Phuket Island is the largest and most popular resort in Thailand. In the western part of the island is the most visited city of Patong, which is famous for its amazing beaches and is the heart of the nightlife in Phuket. There are also many places for shopping.
Phuket attracts tourists with its natural beauty and cleanliness. Here, rest is considered more upscale and will appeal to lovers of peace and tranquility, but the prices here are slightly higher compared to other resorts in Thailand. 
We advise you to choose a vacation in Phuket during the most favorable period from November to April, when the weather is sunny and the water warms up to +28˚C. The rainy season starts from May to October. Arriving during this period, short-term tropical rains are likely
Speaking about the main attraction of Krabi, it is worth noting the Khao Khanap Nam caves nearby the city. To get to the caves, take a boat trip from Chao Fa Pier. No less worthy sights of Krabi are Bokkhorani National Park, Tham Lod and Tham Phi Hua To Tham caves, Wat Tham Sua "tiger cave" monastery, Hua Said and Klong Khaeng waterfalls. In Krabi, sea safaris and trips to the islands, including Koh Samui and Phi Phi, are popular. 
Popular Krabi beaches are Ao Nang, Hat Rei Le, Hat Nopharat Thara and Hat Tham Phra Nang. The water temperature in the sea is very warm, around +29˚C.
Diving in Phi Phi is a real pleasure because of the variety of the underwater world. Here you can meet not only moray eels, stingrays, barracudas, tuna, mackerel and sea turtles, but also more dangerous marine life: tiger, black-finned and even whale sharks. 
If you are thinking about where to have a wedding in Thailand, you should pay attention to Phi Phi Island, because all the newlyweds love it for its solitude. This island gained popularity thanks to the filming of Leonardo DiCaprio in the film "The Beach", which took place here. To get to Phi Phi, you need to cover a distance of 40 km from Phuket. In time, it will take no more than 2 hours. Or a ferry departs from the center of Krabi from the Chao Fa pier, which will take you to Phi Phi in 2.5 hours.
It is a pleasure to go to the jungle on excursions around Koh Samui, visit ancient Buddhist temples, try Thai cuisine in local restaurants, have fun at discos and nightclubs. It is worth noting that massage in Thailand is one of the best ways to relax and Thai masseuses on Koh Samui will help you with this. Hotels in Thailand, in particular on Koh Samui, have a fairly wide and varied pricing policy: both a budget tourist and a VIP person will find accommodation here in first-class hotels with a worldwide reputation. 
The resort of Koh Samui has magnificent beaches, which are located in the east of the island. Chaweng is one of the favorite beaches on the coast. The best beach combines picturesque bays with white sand, a variety of hotels for every budget and a fun nightlife. It is worth noting other resorts in Thailand, located on Koh Samui: Lamai, Bophut, Maenam, Laem Set and Hat Taling Ngam. The weather on the coast is very comfortable for recreation, the water temperature is kept at + 26-28˚C, and the daytime air temperature is at + 31-34˚C.
Pattaya
Thailand | PhatthayaThe most popular resort in Thailand is Pattaya. Entertainment in Pattaya will appeal to freedom-loving youth, because it's just a party paradise where you can have a good time.
Pattaya has a huge selection of non-stop bars and restaurants, clubs where you can spend the day and night.
Pattaya
Pattaya is a large sea city, very crowded, so you should not count on a very clean sea and beaches. The beaches of Pattaya are all very different and stretch from south to north: Jomtien, Naklua and Palm Beach, Dongtan. The central beach of the city is crowded and quite littered, and Dongtan beach is famous for its promenade. Jomtien Beach is chosen by lovers of a quiet and relaxing holiday. And if you want to find the cleanest beaches, head to Naklua and Palm Beach. 
For relaxation on a sparsely populated and clean beach, it is best to go to the islands of Thailand, located near Pattaya: Koh Lan, Koh Sahak, Koh Krok, Koh Phai. The weather in Thailand is almost always conducive to a beach holiday. The water temperature is +26-28˚C, and the air during the day during the year constantly warms up to +30-34˚C.
And although the island is not yet as popular as its brother Phuket, there are still good entertainments on Koh Chang: in local restaurants you can appreciate the features of Thai cuisine, many bars, shops will not make you bored. Most of the territory of Koh Chang is covered with impenetrable jungles, mountains and waterfalls, which makes this area especially attractive for nature lovers. You can go diving on Koh Chang, such impressions will remain in your memory for a long time. You can swim to Koh Chang by ferry from the mainland of Trat province, which, in turn, can be reached by domestic aircraft from Bangkok or by land transport, including from Bangkok or Pattaya.
On the map of Thailand, it is located on the shores of the Gulf of Thailand, on the opposite side of Pattaya. You can get here in three hours from Bangkok. The location of world-famous hotels has made this island attractive for wealthy people and VIPs. Entertainment Hua Hin is also suitable for vacationers: the island has many golf courses and well-groomed parks. Hua Hin is home to some of the finest spas in Thailand. It can be both traditional Thai massage and modern procedures. The most popular treatments are deep skin cleansing, energy massage, detox and alternative medicine courses. A feature and main attraction of Hua Hin is the close location of the Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park. Walking through the park, you will be in awe of the insanely beautiful waterfalls, caves, valleys, mangroves and secluded coves. Hua Hin resort attracts families with children, as there are practically no noisy nightlife on the island.
The main attractions of Khao Lak are three national reserves, which serve as a magnet for ecotourism lovers. The most favorite place for all divers is the Similan Islands, which are located near the coast of Khao Lak. Everything here is designed to make the dream come true: the rich underwater world, combined with the incredibly beautiful coral reefs, create an ideal place for diving and snorkeling in Thailand. On the islands that are not built with hotels, you can enjoy a wonderful secluded beach holiday and walks through the picturesque hills. A must-see attraction in Khao Lak in southern Thailand is the Phang Nga Marine National Park. It will give unforgettable emotions that will stay with you forever.
The largest shows in Thailand called Full Moon Party gather thousands of people and take place on this island every month. On this occasion, Tourists sometimes call the island of Koh Phangan - Pacific Ibiza. 
