our journey back to Bangkok. Because it was low tide, we boarded an inventive tractor-drawn dock that carried us out into deeper water, where a boat was waiting to pick us up for our transfer to Krabi Airport. We caught a short domestic flight to Bangkok, where we checked into one of the best hotels in Bangkok, the Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok, known for its contemporary design and vibrant atmosphere. After settling into our room, we visited Peninsula Tailors for my final fittings, where the tailor made a few last tweaks to ensure a perfect fit.

Smiling woman riding a speedboat transfer to Rayavadee Resort, with limestone cliffs of Railay Beach glowing in the golden hour through the window.
A tuk-tuk weaves through the bustling streets of Bangkok’s Chinatown at dusk, where red lanterns hang overhead and food stalls fill the night with vibrant energy.

That evening, we dove into Bangkok’s culinary scene with a “Bangkok Backstreets” food tour through Chinatown. We were lucky to have Annie as our guide—she was funny, insightful, and made the night feel extra special. We enjoyed learning about the mixture of Thai and Chinese influences in the food—or as Annie playfully called it, “Thainese.” Highlights included tender chicken satay, rolled noodle soup, Chinese chive dumplings, and soy sauce flavored ice cream. We sampled a seemingly endless number of dishes while weaving our way through the maze of vibrant street stalls and hidden alleys, each corner revealing something new and delicious. Near the end of the tour, Annie had one last surprise for us, leading the group in singing happy birthday to Ally (a few weeks early) and giving her cake to take home!

A plate of grilled chicken satay skewers served with peanut sauce and pickled cucumber relish, enjoyed during a flavorful street food tour through Bangkok’s Chinatown.
Man enjoying a bowl of rolled noodle soup at a vibrant street food stall in Bangkok’s Chinatown, under colorful Chinese New Year decorations.

Afterward, we hopped into a tuk-tuk for an exhilarating ride back to the hotel, weaving through traffic and watching the city lights blur by. We capped off the night with cocktails at the Kimpton’s rooftop bar, where a live DJ set the mood with vibrant beats as we enjoyed panoramic views of the glittering Bangkok skyline under the warm evening air.

Joyful couple taking a blurry selfie during a nighttime tuk-tuk ride through the glowing city streets of Bangkok.
Playful cocktails served with flair at the Kimpton Maa-Lai rooftop bar in Bangkok, including one in a sculpted insect-shaped glass, set the tone for a fun night out.

Day 14: Final Day and Departure

Our final day in Bangkok was spent shopping for snacks, souvenirs, and gifts (including a new suitcase to carry everything home). We wandered through bustling malls and local markets, picking up dried mango, Thai inhalers, hand-crafted ceramics made by local artisans, and other small treasures to remember the trip by. After picking up my finished suits from the tailor, which turned out beautifully, we returned to the hotel for a few farewell drinks in the cozy lobby bar. Relaxing over our final cocktails, we reflected on the highlights of our adventure before heading to the airport for our flight home.

Decorative entrance sign for the "Thai Sweet Lover" festival at a Bangkok shopping mall, welcoming visitors to a colorful dessert-themed event.
A woman captures a mirror selfie on the rooftop of ICONSIAM shopping mall, with the Bangkok skyline—including the iconic MahaNakhon tower—visible in the background.

Know Before You Go: Tips for Visiting Thailand

Limestone cliffs blanketed in lush jungle rise dramatically from the emerald waters of Cheow Lan Lake in Khao Sok National Park, Thailand.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Thailand is during the cool, dry season from November to early April. Temperatures are more manageable, and there’s less rain—perfect for beach days and sightseeing. If you’re planning to visit multiple regions, keep in mind that weather can vary between the north (Chiang Mai) and the islands in the south. Also note that northern Thailand experiences “burning season” between February and April, when farmers burn fields and air quality can become very poor—something to consider if you plan to spend time in Chiang Mai or the surrounding areas during these months.

What to Pack

Thailand is hot and humid year-round, so lightweight, breathable clothing is a must. Bring modest outfits that cover your shoulders and knees for visiting temples, along with comfortable walking shoes for all the exploring you’ll do. Swimwear is essential for beach days and hotel pools, and don’t forget bug spray and sunscreen—the tropical sun and mosquitoes are no joke. A portable charger will come in handy for long days out, and a light rain jacket or umbrella is smart if you’re traveling during the shoulder seasons. Everything from clothing to toiletries is incredibly affordable in Thailand, so it’s easy (and even fun) to under-pack and simply pick up anything you need at local markets once you arrive.

A vivid sunset casts soft pink and orange hues across the still waters of Cheow Lan Lake, silhouetting the floating tents and jagged peaks of Khao Sok National Park.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect plays a big role in Thai culture, and it often starts with the small things. Always remove your shoes before entering a temple or someone’s home, as a sign of cleanliness and respect. When visiting religious sites, be sure to dress modestly—clothing should cover your shoulders and knees. A respectful “wai” (palms pressed together with a slight bow) is a common greeting and is appreciated, especially when meeting elders or monks. Additionally, avoid touching anyone’s head, even playfully, as it is considered the most sacred part of the body in Thai culture.

Other Helpful Tips

Cash is king at markets and smaller shops, so it’s always smart to carry small denominations with you. When it comes to getting around, the Grab app is the easiest and most reliable option in cities—often cheaper and less confusing than taxis. Staying hydrated is important in Thailand’s tropical climate; bottled water is cheap and widely available almost everywhere. And don’t shy away from the street food scene—as long as you stick to busy, popular stalls, you’ll find some of the most delicious and authentic meals Thailand has to offer.

With a little preparation, traveling in Thailand is incredibly rewarding — and once you’re there, the warmth of the people and the beauty of the country will leave a lasting impression.


Final Thoughts on Our Two Weeks in Thailand

Our two weeks in Thailand were filled with unforgettable experiences, from the energy of Bangkok’s bustling streets to the serenity of Cheow Lan Lake in Khao Sok. We marveled at golden temples, haggled at colorful markets, feasted on incredible cuisine, and found peace floating on emerald-green lakes. Each destination offered something unique, yet everywhere we went, we were met with kindness, beauty, and a spirit of adventure.

The White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) in Chiang Rai, Thailand, shimmering in the late afternoon light with its intricate white façade, reflective pools, and ornate sculptures symbolizing the path to enlightenment.

If you’re planning a trip to Thailand, our advice is simple: dive in. Embrace the unexpected, try everything (especially the street food!), and leave plenty of space in your bag—and your heart—for the memories you’ll make along the way.

If you need help planning your own Thailand adventure, we’d love to help! As travel specialists, we can create a personalized itinerary tailored to your interests, style, and budget—so you can spend less time stressing and more time exploring. Reach out to start planning your dream trip today!

Iconic view of Maya Bay on Koh Phi Phi, with crystal-clear water, soft white sand, and towering cliffs bathed in morning light.

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