Planning the perfect Thailand vacation can be overwhelming, with so many incredible things to see and do. But with a little bit of planning and research, you can make your trip to Thailand unforgettable. Here are some tips for planning the perfect Thailand vacation in 2023.

1. Pick the right destination:

With so many beautiful places to explore in Thailand, it can be hard to decide which destination is right for you. Consider your budget, the type of activities you want to do, and the length of stay. Do you want to relax on the beach, explore the jungle, or explore the city? Decide which destination fits your vacation needs and interests. Research different destinations online to get a better idea of what each destination has to offer.

2. Book your flights:

When booking flights to Thailand, it is best to compare prices and book in advance to get the best deal. Thai Airways International, Bangkok Airways and Thai Smile are some of the most popular airlines for flights to Thailand, which generally land at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport or the smaller Don Mueang Airport. Be sure to keep an eye out for any special offers or discounts that may be available to help save money on your flight.

3. Book your accommodation:

Booking your accommodation in advance can help you save money and ensure you have a comfortable and safe place to stay. There are a variety of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury resorts. Research different accommodation options online and read reviews to get an idea of what each accommodation has to offer.

Popular cities for tourists in Thailand include Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket, all of which have a variety of accommodation options available. Budget-friendly hostels are great for those looking for a more affordable option, while luxury resorts are great for those looking for a more comfortable stay. In addition, vacation rentals are becoming increasingly popular in Thailand, allowing visitors to find their own space and enjoy the convenience of home. No matter what type of accommodation you are looking for, you are sure to find something suitable in Thailand.

4. Get your visa:

Travellers from certain countries may need to obtain a visa before visiting Thailand, depending on their nationality and length of stay. Tourists from certain countries, such as the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and countries in the European Union, are allowed to stay up to 30 days in Thailand without a visa. However, if visitors plan to stay longer, they will need to apply for a visa. Tourists can apply for a tourist visa, which is valid for 60 days and can be extended for an additional 30 days.

To apply for a visa, tourists will need to submit the necessary paperwork and documents to the Thai embassy or consulate in their home country. This typically includes a valid passport, passport photos, a completed visa application form, proof of funds, and proof of return travel. Additionally, a visa fee will be charged. Tourists should make sure to apply for their visa at least one month in advance of their trip to ensure that it is approved and ready in time for their travels.

5. Research the culture:

When visiting Thailand, it is important to be aware of the cultural norms and customs in order to have a respectful and enjoyable experience. One of the most important cultural norms is to show respect to the Thai people and their culture. This includes avoiding topics such as religion, politics, and the monarchy. It is also important to be aware of the Thai language and proper greetings. Learning a few simple words in Thai can go a long way in making your experience more enjoyable.

It is also important to respect the local customs and etiquette. For example, always take off your shoes when entering someone’s home. Additionally, dress modestly, especially when visiting temples or sacred sites. It is also important to be aware of the rules regarding public displays of affection. Generally, it is best to avoid any public displays of affection, such as hand-holding.

Finally, it is important to be aware of the local laws and regulations. Be sure to research any laws or regulations that may be applicable to your situation before visiting. This will help to ensure that you have a pleasant and respectful stay in Thailand.

6. Pack appropriately:

The weather in Thailand is typically hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 65-90 degrees Fahrenheit (18-32°C). The monsoon season runs from June to October and is accompanied by heavy rains and strong winds. During the winter months (November to February), the temperatures are milder and the rainfall is less frequent. In the more mountainous regions, the temperatures can get quite cold, so it is important to bring warm clothing.

The dry seasons in Thailand are from March to May. During this time, the temperatures are more enjoyable and the rainfall is less frequent. However, it is important to note that during this time, the humidity is higher and can make it uncomfortable for travellers.

No matter what time of year you visit, it is important to plan for the weather and bring the necessary clothing and items. Make sure to pack light and breathable clothing, sun protection, and insect repellent. Additionally, bring any necessary items such as medications, toiletries, and any other items you may need.

7. Get travel insurance:

Travelling to Thailand can be an exciting and memorable adventure, but it’s important to protect yourself from unexpected medical or travel costs. Travel insurance can provide peace of mind and help you avoid costly out-of-pocket expenses. It can also cover expenses related to illness, injury, baggage loss or delay, and cancellation of trips. Make sure to read the policy carefully before purchasing to ensure you are covered for the activities you plan to do in Thailand. Additionally, check if your policy covers medical evacuation in case of an emergency. This can be invaluable if you need to be transported to a hospital for medical care.

With these tips, you can ensure that your Thailand vacation will be a memorable and enjoyable experience. Have fun and enjoy your trip!