Popular activities such as diving and snorkeling on Koh Phangan, where experienced instructors will help you get your first scuba diving experience. Other activities on Koh Phangan may also suit your taste: elephant riding, kayaking, safaris, mini golf, water skiing and much more. The climate of Koh Phangan resembles the weather on Koh Samui. The hottest months are April, May, June. And the most optimal temperature falls between November and March and varies between 24-26˚C at night and 28-32˚C during the day.
The main attractions of Samet are the national park in the southern part of the city and the fishing village with a monastery and a temple in the north. The beaches of Samet can be divided into two groups: on the western side of the island, a sandy beach surrounded by rocks, and on the eastern side, long beaches with fine sand stretch. The best way to get to the island is from the small town of Ban Phe. In the morning every hour boats go towards Samet and overcome 85 km. The beaches of the island are very clean and will appeal to lovers of relaxation and solitude. And the beautiful bays and clear sea are in no way inferior to the popular beaches of Phuket and Koh Samui.
Thailand has long established itself as a good holiday destination, whether it's relaxing on the beach, enjoying nature and sights, or wild parties. At the same time, travelers often have a question about which place is right for them. Here is all the necessary information about the most popular resorts in the Kingdom of Thailand: both the most popular and those that, perhaps, our compatriots have not yet paid attention to.
Pattaya is perhaps the most popular holiday destination in Thailand among tourists from all over the world. This resort town is located on the shores of the Gulf of Thailand, on the east coast of the country. From the capital of Thailand - the city of Bangkok - Pattaya is separated by a distance of about 160 kilometers.
It is interesting that the number of local residents here is four times less than the number of tourists that the resort is constantly filled with. Indeed, in fact, Pattaya is ready to open its arms to a lover of spicy nightlife, and to those who want to bask in the sun, and families with children who love attractions or outdoor activities.
The resort is beachfront, but there is one recommendation: if you want clean sand and the sea, it is better to go for it not to the beaches of Pattaya itself, but in its vicinity - for example, to the island of Koh Lan. The best time to fly to Pattaya is from November to May or July to August.
Pros of the Pattaya resort:
- Convenient location: a couple of hours drive from Bangkok.
- Developed tourist infrastructure: hotels for every taste, entertainment centers, restaurants, bars, nightclubs - all this in Pattaya is developing every year.
- Low cost compared to other resorts. This does not mean that everything is cheap here, it all depends on the choice of hotel and additional expenses, but Pattaya is also accessible for tourists with a small budget.
- Opportunity to purchase sightseeing trips: due to the number of tourists, there are a lot of different offers here.
- The resort is convenient for those who are more comfortable among compatriots: a large number of Russian-speaking people constantly live in Pattaya, and it is also always full of tourists from the CIS countries.
Cons of the Pattaya resort:
- The beaches located directly in the city cannot be called clean.
- In Pattaya itself, there are not a lot of attractions, special places from the point of view of those who go to the country for its traditions and culture.
- Due to the large number of parties and their fans, the resort is not ideal for families with children. In addition, it cannot be said that Pattaya has clean sea and air.
- Pattaya is not suitable for those who travel to Thailand for solitude.
about. Phuket
Phuket is an island resort no less famous than Pattaya. The island is located in the southeastern part of the country. The easiest way to get to the island is by plane from Bangkok, the flight takes one hour. A flight from Moscow is also possible.
This fabulous island is famous, first of all, for its pristine beaches and sea, the coastline is indented with bays and rocks. The features of the resort are such that it will suit both those who want a secluded holiday and complete relaxation, and those who value accommodation with complete comfort and affordable infrastructure. The best time to visit Phuket is from November to May. 
Advantages of the resort Phuket:
- The presence of both lively beaches surrounded by comfortable hotels and discos, and places for solitude and merging with nature: waterfalls, tropical forests, coral reefs.
- An opportunity for tourists with different budgets and requirements: there are five-star hotels in Phuket, as well as private traders offering holidays in bungalows.
- A wide range of entertainment for lovers of outdoor activities and summer sports: surfing, diving, snorkeling, yachting and other opportunities.
- The pristine beauty of nature on the island.
- Phuket is very good for families with children: both good ecology and developed infrastructure, including the presence of shopping centers, pharmacies, clinics, make the rest in this place calm and safe.
Cons of the resort Phuket:
- Phuket is an island, so those who want to travel around the country will have difficulties - they will have to travel to the mainland.
- Despite the fact that there are also budget accommodation options, in general, holidays in Phuket are expensive.
- Phuket is not too suitable for shopping lovers.
about. Koh Samui
The popular resort is located on an island in the Gulf of Thailand - 40 kilometers from the east coast of the country. You can get to the island both by plane from the capital of Thailand, and by ferry - if you travel throughout the country, the second option will be even more economical.
Koh Samui, like Phuket, is distinguished by exceptional natural beauty. White sand and coconut palms look much better in reality than in a travel agency brochure. 
Advantages of the resort Samui:
- Ideal for a beach holiday, especially if the tourist wants peace and tranquility.
- There are also options for outdoor enthusiasts: on certain beaches you can rent equipment or work out with a diving instructor, windsurf, play beach tennis or volleyball.
- On separate beaches for those who are tired of silence, discos are held, there are bars and nightclubs.
Cons of the resort Samui:
- The resort is quite expensive - thanks to the wonderful nature, tourists are willing to pay big money for staying on the island.
- For those who want to travel around the country, an understandable and logical problem will arise - since the resort is an island, it will be quite difficult and costly to move back and forth.
- The "high season" on the island does not last long: from January to May.
Krabi
The resort, or rather, the whole resort area in the south of Thailand, which has access to the Andaman Sea. It belongs to the well-known resorts, but is not yet as well known to everyone as Pattaya or Phuket. You can get to Krabi through the local airport, and from Phuket (by land), and from Bangkok (by air and land). 
Krabi is close to other resorts in the country: Phuket and Phi Phi, so staying here will be convenient for those who want to explore the southern part of the country. The best time to go here is from November to May.
Advantages of the Krabi resort:
- Due to the fact that the resort is not yet as popular as Phuket, the cost of a holiday in Krabi will be quite acceptable.
- The province also has attractions: both natural and cultural, so it is not necessary to limit yourself to a beach holiday.
- Suitable for those who love nature and solitude.
