Thailand Travel Guide: Best time to visit and Worst
This tips and guidance before Trip to Thailand from thisisinsider.com about Thailand Travel Guide: Best time to visit and Worst.
If there are two words that can largely sum up Thailand's climate, they are hot and humid.
The Southeast Asian
country, which is known for its tropical beaches, ornate temples, and
ancient ruins, has two seasons -- wet and dry. Some say there's also a
third -- the shoulder season, which occurs between peak and off-peak
travel times.
If you follow this
school of thought, then the high season lasts from November through
March, the shoulder season occurs from April through June, and the low
season (read: rainy) runs from July through October. This last period
can bring deluges, severe humidity, and choppy seas during water
activities.
That being said, if
avoiding crowds and scoring some serious discounts on lodging is your
travel strategy (and you don't mind rocking a poncho), rain can be a
fair price to pay.
Here, a few more
weather-related tips to consider before you book your trip to Thailand.
Plus, where to stay once you get there.
Southern Thailand
is best known for its beaches. While you might experience sporadic
showers year-round here, the rainy season -- with temperatures in the
low 80s -- will likely bring daily pours, especially on the West Coast. Koh Samui,
which is located off of the East Coast in the Gulf of Thailand, is more
protected and actually often has great weather in July and August,
popular travel months for many Westerners. (September through November
get rainier, and there can still be afternoon downpours May through
August, though; December through April are the least rainy months here.)
Alternatively, on the West Coast, Phuket and Krabi
are ideal from mid-November to April. If you don't mind getting caught
in a downpour or two, head to Thailand during the rainy off-season for
lower hotel rates. On the plus side, the rain turns the weather cool and
breezy -- a welcome break from the hot humidity of the high season.
Stay at the 39-room Nakamanda Resort & Spa
for a truly secluded experience. Located on a private beach, the villas
here are well-appointed (some come with a kitchenette, terrace, and
plunge pool or hot tub). The resort also offers up a sleek spa, open-air
restaurant, and day excursions.
If a quiet sandy beach is what you're after, head to the upscale Westin Siray Bay Resort & Spa Phuket.
Golf carts will shuttle you around the extensive property, which boasts
three stunning outdoor pools. Book a room with Andaman Sea views or
private swimming pools. And don't leave without a trip to the relaxing
spa, which offers facials, massages, and beauty treatments.
Located on the northern end of the island, the luxury beachfront Melati Beach Resort and Spaoffers
relaxation at its finest. Villas with private gardens and plunge pools,
four bars, a full-service spa, and yoga studio create a peaceful
setting where you can really get away from it all.
In this region, which includes Chiang Mai and Bangkok,
expect extreme heat from March to May (April is the steamiest) and rain
from May through about October. Note: Even if you're not visiting
during the rainy season, sporadic showers between the sunshine are
likely. Between April and August, Bangkok will also be smoggy. If you're
game, hotels might have some steep discounts. The best time to go? The
region's high season between November to February. During this time,
temperatures range from the high 70s to low 80s and there's not a ton of
rainfall. There will be fog in the mountains and cool, dry weather
elsewhere. And while you'll be paying peak season prices, the experience
will be a lot more pleasant.
In the heart of Bangkok, on idyllic Lumpini Park, lies the Christian Lacroix-designed SO Sofitel Bangkok.
Luxury travelers will dig the trendy interiors, outdoor rooftop pool,
and decadent spa. Each room is decked out according to a theme -- Water,
Earth, Wood, or Metal -- and comes with a soaking tub and Apple TV
entertainment.