Thailand Private Tour Packages

When planning a trip to Thailand, there are several important things to understand beyond the usual travel basics. Thailand’s cultural etiquette is deeply influenced by Buddhism and respect for the monarchy. You will see shrines, temples and portraits of the royal family everywhere, and it is vital to show respect in these settings. When visiting religious sites, remember to remove your shoes before entering temple buildings and avoid touching sacred statues or objects. Public displays of affection are rare, pointing your feet at someone is considered rude, and showing respect to monks is expected at all times.

Transport in Thailand is diverse and often part of the experience. Domestic flights connect major hubs quickly, while the train network offers a slower yet scenic way to travel. Buses run extensively across the country, and for shorter distances you will find taxis, tuk tuks and songthaews, which are shared open-air trucks. Agreeing on the fare before departure is wise to avoid confusion. Thailand’s airports, particularly in Bangkok and Phuket, are among the busiest in the world, so extra time for check-in and transfers is recommended. Boat travel is also common in the islands, ranging from public ferries to private speedboats.

Health and safety should be carefully considered. Pharmacies are widespread, reliable and usually carry both local and international brands, though travel insurance is essential for any medical emergency. Traffic can be chaotic, especially in Bangkok, where motorbikes weave between cars and crossings are not always respected. It is best to use designated pedestrian bridges when available. Hospitals in Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Phuket are of international standard, with English-speaking doctors and modern facilities.

Money is easy to manage. ATMs are plentiful, even in smaller towns, and credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, malls and restaurants. However, cash is important in local markets, street stalls and villages. Tipping is not mandatory, but it is increasingly part of daily life in tourism. Rounding up restaurant bills, leaving small notes for hotel staff, and offering a tip to guides or drivers is both polite and appreciated.

Connectivity in Thailand is excellent compared to many countries. Wi-Fi is free and fast in most hotels, cafes and airports, while inexpensive prepaid SIM cards are available at convenience stores and kiosks. Mobile data coverage is strong, even in rural regions, and useful for maps, ride-hailing apps and translation tools.

Finally, it is useful to know a little about Thailand’s festivals and public holidays, as they may affect travel. Songkran in April is the Thai New Year water festival, a joyful countrywide celebration but also a very busy time to travel. Loy Krathong in November fills rivers and lakes with floating lanterns and is one of the most photogenic cultural events. Being aware of these events can help you plan around them or join in for a more immersive experience.

Thailand is not divided into states as such, but into 77 provinces known locally as changwat. Each province has its own governor and administrative structure, and together they cover the entire country. Bangkok is a special administrative area that functions like a province, although it has unique status as the capital.

For travellers, it is more helpful to think of Thailand in terms of its five main regions, each with its own character, landscapes and cultural traditions:

Central Thailand is the country’s heartland. It is home to Bangkok, a province in itself, as well as Ayutthaya, once the royal capital and now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Other central provinces like Kanchanaburi, Lopburi and Nakhon Pathom feature important historic and natural attractions, from the Bridge on the River Kwai to centuries-old temples.

Northern Thailand is defined by mountains, forests and strong Lanna cultural traditions. Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai are the best known provinces, offering everything from bustling night markets to trekking trails in the highlands. Lampang, Phayao, Nan and Mae Hong Son are also part of the north, with smaller towns and ethnic minority communities that appeal to those seeking slower travel.

North Eastern Thailand, or Isaan, is the least visited by international travellers but offers a very different experience. This region includes provinces like Khon Kaen, Ubon Ratchathani, Udon Thani and Nakhon Ratchasima. Here you’ll find Khmer ruins, vast national parks, rice fields and a culture that is closely linked to neighbouring Laos.

Eastern Thailand is compact but important. Provinces such as Chonburi, Rayong and Trat are popular for coastal escapes and islands. Pattaya sits within Chonburi, while Koh Samet and Koh Chang belong to Rayong and Trat respectively. These destinations are favoured by both domestic travellers and international visitors looking for shorter beach breaks.