Cons of Krabi resort:
- The tourist infrastructure is not well developed. There is little entertainment for revelers here, because the resort has not yet become the most popular in Thailand, and people come here mainly for something else.
- Although this resort has access to the sea, there are not too many well-maintained beaches.
- It cannot be said that the resort is very accessible in terms of transport - after all, from the capital, where many tourists arrive, getting to Krabi is quite long and expensive.
Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is the second largest city in the country, located in the north of the country, in the Inthanon Mountains. You can get to the city from the capital - by air in an hour, by land in ten hours. Visit this place, as a rule, from November to March.
Chiang Mai, despite the fact that it is not suitable for a beach holiday - there is no access to the sea, attracts many tourists. This resort can be described as the "cultural capital" of Thailand. 
Pros of the Chiang Mai resort:
- The city is famous for its abundance of interesting places: the highest mountain in Thailand, many Buddhist temples (about 300) - it will not be boring for those who aspire to other countries for their culture and traditions.
- Due to the fact that Chiang Mai is a large city, connoisseurs of comfort will like it: this developed modern city has all the necessary infrastructure. Shops, clinics, pharmacies - all this is available in Chiang Mai.
- Chiang Mai will appeal to those who want to breathe in the traditions to the fullest. Festivals are constantly held in the city, and there are also many schools of Thai cuisine, exhibitions dedicated to the life of ancient peoples.
Cons of the Chiang Mai resort:
- Despite the fact that Chiang Mai is a large city, you should not come here specifically for the nightlife. After all, this area is more suitable for lovers of a calm, cultural daytime recreation.
- There is no access to the sea, which means that it will not work to combine visiting cultural monuments and relaxing on the beach.
- Fans of outdoor activities also do not like this resort. After all, outdoor activities in tropical countries are usually associated with beach or water sports.
It is one of the oldest resorts in Thailand. Hua Hin is a city on the western coast of the Gulf of Thailand, which is a major administrative center. You can get there from the capital by land - the trip will take about three hours. Visit the resort, as a rule, from November to June. 
Hua Hin is no less famous than Pattaya, but Pattaya is much better suited for a beach holiday. On the three-kilometer beach there is a place for all tourists. It is interesting that the locals also love the resort, they often choose it as their place of rest.
Advantages of the Hua Hin resort:
- Ideal for families with children. Many hotels are separated from each other by a sufficient distance, so the rest will be calm, moreover, the contingent of tourists mainly consists of families with children or middle-aged people.
- Good transport accessibility and proximity to the capital.
- Despite the fact that the beaches here are not as beautiful as in the island resorts, they are much cleaner and better than in Pattaya.
Cons of Hua Hin resort:
- The resort is quite expensive: mostly wealthy people come here, and the level of hotels is high - but the cost of living is also high.
- Hua Hin is not the best place for young groups of tourists, because this resort is a respectable place, and not the best choice for lovers of parties and various shows.
about. Koh Phangan
Koh Phangan, or Koh Phangan, is an island resort in the Gulf of Thailand, not far from the aforementioned Koh Samui. The island is almost entirely covered with tropical forests, but most of it falls on the beach area. They come to Koh Phangan most often from January to May.
Koh Phangan is currently not popular among tourists from the CIS countries. As a rule, Russian-speaking travelers pay attention to other, more popular resorts. But, in fact, this island may appeal to many, especially young people. 
Pros of Koh Phangan:
- First of all, Phangan is suitable for youth companies. For all nightlife lovers, there are beach parties here, including the famous Full Moon Party, which lasts three nights every month. Music, cocktails and atmosphere - and all this against the backdrop of exotic Thai nature.
- The island is good for a beach holiday on any request. There are developed beaches, full of tourists, and wild ones for those who crave independent rest in peace.
- The island is also one of the most beautiful: despite the parties, places of pristine natural purity have been preserved here.
- The resort will appeal to those who want to take a break from the crowds of compatriots during their trip: tourists from Russia rarely choose Koh Phangan.
Cons of Koh Phangan:
- Transport accessibility is low. If you get tired of resting on the island, you can get out of it only with the help of several modes of transport, especially since it is far from the capital.
- Not too suitable for lovers of cultural recreation: there are not as many attractions here as in some of the above resorts.
- Not being the largest resort, it may not be suitable for families with children: the infrastructure here is not so developed, the resort is more suitable for young people or companies.
- Average affordability.
So, here they are - the most popular travel destinations in Thailand. I must say that this is not a complete list of all resorts in the country, but even among the most famous places, apparently, there are options for every taste. After all, Thailand is really one of the ideal countries for a holiday.
Tourist cities of Thailand are conditionally located in three regions of the country: in the southern part, central and northern. For your convenience, we have marked all the islands and tourist cities of Thailand on one map (see Google map at the bottom of the page).
A little help. The largest cities in Thailand - a list of the 10 largest in terms of population (according to Wikipedia):
- - about 9 million people
- Nonthaburi City - 270,609
- - 174,332
- - 174,235
- Hat Yai (Hat Yai) - 157,467
- - 155,339
- Pak Kret (Pak Kret) - 152,881
- Chaophraya Surasak - 132,172
- Khon Kaen (Kon Kaen) - 129,581
- - 107,289
Cities of Thailand in the central part of the country
The cities of Thailand, located in the central part of the country, are very popular due to their accessibility. It is here that the main international airport Suvarnabhumi is located, where many countries of the world are carried out. From it you can easily get to the resorts and islands located in the north and northwest of the Gulf of Thailand.
Bangkok
The capital and main city of Thailand, where you can see both modern skyscrapers with shopping centers and ancient temples that are several hundred years old. The main attractions of the country are concentrated here: the Royal Palace, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Wat Po and Wat Arun. There are all kinds of entertainment - water parks, zoos, nightclubs, discos, bars with affordable girls, all kinds of exotic shows for adults. It doesn't make much sense for a tourist to live here (because there are a lot of cars, motorcycles and people), but it's definitely worth coming for a few days on an excursion. Bangkok is located half an hour from Suvanabhumi Airport and is the starting point for traveling to other resorts.
