Club vacation in Thailand. Thailand tours

For a holiday in Thailand, tourists choose how prestigious resorts Pattaya and Phuket, as well as hundreds of small islands, as if specially created by nature for a secluded pastime away from civilization. Lovers have fun here hiking and diving, as well as frequenters of luxurious restaurants and nightclubs. And, of course, a holiday in Thailand is impossible to imagine without a visit to the white-sand beaches that are so proud of. locals. Experience ancient Thai culture by visiting Buddhist temples where monks in orange robes reach enlightenment and share knowledge. Gourmets will be surprised by countless exotic dishes, which can be tasted not only in restaurants, but also at the layouts of street vendors. And the famous Thai hospitality, good nature and sincerity of the locals make you love this amazing Asian country even more.

Seasonality and climate. When is the best time to go on vacation to Thailand?

Although local resorts welcome tourists all year round, the high season lasts from November to March and is characterized by the absence of storms and showers and warm, most comfortable weather. Monsoons bring rain from April to October in Thailand. At this time the winds are picking up high waves, which windsurfers are looking forward to, and for it is better to choose the calm, windless beaches of Krabi and Koh Samui.

Prices for tours to Thailand

The largest influx of tourists in Thailand is observed in December-February, especially during the Christmas holidays. At this time, prices for tours are significantly higher than in low season, therefore, it is better to plan your vacation in advance, purchasing vouchers in advance through the early booking system. So, at the height of the swimming season, a trip for two to Pattaya from Moscow in 2020 with accommodation in a 3-4 * hotel will cost at least 70 thousand rubles. A package tour with an excursion program included in the price costs 10-20 thousand rubles. expensive. This is the best choice for those who prefer to combine a beach holiday with active trips and walks. If you want to not only have a great time, but also save money, choose early booking to go to Thailand at a price 30-40% lower than usual. You can also save money by planning a vacation in the low season - from May to October. During this period, heavy showers occur only in the northern regions, and on popular resorts rains are short and usually occur in the evening and at night.

Types of recreation. What to do in Thailand?

Thailand is the most popular country among Russians East Asia. Modern technologies and ancient Buddhist culture surprisingly harmoniously merged on its land. Tours to Thailand are chosen by couples with children who need a high-quality and inexpensive beach holiday, and lovers of vibrant nightlife, here they get a portion of adrenaline and extreme people will be able to comprehend nirvana, thirsty for peace and tranquility. Tropical forests await you white sandy beaches, elephant trekking and amazing National cuisine, a real Thai massage and an impeccable level of service.

beach holiday

The famous resorts of Phuket, Pattaya, Koh Chang and Koh Samui offer excellent conditions for recreation. The main tourist Mecca of Thailand is Pattaya, where there are over 130 first-class hotels, clubs and restaurants, the entertainment industry is developed. Due to the unique location of the resort, the sea is calm and gentle all year round, hurricanes and winds do not reach it, and showers during the rainy season, judging by the reviews of travelers, are short-lived. Phuket - the best place for diving and snorkeling, and many guesthouses offering low prices for accommodation, makes it popular among downshifters and young people. Koh Chang is an elite resort for true connoisseurs of comfort. And those who appreciate quiet rest and solitude tend to Koh Samui.

It is easy to combine a holiday in Thailand with a visit excursion programs. In a short time you will be able to get acquainted with the traditions and culture, life and history exotic country. Most interesting to visit crocodile farms, floating markets, Nong Nooch tropical garden, Mini Siam miniature park, authentic villages, trips to famous Buddhist temples and the golden triangle. And don't miss Turtle Island - national park and the pride of Thailand.

extreme vacation

Tours to Thailand - a paradise for lovers of extreme and outdoor activities. Nan province in the north of the country has ideal natural conditions for kayaking and rafting. The southern province of Krabi was chosen by freedivers and rock climbers. Daredevils can try their hand at jumping from Tan Rattana Waterfall. And those who want to see as much as possible during their vacation can go on bike tours throughout the country.

