Custom travel to Thailand

Thailand is one of Southeast Asia's most complete destinations, where bustling Bangkok meets the peaceful rice paddies of the north, where thousand-year-old temples dialogue with postcard beaches, and where every region reveals its own character. From the tumult of floating markets to the silence of Chiang Mai's Buddhist temples, from the jungles of Khao Sok to the turquoise waters of Koh Lanta, through the royal ruins of Sukhothai and the world's most inventive street food, the country offers a diversity that makes it one of the world's most loved destinations.

Highlights

  • Bangkok: temples, floating markets, street food
  • Chiang Mai: mountainous north, temples and crafts
  • Southern islands: Phuket, Krabi, Koh Lanta, Koh Phi Phi
  • Sukhothai and Ayutthaya: UNESCO royal capitals
  • Khao Sok and Khao Yai: jungle and wildlife

Frequently asked questions

When is the best time for a Thailand trip?

November to February offers ideal conditions everywhere: dry season, pleasant temperatures (25-30 °C). March-May is very hot (35-40 °C). Monsoon runs June-October on the west coast and October-December on the east coast — inverted seasons that allow travel almost year-round.

How long for a Thailand trip?

10 days are enough for Bangkok + southern islands. 14-16 days allow a grand tour: Bangkok + Chiang Mai + islands. 21 days to add Sukhothai, Ayutthaya, and Khao Sok or a Cambodia/Laos extension.

What budget for a custom Thailand trip?

As a guideline, €1,800-€2,500 per person for 10-12 days in comfort, excluding flights. For an upscale trip with Mandarin Oriental or Six Senses: €5,000-€9,000. Paris-Bangkok flights: €600-€1,200.

Do I need a visa to travel to Thailand?

No visa for French citizens for stays under 30 days (entry with passport). Passport must be valid 6 months beyond return date. Over 30 days, a tourist visa is required.

How do I get around in Thailand?

Domestic flights (Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways) are the best option for long distances (Bangkok-Chiang Mai 1 h 15, Bangkok-Phuket 1 h 30). Night train Bangkok-Chiang Mai for a slow experience. Longtail boats between islands. Tuk-tuks and taxis affordable in cities.

Which islands to choose in Thailand?

West coast (Andaman, most beautiful): Phi Phi (lively), Koh Lanta (peaceful), Koh Yao Noi (confidential), Koh Lipe (paradise, south). East coast (Gulf): Koh Samui (family), Koh Phangan (Full Moon Party), Koh Tao (diving). To escape crowds: Koh Yao Noi, Koh Lipe, Koh Kood.

How to see elephants ethically?

Favor sanctuaries without riding (Elephant Nature Park near Chiang Mai, BLES sanctuary in Sukhothai, Boon Lott's Elephant Sanctuary). Absolutely avoid camps offering back rides, shows, or painting, which involve cruel training.

Is Thailand safe for a trip?

Generally very safe. Main risks are taxi scams (insist on meter), Bangkok tourist touts, and pickpocketing in busy zones. Solo female travelers are safe.

What is typical Thai cuisine?

Pad thai, green or red curry, tom yum, tom kha kai, som tam (green papaya salad), massaman curry, mango sticky rice. Bangkok street food is world-famous. Spice level adjustable (mai phet for not spicy). Cooking classes everywhere.

Is Thailand suitable for a family trip?

Absolutely. Safety, warm welcome for children, kid-friendly cuisine (mild on request), kid-friendly experiences (ethical elephant sanctuaries, longtail boats, family beaches), many family hotels. Favor Bangkok + Chiang Mai + Koh Lanta or Koh Samui.