Explore Thailand

Awe-inspiring scenery, rich cultural traditions and vivacious energy; a holiday to Thailand will leave you utterly spellbound.

Our connection with Thailand traces back half a century. As travel pioneers, we introduced the first weekly charter flights to Bangkok in 1965 and to this day, our deep-rooted passion for this country remains unwavering. We’re here to share our first-hand recommendations, handpicked hotels and tried-andtested experiences with you.

Thailand is wonderfully diverse and you can explore from many angles. We can design a trip that’s all about romance, including boutique hideaways with knockout views and beachside dining under the stars. Travellers will be blown away by the cacophony of colour, goldglittering temples and curious wildlife. Wellness seekers can retreat to a private pool sanctuary where oceanfront yoga and spa treatments await.

Ask us where you can dine in a treetop bird's nest, when is the best time to snorkel in the Surin Islands and how you can recreate Thai dishes under the expert guidance of a master chef. And if you love one-of-a-kind hotels, we'll tell you about a resort with villas that resemble miniature Thai Palaces and where you can spend the night in a jungle bubble, with the gentle giants of the forest as your neighbours.

Whatever travel experiences are high on your wish list, we have the insider know-how to help you get the most out of your visit to this captivating country. Get in touch to start planning an unforgettable holiday to Thailand.

Thailand: the essentials

Thinking about taking a trip to the Land of Smiles? This mini travel guide features must-see spots, hidden gems and special places to stay.

Where to go

Thailand is a rare destination where dynamic cities, rainforests and beaches coexist. You can easily head straight to the beach, but you'd be missing a trick by not spending a couple of days in Bangkok. Some arrive daunted by its chaos, but most leave thrilled by its vibrancy, tradition and culture – it's the classic city and beach combo where you can stay among skyscrapers before relaxing on the golden sands of a slow-paced island. For more in-depth adventures and to experience Thai culture at a less frenetic pace, head north to Thailand's Golden Triangle in Chiang Rai, go hilltop hiking in Chiang Mai and visit Ayutthaya’s ancient ruins or add a wild twist with a night or two in an ethical elephant camp.

When to go

The best time to visit Thailand depends on the region. The peak season is from November to early April, when the climate is warm and mostly dry, making it ideal for destinations like Phuket and Krabi. If you're heading for sun and snorkelling in the UK summer months, islands in the Gulf of Thailand, such as Koh Samui or Koh Samet, will bring the best beach weather. We can plan your itinerary based on your priorities, whether it's weather, budget or avoiding crowds.

Good to know:

• The wai is a customary greeting in Thailand. Bow your head, join your hands in a prayerlike manner, and reciprocate the gesture as a sign of respect.

• Thailand is an extremely proud nation. While in public places such as the Skytrain stations in Bangkok, you’ll hear The National Anthem playing daily at 8am and 6pm.

• The Skytrain is a great way get around and avoid traffic if you have limited time in Bangkok.

• Keep a shawl to hand when visiting temples; it's respectful to keep knees and shoulders covered and remove your shoes before going in.

• If you’re visiting Thailand during April, be prepared to get wet. Songkran, the biggest and best festival in Thailand, takes the form of a huge, country-wide water fight.

How to get around

For shorter journeys, hop into a taxi or a tuk-tuk. To cover longer distances, there’s an excellent network of internal flights. We can also arrange road and boat transfers (private where possible), seamlessly whisking you between hotels on your journey.