Where to stay in Thailand, region by region

Independent guides to the provinces, beaches, islands and city districts of Thailand: where to base yourself, what each area is like, and when to go.

Places to stay we cover in depth

Riverside (Chao Phraya)
Riverside hotels on Charoen Krung and the Thonburi bank. Why the river is a good base for temples and the old town, and how the boats work.
Chiang Mai Old City
Temples, walking streets and guesthouses inside the moat. What staying in Chiang Mai's Old City is like and who it suits.
Khao Yai
Resorts, wildlife and wineries around Thailand's first national park. Where to stay near Khao Yai and how to plan a visit.
Ko Chang
White Sand Beach, Klong Prao, Kai Bae, Lonely Beach and Bang Bao compared. Where to stay on Ko Chang, how to get there and when to go.
Ko Phi Phi
Ko Phi Phi Don's busy village, quieter bays and Maya Bay on Phi Phi Le. Where to stay, how to get there and what to know about visiting.
Railay
A cliff-ringed peninsula reached only by boat. What Railay East, West, Phra Nang and Tonsai are like, and what to know before you book.

Andaman coast or Gulf of Thailand? Choosing your Thai beach
Phuket and Krabi or Ko Samui and Ko Tao? How Thailand's two coasts compare on weather, scenery, getting there and the kind of trip they suit.
How to get from Bangkok to Thailand's islands
Flights, trains, buses and ferries from Bangkok to Phuket, Krabi, Ko Samui, Ko Pha Ngan, Ko Tao, Ko Samet and Ko Chang compared.
The best time to visit Thailand, region by region
Thailand's three seasons explained, with month-by-month advice for Bangkok, the north, Isan, the Andaman coast and the Gulf islands.
How to choose a hotel in Thailand – practical tips
Location first, then everything else. A practical checklist for choosing hotels in Thailand, from beach access and noise to deposits and check-in rules.
Thailand with kids – the best family bases
Family-friendly places to stay in Thailand, from calm beaches to Bangkok neighbourhoods, plus practical tips on heat, food and getting around.
Two weeks in Thailand – a first-timer's route and where to stay
A practical two-week Thailand itinerary covering Bangkok, the north and the beaches, with suggested bases, travel times and seasonal swaps.

Phuket Vegetarian Festival
Nine days of processions, firecrackers and vegetarian food in Phuket Town. When it happens, what to expect and tips for visitors.
Loy Krathong
When Loy Krathong is held, the best places to see it, what a krathong is and how to take part respectfully.
River Kwai Bridge Week
A light-and-sound show at the famous bridge, plus fairs and remembrance. When it happens and how to plan your stay.