Thailand –
Temples, Islands & Smiles.

Why Thailand?

Southeast Asia's Greatest All-Round Destination.

Thailand has been the entry point into Southeast Asia for European travellers for decades – and it remains the best. The country manages the rare trick of offering something for everyone without feeling like it has compromised on anything: world-class beach resorts, extraordinary temple culture, genuinely brilliant food at every price point, warm and genuine hospitality, and a tourist infrastructure that works efficiently and affordably. It is also one of the safest and most straightforward long-haul destinations from Germany.

Bangkok is one of the world's great cities and the natural starting point for any Thailand trip. The Grand Palace complex – including Wat Phra Kaew with its emerald Buddha – is genuinely astonishing. Wat Pho next door contains a reclining Buddha 46 metres long and 15 metres high, covered in gold leaf. The rooftop bars of the Sathorn district look out over a glittering cityscape that extends to every horizon. The street food alone – pad thai from a wok the size of a paddling pool, mango sticky rice from a market stall at midnight – justifies the flight.

Chiang Mai in the north is Thailand's cultural capital. The old city is ringed by a moat and contains over 300 temples; the most important, Doi Suthep, sits on a mountain above the city and is reached by a 306-step staircase flanked by nagas. The surrounding hills are home to trekking routes, elephant sanctuaries (ethical sanctuaries, not riding camps) and hill-tribe villages. The night market is one of the best in Asia for handicrafts and textiles.

The south is Thailand's beach country. Phuket is the largest and most developed island, with everything from backpacker hostels to five-star resorts, excellent diving off the Similan Islands and the extraordinary Phang Nga Bay with its James Bond limestone karsts. Krabi and the Railay Peninsula are more scenic and less developed. Koh Samui suits families with its calm bays and well-equipped resorts. Koh Lanta and Koh Tao are for divers and those who want to escape the crowds entirely.

Tips for Your Thailand Trip

• 01Best season: November to March – cool, dry season. The south can be visited year-round but the west coast (Phuket/Krabi) is best November–April.
• 02Temple dress: Shoulders and knees must be covered to enter temples. Sarongs are usually available to borrow at the entrance.
• 03Respect the monarchy: The Thai royal family commands profound respect. Avoid any disparaging remarks or gestures – this applies equally to images on banknotes.
• 04Tuk-tuks: Agree on the fare before you get in – or use Grab (the local equivalent of Uber) for a metered price and less negotiation.