Pattaya City
The most famous and popular city in Thailand. Located on the coast of the Gulf of Thailand, 1.5 hours drive from Suvarnabhumi. Its distinguishing features are cheapness, well-developed infrastructure, a huge number of people on the beach and a large selection of nightlife (clubs, discos, bars). If you are a single man and want "strawberries" - then this place is exactly for you. Prices for girls are the lowest in the country (from 400-500 baht per hour), and the choice is very large. But as for the sea, in Pattaya it is the dirtiest in Thailand. Therefore, if swimming is the main thing for you, then choose another resort or go to Koh Lan every day, where the sea is very clean (45 minutes and 30 baht by ferry from Pattaya or 15 minutes by speedboat).
Koh Lan Island
A small paradise island located in the Gulf of Thailand, not far from Pattaya. You can come here for one day or stay for the whole vacation. For the second option, there is all the necessary infrastructure - hotels, restaurants, bars, motorcycle rentals, etc.
The sea here is very clean. In total, there are about a dozen beaches on the island, there are both crowded and sparsely populated. Prices for hotels and food are higher than in Pattaya. There are practically no sights, except perhaps the statues of Buddhas, and several viewing platforms.
Rayong city
This is the city of Thailand and the capital of the same name. Located on the coast of the Gulf of Thailand, 60 km southeast of Pattaya. The sea is cleaner than in Pattaya, and there are much fewer people. Sea holidays here are not limited only to the capital - the province offers about 100 km of sandy beaches - choose any. And from here you can get to the island of Koh Samet.
Samet Island
Located in the Gulf of Thailand, south of Rayong. It is part of the National Reserve, so the entrance for foreigners is 200 baht. Unlike other islands of Thailand, they try to keep the nature as untouched as possible, there is not even an asphalt road on Samet (asphalt is available only from the pier to the entrance to the National Reserve - about 500-600 meters). Despite its small size, the island has about 20 beaches, though they are all small, some 100-150 meters long. The majority of tourists prefer to settle near the entrance to the reserve. The farther from it, the fewer people there are, and the beaches are less crowded. There are no special attractions or sights. The main thing people come here for is to relax in the bosom of nature and forget about civilization with its fast pace. There are no malls or big stores.
Koh Chang island
This is the easternmost of the popular resorts in Thailand. Located in the province of Trat, 300 km southeast of Bangkok, near the border with Cambodia. It is the second largest after Phuket. Only the western and southern parts are inhabited by tourists. Almost all hotels and guesthouses are located on the coast and are detached houses and bungalows.
The island of Koh Chang is part of the national marine park, so the environment is strictly monitored - the sea is clean here, but there are no water activities (motorcycles, skis). For lovers of "strawberries" there are several dozen bars with girls. There are no night clubs and discos, shopping centers too.
Ayutthaya city
It is located 70 km north of Bangkok. Has no access to the sea. This city of Thailand is the ancient capital of the country that was before Bangkok. A huge number of old temples, which are more than 300-400 years old, have been preserved. In all other respects, this is an ordinary provincial town, where it makes little sense to linger for a long time. It is better to come here on an excursion for 1-3 days.
Hua Hin - a resort in Thailand, loved by kings
It is located 200 km southwest of Bangkok, on the coast of the Gulf of Thailand. This city of Thailand is the very first resort in the country where foreigners came 100 years ago. At that time it was the rich and the aristocracy of the European powers. Loved to relax here and. Currently, the place is not as popular as Pattaya, Phuket or Koh Samui, and the city has long lost its status as the main resort of Thailand. Despite this, it is worth a visit, because Hua Hin is somewhat different from other cities in its architecture and aura (many old palaces and attractions). And since it is located on the seashore, you can stay here for the entire vacation. By Thai standards, this is quite an expensive place, especially in terms of housing (cheaper than 500 baht per night, you are unlikely to find an overnight stay).
Cha-am city
A small city in Thailand, located on the coast of the Gulf of Thailand, 170 km southwest of Bangkok and 30 km north of Hua Hin. It is more calm and less crowded here than in Hua Hin, and the sea is cleaner. Hotels and guesthouses are also inexpensive. Therefore, for budget tourists and beach lovers, this resort will be better than the previous one.
Islands and resorts of Thailand, located in the south of the country
Southern Thailand is the most popular destination for travelers looking for a great beach holiday. This is a lot of islands, gorgeous clear sea, magnificent white sand beaches. It should be understood that this is exactly a beach holiday, you will not see any special national attractions here - all these places are famous for is nature. However, viewing platforms, trips to uninhabited islands for relaxation and diving will leave the best memories of Thailand.
Phuket - island, city and resort
It is located 800 km south of Bangkok, on the coast of the Andaman Sea. Phuket has long ceased to be an island, as it is connected to the mainland by a 400-meter bridge. Thus, you can get here by land. It is the most popular in the south of Thailand and the largest in the country. It is 50 km long and 20 km wide. There is an airport that receives direct flights from Russia. There are more than a dozen beaches in Phuket that are noticeably different from each other. Some of them are very crowded, the infrastructure is well developed (comparable to large cities), there are many shopping centers and large shops, discos and bars with affordable girls. On other beaches there are only a few bungalow-type hotels, one restaurant and that's it. After sunset, life stops there and there is no one on the coast.
Contrary to popular belief, prices in Phuket are not particularly high, except for a taxi. But housing is quite possible to find and inexpensive, especially away from the sea. Another feature of the island is that there is a road on most of the beaches near the coast. Therefore, there are few hotels on the first line, and most of them are multi-storey buildings, and not detached houses and bungalows.
Koh Samui
Located in the Gulf of Thailand, 750 km from Bangkok. It is the third largest after Phuket and Koh Chang. The infrastructure of the resort is developed only on the beaches of Chaweng, Lamai, Bo Phut, Maenam and in the capital - Nathon. There are many hotels, restaurants and bars. Chaweng has a fairly large selection of girls for single boys. There are large hypermarkets - Tesco Lotus and Big C. On the remaining beaches, the infrastructure is limited to a few hotels on the coast and a couple of restaurants, there is no nightlife there.
Koh Phangan
Located in the Gulf of Thailand, north of Koh Samui. The hallmark of Koh Phangan is the Full Moon Party, which takes place once a month. They are open-air discos, which attract tens of thousands of party-goers from all over the world. At this time, all hotels are full and there are no places. In fact, various parties are held there almost every day, such as Black Moon Parties or Mid Moon Parties and smaller ones. Almost all of them pass in the south and southwest of Koh Phangan, and the rest is quite quiet and calm.
