“Thailand is one of the most popular travel destinations”
 

Thailand is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world, particularly famous for its islands and an essential destination for sunseekers, culture vultures and backpackers. Flights are cheaper than ever with various options for stop-overs and you can also get great prices on backpacker insurance, saving you valuable funds for your holiday!

Thailand's cool season is from November until the end of February. This makes it the best time to visit, as the humidity is low, the temperatures comfortable and the skies clear - although be aware that 'cool' days in Thailand often hit the low 30s!

Bangkok and Chiang Mai are the main tourist areas on the mainland, filled with shopping, cooking classes, Buddhist temples, jewellery and leading to the mountain ranges of Mae Hong Son and to the coastal trail. Jewellery shopping is often popular with tourists to Thailand. There are wonderful gem stores if bespoke pieces are your thing; but just make sure you take out backpacker insurance if you're intending to shop in any great way. As with any tourist destination, theft can be a problem if you don't take care.

“various small islands with pristine beaches and beautiful little huts and bars”

The beaches of Thailand are incredibly beautiful and well known for their hedonistic parties, although there are also smaller islands which are more peaceful and natural. The islands are all famous for their scuba-diving and other watersports and these are a huge draw for visitors wishing to attain their PADI diving accreditation or learn a new sport. Just make sure you are adequately covered with a good backpacker insurance policy and speak to the provider to ensure that it fully covers watersports.

From the south coast of Phuket there are various small islands with pristine beaches and beautiful little huts and bars. Coral is rather more commercial and a great place for snorkelling. This is a great place for kids to learn the sport as the colourful fish can be see quite close to the shore. Banana boats, diving and parasailing are also available and there are the usual range of tourist facilities along the beach including shops, refreshments, massage and drinks.

Ko Kho Khao is a beautiful laid-back island which is likely to become rather more developed over the next few years as the resorts move in - discover it while you can! Ko Phi Phi could have been extremely beautiful but it's splendour has been marred by the influx of buildings, internet cafes, shopping, markets, tourist facilities and partying. It is however very popular with young people and guarantees fun and big nights out.

Ko Samet is part of a national park and a great weekend getaway from Bangkok - but it's very developed. Beaches are crammed with tourists, backpackers and locals, but it has good facilities and accommodation.

Ko Samui is also one of the most famous islands, surpassed only by Phuket. It has an airport, a huge number of ferry connections and around 500 hotel and guest houses - not a place for unspoilt discovery or seclusion, but the beaches are stunning, the waters are clear blue and there are activities and facilities to suit everyone.

Raya island is an ever popular place for yacht owners and divers. It is surrounded by boats, yachts and speedboats and can become quite busy in high season. It is however exceptionally beautiful and secluded spots are easy to find. Mountain biking and nature hikes are popular here and there are also organised activities such as horse riding and fishing. Be warned that activities and facilities aren't cheap here. Restaurants are expensive too, so expect to pay around twice what you'd pay in Phuket. There isn't much of a nightlife as the island is predominantly Muslim, but there is a resort bar and Coco Bar located on Lah Bay.

Ko Adang is rather more remote and perfect for nature lovers. It has lots of deserted white beaches and hiking trails, as well as beautiful waterfalls. Ko Bulon Lae is another wonderfully underdeveloped island which many people don't know about - it's very popular with returning families, however and is tranquil and quiet.

Ko Chang is famous for sports, partying and chilling out with plenty of backpacker accommodation as well as luxury spots. Coral reef visits and elephant rides are popular. Again, make sure you follow safety precautions, dress appropriately and check the cover on your backpacker insurance to give you peace of mind.