The territory of Thailand is quite large and there are many different resorts, ranging from popular tourist spots to secluded and little-visited islands. If you have decided to visit this country for the first time, then you may have questions about where is the best place to relax in Thailand, where are the most beautiful beaches and the cleanest sea, where to go to visit as many interesting sights as possible, where is it cheaper to relax, where to go with children, etc. . I prepared this article to answer such questions so that you have a clear understanding of where is the best place for you to go in Thailand.

Pattaya

The most popular resort among tourists is Pattaya; it is here that travel agencies most often send vacationers, since tours to this region are much cheaper than to others.

Advantages:

1. Developed infrastructure: a large number of large shops, cafes, restaurants, bars, spas, discos, clubs.
2. The lowest prices in Thailand for housing, transport, clothing, food, etc.
3. Numerous tourist attractions: zoo, water park, Dinosaur park, crocodile farm, various water sports, elephant riding, go-karting, ATVs. You definitely won't be bored in Pattaya!
4. Public transport operates throughout the city and it will not be difficult for you to get from one point of Pattaya to another, and the cost of the trip is very low.
5. Active nightlife, there is a lot of entertainment for adults, discos and bars.
6. Bangkok is not far from Pattaya, 2 hours by bus and you are in the capital of Thailand. There you can enjoy shopping and numerous attractions, thereby diversifying your holiday.

Flaws:

1. Dirty beaches, garbage can be strewn along the entire coast, so if you are going to Thailand to sunbathe on the beach and swim in the sea, it is better to choose another resort.
2. In Pattaya you will not enjoy the beauty of untouched nature, since every square meter is built up with buildings.
3. The tourist streets are very noisy and crowded, even at night, due to the numerous bars, clubs and discos.

Phuket is the second most popular resort and the largest island of Thailand, which is located in the south of the country in the Andaman Sea. But despite its popularity, Phuket is very different from Pattaya.

Advantages:

1. Clean white beaches and azure sea.
2. A large number of island excursions: Phi Phi, James Bond Islands, Similan Islands. However, prices for such excursions are quite high, ranging from 2000-2500 baht per person.
3. Phuket, like Pattaya, has a well-developed infrastructure. Large selection of restaurants, cafes, many large shops, clubs and discos.
4. Lots of entertainment both day and night. Here you definitely won’t get bored and will always find somewhere to go and something to do.
5. Phuket has both noisy party places and quiet ones, so everyone will find something to their liking.

Flaws:

1. Phuket has high prices (compared to other resorts) for accommodation, food, transport, excursions and other tourist services.
2. Crowds of tourists on beaches and excursions.

Samui

Holidays on Koh Samui are more relaxed than at the two previous resorts, although there is also a lot of entertainment and nightlife with clubs and bars. Much fewer people vacation here compared to Pattaya and Phuket.

Advantages:

1. Clean beaches, but not as snow-white as in Phuket.
2. The infrastructure is well developed, there are large shops, markets, banks, cafes, restaurants, bars, and a wide selection of hotels.
3. A large number of different attractions: Big Buddha, parks, waterfalls and much more.
4. There are no crowds of tourists; on some beaches you can relax alone.

Flaws:

1. Not as vibrant nightlife as in Pattaya and Phuket.
2. There are no direct flights from Russia to Koh Samui, so you will have to get there with a transfer in Bangkok or Phuket.

Koh Phangan

A calm small island with snow-white and clean beaches. Ideal for a quiet family holiday. Only a few beaches host the famous Full Moon Party during the full moon, where large numbers of young people gather and dance all night long. The rest of the time the island lives a quiet, measured life. Therefore, Koh Phangan will be an ideal place for lovers of parties and parties, as well as for those who like a secluded and relaxing holiday.

Full Moon Party

Only recently have tourists from Russia begun to visit the province of Krabi; previously, mainly Europeans vacationed here.

Krabi will delight you with clean white beaches, untouched nature and incredibly beautiful views. The province of Krabi is also called the land of a thousand islands, as there are a large number of islands nearby that you can visit and admire the stunning views and beauty of untouched nature. The big advantage of a holiday on Krabi is the humane prices for island excursions. A trip to the Phi Phi Islands will cost you approximately 500 baht, as opposed to 2,000 baht in Phuket.

Hua Hin

Hua Hin is gaining popularity among tourists and is a wonderful holiday destination. It is located on the shores of the Gulf of Thailand, a 3-hour drive from Bangkok. Hua Hin has a fairly well developed infrastructure. There is a wide selection of excursions and entertainment. The beaches are not as white as in Phuket, but much cleaner than in Pattaya. Prices in Hua Hin are quite high, especially in the city center. If you are traveling to Thailand for a beach holiday, but do not want to break away from the benefits of civilization, then Hua Hin will be a great place for you.

Koh Chang

Koh Chang is great for a relaxing beach holiday. The infrastructure here is developed at an average level; there are not enough large shopping centers. The beaches are snow-white and clean, the nature is beautiful. If you are tired of the city noise and bustle, then go to Koh Chang, where you can enjoy the beauty of the local nature and a measured, relaxing holiday.

Bangkok is a metropolis where life is in full swing 24 hours a day. There is a wide choice of attractions and entertainment. And shopping is simply paradise for the female half of humanity. If you enjoy a city atmosphere, lots of sightseeing and great shopping, then head to Bangkok. But even if you decide to relax by the sea, the capital of Thailand will be a great addition to your beach holiday.

Northern Thailand

The northern capital of Thailand is Chiang Mai. There is no access to the sea, however, you will be delighted by the incredibly beautiful landscapes around. It is in the north that you will experience real Thai life and immerse yourself in the national culture as much as possible. Here you will see rice fields, mountains, rivers, waterfalls, and a large number of attractions. Not far from the city of Chiang Rai there is the famous White Temple Wat Rong Khun, which will amaze you with its uniqueness and grandeur.

