Explore Thailand

The cooler season between November and February is the best time to visit Thailand when temperatures sit pleasantly around the late 20s. However there really is no bad time to visit thanks to its year-round warm tropical weather and laid back beach resort lifestyle.

Approximately 9 hours from Australia's east coast, getting to Thailand is easy! From Australia, daily direct flights are scheduled to depart from most major cities to Bangkok and Phuket. There are also a number of airlines that operate flights via Denpasar, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore.

Getting around Thailand is easy, with tuk tuks, taxis, shuttle buses and private car services all available at affordable prices. Thailand is also very easy to explore on foot, particularly in the main resort towns however taxis might be a more comfortable option on hotter days and are also readily available.

Car hire is available in Thailand, with many roads and vehicles up to modern standards. Although driving is typically not the most popular way of getting around, car and motorbike hire is affordable and is a convenient option for those wishing to explore at their own pace. Driving is done on the left-hand side of the road, just like in the UK and Australia. To hire and operate a vehicle in Thailand, all you need is a current driver's license in English from your country of origin or a valid International license.

Thailand is a great holiday destination for kids. Many hotels and resorts specifically cater to families, with plenty of great deals and onsite kids clubs or child minding available. An affordable family holiday, Thailand also offers children a wide array of activities and attractions to keep them entertained.

Thailand is not considered an expensive country and can be enjoyed on a very moderate budget. Of course, you can spend big in Thailand if you wish however even those seeking luxury will find the prices in Thailand very agreeable.

ATMs are located across Thailand, accepting most international cards (note: withdrawal fees can be quite high). Hotels and retailers offer currency exchange, though rates tend to be better at banks and authorised exchangers. All major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard and Amex) are accepted at most retailers and restaurants.

The Thai Baht is the official currency of Thailand. Each baht is divided into 100 satang. A typical meal will cost approximately 150 baht.

Tipping in Thailand is not mandatory and not built into the cost of wages. However, tipping has become more and more common among tourists and is always appreciated. If you do wish to tip, we suggest leaving approximately 10% of the bill.

In Thailand, the sale of alcohol is only permitted between the hours of 11am and 2pm and between 5pm and midnight. On religious holidays the sale of alcohol is forbidden. You must be at least 20 years old to drink and purchase alcohol in Thailand.

Australians with a current passport valid for at least 6 months after departure may travel through Thailand for 30 days without requiring a visa. Australian travellers entering Thailand overland can stay for 15 days without requiring a visa, For longer stays, travellers can obtain a a visa from the closest Embassy or Consulate of Thailand prior to departure. Departure taxes are generally included in airfares, however it is advisable to check at the time of booking. Flights with long stopovers will attract a departure tax of approximately 700 Baht to leave the airport. Please note that variations can occur with little or no notice. This information is subject to change and we recommend Australians refer to the Royal Thai Embassy website prior to departure.

Most resorts offer wireless broadband internet and popular tourist precincts also feature internet cafes. We recommend purchasing a local SIM for mobile phone and internet access.

Australian visitors cannot use their normal electrical plugs in Thailand, and will require an international adaptor. Thailand uses 220V AC electricity and most power outlets feature a two-prong round socket.

Although travel insurance is no longer a mandatory entry requirement for travellers to Thailand, we strongly recommend purchasing cover prior to your trip to protect you in the event of overseas medical costs or cancellations. Whether your kind of holiday is found within the secure grounds of your beachside resort or diving deep beneath the waves, small accidents can become catastrophic without insurance. Whether your bag is lost in transit, goods are stolen or you fall ill, travel insurance is worth it for the peace of mind alone.