UK
The Land of Smiles
From golden temples and bustling night markets to tropical islands and jungle retreats, Thailand offers a vibrant mix of culture, adventure, and relaxation. It’s a favourite among UK travellers for good reason.
Air Travel
Direct flights from London to Bangkok and Phuket take around 11–12 hours. Other cities like Chiang Mai and Krabi are accessible via domestic connections.
Airlines
Thai Airways, EVA Air, British Airways, Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Etihad offer excellent service. Budget carriers like AirAsia and Nok Air operate domestically.
Cheap flights to Thailand
Thailand
The Land of Smiles
Landmark
Travel Season
- November–April: Dry season, ideal for beach holidays
- May–October: Rainy season, lush landscapes and fewer crowds
Currency & Money Tips
- Currency: Thai Baht (THB)
- Cash is widely used; cards accepted in cities and resorts
- ATMs are plentiful; avoid exchanging money at airports for better rates
Connectivity
- Free Wi-Fi in hotels, cafes, and airports
- Local SIM cards available at arrival terminals (AIS, DTAC, TrueMove)
- Pocket Wi-Fi rentals are popular for group travel
Getting Around
- Domestic flights for long distances
- Tuk-tuks, taxis, and motorbike taxis for short trips
- BTS Skytrain and MRT in Bangkok
- Buses and trains connect major cities affordably
Time Zone
- Thailand Standard Time (THA) – GMT+7
Etiquette & Culture
- Remove shoes before entering homes and temples
- Avoid touching anyone’s head or pointing feet at people/statues
- Respect the monarchy - criticism is illegal
- Tipping is appreciated but not expected
Top Destinations
- Bangkok: Urban buzz and cultural gems
- Chiang Mai: Temples, markets, and mountain air
- Phuket: Beaches and nightlife
- Krabi: Limestone cliffs and island hopping
- Koh Samui: Luxury resorts and laid-back vibes
- Pai: Bohemian mountain town
fastfood Food & Drink
- Must-try: Pad Thai, Tom Yum soup, Som Tum (papaya salad), Mango Sticky Rice
- Street food is delicious and affordable
- Tap water isn’t safe to drink - stick to bottled
personal_bag What to Pack
- Light, breathable clothing
- Modest attire for temples
- Power adapter (Type A/B/C plugs)
- Sunscreen and mosquito repellent
Best Time to Visit
- November–February: Cool and dry, perfect for sightseeing
- March–May: Hot season, great for beach lovers
- June–October: Rainy but lush and less crowded
health_and_safety Safety & Health
- Thailand is generally safe; watch for petty theft in tourist areas
- Emergency numbers: 191 (police), 1669 (ambulance), 1155 (tourist police)
- Travel insurance is recommended
- Vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Tetanus, and routine UK jabs
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Bangkok
Book cheap flights from London, Manchester, Birmingham & more UK airports to Bangkok. Compare airlines, find direct flights, and discover the best time to travel from the UK to Bangkok.
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Phuket
Book cheap flights from London, Manchester, Birmingham & more UK airports to Phuket. Compare airlines, find direct flights, and discover the best time to travel from the UK to Phuket.