At Not in the Guidebooks we specialise in creating holiday itineraries that get the most out of a destination, so we’re here to show you how to plan a trip to Thailand. Our team member Caroline loves Thailand and is already planning her next trip to this incredible country, so we took some time to ask her about planning her trips there. We’ve asked Caroline all the questions you’d want answered before you go on a trip to Thailand. Whether you’re wondering what to do, where to go, what to eat, Caroline’s first hand knowledge will help you with planning your trip to Thailand. So, if you’re wondering how to plan a trip to Thailand, grab your notebook and read on!
What drew you to a trip in Thailand in the first place?
“I went there to celebrate a special birthday and anniversary. We were looking for somewhere with culture and, to be honest, nice weather!”
Thailand does have excellent weather and a unique, welcoming culture! Just to say on the weather though, there are three main travel seasons in Thailand and they’re all linked to the weather. In the peak season, when most people travel, the weather is cool and dry, though the huge crowds and high prices hopefully make you consider the shoulder season. In the Shoulder season the temperature is a little warmer and there is a higher chance of rain (though if it does rain it never lasts very long). As well, the prices and crowds all drop off in the shoulder and low seasons, meaning you can get more out of your trip, as well as it being a more sustainable travel practice as it helps spread out the seasonal income dispersal.
If you could only go to Thailand for 1 day what would you do on that day?
“I’d sail down the Churya river on a long tail boat, it really is one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever done. We sailed past some breathtaking sites including a lot of really stunning temples.”
Long-tail boats are a traditional and still common mode of transport for many Thai people, especially those that live in and around the many rivers that flow through the country. Riding on one of these boats is one of the best ways to experience the natural beauty of the landscape, as well as passing many of the cultural sites that line the river banks. All our itineraries involve travelling in long-tail boats in some form, we believe it is an important part of the cultural immersion that really gets you under the skin of the culture.
Did you spend much time with the local community or local people?
“I spent 2 days with Jenny, who is one of Not in the Guidebooks local hosts. She gave us some really interesting and personal insights into the local culture and the time I spent with her I’ll definitely treasure.”
At Not in the Guidebooks we use local hosts, their expert knowledge and understanding of both the natural and social landscapes to guide you through the destination. Jenny is no exception, with years of experience in the tourism industry she is able to help you gain a much stronger understanding of Thailand.
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What was the food like in Thailand, did anything really spark joy for you?
“All the food in Thailand was exceptional! If I had to choose I’d probably say the China Town street food, they had Michelin star stalls and all the food was so affordable, I could’ve spent all day just on that street. My absolute favourite meal was the crispy pork noodle soup and the fried shrimp donut, really better than I could’ve ever imagined.”
Thailand is world renowned for its incredible food, especially in the cities like the China Town street food market in Bangkok. Street food is a huge part of Thai culture, and east asian culture more generally. If you’re looking for authentic food made by local people then street food is definitely the place to go. One small tip from us would be to trust a crowd, if there are a lot of local people queuing up behind one stall it probably means that the food is really good.
What would be your top tips for anyone thinking of going to Thailand this year?
“Honestly just do it! If you can I’d use a local guide, they really help you get under the skin of the destination and connect with it in a way you otherwise wouldn’t. Of course the easiest way to do that is with Not in the Guidebooks, but whatever you do just get yourself there!”
At Not in the Guidebooks all our holidays are curated by local hosts, meaning it is the local people who decide what you do, where you go and how you experience the place. Doing it this way ensures that you really experience the best of the destination, but also that everything you do actually benefits the local community. Using wherever possible locally run accommodation, activities and guides so that the money you spend ends up in the pockets of locals, minimising tourism leakage.
How would you describe the hospitality of the Thai people?
“Everybody we met was so friendly and hospitable, we felt so welcomed and cared for while we were there. It seems like a cliché to say but they really treat you like you’re family, I’d go back just so I can spend more time with the local people.”
We’ve been working with our local hosts for a few years now and we have to concur that they are some of the most hospitable people we’ve worked with. On our trips to Thailand we’re always welcomed with open arms, welcomed into peoples homes and private spaces to experience their lives on a more intimate level. You’ll never feel out of place in Thailand, and that really is what makes this destination so special.
25/07/2023 