Attractions in Thailand

Thailand - mysterious country, where you can wander endlessly, and every time it will surprise and fascinate with fantastic landscapes lost in the depths rainforest ancient monuments and cities, the endless turquoise of the Indian Ocean.

Bangkok

Bangkok is an amazing city full of contrasts, where there is something to see for connoisseurs of novelty and exoticism. You can visit Chinatown with a huge selection of goods and souvenirs at symbolic prices, go to Rattanakosin Island with historical center. The Silom district, the heart of Thai business, is distinguished by luxury and splendor. And from the highest metropolitan observation deck Baiyoke sky tower offering stunning views.

Palaces and temples

Nothing is such a shining example ancient architecture and the culture of Thailand as its magnificent temple complexes and palaces. The most famous of them are the huge Royal Palace and fancy temple emerald buddha in Bangkok. In Pattaya, visit the Temple of Truth, a real masterpiece, in the construction of which there is not a single nail. The Buddhist temple Wat Saket on the Golden Mountain in the capital is one of the main symbols of Buddhism, and Wat Ratchanadda offers breathtaking views of the Old City.

Thailand is a country of hot sun, gentle sea and incredible drive. Spacious clean beaches, exotic vegetation and the smiles of local residents leave Russian tourists with great memories of their holidays in Thailand. On the coast there is a place for families with small children, and party-goers, and lovers of attractions - there are resorts in Thailand for every taste.

Why go

Thailand is warm all year round, so many people prefer to spend the whole winter here, escaping Russian frosts to the hot coast.

Thailand is very diverse: there are quiet deserted corners, noisy party resorts and cozy little beaches. Among the resorts in Thailand, you can easily find one that suits a family with small children, and one that will appeal to a youth company, and a secluded corner where monkeys are more common than people.

This country has long been loved by Russian tourists for its original culture, affordable prices and active nightlife. There are nightclubs in almost every resort in Thailand, some islands (,) are famous for holding noisy, unforgettable parties.

Tours to Thailand

Prices for tours for 2 people for 7 nights with departure from Moscow

February

Currency

The currency of Thailand is the Thai baht. There are 100 satang in one baht. One baht is equal to about 2 rubles.

Weather

Thailand is the territory of eternal summer. Speaking of weather, there is a dry season and a rainy season. The dry season lasts from November to March and is characterized by mostly clear weather. This time is considered the tourist season. The temperature keeps around +30 °C, the water warms up to +27 °C. Rains are rare, the sea is clear and there are no strong waves.

The rainy season in Thailand is from April to October. It gets hotter, it often rains, the sea is stormy, although there are clear days. The resorts have significantly fewer tourists, lower prices for hotels and food. Surfers and windsurfers come at this time to catch the wave.

The duration of the seasons and their features may vary slightly depending on the resort.

Hotels

Thailand has a large selection of hotels. In resort areas and most often there are hotels of the category 2 or 3 stars. Territories near the hotels are small. The level of service is quite decent - the rooms have air conditioning, a bathroom, a refrigerator, a terrace or a balcony (depending on the floor), a safe (may be located at the reception). On, and you can choose accommodation in a bungalow.

Most hotels offer breakfast only, or breakfast and dinner. The all-inclusive system in Thailand is unpopular, it can only be found in five-star hotels of major global chains.

All hotels in Thailand (with rare exceptions) charge a deposit. This is a fixed amount for each day of stay or for the entire vacation period. The deposit can be made either in cash (only baht) or frozen on credit card. The deposit will be returned before departure.

Hotels often have swimming pools, spas, massage rooms, beauty salons, a tour desk, and currency exchange.

Suitable for families, party-goers and lovers of secluded corners. Lots of clean beaches with clear waters.

Vibrant nightlife, many clubs and bars, shows for adults. For a clean beach, you need to sail to the nearby islands. The cheapest tours.

Ideal for families with children or a romantic getaway due to the developed infrastructure and half-empty beaches.

It will be of interest to connoisseurs of nature and those who want to go rock climbing. From here it is convenient to get to Phi Phi.

An ideal place to relax in unity with nature and for night parties.