Secluded and rarely visited places

Despite the fact that Tourism is actively developing in Thailand, there are still little-visited secluded places with pristine, incredibly beautiful nature. If you want a relaxing holiday away from the noise of the city, then go to one of the following islands: Samet, Lanta or Lipe. They will delight you with their pristine white beaches, azure sea and incredibly beautiful landscapes. The disadvantage of these islands is their underdeveloped infrastructure: there are very few cafes, restaurants, and shops. But if your goal is a quiet beach holiday away from civilization, then you will like the islands.

Comparative characteristics of resorts

Best months for vacation

When traveling to Thailand, do not forget to consider the rainy season. In Pattaya it is not pronounced, there is only high humidity and it becomes difficult to breathe, and the rains are short-lived and fall mainly at night. I would not recommend going to Koh Samui in the fall, as heavy rain can fall for a whole week without a break. And in Phuket in the summer there is a strong wind and big waves, so swimming in the sea at this time is unlikely to be possible.

I compiled a table where I indicated the best months for vacation in yellow, green for a satisfactory period and blue for the rainy season. It will help you understand when is the best time to go to a particular region of Thailand.

Final conclusions

If you are traveling to Thailand for entertainment and active nightlife, then the best place for you would be Pattaya or Bangkok, as well as the Full Moon Party on Koh Phangan.

For those who want to spend time on the beach without interrupting civilization, then go to Phuket, Koh Samui, Hua Hin, Koh Chang, Krabi or Phangan.

Go to Bangkok or Pattaya for shopping.

If you dream of being away from the bustle of the city, alone with yourself and enjoying beautiful natural landscapes, then the islands of Samet, Lanta or Lipe are waiting for you.

For holidays with children, I can recommend Phuket, Krabi, Samui, Phangan or Hua Hin. But if your priority is not a beach holiday, but entertainment, then Pattaya is better suited, since it has the most entertainment places, including for children (water park, aquarium, attractions, zoos, etc.).

Photo © Boryeongsi / flickr.com

Where is the best place to relax in Thailand - list of the best resorts

In the article we talk about where it is better to relax in Thailand: when and which resort to choose. We share information about the islands of Thailand and where it is better to go this year. For your convenience, we have compiled a map of Thailand with resorts and airports.

Map of Thailand with resorts in Russian

List of resorts in Thailand

O. Phuket (Ko Phuket)

One of the most popular and best resorts in Thailand for a beach holiday. A distinctive feature of Phuket is its clear blue sea and white sand beaches. Since the territory of the island is clean and the entrance to the sea is gentle, you can safely come to Phuket on vacation with children.

Phuket is perfect for both a family holiday with children and romantic trips. The resort boasts an active nightlife.

The best place to relax in Phuket is: January, February, March, April, November and December.

It's better NOT to go to Phuket in the summer months, since at this time in Thailand, on the Andaman coast, the rainy season begins.

Note: You can relax in Phuket all year round, as the temperature rarely drops below +27 °C. However, it is better to avoid the rainy seasons, as the weather during these months can be unpredictable: strong gusts of wind, cloudiness, downpours, rough seas with waves, etc.

Pros and cons of holidays on the island.

Attractions: At the resort, tourists give preference to natural attractions. The most popular are: Monkey Mountain, Botanical Garden, Tiger Kingdom, various islands near Phuket (including James Bond Island), observation decks, etc.

Of the cultural monuments in Phuket, the most popular are: the Big Buddha statue, the old town of Phuket Town, the 3-D museum, temple complexes, museums, etc.

Hotel place among entertainment in Phuket show programs occupy. Here you can find shows with animals, shows for children, as well as night shows 18+.

Photo © qimono/pixabay.com Phuket

Big in Phuket selection of hotels from no-star hostels to luxury five-star hotels by the sea. The largest number of hotels are located on the west coast of the island (there are few good beaches on the east coast).

The most expensive and luxurious hotels are located on Kata Noi beach. If you want to relax noisily and cheerfully, then it is better to choose hotels near Patong Beach. This place is considered the most densely populated on the island, there is a lot of entertainment here and the city almost never sleeps.

For shopping lovers in Phuket You can find a variety of shopping centers, supermarkets, small shops, and many markets, both day and night. The resort boasts good natural cosmetics, a wide variety of jewelry and leather goods, and of course you can find delicious and unusual snacks here.

Photo © SoleneC1 pixabay.com

Getting to the resort You can by plane from Russia or from any airport in Thailand (it is located right on the island). The mainland is connected to the island by bridges, so cities such as Bangkok, Pattaya, Hat Yai, Krabi, Ranong, Hua Hin can be reached by bus. There is also a ferry crossing.

Pattaya has to offer for a holiday hotels different price categories: from cheap, starless hotels to luxurious five-star hotels.

Since life in Pattaya is in full swing day and night, choose a hotel away from bars and clubs for relaxation. If you like to sleep in silence, then try to choose a hotel away from Walking Street and the streets next to it in the neighborhood.

If you want a relaxing holiday, then it is best to go to the north or south of Pattaya. Cheaper and more modest hotels are in the east of Pattaya. And if you want noisy parties and vibrant nightlife, then it is best to stay in a hotel in the city center.

Photo © TWNN / pixabay.com

For shopping in Pattaya Many huge shopping centers, many day and night markets have been built. Despite the instability of the ruble, prices in Thailand are not high and you can bring many interesting and exotic things: clothes, natural cosmetics, tinctures, teas, genuine leather products and much more.

We wrote about shopping on holiday in Thailand in the article “”.

Getting to Pattaya very easy. You can get there from Bangkok in 2 hours by bus or by taking a taxi (it is best to book a taxi in advance, for example, at).

Most tourists come to Pattaya on a tour. Basically, it is to this resort that you can buy the cheapest tours to Thailand. For a detailed description and current prices, we look at (search engine for all leading tour operators).

