60 days visa-free. World-class street food. Stunning islands. Ancient temples. And some of the world's best value travel for Australians.
Essential first stop — Grand Palace, Wat Pho, floating markets, incredible rooftop bars and the world's best street food. 2–3 nights.
Northern Thailand's cultural capital — elephant sanctuaries, cooking classes, Doi Inthanon National Park, night markets. 3–4 nights.
Thailand's largest island. Patong nightlife, Kata and Karon beaches, Phi Phi Island day trips. Best for first-timers wanting beach + nightlife.
World's most affordable scuba diving certification (AUD $350). Crystal clear water, friendly atmosphere, backpacker social scene.
Famous for the Full Moon Party (monthly). Beautiful beaches (Thong Nai Pan) away from the party scene. 3–5 nights.
Dramatic limestone karst scenery, turquoise water, some of Thailand's most beautiful beaches. More laid-back than Phuket.
AUD $3–8 from street carts. The dish that converted the world to Thai food.
Coconut milk, Thai basil, chillis. Best in small restaurants away from tourist streets.
Spicy, sour prawn soup. AUD $4–10.
The essential Thai dessert. AUD $2–5 from street vendors.
Thai chicken rice — simpler than the name suggests and deeply satisfying.
Rich, mild curry with Persian-influenced spicing. Beef or chicken.