The visiting card of the island is clean beaches and untouched jungle, and at the same time developed infrastructure. Suitable for all categories of tourists.

An old Thai resort town for wealthy travelers.

The capital of Thailand is a city of skyscrapers, Buddhist temples, shopping centers and nightlife. Bangkok must be visited to fully explore the country.

How to get there

Thailand is located in Southeast Asia on the Indochina and Malacca peninsulas. The state is surrounded by seas on two sides: from the west - the Andaman Sea, from the east - the Gulf of Thailand of the South China Sea. Resorts with magnificent beaches are located in the south, and in the north there is a lot of greenery and mountainous terrain.

Round trip flights to Thailand

Ticket prices shown are for 1 person departing from Berlin

At all resorts, boat trips to nearby islands are popular - both one day and overnight. The program usually includes food, snorkeling, diving.

Entertainment

In Thailand, both adults and children will find a lot of activities to their liking. On most beaches you can go water skiing, parasailing, rent a kayak and dive with fish in the depths. Other popular activities are paintball, quad biking, visiting the water park.

You can go shopping. On major resorts( , ) there are large shopping centers with European and Asian clothing brands. You can cheaply update your summer wardrobe and buy souvenirs in the stalls that are found on every corner. You can and should bargain with sellers.

Nightlife lovers will not be bored either. Known for its nightly entertainment. As soon as a hot southern night descends on a Thai resort, multi-colored lights flash on, music rumbles from bars and restaurants, night markets open their stalls. One of the famous brands of Pattaya, and Thailand in general, is a transvestite show. (Alcazar Pattaya) and (Tiffany's Show) can be visited with children, there is nothing indecent there, just all the roles in the show are played by men - just like the legendary Japanese kabuki theater.

Safety

Thailand is a fairly calm country with a low crime rate. However, in tourist places there are many pickpockets, so try to keep an eye on your belongings and not leave them unattended, especially on the beach.

In 2014, a coup took place in Thailand, as a result of which the composition of the government was changed and a new constitution was adopted. Today's position of Thailand in the political arena is very stable - both externally and internally.

It is worth noting that even the echoes of any political events rarely reach tourist places.

Customs regulations

Before you go through customs, check your luggage for prohibited items. It is forbidden to export Buddha figurines with a height of more than 12 cm, sand and earth, unprocessed corals and precious stones, gold bars and platinum jewelry, unused postage stamps, images of the country's flag (except for small ones) from the country. You can put odorous durian in a suitcase, but only in vacuum packaging. Other fruits can be taken in hand luggage- we advise you to purchase a special plastic basket for them on the market in advance.

It is forbidden to bring drugs and electronic cigarettes, including vape liquid, into the territory of the kingdom. There is also a limit on regular cigarettes - no more than 200 pieces per person. It is better to leave pornographic and erotic materials, toys "for adults" at home - they will be confiscated at customs.

As for the currency, without declaring, you can enter and export no more than $ 20 thousand or another currency equivalent. You can take out of the country without a declaration up to 50 thousand baht.

Customs and traditions

In Thailand, the royal family is very fond of. Family members' birthdays are celebrated as public holidays. The death of King Bhumibol Adulyadej hit the Thais hard, mourning for him lasted a whole year. Never say anything offensive to royal family, even as a joke - the case can end in prison. The same applies to money - they have images of the king, so you need to handle them carefully. Learn to help avoid unpleasant situations.

The state religion in Thailand is Buddhism, which is followed by the majority of the country's population, Islam and Christianity are also practiced. Thailand has many beautiful Buddhist temples worth visiting. When visiting them, you must follow certain rules.

It is customary to take off your shoes when entering the temple. You can not go inside in overly open clothes. The ministers will offer you free or rent long clothes to cover the exposed parts of the body. Women are not allowed to touch or talk to Thai monks.

The Thais trace their calendar from the day of the death of the Buddha (543 BC), so now they have the year 2561. Don't be surprised if you see this year on signs or documents.

New Year

In Thailand New Year noted three times. December 31 is the European New Year. The establishments put up Christmas trees, offer gala dinners and show programs. If you fly to Thailand at this time, you will be able to experience the familiar festive atmosphere.

