5# Thailand

5. Thailand: Why It’s Ranked #5 in 2025

Thailand is ranked 5th in 2025 for its incredible combination of affordability, breathtaking beaches, delicious food, and vibrant culture. From the bustling streets of Bangkok to the tranquil islands of Phuket and Koh Samui, Thailand provides a rich travel experience that continues to attract millions of visitors every year.

Traveling

• Best Cities to Visit: Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Pattaya, Koh Samui.

• Transportation: Thailand has a well-connected transportation system that includes buses, trains, and domestic flights. Bangkok’s Skytrain (BTS) and MRT are convenient options for getting around the city. Tuk-tuks are iconic but should be used for shorter trips, as they can be pricey for tourists.

• Car Rental: For island hopping or countryside exploration, renting a car or scooter is an option. Keep in mind that driving in Thailand can be hectic, especially in major cities.

• Flights: Thailand is well connected internationally through Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok and Phuket International Airport. Domestic flights are affordable and frequent, allowing easy travel between regions.

Food and Drink

• Cuisine: Thai food is globally renowned for its bold flavors and balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy. Street food is an integral part of the dining experience.

  • Bangkok: Famous for its bustling street food scene, offering dishes like pad thai, green curry, and mango sticky rice.

  • Chiang Mai: Known for its Northern Thai specialties like khao soi (coconut curry noodle soup) and sai oua (Northern Thai sausage).

  • Phuket: Known for fresh seafood and tom yum goong (spicy shrimp soup).

  • Pattaya: Try som tam (papaya salad) and grilled seafood on the beach.

  • Koh Samui: Enjoy beachfront dining with dishes like massaman curry and fried snapper.

• Desserts: Don’t miss Thailand’s refreshing desserts like mango sticky rice, Thai iced tea, and coconut ice cream.

• Food Experiences:

  • Street Food Tours: Take a food tour in Bangkok’s Chinatown or Ratchawat Market to sample local dishes.

  • Cooking Classes: Join a traditional Thai cooking class in Chiang Mai to learn how to prepare classic dishes like pad thai and green curry.

  • Floating Markets: Experience unique dining at the floating markets in Bangkok, where vendors sell everything from noodles to tropical fruits from their boats.

Things to Do

• Historic Landmarks:

  • Bangkok: Visit the magnificent Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), as well as Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha).

  • Ayutthaya: Explore the ancient capital of Thailand, Ayutthaya, with its stunning ruins and historical significance.

  • Chiang Mai: Visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, one of the most sacred temples in Northern Thailand, located on a mountain overlooking the city.

• Cultural Experiences:

  • Loy Krathong Festival: Celebrate the Festival of Lights in November, where people release floating lanterns and flower baskets into rivers.

  • Songkran Festival: Thailand’s water festival in April is an exciting time to visit, where the streets turn into a massive water fight in celebration of the Thai New Year.

  • Elephant Sanctuaries: Visit ethical elephant sanctuaries in Chiang Mai, where you can interact with and care for rescued elephants.

• Outdoor Activities:

  • Beaches and Islands: Thailand boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Visit Phuket for vibrant nightlife, Koh Phi Phi for snorkeling and diving, or Koh Samui for luxury resorts.

  • Hiking: Northern Thailand offers some excellent trekking opportunities in Doi Inthanon National Park, home to Thailand’s highest mountain.

  • Scuba Diving: Explore the marine life around the Similan Islands or Koh Tao, two of Thailand’s best diving spots.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: Thailand has a tropical climate, so the best time to visit is during the cool and dry season from November to February. The monsoon season runs from June to October, particularly affecting coastal regions.

• Language: The official language is Thai, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

• Currency: Thailand uses the Thai Baht (฿). ATMs are readily available, and credit cards are widely accepted in most places.

• Etiquette: Always remove your shoes when entering temples or someone’s home. Dress modestly when visiting temples, covering your shoulders and knees. A traditional greeting, the wai, is a sign of respect.

Planning a trip to Thailand? Don’t forget to check out the best offers on flights and hotels on Expedia. Expedia offers some of the best deals for your Thailand adventure, so book now!