Southern Thailand stretches along two coastlines, the Andaman Sea to the west and the Gulf of Thailand to the east. Its provinces include Phuket, Krabi, Phang Nga, Surat Thani, Trang and Satun. The south is synonymous with beaches, limestone cliffs and island life, from Koh Samui and Koh Tao to the dramatic Phang Nga Bay. Inland, there are rainforests and national parks such as Khao Sok.

Each province has its own identity, but together they make up the rich diversity of Thailand. For travellers, knowing the provinces helps in choosing where to go, but thinking in terms of these five regions provides a clearer picture of the country’s geography and cultural differences.

The official language of Thailand is Thai, sometimes called Central Thai or Siamese. It is the national language used in schools, government and media, and it is spoken by most of the population. Thai is a tonal language, which means the pitch used when saying a word can completely change its meaning, making it quite different from English.

There are also many regional dialects. In the north, people often speak Northern Thai (Lanna), while in the northeast the majority use Isaan Thai, which is closely related to Lao. In the south, Southern Thai has its own distinct vocabulary and accent. These regional dialects are not always easy to understand between each other, but Central Thai unites the country and is widely understood.

Thailand is also home to a number of minority languages. In the far south, Malay is spoken in some communities, while in the northern mountains ethnic groups such as the Karen, Hmong and Akha maintain their own languages and traditions.

For travellers, English is common in major cities and tourist areas, particularly in hotels, restaurants and airports. However, learning a few simple Thai words such as sawasdee (hello) and khop khun (thank you) is both useful and appreciated, as it shows respect for the local culture.

The best time to visit Thailand is generally considered to be from November through March, when conditions are at their most comfortable for travellers. During these months the skies are usually clear, humidity is lower and it is far easier to move around the cities, countryside and islands without discomfort. This period coincides with the country’s peak travel season, so major destinations such as Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket and Krabi are at their busiest. Hotels and flights should be booked well in advance, but this is also when Thailand feels the most festive, with markets, festivals and cultural events in full swing. A highlight is Loy Krathong, the beautiful lantern festival held in November, which fills rivers and skies with candle-lit offerings.

The shoulder months of April to June and September to October can be excellent for those who prefer quieter travel. April is hot but brings the Songkran Festival, Thailand’s New Year celebration, famous for its countrywide water fights and temple rituals. May and June see fewer international visitors, meaning popular sites like Ayutthaya’s ruins or Chiang Mai’s old town are more relaxed to explore. September and October may bring showers, but the countryside is lush and green, rivers are full and waterfalls are at their most impressive. These months often provide good value in hotels and a more peaceful experience overall.

The monsoon season, roughly July to October, varies by region but should not be seen as a complete barrier to travel. Along the Andaman Sea coast, which includes Phuket, Krabi and Koh Phi Phi, heavy rains are common in mid-year, but the storms are usually brief and followed by sunshine. On the other side of the peninsula, the Gulf of Thailand islands such as Koh Samui, Koh Tao and Koh Phangan tend to be drier in July and August, making them a good choice if you are travelling at that time. For many travellers, the benefit of visiting during the rainy months is fewer crowds and dramatic scenery, with jungles at their greenest and rivers running full.

Because Thailand is such a diverse country, the “best” time can also depend on where you want to go. Northern Thailand, with cities like Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, is most pleasant from November to February, when the air is cooler and trekking in the hills is most enjoyable. In Central Thailand, which includes Bangkok and Ayutthaya, November through March is again the most comfortable period for sightseeing. Southern Thailand is split by the peninsula: the Andaman coast is driest from November to March, while the Gulf coast is best from January to August.

Festivals and cultural events also shape the experience. April’s Songkran is one of the world’s most unique New Year celebrations, while November’s Loy Krathong and Yi Peng lantern festivals are some of Thailand’s most photogenic traditions. Chinese New Year, held in January or February, is lively in Bangkok’s Chinatown and other communities with strong Chinese heritage. Being aware of these dates allows you to either join in the celebrations or plan around them if you prefer quieter travel.