Photos from the resort of Pattaya, Thailand

Photo © Vinoth Chandar / flickr.com

Photo © Aleksandr Zykov flickr.com

Photo © Aleksandr Zykov / flickr.com Pattaya 2

Photo © jbremer57 / flickr.com

Photo © lucianf / flickr.com

Photo © jbremer57 / flickr.com

Useful articles about Pattaya

O. Samui

Koh Samui is located in the Gulf of Thailand and is included in the list of the most popular and best resorts in Thailand. In terms of the number of tourists it is inferior to Pattaya and Phuket, but is a competitor. The entire coastline of the island is beaches (about 34).

This island is best suited for a relaxing holiday. Both married couples with children and young couples relax here.

It's best to go on holiday to Koh Samui in July, August and September.

It's better NOT to go to Koh Samui in October, November and December. At this time, the resort becomes unsuitable for a peaceful holiday due to rainy weather and large waves.

Note: The hottest months on Koh Samui are: this is March, April and May. From 10 am to 4 pm it is better not to visit the beaches, as there is a high risk of instantly burning. Also in spring it is better to avoid traveling with small children.

Pros and cons of holidays in the resort of Koh Samui

To prevent your holiday in Thailand from becoming too monotonous and boring, the resorts have developed entertainment programs. For example, an animal show, a butterfly park, there are many diving centers on the island, and safari tours are conducted.

Samui has quite standard attractions: temples, waterfalls and all kinds of parks. Most Popular Samui attractions- this is the PlayLaem Temple, the Big Buddha statue, the Monk's mummy, Paradise Park, etc.

On Koh Samui selection of hotels for recreation is varied: from ordinary hostels to luxurious five-star hotels. The busiest area of ​​the island is Chaweng and Lamai. There is a developed tourist infrastructure here: cafes, bars, many shops, entertainment, travel agencies, etc.

Photo © terrysamui0 / pixabay.com

Despite the fact that many consider Koh Samui to be a large village , for shopping on the island Large shopping centers have been built, including boutiques of famous European brands. The largest is Central Festival Samui. Also, during your vacation, we recommend visiting the markets to get a feel for the flavor.

We wrote more about shopping in Thailand in the article “”.

Getting to Koh Samui possible by plane. There are no direct flights to the island; almost all flights fly with a transfer in Bangkok. There are also flights with transfers: in Singapore or Hong Kong.

You can save a little and fly to Bangkok, and from there buy a bus or train ticket to Surat Thani (the closest city to Samui on the mainland). From Surat Thani to the ferry. The ferry will take you to Koh Samui in an hour. The savings are 3-4 times, but you will spend much more time - about 13-14 hours.

Batch tours to Koh Samui there are, but there are not many of them, since due to the flight, tours are more expensive than to Phuket or Pattaya. If you still prefer package tours, we recommend that you try to compare prices on the service.

Photos from the resort of Samui, Thailand

Photo © Miles Goodhew / flickr.com Samui

Photo © jacky ding / flickr.com Samui

Photo © Eli Dukef / flickr.com Samui

Photo © Boryeongsi / flickr.com

Photo © Boryeongsi / flickr.com

O. Koh Phangan / Koh Phangan (Ko Pha Ngan)

Most of the time, Koh Phangan is a quiet and peaceful place where you can relax in Thailand. The island turns into an entertaining and party place during the world-famous Full Moon Party (held every full moon and lasts 2-3 days). At this time, many foreigners come to the island.

Holidays on Koh Phangan are suitable for a relaxing holiday (with the exception of the Full Moon Party days on Haad Rin Beach). And for a bright and party holiday during the Full Moon Party, Half Moon Party, Dark Moon Party.

Note : Holidays with children on Koh Phangan are possible; there are bungalows with kitchens, clear sea and beaches. However, it is worth remembering about noisy parties near Haad Rin beach and about the long road to the island.

Photo © ChristianEnengl / pixabay.com

It is best to go on holiday to Koh Phangan in December, January, February and March. August and September are also suitable for holidays.

Note: the hottest days are in April and May. If you cannot withstand the sultry heat, then it is better to refrain from going on vacation during these months.

It is better NOT to go on vacation during the rainy season (October, November, first half of December).

Pros and cons of holidays in Koh Phangan

As entertainment on the island There are active recreation: diving, kiting, snorkeling. From attractions on Phangan there are mainly observation decks, safari parks, Buddhist temples, and a national park.

It's big on Koh Phangan selection of hotels from modest bungalows near the water without hot water to luxury secluded hotels. The majority of hotels are located on the west coast of the island, and the best beaches of the island are in the east. In the east and north there are secluded hotels with an upgraded class.

The most surprising thing is that prices for hotels online are lower than renting a room on site (in the same hotels). We usually book hotels in advance.

Photo © AnjaStreng / pixabay.com

If your goal is Full Moon Party and parties, then it is better to book rooms near Haad Rin beach. There are many inexpensive hotels here and is considered the most party place.

Note : If you are going on holiday to Koh Phangan close to the dates of the Full Moon Party (every full moon), we strongly advise you to book hotels in advance. The fact is that all budget and good rooms and bungalows are purchased in advance and closer to the dates there are expensive options left.

If you want to do something while on vacation shopping, then there is no such opportunity on Koh Phangan. They mainly sell souvenirs and clothes here. There are no large stores.

Getting to Patong problematic. The fact is that the island does not have its own airport. The only way is by ferry. From Bangkok to Koh Samui you can buy a bus and ferry ticket. You can see the prices.

Photos from the resortKoh Phangan, Thailand

Photo © bamml82 / flickr.com

Photo © antischokke / flickr.com

Photo © Tiddle / flickr.com

Photo © YoTuT / flickr.com

Photo © YoTuT / flickr.com

Photo © Maria Gabriela Lucero / flickr.com

Bangkok

Bangkok is the capital of Thailand and the country's largest metropolis. There is simply a treasure trove of entertainment and shopping here.

People come to Bangkok to relax for a few days or a few weeks. There is no beach holiday here, but from Bangkok you can easily reach the coast by bus. The lack of beaches is easily compensated by the huge number of entertainment, attractions, excursions and an abundance of shops.