Koh Tao island
Small. Located north of Koh Phangan. Quiet place, great for relaxation, diving and snorkeling. There are few tourists, especially in the low season. Prices are slightly higher than on Koh Phangan and Koh Samui.
Krabi
It is both a city in Thailand and the name of a province. But by no means an island, as it is written on some unscrupulous sites. It is located 800 km from Bangkok, on the coast of the Andaman Sea. The province and all its resorts are distinguished by amazing and bizarre landscapes - vertically standing rectangular rocks overgrown with greenery. In fact, in the city of Krabi, tourists stop infrequently, because. there is no bathing sea. Behind him go to the beaches of Ao Nang, Railay and others, which are located southwest of the capital. The beaches of the province are very clean. People come here mostly for relaxation, although there are quite a few shops, restaurants and bars with girls on Ao Nang. In the city of Krabi there are large hypermarkets.
Koh Lanta
It is located in the Andaman Sea and belongs to the province of Krabi. One of the few large islands of Thailand, where civilization has only partially penetrated. There are no buildings above 4 floors (mostly one-story buildings), there are no shopping centers and large stores, there are almost no sights either. The beaches are sparsely populated and suitable for lovers of silence. More or less active life takes place in the north of the island, not far from the pier and Klong Dao beach. And there, in the evenings, apart from restaurants and a little shopping in tents with clothes and souvenirs, there is nothing special to do. The farther south, the fewer people, after sunset there is almost no one on the coast there.
Phi Phi Islands
Consists of 5 islands located in the Andaman Sea, 40 km southeast of Phuket. In terms of tourism, only two islands are of interest - Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Ley. On the first one there is the entire infrastructure with hotels, restaurants, massage parlors, banks, etc. And the second one is practically uninhabited, but it is famous for the fact that the film "The Beach" with Leonardo Di Caprio in the title role was filmed here.
On Phi Phi Don, the main thing is not to make a mistake with the beach. If you stay in the village of Tonsai (where all ferries arrive), then from 19-20 hours open-air discos await you. The scale, of course, is much smaller than on Phangan, but the music is heard all night, so if you want peace and tranquility, then settle on other beaches.
Koh Lipe
It is the southernmost tourist resort in Thailand and is still little known among Russian tourists. Located in the Andaman Sea, near Malaysia. Koh Lipe is small and really walkable. It has several beaches with clear water. There are no special attractions or sights.
Cities and resorts of Thailand, located in the north of the country
The cities of Thailand, located on, are quite different from the rest. Firstly, there is no sea here, which means that a beach holiday is impossible (although if you wish, you can swim in the river, for example, on the beach of Chiang Rai). Secondly, in the north there is a more comfortable climate, a bit similar to the Russian one (in summer): although during the day it is +30, but after sunset the temperature drops sharply and drops to +15 ... +20 at night (and on some days even up to +10 ... +12). Thirdly, the local nature and landscapes differ markedly from the rest of the country and are considered by many to be the most beautiful in Thailand.
Chiang Mai city
It is the most important city in Thailand, located in the north. It is the cultural capital of the country, where a lot of old sights are concentrated, which are 500-700 years old. Chiang Mai was for many centuries the capital of the Lanna Kingdom, which later became part of Thailand. Some of the old temples in the city differ markedly in their architecture from those you are used to seeing in popular resorts or in Bangkok. The infrastructure is well developed - there are many hotels of different price ranges, shopping centers and hypermarkets, markets, etc.
Pai - resort in Thailand for hippies
Another interesting city of Thailand, located in the north. Rather, it is a village or urban-type settlement, since it has only a few streets. It itself is not of particular interest, but its surroundings are something: kilometer-long meadows and green hills create a landscape of amazing beauty and harmony. This is just a paradise for lovers of nature and silence. In the Pai Valley there are very vast areas without buildings and settlements, there are several waterfalls and a canyon. And this place is also called the last refuge of hippies in Thailand. And indeed, there are quite a lot of these peaceful “flower children” here. Also a lot of rastamans. It's no secret that both of them love weed and you might think that here is a hangout for drug addicts. In fact, there are much more ordinary tourists in Pai, and smokers gather in their companies at home. No one will offer you weed on the street.
The village is very calm, there are no discos, nightclubs and bars with girls. In the vicinity, housing is presented in the form of bungalows and cottages. The prices for everything are very low - guest houses from 150 baht per night, motorbike rental - 80 baht for a semi-automatic machine and 100 baht for an "automatic", massage - 150 baht per hour, meat on skewers - 5 baht, a kilogram of bananas - 10 baht.
Golden Triangle
This is not a city or a resort, but just a small place on the map where the borders of three countries converge - Thailand, Burma (Myanmar) and Laos. Located an hour and a half from Chiang Rai. In the past, it was the main drug route in Southeast Asia and is now a tourist attraction. In fact, it is not worth coming here to see the opium museum (and only it reminds of past times). But it is worth coming for nature lovers, because it offers very beautiful views of the river and its surroundings.
Mae Hongson City
This city of Thailand is almost unknown to Russian tourists. Nevertheless, there are quite a lot of foreigners here. It is located northwest of Chiang Mai and is the capital of the province of the same name. Despite the status of the capital, it is a small town and almost all buildings are 1-2 floors.
The city is interesting because there is a lot of beautiful nature in the surroundings and various tribes live, for example, long-necked women. It is quite suitable for long-term residence - there are hotels, restaurants, tour agencies. Quiet place.
Nowadays, many people can afford a holiday in Thailand. This country has reasonable prices, a visa-free regime (for Russians) and a whole kaleidoscope of excursions, entertainment, many beaches, a lot of hotels and roads to all parts of the country for independent travelers. Let's review the main resorts of Thailand. Only the main ones, because in fact everything in Thailand is so exotic for us - the inhabitants of a snowy country - that even a small village by the sea can turn out to be a resort.
Travelers, of course, have a question about which resort in Thailand is right for them. Here is a summary of the most popular resorts (including those where the Thais themselves have a rest).