In summary, while November to March is widely regarded as the ideal time for travel, each season in Thailand offers its own advantages. The shoulder months provide good value and fewer crowds, while the rainy months bring lush landscapes and vibrant festivals. With thoughtful planning around regions and events, Thailand can be enjoyed at almost any time of year.

When packing for Thailand, it helps to think in terms of comfort, practicality and respect for local culture. Lightweight clothing is best, as the climate is warm for most of the year, and breathable fabrics like cotton and linen will keep you comfortable as you move between cities, countryside and islands. Good walking shoes or sandals are useful since sightseeing often involves long days on your feet, whether that is exploring temples in Bangkok or markets in Chiang Mai.

One of the most important considerations is visiting religious and cultural sites. Temples are central to Thai life, and modest dress is expected. This usually means covering your shoulders and knees. Carrying a scarf or shawl makes it easy to adapt on the go, especially if you are wearing short sleeves. Shoes must always be removed before entering temple buildings, so slip-on shoes or sandals are practical.

At beaches and resorts, casual wear such as shorts, swimsuits and summer dresses are fine, though it is good etiquette to cover up when leaving the beach. Walking around towns in swimwear is frowned upon. In cities, especially Bangkok, the atmosphere is more modern and cosmopolitan, so a smart-casual outfit can be handy for dining out or rooftop bars.

For outdoor activities like trekking in the north or visiting national parks, it is wise to bring lightweight trousers, a hat, sunscreen and insect repellent. In the cooler months, particularly from December to February in northern provinces such as Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai, a light jacket or jumper is useful in the evenings.

Eating in Thailand is one of the most memorable parts of travelling there. The country’s cuisine is incredibly diverse, shaped by regional traditions, fresh local ingredients and a philosophy of balancing sweet, sour, salty and spicy flavours in every meal. From bustling street markets to refined restaurants, food is central to daily life and culture.

In Bangkok and Central Thailand, some of the most famous dishes can be found. Pad Thai is a stir-fried noodle dish with prawns, tofu or chicken that has become a global favourite. Tom Yum Goong is a hot and sour soup flavoured with lemongrass, lime and chilli, often made with prawns. Som Tam, a spicy green papaya salad, is another staple, fresh and tangy with every bite. Central Thailand is also where rich coconut-based curries like green curry and massaman curry are popular, blending herbs, spices and creamy textures.

Northern Thailand has a very different food culture, influenced by its cooler climate and Lanna heritage. A must-try is Khao Soi, a coconut curry noodle soup topped with crispy fried noodles and served with lime and pickled mustard greens. Sai Ua, a fragrant grilled pork sausage, is another northern specialty. Sticky rice is eaten daily in this region, often by hand, and it pairs perfectly with grilled meats and dipping sauces made with chilli and herbs.

The north east, known as Isaan, has some of Thailand’s boldest and most fiery dishes. Here food is often grilled or served with sticky rice and intensely flavoured sauces. Laab, a salad of minced meat with lime juice, fish sauce, chilli and fresh herbs, is a signature dish. Gai Yang, marinated chicken grilled over charcoal, is often enjoyed with Som Tam and sticky rice, creating one of the region’s most popular combinations. Street vendors in Isaan provinces are famous for their skewers of grilled meat, spicy salads and fresh herbs.

Southern Thailand has a cuisine influenced by its proximity to Malaysia and the abundance of seafood from two coasts. Flavours here are often spicier, with liberal use of turmeric, chillies and coconut. Gaeng Som, a sour yellow curry, is widely eaten in the south, and fresh seafood such as crab, prawns and squid are often cooked in rich curries or simply grilled and served with dipping sauces. The south is also known for spicy sambal-like pastes and roti-style breads that reflect the blending of cultural influences.

