Backpacking in Thailand
Backpacking in Thailand

Tips for Backpacking in Thailand

From the famously cheap shopping in Bangkok to the affordable paradise of the idyllic southern islands, Thailand is a backpacker’s dream. Now the most popular destination for travelers in Southeast Asia, there’s so much to see and do that it can be hard to know where to begin planning a trip – so here’s an introduction to backpacking in Thailand for those traveling on a low budget!

Entry and Visas

Nearly all backpackers are eligible to stay in Thailand for up to thirty days without a visa and should have no problems entering the country either by air or road across the borders. Travelers hoping to stay longer can apply in advance for a sixty day tourist visa from external embassies. It costs about 1,000 baht and allows for multiple re-entries, which is handy for backpackers visiting other parts of Southeast Asia before returning to Thailand.

Getting Around

Thailand has a decent public transport network that is both efficient and inexpensive, making it one of the easiest countries to get around in Southeast Asia. The rot thammadaa are state-run buses that cover short distances, though they can be slow as they stop frequently. Comparatively, the rot air are fast and comfortable (the name refers to the air-conditioning on board) but, as you’d expect, they cost more. Alternatively, there are private services (rot tua) on the longer routes popular with backpackers, although travelers should be aware that some of these tour companies have a poor reputation for safety so it’s best to do a bit of research before booking a ticket. There is also a basic railway network which is good for long distance, with the fares priced according to class, facilities and speed of the train. Advanced bookings are always advised, especially for long journeys and sleeper cars.

Accommodation

Thanks to its enduring popularity with travelers, Thailand is packed with budget accommodation geared towards the backpacking scene. Although there aren’t that many traditional hostels in Thailand, the numerous guesthouses with simple rooms, shared bathrooms and sociable communal areas provide a very good alternative throughout the country. Hostels in Bangkok mostly take the form of guesthouses, although there are also mid-range hotel-style establishments with TVs and air-con that can be good value for money. With tuk-tuks (a traditional Thai vehicle) and motorcycle taxis providing inexpensive (if hairy at times) transport around the city center, it’s possible to reach the sights from most areas. However, backpackers making only a quick stop in this big, chaotic city might want to check the location of the attractions they wish to see in relation to the Bangkok hostels map. Budget accommodation is also plentiful outside the capital, from the northern mountains to the islands. Hostels in the beach resorts are often known as ‘bungalows’ as the rooms are set up as little individual huts and also provide a good, cheap place to stay for backpackers.

Eating and Drinking

In general, Thai food is both nutritious and affordable so travelers on a budget should have no trouble finding a suitable restaurant across the country. The cheapest meals are available at street stalls and roadside cafés, where a main course can cost as little as 60 baht. Thai food has become increasingly popular in Western countries, so backpackers will probably know what to expect from the local cuisine when they arrive. However, some ‘delicacies’ such as seahorses and goat testicles are probably best reserved for the more adventurous to sample! Many such things can be found at the talaat yen (night markets) around Thailand, where small kitchens gather every evening between 6pm and 6am. When it comes to drinking, Thailand does not have a Western bar culture and alcohol is traditionally consumed only with a meal. Nonetheless, backpackers will find there are now many places catering to their trade in the more developed and popular areas.




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