You can go to Bangkok on vacation all year round. High season for November, December, January and March. Low season in Bangkok is March, April, May, June, July, August, and September and October. During these months, the flow of tourists decreases slightly and the weather is sometimes miserable.

The capital of Thailand has developed transport: metro, buses, taxis, tuk-tuks, trains and 2 airports (domestic flights and international). Bangkok can be called the transport hub of Thailand - from here you can get to most cities in Thailand.

There are many in BKK attractions. Basically these are luxurious palaces, temples, museums, huge parks and many other stunning places.

Entertainment in Bangkok in abundance : all kinds of amusement parks, entertainment centers, bars, clubs, shows, an endless number of cafes and restaurants, etc.

Huge in Bangkok selection of hotels from starless modest hotels to luxurious five-star hotels. Housing prices here are a little higher, but if you try, you can find many economical options. We would recommend the area near the Baiyok Sky skyscraper (Baiyok Tower), (Pratunam District) as it is easy to reach from the airport and there are a large number of transport stops nearby. The area is also famous for shopping.

Photo © Greg Knapp / flickr.com

Bangkok is paradise for shopping. Many shopping centers, supermarkets, small shops, and many day and night markets have been built and are being built here. Here you can find both inexpensive shops and world-famous brand boutiques. You can read about what you can bring from Thailand in our article “”.

Getting to Bangkok won't be difficult. For example, planes fly regularly from Russia. Ticket prices can be found here.

Package packages are very popular tours to Bangkok. If you prefer tours, we recommend the site. It will show current prices and reviews of tourists from leading tour operators.

Tatiana Solomatina

Where to go on holiday in Thailand: choose a resort and compare prices for tours 2018

Good day, dear readers! Today we'll talk about Thailand.

Everyone has heard about this country, and many dream of going here, don’t they? World-class hotels, all kinds of international cuisine, heavenly beaches, enchanting natural beauty, and most importantly, the hospitality of the local people. Don't know where to go in Thailand? Are you wondering which resort to choose? I will help you.

In the article I will tell you about the best resorts in the country: Pattaya, Phuket, Koh Chang, Krabi, Hua Hin, Samui and Chiang Mai. Read the features of holidays in each place, seasonality, pricing policy, quality of beaches and leisure. In addition, I will try to highlight areas for different types of recreation - relaxation or active pastime. Go!

Thailand is the tourist center of Southeast Asia. Most people who come to the region immediately head to Bangkok, which beckons with its authenticity and madness.

However, Thailand is much more than that. With its lush jungles, famous beaches, world-class diving, amazing food, friendly Thai people and relatively affordable prices, Thailand is sure to become your favorite country!

Thailand is an easy country to travel. She never sleeps. You can go to Thailand both for an active pastime and for peace. Both families with children and young people will feel comfortable here, thanks to the variety of entertainment and abundance of resorts. What are the most popular ones you know?

Overall, Thailand speaks for itself. When you hear his name, you probably already think of clean sandy beaches, beauty, jungle and food. What do you say to this? This is true?

Excluding the capital Bangkok, statistically the most popular tourist destinations in Thailand are: Phuket, Pattaya, Chiang Mai, Samui, Hua Hin, Koh Chang and Krabi (including Phi Phi). Of these, only the ancient Thai capital Chiang Mai is not a beach resort. There are also many other popular alternatives, but more than half of the people who visit the country holiday in one of these places.

Do you want to relax on the beach in the shade of palm trees, get acquainted with local customs, see exotic nature and feel the spirit of Asia? Welcome to Thailand! A country with a rich cultural heritage and ideal nature.

Tourism Mecca: Pattaya

If you want quiet beaches and hammocks swaying in the wind, Pattaya won't live up to your expectations. The resort, located 160 km from Bangkok, certainly deserves attention, but rather from young people and lovers of nightlife and entertainment. This city of sins attracts travelers with many go-go bars, discos, transvestite shows, and street prostitution. Looking for entertainment and fun? Then you should go here.

Of course, you can go to Pattaya for family time. In this case, it is worth settling away from the center of parties. Are you ready to come here with your kids? No problem. Pattaya is quite safe. The infrastructure here is well developed. Historical sites are few, but they are irresistible - the Big Buddha Hill Temple and the Temple of Truth. Here you can also go to the Bottle Museum, visit the elephant village, or leave the children with a nanny and go to a transvestite show - the Tiffany Show. They say that even men are delighted with him.

Pattaya can be called a tourism mecca, but for an ideal paradise holiday, in my opinion, it is hardly suitable. The beaches of Pattaya are not the cleanest (compared to the beaches of other resorts). True, there are islands very close to which tourists are regularly transported by ferry (30 min).

The best time to visit Pattaya is from November to April. It is during this period that you can fully enjoy all the advantages of the tropical climate. However, even in the summer the resort is quite inhabitable. The bad weather here is not as noticeable as on the islands, and prices are much lower. A huge plus is that getting to Pattaya is not difficult; transport links to Bangkok are well established.

Prices for holidays in Pattaya are slightly lower than other resorts in Thailand. You can find a hotel and entertainment here to suit every taste and budget. The approximate cost of a full package tour for two for 7 days in a 3* hotel during the season is 70/100 thousand rubles.

Attention! Meals are not included in the price of the tours listed below. Each hotel deals with this differently. When choosing a direction, you can independently choose the desired type of food. In Thailand, food prices are reasonable. Therefore, many tourists prefer to eat outside the hotel. In addition, the cuisine of local restaurants is varied. You can even find establishments that offer traditional Slavic dishes.

For example: a tour for January 2018 to the Pattaya Park Beach Resort hotel, well known to Russian tourists, costs about 90 thousand rubles. I won’t say that this is the best accommodation option in Pattaya, but as a budget hotel in the city center, it’s quite suitable. It's worth going, isn't it?