Many Thais have Chinese roots and celebrate the Chinese New Year in February. The holiday is a colorful spectacle with a procession, dancing and fireworks.

The Thai New Year is celebrated on April 13-15 and is called Songkran. This is a Buddhist holiday that Thais celebrate with their families. The celebration lasts for several days and is accompanied by various rituals, the most famous being pouring water on each other.

Good to know

• slightly different from Russian ones in appearance (sometimes they have three holes). However, Russian plugs with Thai sockets are perfectly combined. An adapter is not needed.
• Shoppers will be able to get back up to 7% of the purchase price by issuing a VAT refund on the way back. To get a refund, buy in stores with the “VAT Refund for tourists” sign and ask for the necessary documents (you will need a passport). The amount of purchases must be at least 2 thousand baht (in one store).
• Night markets in Thailand are open from about 16:00 to 23:00. Read about the legendary.
• Since February 1, 2018, Thailand has banned smoking on 24 beaches, including Patong (Phuket), Bophut (Koh Samui), four beaches of Pattaya, beaches Hua Hin and Cha-Ama and others. Pay attention to the warning signs next to the beach. Smoking will be allowed in designated areas. The maximum penalty for violating the ban will be a year in prison and/or a fine of up to 100,000 baht (nearly $3,000)
• Under a complete ban in the kingdom, vapes cannot be imported, bought or used. You should not take electronic cigarettes with you so as not to get acquainted with a Thai prison.
• Do not leave valuables unattended, especially on the beach. Watch out for those posted by beach workers.

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Thailand has long established itself as good direction for relaxation, whether it's a relaxing holiday on the beach, enjoying nature and sights or wild parties. At the same time, travelers often have a question about which place is right for them. Here is all the necessary information about the most popular resorts in the Kingdom of Thailand: both the most popular and those that, perhaps, our compatriots have not yet paid attention to.

Pattaya is perhaps the most popular holiday destination in Thailand among tourists from all over the world. This resort town located on the shores of the Gulf of Thailand, on the east coast of the country. From the capital of Thailand - the city of Bangkok - Pattaya is separated by a distance of about 160 kilometers.

It is interesting that the number of local residents here is four times less than the number of tourists that the resort is constantly filled with. Indeed, in fact, Pattaya is ready to open its arms to a lover of spicy nightlife, and to those who want to bask in the sun, and to families with children who love attractions or leisure.

The resort is beachfront, but there is one recommendation: if you want clean sand and the sea, it is better to go for it not to the beaches of Pattaya itself, but in its vicinity - for example, to the island of Koh Lan. The best time to fly to Pattaya is from November to May or July to August.

Pros of the Pattaya resort:

1. Convenient location: a couple of hours drive from Bangkok.
2. Developed tourist infrastructure: hotels for every taste, entertainment centers, restaurants, bars, nightclubs - all this in Pattaya is developing every year.
3. Low cost compared to other resorts. This does not mean that everything is cheap here, it all depends on the choice of hotel and additional expenses, but Pattaya is also accessible for tourists with a small budget.
4. Opportunity to purchase sightseeing trips: due to the number of tourists, there are a lot of different offers here.
5. The resort is convenient for those who are more comfortable among compatriots: a large number of Russian-speaking people constantly live in Pattaya, and it is also always full of tourists from the CIS countries.

Cons of the Pattaya resort:

1. The beaches located directly in the city cannot be called clean.
2. In Pattaya itself, there are not a lot of attractions, special places from the point of view of those who go to the country for its traditions and culture.
3. Due to the large number of parties and their fans, the resort is not ideal for families with children. In addition, it cannot be said that Pattaya has clean sea and air.
4. Pattaya is not suitable for those who travel to Thailand for solitude.

O. Phuket

Phuket is an island resort no less famous than Pattaya. The island is located in the southeastern part of the country. The easiest way to get to the island is by plane from Bangkok, the flight takes one hour. A flight from Moscow is also possible.