There are some simple steps to ensure that travel for gluten free eating is simple and stress free. Health coach Erika Schlick, who creates gluten-free dining guides, says that it’s all about research and preparation to make travel stress free

Travel can bring a lot of uncertainty and apprehension for people with gluten-free diets. From the moment you arrive at the airport, to the plane journey, to arriving in a new city, there’s always the worry that there won’t be any dietary options available for you.

However, there are some simple steps to ensure that travel for gluten free eating is simple and stress free. Health coach Erika Schlick, who creates gluten-free dining guides, says that it’s all about research and preparation to make travel stress free.

“Traveling as a celiac or someone with dietary restrictions can be a little tricky,” she says, “but fortunately, it is getting a lot easier with some planning and knowing what snacks to bring and pack.” Below, she outlines her top tips.

Bring Your Own Snacks

“A quick snack can be a lifesaver on long travel days or when you’re out sightseeing,” Schlick says. Energy bars are one of her top recommendations, which can be carried in a backpack or purse, and work as a filling snack to keep you going until you can sit down for a proper meal.

“I particularly love blueberry, chocolate, or lemon poppyseed,” she says. “They can be a perfect on-the-go breakfast with some coffee or a snack to take on a day of exploring.” Her next pick is chocolate-dipped nuts — especially almonds — which she describes as her “guilty pleasure.” “Almonds are the perfect craving when you want something sweet, but want a healthier protein.”

If you’re looking for something a bit more savory, Schlick recommends a collagen bar, which can keep hunger at bay. “They are small but powerful,” she adds. “One of those bars can satisfy hunger for hours. If you put them in the fridge or freezer, they tend to hold up even better. I always have one in my purse for when I feel like I am crashing and need a snack.”

Register Your Dietary Requirements

This is an absolute must for long-haul flights. It might be the last thing on your mind when you’re getting ready for a trip, but nothing ruins that pre-vacation buzz than finding out there’s quite literally nothing on board that you can eat. The ‘hanger’ will kick in, and you’ll be off to a bad start before you know it.

“Always make sure you tell your airline of your dietary requirements so there’s a meal on board for you when you’re thousands of feet in the air with no other options,” Schlick says. She also recommends you plan ahead as far as possible. “If you’re staying in a hotel, give them a call to check if there are options, or request that provisions are made for your stay.” If you have any day trips or tours planned where food is included, make sure to notify them ahead of time, too.

Research the Area

“One of the most frustrating things about traveling as a gluten-free foodie is parading up and down streets of restaurants looking for something with options, and ones that suit your craving,” Schlick says. Nevertheless, she’s become something of an expert in finding the best gluten-free spots in cities across the United States, and further afield in Europe, too. She has a whole section on her blog dedicated to gluten free food guides, covering cities like Los Angeles, Portland, and Chicago. You should dedicate a little bit of time before your trip to look at what’s around your hotel and any sightseeing spots you’re planning on visiting. “By finding restaurants for each day and pre-booking them, it will not only give a bit more structure to your days, but also remove the stress and uncertainty of trying to find somewhere to eat every day.”

Consider Self-Catered Accommodation

“Having a dietary requirement is always a learning process, and eating out can be a bit of a stressful experience for some people,” Schlick says. “You may feel better cooking your own food and sticking to your own routine.”

Celiacs may also experience general sensitivity when it comes to food, and drastic changes in diet can be uncomfortable and cause bloating. Self-catered accommodation is a great option for people who don’t want to disrupt their dietary routine or eating habits too much, whether it’s an Airbnb, apartment at a resort, or something a bit more unusual like a glamping pod.

Spend a little bit more time planning to save yourself lots of hassle when you’re traveling, and enjoy all the gluten free indulgence your heart desires.

Opinion

In an era where authenticity reigns supreme, many travellers want to get off the beaten track or live like a local, skip the “touristy attractions” and seek out insider spots or hidden gems.

We want to immerse ourselves in a culture and experience it in its most genuine form. If you consider yourself one such person, you probably also want to avoid looking like a foreign tourist; someone who is an outsider, who doesn’t belong.

Naturally, in some destinations, it’s impossible to fully assimilate. No matter what I wear, I’ll always stick out in Nepal or Mumbai as a white-skinned, blonde-haired traveller.

But for many multicultural cities around the world, there are ways to fit in with the locals or at least, avoid looking quite so much like a lost tourist.

Do your research

Aside from ethnicity, clothing is the number one thing that sets tourists out from residents. So, take time to research what kind of clothing locals wear. Ask people who have recently visited, read online travel forums or find fashion content written by local journalists or bloggers. Do people tend to dress conservatively or are they happy to bare skin? Is it a fashion-forward place or are they a few years behind the trends?

