Thailand resort cities. First time in Thailand: which resort to choose. Chiang Mai city

Tourist cities in Thailand are located conditionally 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 Thailand on one map (see Google map at the bottom of the page).

A little information. The largest cities in Thailand - a list of the 10 largest by population (according to Wikipedia):

- about 9 million people.
Nonthaburi City (Nonthaburi) - 270,609
- 174,332
- 174,235
Hat Yai - 157,467
- 155,339
Pak Kret (Pak Kret) - 152,881
Chaophraya Surasak - 132,172
Khon 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 flights from many countries around the world take place. From it you can easily access 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 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 Pho and Wat Arun. There are all kinds of entertainment - water parks, zoos, nightclubs, discos, bars with available girls, all kinds of exotic shows for adults. For a tourist there is no particular point in living here (since it is full of cars, motorcycles and people), but it is definitely worth coming for a few days on an excursion. Bangkok is located half an hour from Suvanabhumi Airport and is a 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. His features- it's cheap, well-developed infrastructure, a huge number of people on the beach and a large selection of night entertainment (clubs, discos, bars). If you are a single man and want a “strawberry”, then this place is definitely 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 the main thing for you is swimming, then choose another resort or go every day to the island of Koh Larn, where the sea is very clean (45 minutes and 30 baht by ferry from Pattaya or 15 minutes by speedboat).

Koh Larn Island

A small paradise island located in the Gulf of Thailand, near Pattaya. You can come here for one day or stay for the entire vacation. For the second option, all the necessary infrastructure is available - hotels, restaurants, bars, motorcycle rental, etc.

The sea here is very clean. There are about a dozen beaches on the island, some crowded and some uncrowded. Prices for hotels and food are higher than in Pattaya. There are practically no attractions, except perhaps Buddha statues and a few observation platforms.

Rayong City

This is a city in 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. Seaside holidays here are not limited only to the capital - the province offers about 100 km of sandy beaches - choose any one. And from here you can get to the island of Samet.

Samet Island

Located in the Gulf of Thailand, south of Rayong. It is part of the National Nature Reserve, so entrance for foreigners is 200 baht. Unlike other islands of Thailand, they try to keep nature as untouched as possible; there is not even an asphalt road on Samet (there is asphalt 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, although they are all small, some 100-150 meters long. The majority of tourists prefer to settle near the entrance to the reserve. The further you get from it, the fewer people there are, and the beaches become less and less crowded. There are no special entertainment or attractions. The main thing people come here for is to relax in the lap of nature and forget about civilization with its fast rhythm. There are no shopping centers or large stores.

Koh Chang Island

This is the easternmost popular resorts Thailand. Located in Trat province, 300 km southeast of Bangkok, near the border with Cambodia. It is second in size, after Phuket. Only the western and South part. 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 here is clean, but there are no water activities (motorcycles, skis). For strawberry lovers, there are several dozen bars with girls. There are no nightclubs or discos, nor shopping centers.

Ayutthaya city

Located 70 km north of Bangkok. It has no access to the sea. This city of Thailand is the ancient capital of the country, which was it 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 there is no particular point in staying for long. It is better to come here on an excursion for 1-3 days.

Hua Hin - a resort in Thailand, beloved by kings

Located 200 km southwest of Bangkok, on the coast of the Gulf of Thailand. This city in Thailand is the very first resort in the country, where foreigners came 100 years ago. At that time, these were the rich and aristocracy of European powers. Loved to relax here and... Currently, the place is not as popular as Pattaya, Phuket or Samui and the city has long lost its status as the main resort of Thailand. Despite this, it is definitely worth a visit, since 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 a rather expensive place, especially in terms of housing (you’re unlikely to get an overnight stay for less than 500 baht a day).

Cha-am city

A small city in Thailand, located on the shores of the Gulf of Thailand, 170 km southwest of Bangkok and 30 km north of Hua Hin. It is calmer 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. These are many islands, a gorgeous clear sea, magnificent white sand beaches. You should understand that this is a beach holiday, you won’t see any special national attractions here - all these places are famous for is nature. However, observation decks, trips to uninhabited islands for relaxation and diving will leave the best memories of Thailand.