This fairy island famous primarily for its the cleanest beaches and the sea coastline indented with bays and rocks. The features of the resort are such that it will suit both those who want a secluded holiday and complete relaxation, and those who value accommodation with complete comfort and affordable infrastructure. The best time to visit Phuket is from November to May.


Advantages of the resort Phuket:

1. The presence of both lively beaches surrounded by comfortable hotels and discos, and places for solitude and merging with nature: waterfalls, tropical forests, coral reefs.
2. An opportunity for tourists with different budgets and requirements: there are five-star hotels in Phuket, as well as private traders offering holidays in bungalows.
3. A wide range of entertainment for lovers of outdoor activities and summer sports: surfing, diving, snorkeling, yachting and other opportunities.
4. The pristine beauty of nature on the island.
5. Phuket is very good for family vacation with children: both good ecology and developed infrastructure, including the presence of shopping centers, pharmacies, clinics, make the rest in this place calm and safe.

Cons of the resort Phuket:

1. Phuket is an island, so those who want to travel around the country will have difficulties - they will have to travel to the mainland.
2. Despite the fact that there are budget options accommodation, in general, holidays in Phuket are expensive.
3. Phuket is not too suitable for shopping lovers.

O. Koh Samui

The popular resort is located on an island in the Gulf of Thailand - 40 kilometers from east coast countries. You can get to the island both by plane from the capital of Thailand, and by ferry - if you travel throughout the country, the second option will be even more economical.

Koh Samui, like Phuket, is distinguished by exceptional natural beauty. White sand and the coconut trees look much better in reality than in the travel agency brochure.


Advantages of the resort Samui:

1. Ideal for beach holiday, especially if the tourist wants peace and tranquility.
2. There are also options for outdoor enthusiasts: on certain beaches you can rent equipment or work out with a diving instructor, windsurf, play beach tennis or volleyball.
3. On separate beaches for those who are tired of silence, discos are held, there are bars and nightclubs.

Cons of the resort Samui:

1. The resort is quite expensive - thanks to the wonderful nature, tourists are willing to pay big money for staying on the island.
2. For those who want to travel around the country, an understandable and logical problem will arise - since the resort is an island, it will be quite difficult and costly to move back and forth.
3. The "high season" on the island does not last long: from January to May.

Krabi

The resort, or rather, the whole resort area in the south of Thailand, which has access to the Andaman Sea. Refers to famous resorts, but not yet as well known to everyone as Pattaya or Phuket. You can get to Krabi through the local airport, and from Phuket (by land), and from Bangkok (by air and land).


Krabi is close to other resorts in the country: Phuket and Phi Phi, so staying here will be convenient for those who want to explore the southern part of the country. The best time to go here is from November to May.

Advantages of the Krabi resort:

1. Due to the fact that the resort is not yet as popular as Phuket, the cost of a holiday in Krabi will be quite acceptable.
2. The province also has attractions: both natural and cultural, so it is not necessary to limit yourself to a beach holiday.
3. Suitable for those who love nature and solitude.

Cons of Krabi resort:

1. The tourist infrastructure is not well developed. There is little entertainment for revelers here, because the resort has not yet become the most popular in Thailand, and people come here mainly for something else.
2. Although this resort has access to the sea, there are not too many well-maintained beaches.
3. It cannot be said that the resort is very accessible in terms of transport - after all, from the capital, where many tourists arrive, getting to Krabi is quite long and expensive.

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is the second largest city in the country, located in the north of the country, in the Inthanon Mountains. You can get to the city from the capital - by air in an hour, by land in ten hours. Visit this place, as a rule, from November to March.

Chiang Mai, despite the fact that it is not suitable for a beach holiday - there is no access to the sea, attracts many tourists. This resort can be described as " cultural capital» Thailand.