Pattaya
The resorts of Thailand should rightfully be listed from Pattaya. The city and resort of Pattaya is undoubtedly the most popular holiday destination in Thailand. People come here from all over the world. Pattaya is located on the shores of the Gulf of Thailand, on the east coast of Thailand. Between the capital - the city of Bangkok - and Pattaya, the distance is approximately 160 kilometers, i.e. two hours drive.
It is curious that you will see plenty of Thais in Pattaya and everywhere, but nevertheless, the number of local residents is approximately four times less than tourists. According to another unofficial statistics, more than one hundred thousand Russians (immigrants and CIS countries) live in Pattaya and the surrounding area for a long time or permanently. In fact, all resorts in Thailand are inhabited by "ours", but in Pattaya they are the most.
In general, the resort is year-round and is constantly filled with tourists, and it is immediately difficult to understand how long a person has been here. Only then do you begin to notice people of European appearance, whose skin is very tanned, but without traces of blisters from sunburn. Among those, of course, are not only our compatriots, there are many Europeans and Americans.
What you will find for yourself in Pattaya
Pattaya found the glory of the city for debauchery. This is not true. Yes, there is enough debauchery here, but there is no obsession. Therefore, Pattaya opens its arms to lovers of spicy entertainment, and those who want to swim in the sea and sunbathe in the sun, and families with children of all ages who love excursions, parks, attractions and quiet nights. Nights in Pattaya are not quiet everywhere, but these are details that you just need to check with your tour operator. When you get on the plane to Pattaya, make sure there are plenty of kids on board.
Pattaya is a beach resort, and the beaches here are not bad, but the sea is not clean, alas. If you want completely clean sand and clear sea water, it is better to go to the islands or to the outskirts of the resort. The latter is more difficult and not everyone travels far, for example, to, which is actually located on the territory of an active military unit and is nevertheless open to everyone. More often they sail on a ferry or a boat on which they see from Pattaya, and where you can stay overnight.
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The advantages of Pattaya include:
- Convenient location - a couple of hours from Bangkok (and from there across the country you can)
- A very developed infrastructure for tourists, thanks to which Pattaya leads the resorts of Thailand in terms of attendance
- Compared to other resorts, the low cost of recreation (does not mean that everything is cheap, it depends on and)
- A large and varied selection of excursions: from a few hours to 2-3 days in a neighboring country (,).
- There are many compatriots - there is always someone to ask for directions, etc.
There are also disadvantages:
- The beaches located directly in the central part of the city can hardly be called clean
- In Pattaya itself, a large number of cultural and historical attractions are not concentrated.
- In the evening and at night, noisy parties are held in the central part, if you don’t need it, you need to look for a quiet place and area in advance
- Dirty sea
Phuket Island
Phuket is the most popular island in Thailand, and the largest. The tourist infrastructure is developed, the conditions for recreation are comfortable, and the entertainment is versatile. The business and administrative part is located in the center of the island, that is, as if away from the tourist areas, because they are naturally located along the coast.
Lush greenery and turquoise sea
Phuket is connected to the mainland by an isthmus, which is used by road transport. You can also fly by plane, sail by sea. Boats also depart from the port with excursions to the islands with virgin nature.
The largest and most popular beach is Patong. At night, there are big parties, which gather several thousand people. Patong is the most popular and the street with nightlife for adults.
Nai Thon Beach attracts newlyweds - right on the beach you can have a wedding in the sun.
The advantages of the Phuket resort include the presence of both lively beaches with comfortable hotels, bars, cafes and discos, as well as places where there is an opportunity to be secluded next to the rainforest and coral reefs. Hotels here are of different classes, from five-star to simple and budget. A lot of entertainment, but the most vivid impressions from trips to the islands, for example, on and. On land, there are still fewer options for recreation than in Pattaya. But this is not surprising - from Pattaya you can go very far to different countries throughout Thailand.
But in Phuket, the impressions of outdoor and underwater activities are brighter: surfing, diving, snorkeling, yachting and other opportunities. The water in Phuket is cleaner than in Pattaya, the environment is better.
The downside of the Phuket resort is precisely that it is an island. So if you come in or you are forced for some reason to go to the mainland, you will have to spend time and money. Holidays in Phuket are more expensive, prices are higher than in Pattaya, and shopping is more modest.
Bangkok
When listing the resorts of Thailand, one should not forget its capital. Although Bangkok is not famous for its beaches, tourists are also a dime a dozen here. The city is very dynamic, the population is already over 8 million. Skyscrapers are everywhere, but the most interesting is somewhere between them. 
This is a paradise for shoppers, because prices are much lower than in our country, the choice is simply huge (and not only Chinese manufactories), service is at a high level.
Bangka has many attractions, including the royal palace. For young people it will probably be important to have a huge number of nightclubs.
Rather, Bangkok is not the place where you should spend your entire vacation, but it’s worth visiting here for a day or three. Some do this by changing the resorts of Thailand - they rest, for example, first in Pattaya, then they go to Bangkok, there for a while, then they fly by plane to Krabi or Koh Samui, or even to (Malaysia).
Bangkok is the capital of Thailand, which is why it has the largest airport and therefore the vast majority of tourists fly into and out of the country from here. And first of all, this applies to vacationers in Pattaya, although there is an airport there, but most of the regular and charter flights on which tourists arrive in Pattaya land in Suvarnabhumi (this is Bangkok Airport).
Koh Samui
I will continue the story about the resorts of Thailand with the island of Koh Samui. Of the islands, it is considered the second most popular among tourists. Nature is clean, there is no industry. White sand on the beaches, clean, clear water, gentle entry into the water. 
Another interesting feature of Koh Samui is that there are no high-rise buildings; this is prohibited at the legislative level. In the literal sense, the law says that a building cannot be higher than a palm tree or palm trees growing nearby. Therefore, the buildings on Koh Samui are mostly two or three storey. There are many hotels where rooms are in bungalows. You practically live in a tropical garden, from morning to night the trills of birds, the plants are fragrant, and the fruits of forgiveness hang right in front of you from the trees.
The most popular beaches on Koh Samui?
- Chaweng,
- menam,
- Lamai.
Getting to Koh Samui is more difficult than getting to Phuket. How lucky with charters. There is another resort near Koh Samui, which will also be discussed below - Krabi. Charters from Russia usually land in Krabi, then some tourists are taken to Koh Samui, and some to Phuket (we did exactly that, although Phuket again has its own airport - not all planes arrive in Phuket).