Pattaya resort is suitable for young people and active tourists who want to be in the center of entertainment life. For peace and relaxation on a clean and beautiful beach, it is better to go, for example, to the islands of Koh Chang, Samui or Phuket.

Respectable Phuket

Phuket is the largest island in Thailand, connected to the mainland by a bridge. You should go here for the snow-white beaches, azure sea, picturesque coral reefs and coconut groves. Most of Phuket is covered with tropical forests. Here you can admire the waterfalls and find out what a real jungle is like. The main attraction of the island is nature.

People fly to Phuket both to lie on the beach and for entertainment. Because there are both calm beaches and places where all the attributes of active recreation are present. The first one is small. Silence and relaxation on a picturesque beach without waves is guaranteed to you. And the center of active life in Phuket is Patong. We can say that this is the second Pattaya in terms of variety of entertainment for tourists. You definitely won't be bored here.

Merging with nature: Koh Chang island

Koh Chang Island is located 300 kilometers southeast of Bangkok. This is a protected National Park. The pristine nature of the jungle, clean white beaches, coral reefs with exotic marine life - everything that confirms Thailand is paradise on earth. Ko Chang - unity with nature, peace and preserved traditions of Thai culture.

There are all conditions for mountain tourism, hiking, diving, regardless of skill level. The island's attractions include waterfalls and caves, interesting fishing villages and jungles. Ko Chang does not have developed infrastructure or other similar amenities. What for? After all, you need to come here for solitude and complete fusion with nature. Do you dream about this? Welcome to Ko Chang!

To ensure the perfect holiday, it is better to come to Koh Chang from November to April. Getting here is not easy. The long transfer from Bangkok, which includes a ferry crossing, puts many tourists off. This is the main disadvantage of holidays on the island.

To go here in January 2018 for 7 days you need to pay at least 90 thousand rubles. per tour The price includes flight to Bangkok + transfer to Koh Chang + accommodation in a 3-star hotel + insurance and return trip to Moscow.

Ko Chang is an ideal place for those who are tired of city noise and want solitude with nature and complete relaxation. Tourists who expect an active nightlife are better off choosing another resort. There are no colorful show programs or “cool” clubs here.

Charming Province: Krabi

Krabi province is located on the Andaman coast. It has everything that Thailand is famous for - clean sandy beaches, palm groves and archipelagos of exotic islands. Moreover, many islands are National Parks. It is full of picturesque bays with natural grottoes that attract tourists who are interested in snorkeling and diving.

Local travel agencies offer both sea and mainland excursions. The province has many noteworthy Temples, a unique Blue Lake and thermal springs.

Krabi has a well-developed tourism infrastructure. Cafes, bars and other establishments can be found at every step in the resort area. There are hotels of different levels, but the cost of living in them cannot be called low. Especially when compared with Pattaya.

From Krabi it is easy to get to the famous island of Phi Phi Don; in addition to its gorgeous beaches, the island is famous for its special, unique nightlife. If this type of vacation is important to you, then it is better to spend a little more time on the road and stop there.

The best time to travel to Thailand in Krabi is from November to May. In this case, you will definitely have a lot of fun and the weather, most likely, will not ruin your vacation.

The disadvantage of the resort is inaccessibility, and as a result, high prices for tours. Of course, planes fly here and trains go from Bangkok. But, if we talk about organized vacations, then the road is always a “roulette”. Having purchased a package tour with a direct charter to Krabi, just before departure you may find out that the tour operator has changed the route and your plane will land at Phuket airport. This means you will have a long bus transfer to Krabi, which, of course, can’t make you happy. As for independent travel, not everything is smooth here either. The cheap option, in the form of a train or bus from Bangkok, takes a lot of time and effort. A comfortable flight on local airlines is, of course, convenient, but the cost of this method of transportation is very high.

Look: tours to a 3* hotel for two (7 days) with arrival in Krabi (see details above!) in January, cost from 105/120 thousand rubles. - a bit expensive. Do you agree?

Who should go to Krabi? As I already noted, Krabi is suitable for everyone who loves nature, although I would argue about privacy. Families with children, young people in search of the best places for water sports, and older tourists who want to take a break from the hustle and bustle in a luxury star hotel on one of the islands come here.

Royal Resort: Hua Hin

Hua Hin is an old resort in Thailand. There is a developed infrastructure and a long beach line. Hua Hin is located 198 km south of the capital, on the shores of the Gulf of Thailand.

Hua Hin - Royal Resort. This is where the summer residence of the King of Thailand is located. The resort has virtually no noisy bars, clubs or other entertainment of this type. Relaxing beach activities here can be harmoniously combined with visits to Buddhist temples, picturesque caves and National Parks. There is also an interesting Night Market here.

The resort beaches are clean. The entire tourist coast is covered with tropical greenery. There is a large distance between the hotels to ensure peace of mind for vacationers.

The disadvantages of Hau Hin, from the point of view of a budget tourist, include the high cost of living. The hotels here are mostly luxury, with their own territory. But for wealthy travelers this is a great place. Hua Hin also has one of the best golf courses in the country.

You can get to Hua Hin from Bangkok by train (5 hours) or bus (3 hours). The best holiday time is from November to May.

A full package tour to Hua Hin for two in a 3* hotel will cost at least 80 thousand rubles. for October. Tours for January will go on sale a little later, then I will definitely update the information.

There's not much for young people to do here. Traveling to Thailand to Hua Hin is best for a relaxing time with your family or a romantic getaway on your honeymoon.

Tropical paradise: Koh Samui

Koh Samui is a tropical paradise with white sand and coconut palms. Koh Samui is part of an archipelago of approximately 50 islands. The beaches here are luxurious, and coconut palms are the hallmark of Samui. The islands of Koh Tao and Koh Phangan are nearby.

In addition to a wonderful beach holiday, the island has Buddhist temples. You can go to the Oceanarium, the Magic Garden of Buddha, visit the Rum Factory, the Khin-Lad waterfall, watch the Elephant Show, go on safari, windsurfing, parasailing, diving and other activities. There are nightclubs and bars for young people. Beach parties are held. How do you like this leisure time?