Pros of the Chiang Mai resort:

1. The city is famous for its abundance interesting places: highest mountain Thailand, many Buddhist temples (about 300) - here it will not be boring for those who aspire to other countries for their culture and traditions.
2. Due to the fact that Chiang Mai is a large city, connoisseurs of comfort will like it: this developed modern city has all the necessary infrastructure. Shops, clinics, pharmacies - all this is available in Chiang Mai.
3. Chiang Mai will appeal to those who want to breathe in the traditions to the fullest. Festivals are constantly held in the city, and there are also many schools of Thai cuisine, exhibitions dedicated to the life of ancient peoples.

Cons of the Chiang Mai resort:

1. Even though Chiang Mai is Big City, specifically for nightlife it's not worth coming here. After all, this area is more suitable for lovers of a calm, cultural daytime recreation.
2. There is no access to the sea, which means that it will not work to combine visiting cultural monuments and relaxing on the beach.
3. Fans of outdoor activities also do not like this resort. After all, outdoor activities in tropical countries are usually associated with beach or water sports sports.

Is one of the most the oldest resorts Thailand. Hua Hin is a city on the western coast of the Gulf of Thailand, which is a major administrative center. You can get there from the capital by land - the trip will take about three hours. Visit the resort, as a rule, from November to June.


Hua Hin is no less famous than Pattaya, but much more better than Pattaya suitable for a beach holiday. On the three-kilometer beach there is a place for all tourists. It is interesting that the locals also love the resort, they often choose it as their place of rest.

Advantages of the Hua Hin resort:

1. Ideal for families with children. Many hotels are separated from each other by a sufficient distance, so the rest will be calm, moreover, the contingent of tourists mainly consists of families with children or middle-aged people.
2. Good transport accessibility and proximity to the capital.
3. Despite the fact that the beaches here are not as beautiful as in the island resorts, they are much cleaner and better than in Pattaya.

Cons of Hua Hin resort:

1. The resort is quite expensive: mostly wealthy people come here, and the level of hotels is high - but the cost of living is also high.
2. Hua Hin is not the best place for young groups of tourists, because this resort is a respectable place, and not the best choice for lovers of parties and various shows.

O. Koh Phangan

Koh Phangan, or Koh Phangan, is an island resort in the Gulf of Thailand, not far from the aforementioned Koh Samui. The island is almost entirely covered with tropical forests, but most of belongs to the beach area. They come to Koh Phangan most often from January to May.

Koh Phangan is currently not popular among tourists from the CIS countries. As a rule, Russian-speaking travelers pay attention to other, more popular resorts. But, in fact, this island may appeal to many, especially young people.


Pros of Koh Phangan:

1. First of all, Phangan is suitable for youth companies. For all lovers of nightlife, beach parties are held here, including the famous full moon party. full moon Party that lasts three nights during each month. Music, cocktails and atmosphere - and all this against the backdrop of exotic Thai nature.
2. The island is good for a beach holiday on any request. There are developed beaches, full of tourists, and wild ones for those who are thirsty. self rest at rest.
3. The island is also one of the most beautiful: despite the parties, places of pristine natural purity have been preserved here.
4. The resort will appeal to those who want to take a break from the crowds of compatriots during their trip: tourists from Russia rarely choose Koh Phangan.

Cons of Koh Phangan:

1. Transport accessibility is low. If you get tired of resting on the island, you can get out of it only with the help of several modes of transport, especially since it is far from the capital.

4.5 / 5 ( 2 votes)

There are three mobile operators in Thailand. All of them offer users almost the same conditions. There is no domestic roaming in the country. You can buy a SIM card immediately upon arrival at the airport, in 7/11 and Family March stores, in phone shops and in travel agencies. In the same chain stores, you can easily replenish the balance, usually on the check they simply write the number that needs to be dialed. Passport will be asked without fail. Cellular services are inexpensive, one minute of conversation will cost only 1 baht, SMS - 2 baht. When calling to Russia, it is better to use Internet telephony, for this you need to dial the code used by a specific operator (003, 004 or 006, etc., without a plus) and the Russian code - 7. One minute of a call in this case will cost no more 7 baht.

It is very convenient to immediately buy an Internet package with a SIM card, the cost for a week does not exceed 200 baht. All decent hotels in Thailand now have Wi-Fi, this is the norm. Usually the connection is stable in the rooms, and not just in the lobby or at the reception. The quality of both cellular communications and the Internet is improving every year, and most often it does not cause any complaints.