On Koh Samui, you need to sail several tens of kilometers across the sea on a boat or ferry. Maybe that's why there are not so many tourists on Koh Samui (although there are actually enough). In fact, the prices here are quite high, there are many Americans and Europeans.
The hotels on Koh Samui have an interesting feature:
- if this is a hotel for guests from the USA or Europe, they do not take tips, they are offended;
- if the hotel is for Russians, they are offended if there is no tip.
What is the reason here? I suppose that in the hotels of the first category tips are already included in the price and these hotels look definitely more “civilized”. And we, on the contrary, are used to the fact that nothing is included - so in, in Sochi, on, but everywhere. Therefore, the Thais decided not to violate the usual Russian order - everything is for a fee.
Koh Samui, like Phuket, is distinguished by exceptional natural beauty. White sand and coconut palms in reality look no worse than in a brochure in a travel agency. You can get acquainted with the sights of Koh Samui, and from what is nearby, I recommend visiting the marine national park.
The disadvantages of Koh Samui include not only relatively high prices, but also the peculiarity that there are generally fewer entertainments, fewer parks, and fewer shopping centers. Koh Samui is a great place for those who just want the beach and the sea. If you can’t sit still, perhaps the option is right for you when you change the resorts of Thailand. We went on such a tour - three days in Phuket (not enough) and a week on Koh Samui. But keep in mind - moving will actually steal a day from you, and this is not pleasant.
Koh Chang
Koh Chang is perfect for a relaxing beach holiday. There are quiet beaches on which, sometimes there is no one at all except you. Noise remains somewhere in Bangkok or Pattaya. This does not mean at all that Koh Chang looks like a village. There are hotels of different levels, bars, restaurants, cafes. You can find a disco, and an interesting tour.
Every year more and more travelers come to Koh Chang, but there are relatively few organized tours here. Many people who come to Koh Chang are independent travelers. People come here for romance, for the beauty of local nature, not yet touched by the hand of progress.
Krabi
Resorts of Thailand will continue Krabi. This is a province and a whole resort area. Krabi is located in southern Thailand, on the shores of the Andaman Sea. Very beautiful nature. As mentioned above, planes fly to Krabi. You can also come from Phuket or Bangkok. 
The province of Krabi also has maritime territories. So the famous Phi Phi archipelago is officially located in the province of Krabi.
Learn more about Krabi. There are natural attractions, and cultural, and of course luxurious beaches.
There are conflicting opinions about the cost of rest in Krabi. On the one hand, the resort is not as popular as, for example, Phuket, so the cost of rest should be relatively low. On the other hand, I personally have never seen low prices for tours to Krabi from Russia. Perhaps a vacation in Krabi will seem inexpensive if you travel around Thailand on your own.
In the province of Krabi, there are fewer well-maintained beaches. Parties and entertainment are also few. This is a place for a relaxing holiday and contemplation of beautiful nature.
Hua Hin
Hua Hin is the oldest resort in Thailand. located 190 kilometers south of Bangkok. Like Pattaya, this resort stands on the coast of the Gulf of Thailand. The distance, in principle, is small, which, with the developed transport infrastructure of Thailand, allows local residents to come here for the weekend. That is, the bulk of vacationers are Thais themselves. 
It began to exist as a resort where the royal family rested. Its representatives still come to Hua Hin.
Hua Hin is a small town with a convenient location of attractions. The city is clean, there is no stink, as in some places in Pattaya. There is little street food. Mactowers are only on the main streets, and in the depths it is extremely difficult to find a mobile cart.
A long white sand beach, there are other beaches, but already outside of this, in general, a small town.
Hua Hin Resort - the most expensive and safest in Thailand. The reason for this is not difficult to guess - the residence of the King is located in the city.
The advantages of the Hua Hin resort include the following:
- Perfect for families with children. There are many hotels that are separated by long enough distances, so that the rest will be calm. The contingent of tourists is mainly families with children and middle-aged people.
- Transport accessibility, because the capital of the country is close and there are good roads from there.
- The beaches are very clean, although the nature around is not as bright.
Cons of Hua Hin resort:
- The resort is quite expensive: Budget tourists visit (for experiment), but mostly wealthy people go, and the level of hotels is high - as a result, the cost of living is high.
- Hua Hin is not suitable for groups of young tourists, it is a respectable place, and not the best choice for lovers of parties, entertainment and various shows.
Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is the cultural capital of Thailand (to our St. Petersburg for Russia). The city has many attractions, but there is no sea here, as well as beaches. Chiang Mai is located in the north of the country in a mountainous area. Near Chiang Mai to this day live tribes that have preserved ancient traditions. They practically do not use the benefits of modern civilization, but at the same time they are quite friendly and responsive. 
The city offers excursions for every taste. You can visit majestic temples, small Thai villages, rice terraces, vast orchards, see outlandish plants and picturesque waterfalls, go to.
Mostly independent tourists come to Chiang Mai, who tend to visit different resorts in Thailand, or on separate excursions. Holidays at sea can be successfully diluted with a visit to this city and its environs, if you are interested in the culture of Thailand and ancient temples.
Koh Phangan
Koh Phangan is located in the Gulf of Thailand, 56 km from the mainland of Thailand and 15 km from Koh Samui. This is the territory of youth, parties and discos. Have you heard about the Full Moon Party? It happens every full moon right here. 
Many wonderful people live on the island, as in Goa in India. There are many beaches that you can read about in, so there is where to swim and sunbathe.
Koh Phangan is a very green island. Paradise for those who are looking for natural beauty, clear sea and sun. But getting here is not easy - you can by sea from Koh Samui, or by local airlines from Bangkok.
There are still a lot of people on Phangan, the tourist infrastructure is developed, places of pristine natural purity have been preserved here. There are few Russians. The prices are average, but you have to take into account the cost of a trip to the island itself and back.
Koh Samet
I will finish my story about the resorts of Thailand with another small island. Ko Samet is a quiet island with clean beaches.