Street food ties all of these traditions together and is part of daily life across the country. In almost every town and city, markets and roadside stalls serve snacks and meals throughout the day. From skewered satay and bowls of noodle soup to mango sticky rice, banana pancakes and coconut milk desserts, street food is both affordable and delicious. For many travellers, eating at night markets is a highlight, offering the chance to sample many dishes in one place.

The number of days you need in Thailand really depends on the style of travel you prefer and how much of the country you want to experience. Thailand is large and diverse, with bustling cities, ancient ruins, mountain landscapes and tropical beaches, so the more time you can spend, the more balanced your journey will feel.

For a short trip of 5 to 7 days, it is best to focus on just one or two areas rather than trying to see everything. Many travellers choose to start in Bangkok to experience the Grand Palace, lively markets and river cruises, then pair it with a few days in either the north or the south. Chiang Mai works well for those interested in culture, temples and day trips to the surrounding hills, while Phuket or Krabi appeal if you prefer a beach escape. With only a week, it is better to limit your travel and enjoy a deeper experience in fewer places.

If you can spend 10 to 14 days, you have enough time for a more complete journey. A classic route is to begin in Bangkok, perhaps with a day trip to Ayutthaya for its UNESCO-listed ruins, then head north to Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai for cultural experiences, night markets and opportunities to trek in the mountains. After several days in the north, you can fly south to enjoy Thailand’s islands. This might mean relaxing on Koh Samui and Koh Tao in the Gulf of Thailand, or choosing Phuket, Koh Phi Phi and Krabi along the Andaman Sea. Two weeks allows you to combine culture, nature and leisure at a comfortable pace without rushing.

With three weeks or more, you can explore Thailand in much greater depth. After covering Bangkok, central highlights and the north, you can spend longer in the south, splitting your time between the Andaman and Gulf coasts to compare their very different beaches and islands. You might also include Isaan in the northeast, a region that few international travellers visit but which offers Khmer temples, national parks, rice-growing villages and a chance to experience a slower, more traditional side of Thai life. Extra time also makes it easier to travel overland by train or bus, which provides a more authentic perspective on the country than flying between cities.

In summary, a week is enough for an introduction, two weeks gives a rewarding and balanced holiday, and three weeks or longer lets you explore both iconic highlights and hidden regions at a relaxed pace. Because Thailand’s appeal lies in its contrasts - city and countryside, mountains and beaches, ancient and modern - the more time you can give, the more these layers will reveal themselves.

Yes, combining a private tour of Thailand with another country is both practical and rewarding, thanks to its central position in South East Asia and excellent land and air links. Thailand shares borders with Laos, Cambodia and Malaysia, and also has easy flight connections to Vietnam, making multi-country journeys straightforward.

A popular choice is to pair Thailand with Cambodia, with overland crossings at Aranyaprathet–Poipet or direct flights between Bangkok and Siem Reap. This makes it easy to add the temples of Angkor to a Thai journey. Laos is another natural extension, particularly from northern Thailand. Travellers can cross by river or road from Chiang Rai into Luang Prabang, or take short flights linking Chiang Mai or Bangkok with Vientiane and Luang Prabang.

Vietnam is best combined by air, with frequent direct flights from Bangkok to Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang. This allows you to link Thailand’s beaches or cultural highlights with Vietnam’s historic towns, lively food culture and dramatic landscapes.

To the south, Thailand connects directly to Malaysia by both land and air. Overland, you can travel by train or road from Hat Yai into Penang or Kuala Lumpur, while flights link Bangkok with multiple Malaysian cities, including Langkawi and Kota Kinabalu. This pairing works well if you want to explore both Thailand’s islands and Malaysia’s diverse mix of cultures and rainforests.

For travellers seeking to combine Thailand with its neighbours in a seamless and personalised way, Asia Unbound specialises in creating private journeys across the region. With on-the-ground teams and strong local partnerships, Asia Unbound designs cross-border itineraries that blend Thailand with Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia and Malaysia, ensuring a smooth, well-paced and enriching experience across multiple countries.