Language and communication

The Thai language has a soft sound and extremely difficult, in the opinion of a European, writing. It is based on Sanskrit, does not include spaces between words, and overall looks very specific. A language with four keys, quite euphonious, without harshness and expressive expressions. But when Thais begin to speak quickly, it is difficult to distinguish even the boundaries between words and sentences, however, this is probably true for any foreign language. Thais do not expect tourists to know their language. Therefore, from the first hesitantly pronounced phrases, they may not understand.

English is known in tourist areas, but not to say that well. There is even such an expression "Tyinglish". The fact is that Thais soften and creatively rethink many sounds that are difficult for them. In Pattaya and Phuket, many sellers know certain words and phrases in Russian.

Features of the mentality

The mentality of the Thais is well demonstrated by the well-known expressions: sabai-sabai and sanuk-sabai. They are translated as pleasure, comfort, while sabai means the comfort of the body, and sanuk means the soul. Thais aspire to such a state in the life of the present and the next. They are mostly Buddhists, therefore, they believe that in future incarnations their good deeds will be credited to them. Therefore, they strive to earn as many pluses to karma as possible. This, of course, is very simplistic and even rude.

They have one more fad - the desire to "save face", that is, their dignity. It is difficult for foreigners to fully understand, but it can be difficult for a Thai to say “no” or “I don’t know”, because it will be a loss of face. They are also rarely in a hurry, this is worth considering.

The fusion of religions in Thailand is very interesting. In addition to Buddhists, there are many Muslims in the south. In everyday life, images of Hindu gods are often found, for example, the elephant Ganesha. And, of course, not a single building is built without spirit houses, and this is a reflection of very ancient, pagan beliefs. It is better not to touch the houses of the spirits, and enter the temples only without shoes. When it comes to religion, Thais can be very sensitive and principled. And, of course, all Buddha statues are inviolable.

Shopping. What to bring from Thailand?

In Thailand, shopping is specific. Clothes and cosmetics of well-known companies are not brought from here. Although it is in the expensive stores of Bangkok. But why, if there are not enough suitcases for the riches that the generous Thai nature is ready to bestow. Now without pathos. Buying, of course, is worth it in reputable pharmacies and stores, then the quality is guaranteed, but on the other hand, you can have so much fun in the markets, looking at unusual goods, price tags and bargaining with sellers.

So what to bring from Thailand:
coconut oil is a very useful and multifunctional product;
Thai cosmetics - here, of course, you should contact the official representative offices;
T-shirts with interesting inscriptions and pictures;
Thai medicines - the choice must be approached carefully;
cheap electronics - be careful, avoid scammers;
leather goods - if you can determine that it is not a fake;
blue tea - you can try other Thai teas, but blue is the most hyped;
unusual soap;
deodorant Crystal;
fruits - durian cannot be transported, well, it is unlikely that you will want it because of the smell.

Local kitchen. What to try?

Thai cuisine, according to various studies, is among the top most delicious in the world. Here it must be said right away: Thais eat very spicy food, but they understand that such spiciness does not bring pleasure to foreigners. However, from time to time they are still fond of red pepper. Therefore, when ordering a dish, it will not be out of place to remind you of your preferences in two words - no spicy.

Top 5 Thai dishes.

1. Tom yum is, of course, the most popular, and rightfully so. A spicy soup with lots of spices (you don’t need to eat them all), in chicken broth with shrimp or other meat, tomatoes, onions, seasoned with Thai chili paste and coconut milk is a pure taste delight.

2. Tom kha gai - also a combined chicken broth soup, but less spicy, without chili paste and with more coconut milk. Very soft, rich taste. That's what I love Thai cuisine for, it's for the richness and brightness of tastes provided by many ingredients.

3. Pad thai is fried rice noodles with shrimp, sauces, peanuts when served and various greens. In general, there are many types of pada. They can also beat an egg, serve with a slice of lime, green onions, etc. A very tasty and unusual dish, it's all about the nuances of cooking, there is noodles in every country, but pad thai is one of a kind.