In custody
The main resorts of Thailand are listed. Moreover, I am sure that not all who have read this article to the end knew about each of them. In fact, there are more resort areas in Thailand. For us, the inhabitants of a snow-covered country, almost any corner of this tropical country can become, in some sense, a resort. Just don’t break a halt right in the middle of the jungle if you don’t know how to do it right, and don’t sunbathe for more than two hours - you will get burned.
Thailand - a country of hot sun and azure sea - is one of the ten most visited places on the planet. Here you can find resorts for every taste - for families with small children, for connoisseurs of sightseeing and sports pastime, for tireless lovers of evening and night entertainment.
Like any state, Thailand is distinguished by its characteristic features relating to different areas of life. While staying in this country, it is important to take into account some nuances in order to have a comfortable rest and not get into unforeseen and not the most pleasant situations.
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How to choose a resort in Thailand
The most suitable period for a holiday in the country: the beginning of December - the end of April. The rainy season begins in June, but in May there are already showers with storm winds. The months of January and February are especially favorable for staying here. This time is characterized by low humidity and less scorching sun.
Resorts in Thailand are diverse in location, level of service, local flavor.
You should choose a place to spend your vacation based on your own preferences:
Pattaya
Pattaya is the most visited resort in Thailand, a city of various excursions, all kinds of entertainment and the so-called "sin city". For new emotions you need to come here.
In addition to a rich entertainment program for adults, there are many interesting places where you can visit with children:
- Water parks.
- Amusement parks.
- Places for water and sports entertainment.
- Farms for growing crocodiles and snakes.
- Orchid park.
- Ancient Buddhist temples.
- Places of power.
Leisure benefits:
- Developed infrastructure. Here are:
- Restaurants and cafes with excellent cuisine.
- Large shopping centers and hypermarkets.
- Hotels of a high level of service.
- Night clubs and bars.
Minuses:
- The city beach is not clean. The nearest island beaches need to be reached by boat within 20-30 minutes. Therefore, it is not worth going here just for the sake of a beach holiday.
- A large number of tourists in the city and on the beaches. The resort is not suitable for lovers of a calm and secluded holiday.
- The resort area is not rich in tropical vegetation.
- Thriving prostitution on the streets, including with the participation of transvestites, is unlikely to appeal to couples and vacationers with children. But for fans of such services, this is a significant advantage.
Phuket
On the island there is an opportunity to combine beach and sightseeing types of recreation.
Resort pros:
- Clear sea and white sand. The best beaches of the island:
- Patong.
- Bang Tao.
- Kata.
- Karon.
- Ideal conditions for diving and snorkeling.
- Lots of attractions and a wide range of excursions.
- Comfortable hotels and delicious food.
- Delightful nature:
- Lots of fun and entertainment for adults.
- Saturated children's holiday. With children on the island you can visit:
- Zoo.
- Bird park.
- Museum 3D.
- Oceanarium.
- Tiger Kingdom.
- Aquapark.
- Karting.
- Dolphinarium.
- Horse riding and elephant riding.
Minuses:
- One of the most expensive resorts.
Krabi
Resorts in Thailand differ in time of existence as tourist recreation areas. Krabi is a relatively young resort. At the same time, the infrastructure here is already quite developed. The main type of recreation is the beach.
Pros:
- Nature of stunning beauty:
- Relatively few tourists.
- Great beaches, clear sea.
- Excellent conditions for:
- Rock climbing.
- Hiking.
- Kayaking.
- diving.
- Snorkeling.
Minuses:
- Lack of nighttime entertainment (for some, this circumstance will be a significant plus).
Prices in Krabi are quite reasonable, especially in autumn.
Bangkok
The resort is absolutely not suitable for a beach holiday, but is rich in famous historical and religious monuments.
Pros:
Minuses:
- The distance to the nearest comfortable beaches is at least 100 km.
Bangkok can be attributed to inexpensive resorts. The city is suitable for any category of tourists. Even with a small amount in your wallet, you can find accommodation, decent food, and visit many interesting places.
Koh Samui
The resorts of Thailand, located on the islands, are distinguished by their extraordinary natural beauty. Koh Samui gives the opportunity for a quiet and secluded pastime in the shade of coconut palms, organically combines good conditions for a beach and sightseeing holiday.
Pros:
Minuses:
- Prices in stores are among the highest in the country.
Koh Phangan
The Koh Phangan resort, located on one of the islands in the Gulf of Thailand in Thailand, is especially popular among young people.
Advantages:
Disadvantages:
- The island is inconvenient to get to.
Koh Chang
In terms of size, this island ranks 3rd in the country after Phuket and Koh Samui.
Resort pros:
Minuses:
- One of the most expensive resorts in Thailand.
- Lack of nightly entertainment.
Cha Am and Hua Hin
Cha Am and Hua Hin are one of the oldest resorts in the country, located about 200 km from Bangkok. The royal family visits Hua Hin every year.
Resort areas have everything you need for a comfortable and interesting holiday, including:
Disadvantages:
- Prices are above average.
chiangmai
The resorts of Thailand for the most part have all the conditions for a beach holiday. Chiang Mai differs from other resort areas in this respect. There are no beaches here.
Chiang Mai is the cultural capital of the country, a city with a rich history. The province is interesting because original tribes and nationalities still live on its territory. The resort provides a complete sightseeing holiday.
1. Pros:
Incredible number of sights and interesting places, including:
There are more than 300 temples in the city and its environs:
- Picturesque landscapes, all conditions for mountain tourism.
- The famous night market where you can buy almost everything and at very low prices. Most of all, it is famous for handicrafts and various souvenirs.
- Some of the best restaurants in the country are located here.
- A rich entertainment program, including at night.
- Diverse and relatively inexpensive accommodation options.
2. Cons:
- Lack of beaches.
Koh Samet
Ko Samet is a popular resort island in the Gulf of Thailand, ideal for a relaxing holiday and complete unity with nature.
Resort benefits:
Disadvantages:
- A minimum of entertainment and excursions.
- High cost of living, expensive shopping.
Despite the remoteness, Thailand with luxurious beaches and unique Thai cuisine is rightfully included in the top tourist destinations. Holidays in the resorts of the country can be secluded and full of entertainment, educational and sports, serene and full of adventure.
Article formatting: Vladimir the Great
Video about resorts in Thailand
Overview of the 11 best resorts in Thailand: