The extensive choice of contrasting destinations within Thailand allows endless possibilities, and most visitors include more than one location on their itinerary.  From a luxury hideaway by the sea to a tranquil retreat in the verdant countryside, Thailand will enchant you and captivate you with exquisite cuisine, and not least, the warm nature and gracious hospitality of its people.

Monasteries and temples in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, silky soft beaches and island boat trips in Ko Samui and Ko Phanang, buzzing bars in Phuket, shopping extravaganzas in Bangkok - there is much in Thailand to tempt you away from the pool and sun lounger.

For a true Thai experience, arrange your visit around one of the many colourful festivals that take place all over the country, year-round.

Thailand's monsoon season starts in  Jun/Jul and the rains last well into October. Every area of the country receives adequate rainfall, but the amount of rain varies substantially with altitude.

The cooler months of November and December mark the arrival of the short dry season, which is a bit longer in the northeast and shorter in the south because of its proximity to the sea.

Thailand temperatures: Mar- May average high of 95ºF to lows of 70ºF; Nov-Jan highs averaging in the mid 70's.

Plane
Flying is the easiest option around Thailand and sometimes the cheapest if you book well in advanced. There are a number of airlines to choose from Bangkok Airways, Air Asia, Thai Airways, SGA Airline and Nok Air. These airlines operate from the north to the south islands of Thailand.

Train
State Railway of Thailand covers most of the country, from Chiang Mai in the north all the way to (and beyond) the Malaysian border in the south. Compared to buses, most trains are relatively slow and prone to delays. Pre-booking is recommended, especially for sleeper berths. Tickets on all main lines can be purchased online at SRT's official E-Stars site.

Car/Motorbike
Thailand's roads are way ahead with regards to safety compared to its neighbors Myanmar, Laos and Cambodia. This does not stop the dangerous driving habits by Thais. They drive on the left with road signs written in Thai & English. Renting a car is a great cost-effective way of getting around and also avoids the constant hassle of having to haggling with local taxi/tuk-tuk drivers. Renting a car usually costs between 1200-1500 baht. Like cars you can rent a motorbike but Bangkok is no place if you don't have any experience. You must have a valid Thai license or International Driver's Permit for renting a car or motobike.

Taxi
There are different types of taxis from tuk-tuk, songthaew & metered taxis. Always agree a price before you travel in a tuk-tuk or songthaew. If you are getting a metered taxi always make sure they use the meter.

Bus   
BKS (Baw Kaw Saw) buses are the best option for both price and comfort. There are bus companies which you should be aware off & they usually operate from tourist areas particularly on Khao San Road. They will usually offer you VIP buses, which often turn out to be cramped minivans.

Express (rot duan) - skip some stops, but no other frills.
Second class (chan song) - skip more stops, but often take a less direct route than 1st class / VIP / S-VIP.
First class (chan neung) - generally takes the most direct routes and make very few stops.
"VIP" - as per 1st class, but with only 32-34 seats, which have more leg room and recline further.
"S-VIP" - Super-VIP is very similar to VIP, except there are only 24 seats, which are wider.