You can get to Samui by plane from Bangkok or, if by land, then part of the road is a ferry crossing, the only way to the island. The best time to travel to Thailand is from January to April. It is at this time that you will not find tropical downpours here, and you will be able to enjoy the beautiful weather.

Holidays on Koh Samui are expensive. A tour to a 3* hotel for two for a week will cost at least 100 thousand rubles. Is this price acceptable to you? I wonder if you think prices in Thailand are too high? Write in the comments.

Koh Samui is an ideal island for all categories of tourists. Which do you prefer? Water sports or sunbathing? How do you like to spend your holidays?

The Ancient Spirit of Thailand: Chiang Mai

The second largest city in the country is Chiang Mai. This is the ancient cultural center of Thailand. It is located among the mountains, 750 km north of Bangkok. Chiang Mai is home to over 300 ancient temples, and you can also get in touch with Thai traditions by visiting the Art and History Museums. The city is famous for its mountain landscapes. There are original tribes here that still live in the jungle.

In Chiang Mai you can feel the spirit of Thailand. The temples of Doi Suthep, Chedi Luang and Chiang Man are recommended for visiting. Also pay attention to the oldest monasteries in the region - Wat Phra Singh, Doi Suter Srine and Wat Chiang Man.

There are no beaches here. However, the beauty of Chiang Mai is something everyone should see. In addition, the infrastructure, developed by Thai standards, will allow you to feel comfortable in this amazing city.

You can go to Chiang Mai by bus from Bangkok. Airplanes also fly here. The tourist season here begins in November and ends in February. The rest of the months it rains. Which, in principle, is not surprising. This is the tropics!

Housing prices in Chiang Mai are affordable. This is not a beach resort. Basically, excursion tours are purchased here. I found cost information here.

Chiang Mai is a city with a rich history dating back more than 700 years. It will be of interest to everyone who wants to get to know the history and culture of the country better, and wants an active excursion holiday.

What's the end result?

Where to go on holiday in Thailand? Which resort to choose from the mass of offers? I think you already have the general picture. But still, I’ll sum it up and express my opinion.

• If you want to get away from the bustle of the big city and be alone with nature, then you should definitely choose the island of Koh Chang. If you are traveling as a family with active children over 6 years old, they may get bored on Koh Chang, so it is better to look for a more lively resort - the islands of Koh Samui, Phuket or Krabi province. In principle, Hua Hin is also suitable, provided there is a good hotel and an intensive excursion program. But in this case, you will have to forget about complete merging with nature.
• If you are in the mood for an active holiday, craving night adventures, exciting show programs and other entertainment, Pattaya is your resort. If you also want a clean sea with beautiful beaches, consider a holiday on the islands of Phuket or Phi Phi Don.
• In your dreams, you imagine a picture - a transparent sea, white sand and palm trees, you want a respectable holiday in a good hotel on a beautiful beach, with the opportunity to sometimes have fun, go to Samui or the province of Krabi.
• If you dream of seeing northern Thailand, buy a combined tour with an active program. This way you will visit Chiang Mai and relax on the coast.

Comparing the cost of tours to different resorts in Thailand, we can say that if you moderate your appetites and set yourself up for a vacation with modest accommodation, then it is quite possible to relax on a “relatively” limited budget. It is difficult to save money on the road; flights are quite expensive, because there is no low beam. But you can find cheap housing in Thailand. Of course, you will have to sacrifice living conditions and a convenient location relative to the sea. But in my opinion, this is better than giving up the trip altogether!

Thailand is a wonderful place. I know. Was. And I am sure that I will return here again and again. Here you forget about everything in the world and just enjoy every minute of your time. And the point is not only that Thailand is an exotic place for Russian tourists. The atmosphere itself gives a relaxing effect: good-natured locals, their measured way of life. Even in noisy places in Thailand you can take a break from the hustle and bustle. There is nothing annoying here.

Choose for yourself where to go in Thailand. Each resort in the country is magnificent and unique. I want to wish you a good holiday and look forward to your stories for the “Readers’ Travels” section. Write. I'm sure you have something to tell. Moreover, it is not at all necessary to write a novel. You can simply state your impressions and describe a little the place you liked most. How to do it? See.

Also, to make your trip to Thailand as comfortable as possible, I recommend reading the articles.

On the eve of the season, HotLine.travel publishes comparative reviews of resorts in Thailand

Thailand promises to be one of the most popular destinations in the coming winter. Despite the fact that this destination has been popular with Russian tourists for many years, not everyone understands which resort in this country is best suited for them. In this article we will tell you where it is better to go for families with children, youth groups or those who dream of silence and solitude. Let's figure out when the season is on the islands and the mainland, and when you risk falling into the rainy and stormy season; where and where is more expensive; where it’s more fun, and where it’s calmer.

Pattaya - a classic of Thailand

A traditionally popular destination for beach and resort holidays in Thailand among Russian-speaking tourists is holidays on the mainland of the country. This is, first of all, the world famous Pattaya and the less popular Cha Am and Hua Hin. All of these resorts are located approximately one and a half to two hours' drive from Bangkok's Suvanaphumi Airport, but in opposite directions.

Pattaya is “the city that never sleeps”, “the city-sex resort”. Both titles are true. Yes, indeed, whoever seeks will find. Easy and fast. But this does not mean at all that you cannot go to Pattaya with children, young and older. The current mayor of the resort city took control of the situation, and everything became more decent and modest than before. Even on the local “Arbat” - Walking Street, a cheerful street of nightclubs, bars with live music and entertainment, you can go for a walk with the whole family, because there are the best seafood restaurants, the open terraces of which go directly into the sea. We must admit that tourist reviews about the beaches of Pattaya are not the best. The purity of the water leaves much to be desired. The beaches of Pattaya are completely occupied by paid sun loungers, but Wednesday was declared a free day, there are no sun loungers, on Wednesday you can lie down and sunbathe wherever you want.

