Thailand

“Tourists went on holidays while travellers did something else. They travelled.”
Alex Garland, The Beach

Thailand is a first trip for many backpackers. It’s a destination that’s gotten a bad reputation for being overcrowded & touristy but if you know where to go, Thailand is still the crowning gem of Asia.

Thailand is one of the most visited countries in the world for good reason. The beaches are white-sanded & turquoise watered, Bangkok is a city I could easily spend the rest of my life in, & don’t even get me started on the food…

Thailand Travel Guide

Recommended Cities: Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Pai, Chiang Rai, Koh Lipe, Koh Lanta, Ayutthaya, Koh Kood, Koh Mook

Minimum Recommended Trip Length: 4 weeks.

One Bucketlist Item You Cannot Miss: Visit an ethical elephant sanctuary. Celebrate Yi Peng lantern festival in Chiang Mai. Drive the Mae Hong Son Motorbike Loop.

Things to Consider Before You Go: Chiang Mai police regularly stop travelers & charge you $15 if you don’t have a motorbike license. In the rest of the country, you shouldn’t have a problem.

Estimated Backpacker Budget

On a Shoestring: $35/day

Flashpacker: $45/day

Backpacker Luxury: $55/day

Keep in mind these are backpacker budgets. On a shoestring expect to be eating street food, sleeping in hostel beds, & skipping the more expensive tourist attractions. Backpacker Luxury opts for private rooms, eats mostly in restaurants, and splurges on activities. Flashpackers are the middle ground & often do a mixture of both.