Make space in that suitcase

Long days walking around plus limited suitcase space often prompts people to leave trendier items or accessories behind. Instead, we opt for outfits that are comfortable and functional. Unfortunately, your trusty walking shoes, comfy jeans and backpack won’t help you fit in around most cities.

To avoid looking like a tourist, make space in your suitcase for trendy items that may not be super useful but look great. This can be as simple as a nice pair of shoes, a jacket that isn’t warm but is chic, and an accessory like a nice purse or scarf.

Invest in fashionable and functional items

Additionally, you can also invest in items that are fashionable and functional, like a slick pair of sneakers with good support, a new, warm coat, or a trendy bum bag (yes, they do exist). These items may be more expensive but if you travel often, they are a great investment and a shortcut to looking less like a frazzled tourist.

Avoid ‘tourist accessories’

The cliche of a tourist holding out a printed map is outdated thanks to smartphones. However, many accessories act like a beacon that declares “foreigner”. We’re talking big DSLR cameras or iPhones on neck straps, bulky backpacks and passport pouches wrapped around the waist or hanging from your neck. Oddly, the same goes for white, shiny sunscreen (opt for a subtle gel-based sunblock) and hats or caps that are obviously from another country, or geared towards tourists.

Shop while you’re there

One fun way to fit in with the local look is to fit in some shopping at your destination. Perusing boutiques and stores is a great way to get among residents, find a travel souvenir you’ll actually use after your travels and find an item or two that helps you fit in.

However, be wary of stores that are just catering to tourists; these shops either sell brands or items most locals can’t afford or items with the destination name/attractions printed on them. From these things, you must run like the wind. But if you are determined to buy that Hard Rock Cafe Sydney T-shirt or “I

Keeping the valuables safe as well as having an emergency plan is essential to stay safe while holidaying abroad, especially for elderly travellers.

Travel experts from Panache Cruises shared their top 10 tips on how holidaymakers can stay safe this summer. Some of their most crucial recommendations for senior travellers include using safety mobile apps, sharing the location with family, knowing where the local hospital and police stations are and having the emergency phone numbers for each country.

1. Inform people of the location

Before going on holiday, travellers should always let friends and family know they are going away and keep them updated with any changes.

Keeping in regular contact and having the mobile’s live location app turned on is essential so people at home know where they are at all times.

2. Create an emergency plan

Being prepared for an emergency is key but this doesn’t have to be complicated. Travellers could simply familiarise themselves with the local hospital, police station and other useful spots in the town or city.

It could also be useful to “learn key phrases such as ‘I need help’ or ‘ring for an ambulance’ in the local language as well as the emergency phone numbers,” the experts explained.

3. Protect valuables

Thieves often target holidaymakers so it is advised not to pack anything expensive or of sentimental value unless is really necessary.

Travellers should also keep items like credit cards, local currency, passports and mobile phones hidden “in a secure bag out of sight at all times”.

Secure bags are great for senior travellers and these can be purchased on Amazon for less than £10.

4. Protect themselves against crime

Holidaymakers can be safe from local crime and tourist scams by researching the destination beforehand. Read up on travel guides and news sites, and talk to friends and family who have visited the area to learn about any potential risks.

5. Book solo accommodation

When travelling alone, it is recommended tourists always book solo rooms. Although shared accommodation such as hostels is more common among young travellers, seniors may be tempted to stay there to save money, however, the travel experts warned against this practice.

6. Choose accommodation with caution

Similarly, checking that the hotel is in a safe location and close to public transport and restaurants is key, even when travelling with family and friends.

“Travellers should also check the accommodation’s check-in timings to not spend time waiting around in an unknown environment,” they added.

7. Travel insurance

Travel insurance is essential to protect tourists from unforeseen events and interruption insurance “can help recover damages from issues such as weather and natural disasters”.

“Medical insurance can cover unexpected costs, while luggage insurance can help recover losses from theft or delays,” the experts added.

8. Study the local language

Learning a few words in the local language can be handy, especially if travellers need to ask for help.

9. Be respectful of local culture

“To reduce vulnerability and avoid drawing attention” it is advised travellers dress “appropriately” to respect the local culture. “Some countries may require hair to be covered up and not too much skin to be on the show,” for instance.

10. Never tell strangers if they are travelling alone

Finally, solo travellers “should never share too much with strangers” or they risk “becoming a target”. Instead, they should say that friends are “waiting up ahead or back in the hotel room”.