A very big advantage of Pattaya is its relative cheapness, a huge amount of all kinds of entertainment, the presence of hotels of different price categories, located both in quiet and in very busy areas of the city. For travelers who value clear seas, trips are offered to the nearby island of Koh Larn, just half an hour by shuttle boat or 10 minutes by speedboat, or to the beautiful beaches around the city. In and around Pattaya there are many interesting and varied excursion routes, including for families with children, in particular, petting zoos and farms (with fascinating shows of elephants, crocodiles, tigers and other animals), a dolphinarium, and a recently opened water amusement park , the Nong Nooch tropical garden with a colorful national performance and an orchid section, and much, much more. Therefore, this resort can be safely recommended to young people, families with and without children, and newlyweds.
Conclusion: Pattaya is an inexpensive resort for a varied and active holiday, suitable for tourists with a wide range of income levels and preferences.

Hua Hin or Cha Am?

Hua Hin is rightly called a royal resort, since there are actually two residences of the Royal Family of Thailand. Accordingly, Cha Am and Hua Hin are calmer and more fashionable and, as a result, more expensive holiday destinations. For comparison, renting a sun lounger on the beaches of Pattaya costs on average 50 baht, in Hua Hin - from 100 baht. These resorts are the oldest in the country, and therefore are of interest in terms of historical architecture and original buildings. A large number of excursions are offered to these towns, their surroundings and neighboring provinces, some of them really deserve attention. The advantages of these resorts are wide and not too crowded beaches and a fairly clean sea, which is rare for the mainland of the country.

Conclusion - Cha Am and Hua Hin offer a relaxing family beach holiday for not the most budget-conscious travelers.

The concept of seasonality of holidays at all these resorts is relative, travelers from all over the world come all year round, but still in April and May the hottest time is here, and from the middle of the calendar summer the rainy season begins, which reaches its peak in September and ends at the end of October - early November. However, these warmest tropical showers occur mainly at night, and if it rains during the day, it usually does not last long. But traditionally the best time to visit the mainland is considered to be the period from November to March.

Phuket, Samui and Koh Chang

Perhaps the best resorts in Thailand are the islands of Phuket and Koh Samui. Phuket is considered the most expensive resort, but, perhaps, nowhere else in this country will you find such clean and beautiful beaches. Around Phuket there are many islands with idyllic landscapes and clear water, to which trips are organized. This is, for example, the Similans or James Bond Island. There is also something to see on the island itself.

Koh Samui has been developing very actively in recent years as a tourist destination; holidays there are also not cheap, but life here is calmer and more leisurely than in Phuket. There are several beautiful waterfalls on the island. Around is the Ang Thong National Marine Park of 42 islands, including Koh Phangan, where the famous Full Moon Party is held on a full moon; this is a kind of Thai analogue of Ibiza.

Perhaps Phuket can be recommended to all categories of travelers with an above-average travel budget. It is better to go to Koh Samui for newlyweds and those looking for peace and solitude. But don't forget about Koh Phangan - it's for those who want to have fun!

Perhaps lovers of a relaxing holiday will also like the small, cozy and very inexpensive island of Koh Chang, around which there is also a marine reserve with dozens of inhabited and uninhabited islands. The rainy and stormy season in Phuket is from May to September, on Samui - from October to December, on Koh Chang - from April to October.

We talk in detail about prices in Thailand for tours, hotels, food, transport and tickets in 2019. Where is it cheaper to vacation? Comparing Bangkok, Phuket and Pattaya. We give tips on how to save money.

In this article we look at three locations in Thailand: Bangkok, Pattaya and Phuket.

Exchange rate: 1 Thai baht (THB) ≈ 2 RUB.

Ticket prices to Thailand - 2019

Ticket prices to Thailand depend on the city of departure and arrival, airline and time of year.

Pattaya. There are no direct flights to Pattaya from Moscow and St. Petersburg - you need to go to the city from Bangkok. There are direct flights from Irkutsk.

Phuket. Tickets for direct flights from Moscow cost 30-50 thousand rubles, with a transfer - from 25 thousand. From St. Petersburg, a flight with a transfer costs from 25 thousand, a direct flight – from 80 thousand rubles. Learn the tips.

Do you like comfort or are you traveling with your family? Book a transfer from the airport in advance using the service.

(Photo © Andy_Mitchell_UK / flickr.com)

Prices for tours to Thailand - 2019

The cheapest tours are those departing from Moscow, and there are more offers from the capital. A little more expensive - from St. Petersburg.

Prices are for tours for two with departure from Moscow during high season.

Bangkok. Tours for 7 days cost from 85 thousand rubles. True, few people fly to Bangkok on a package tour - mostly on their own.

Pattaya. A week-long tour costs from 60 thousand rubles. 60-70 thousand cost vouchers to a 1-3* hotel on lines 2 and 3 without meals or with breakfast. But tours to 4-5* hotels on the 1st line with full board cost from 180 thousand rubles, on the 2nd or 3rd line - from 120 thousand.

Phuket. Prices for tours to Phuket in 2019 are approximately the same as to Pattaya. Weekly vouchers to a 1-3* hotel on line 3 - 60-70 thousand rubles. "All inclusive" in a 3* hotel - from 80 thousand, and in 4* and 5* - already from 130 thousand rubles.

It’s impossible to say for sure where it’s cheaper to holiday in Thailand: Phuket or Pattaya. Prices for tours are approximately the same - last minute tours can be found to both resorts.

Food in Thailand: prices for food and dishes in cafes - 2019

Prices for food in shops, cafes and restaurants in Thailand depend on the resort: Phuket is the most expensive, followed by Pattaya, but the cheapest and tastiest place to eat is in Bangkok.

Prices in supermarkets in Thailand

In general, in supermarkets in Thailand, prices are approximately the same for many products, but something is different: for example, fruits in Phuket in Big C are a little more expensive than in Pattaya.