4. Som tam is a salad made from grated green papaya with sugar, fish sauce, tomatoes, lime, peanuts and a couple of other ingredients. Usually some greens are served with the salad. There is also catfish with raw crab, but this pleasure is not for everyone.

5. Sticky rice with mango (the Thai name for this dish is very rarely used in the tourist environment). Add sweet coconut milk sauce and juicy mango pulp to boiled rice, and here you have the finished dish. In fact, not everything is so simple, you need to take a special kind of rice, cook it in a special way, just like the sauce. Thais make even the simplest things unusual, but they also serve them beautifully. In restaurants, this dish is usually unreasonably expensive (I personally saw it for 120 baht), you can buy it in the market for 40 baht.

And that's not all. Seafood, just fried rice with meat, grilled fish, chicken and duck, sweets and necks, and much more delicious can be found in almost any establishment.

Holidays and events

On the November full moon, Thais celebrate Loi Krathong very beautifully. They lower into the sea compositions specially made for this purpose - boats made of banana leaves and flowers. Now they also launch burning balloons or Chinese lanterns into the sky. The exact origin and original meaning of the holiday is unknown. Probably, it is connected with the worship of the spirit of Water, because it falls at the end of the rainy season. Now it is a beautiful tradition, a sign of respect for nature. Lowering the boat is a ritual of absolution, but they also do not forget to put a coin to appease the spirits.

The most fun and widely celebrated day is Songkran. This is the Thai New Year, it is usually celebrated for a whole week, but it is especially active on April 13-15. It looks like this: the entire population is actively pouring water on each other. The stores even sell special guns for this purpose. Once in Pattaya, in the evening, a fire engine arrived at the main square and began to pour water on the people from large hoses. If you do not want to get wet to the skin these days, it is better not to leave the house. Joke. And now seriously. You can show the Thais with signs or say that you do not want to be doused. However, not everyone responds to such requests.

Safety

In general, tourists in Thailand live safely and quite comfortably. You can go for a walk in the evening or even late at night. But reasonable caution has not been canceled. We keep our finger on the pulse, hide the wallet away, do not shine with an expensive phone. Ladyboys are especially prone to stealing, their nimble hands need to be monitored very vigilantly. You should also not provoke the Thais, most of the quiet and peaceful ones can find one with a violent temperament. Thais especially do not like the dismissive attitude towards their religion, culture and the royal family.

It is worth being wary in tourist cities, especially in Bangkok, various fraudulent schemes. Do not believe the statements "today is Buddha day, Wat Arun is closed." Once we were told that Chinatown was closed due to a holiday, yes, the whole quarter was closed. This usually means that they want to lure you into a store or restaurant. And what kind of “divorce” there will be, it depends on the trickster’s imagination, but it will definitely happen.

3 tips that will definitely come in handy when traveling in Thailand

1. Do not judge the whole country by tourist cities and weigh. Thais, in the vast majority, are very modest and even shy people. They are always ready to help, guide, show the way, but the spirit of Pattaya is completely alien to them. They are not used to showing their personal lives and do not expect such manifestations from others at all.

2. Don't choose Pattaya for a beach holiday. Pattaya is definitely very interesting city. There is something to do here - water parks, shopping, Nong Nooch flower garden, zoo, excursions. Yes, they sometimes swim here and even enjoy it, but you will not find Bounty-type beaches here. And there are many of them in Thailand. Tours to Pattaya are cheaper, but you should be aware that it will still take at least an hour to get to the paradise coast, for example, on Koh Lan. The sea in Pattaya is relatively swimmable, but the fact is that it is dirty.

3. Very rarely, but it happens that traditional Thai dishes are not made very well even in expensive cafes. If you didn’t like it once, you shouldn’t put an end to the whole kitchen, you must definitely give it another chance. I promise you will not regret and find something of your own. Tip: adjust the spiciness with persistent requests to the chef.

The material uses photos from pixabay, unsplash and flickr, bangkok.com and tourismthailand.