Here's how much basic food products cost in Bangkok, Pattaya and Phuket using the example of Big C and Tesco Lotus supermarkets:

Milk (1 l)	40 baht
Water (1.5 l)	13 baht
Fresh bread	30-40 baht
Croissants (5-6 pcs)	25-35 baht
Banana cupcake	50 baht
Trays with food (meat, vegetables, rice and omelet)	15-35 baht
Eggs (12 pcs)	50 baht
Substrate with sausages	25-30 baht
Half a grilled chicken	65 baht
Vegetable salad with egg	35 baht
Watermelon (1 kg, price depends on the variety)	15-50 baht
Papaya (1 kg)	40 baht
Bananas (1 kg or 1 pack)	20-40 baht
Pitahaya, or dragonfruit (1 kg)	45 baht
Coconut (1 piece)	25 baht
Salak (1 kg)	80 baht
Longan	65 baht
Peeled durian (1 kg)	800 baht
Unpeeled durian (1 kg)	230 baht

How much does alcohol cost in Thailand? Beer (Singha, Chang, Leo are the most popular brands) for 0.6 liters costs approximately 53 baht, cider (0.3 liters) costs about 32 baht, Spy and Full Moon wine drinks cost 32 baht. Red Bull energy drinks are popular - 10 baht per bottle.

For cut fruits, prepared foods and baked goods there is discounts: for baking all day, for the rest - after 6-7 pm.

It seemed to us that it was more profitable to buy products in Tesco: There is more variety and discounts, and overall it’s a little cheaper. One day we bought sliced ​​pineapples (300 g) there for only 6 baht! The same substrate in Phuket in Big C costs 59 baht - 10 times more expensive.

Groceries from Big C and Tesco Lotus can be ordered online and delivered to your home.

(photo © superUbO / flickr.com)

Prices in cafes, convenience stores and food courts

Bangkok. Tasty, varied and affordable food can be eaten at Chinatown: there are desserts (from 20 baht), dishes on average from 35 baht (rice, noodles, soups).

In makashnitsa you can have a snack on kebabs (5-10 baht) or drink a shake (from 25 baht). It is difficult to die from hunger in this metropolis and food prices are the most attractive in Thailand.

We bought fruits from Tesco and Big C: pineapples - 19 baht per piece, chopped carambola - about 20 baht, mangoes - from 50 baht.

Pattaya. At the resort, we often ate at the food court in Big C, as it was clean, cool, cheap and had a lot of choice. Dishes cost 40-60 baht. To buy food, you need to purchase a special card at the entrance to the food court. Money is placed on it - and you pay it.

There are many shops, street cafes and bars in Pattaya. The closer to the center and busy streets, the higher the prices.

Here are approximate prices:

• padtai / rice with meat - 40-60 baht;
• kebabs - from 10 baht (pcs);
• necks - from 25 baht;
• banana pancakes - from 40 baht;
• beer in bars - 50-70 baht.

Phuket. This is a more expensive resort compared to Pattaya. For example, in Patong, in street cafes, dishes cost at least 60-70 baht. In cafes and restaurants, a main course costs from 100-150 baht. The most expensive restaurants are near the coast, where dishes start from 150 baht. You can eat inexpensively in local cafes, ready-made food in Big C, as well as at night markets.

Here are approximate prices:

• padtai / rice with meat - from 60 baht;
• kebabs - 20-40 baht (pcs);
• necks - from 50 baht;
• banana pancakes - from 60.
• beer in bars - 80-100 baht.

Market prices for fruits

Fruits in markets and street stalls in Pattaya are inexpensive, but in Phuket they are a little more expensive. For example, in Patong the cheapest place to buy fruit is not in the markets, but in Big C and from farmer pickups.

Prices vary depending on the season, decreasing during the rainy season when most fruits are ripening.

	Pattaya	Phuket (Patong)
Mango (kg, price depends on the variety)	from 60 baht	20-200 baht
Papaya (kg)	40 baht	50-60 baht
Pink apples (5 pcs)	20 baht	50-70 baht
Pineapples	20 baht	from 20 baht
Mangosteens (kg)	80 baht	200-250 baht
Sapodilla (kg)	40 baht	50-80 baht
Longan (kg)	120 baht	100-120 baht
Tamarind (kg)	100 baht	-
Salak (kg)	60 baht	30-60 baht
Jackfruit (substrate)	20 baht	20-50 baht
Rambutans (kg)	-	150 baht

Accommodation in Thailand: hotel prices in 2019

Housing can be rented inexpensively. During high season, book your accommodation 2-3 months in advance. If you are going for a long time or traveling with family or company, rent a house or apartment - it is more convenient and economical. It is more profitable to rent housing for a month or several months at once.

Prices are for two people per night.

Where to look for inexpensive housing? Choose hotels on Roomguru.ru - there you can compare hotel prices for all major booking agencies. Find apartments and villas on Airbnb.ru.

Bangkok. In the city center, as a rule, you can find a room from 500-1000 baht, a hotel from 600 baht, apartments from 700-1700 baht.

Pattaya. The resort has many offers of apartments and houses. Prices for decent hotels start from 400 baht. Rooms cost from 350 baht per day, an apartment can be rented for 700-2000 baht.

Phuket. There is plenty of budget accommodation on the island. Prices depend on the beach, distance from the sea and conditions. Hotels start from 400 baht, rooms - from 300 baht. Apartments cost the same as in Pattaya - 700-2000 baht, there are many offers for 1000-1500 baht.

Transport prices in Thailand

Pattaya. Songthaews (also called tuk-tuks) ply around the resort; travel costs 10-20 baht, depending on the route. Travel from the bus station to the hotel is 30 baht. Ferry to Koh Larn - 30 baht one way. Bus from Pattaya to Bangkok - 120-180 baht. Minibus to Don Muang Airport - 180 baht.

(Photo © Roberto Trm / flickr.com)

Introductory image source: © Heidi & Matt / flickr.com.