Phuket - island, city and resort

Located 800 km south of Bangkok, on the coast of the Andaman Sea. Phuket has long ceased to be an island, since 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 accepts direct flights from Russia. There are more than a dozen beaches in Phuket, which are noticeably different from each other. Some are very crowded, the infrastructure is well developed (comparable to major cities), many shopping centers and large stores, discos and bars with available girls. On other beaches there are only a few bungalow-type hotels, one restaurant and that’s it. After sunset, life there comes to a standstill and there is no one on the coast.

Contrary to popular belief, prices in Phuket are not particularly high, except for taxis. But it’s quite possible to find inexpensive housing, especially far from the sea. Another feature of the island is that on most beaches there is a road near the coast. Therefore, there are few hotels on the first line, and most of them are multi-storey buildings, rather than 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 resort infrastructure is developed only on the beaches of Chaweng, Lamai, Bo Phut, Maenam and in the capital - Nathon. There are many hotels, restaurants and bars there. Chaweng has a fairly large selection of girls for single boys. There are large hypermarkets - Tesco Lotus and Big S. 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 Island

Located in the Gulf of Thailand, north of Koh Samui. The hallmark of Koh Phangan is the Full Moon Parties, which take place once a month. They are discos open air, which attracts tens of thousands of partygoers from all over the world. At this time, all hotels are full and there is no room. In fact, there are various parties held there almost every day, such as Black Moon or Middle Moon Parties and smaller ones. Almost all of them take place in the south and southwest of Koh Phangan, and the rest of the area is quite quiet and calm.

Koh Tao Island

Small. Located north of Koh Phangan. A quiet place, perfect 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

This is both a city in Thailand and the name of a province. But in no case is it an island, as is written on some unscrupulous sites. 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 - sheer rectangular cliffs overgrown with greenery. In fact, tourists rarely stop in the city of Krabi, because... there is no swimming sea there. For him they 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 mostly come here for relaxation, although there are quite a lot of shops, restaurants and bars with girls on Ao Nang. There are large hypermarkets in Krabi town.

Lanta Island

It is located in the Andaman Sea and belongs to the Krabi province. One of the few large islands of Thailand where civilization has only partially penetrated. There are no buildings higher than 4 floors (mostly one-story buildings), there are no shopping centers or large stores, and there are almost no attractions. The beaches are sparsely populated and are suitable for lovers of silence. More or less active life occurs in the north of the island, near the pier and Klong Dao beach. And even there in the evenings, apart from restaurants and a little shopping in tents with clothes and souvenirs, there is not much to do. The further you go south, the fewer people there are; after sunset there is almost no one on the coast.

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 floor there is all the infrastructure with hotels, restaurants, massage parlors, banks, etc. And the second one is practically uninhabited, but is famous for the fact that the film “The Beach” with Leonardo DiCaprio in the title role was filmed here.

On Phi Phi Don, the main thing is not to go wrong with the beach. If you stay in the village of Tonsai (where all ferries arrive), then from 19-20 hours you will find open-air discos. The scale, of course, is much smaller than on Koh Phangan, but the music can be heard all night, so if you want peace and tranquility, then settle on other beaches.

Ko Lipe

It is the southernmost tourist resort in Thailand and is still little known among Russian tourists. Located in the Andaman Sea, near Malaysia. Ko Lipe is small and you can easily get around it on foot. It has several beaches with clear water. There are no special entertainment or attractions.

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 a beach holiday is impossible (although, if you wish, you can swim in a river, for example, on the beach in Chiang Rai). Secondly, in the north there is a more comfortable climate, a little similar to Russia (in summer): although it is +30 during the day, after sunset the temperature drops sharply and at night drops to +15...+20 (and on some days even up to +10... +12). Thirdly, the local nature and landscapes are noticeably different from the rest of the country and many consider them the most beautiful in Thailand.

Chiang Mai city

This is the most important city in Thailand, located in the north. It is the cultural capital of the country, where many old attractions are concentrated, which are 500-700 years old. Chiang Mai was the capital of the Lanna Kingdom for many centuries, which later became part of Thailand. Some of the city's older temples are noticeably different in their architecture from those you are used to seeing in popular resorts or in Bangkok. The infrastructure is well developed - many hotels of different price ranges, shopping centers and hypermarkets, markets, etc.

Pai - a resort in Thailand for hippies

Another interesting city in Thailand, located in the north. More accurately, it is a village or an urban-type settlement, since it has only a few streets. It itself is not of particular interest, but its surroundings are something special: kilometer-long meadows and green hills create a landscape of amazing beauty and harmony. This is simply a paradise for lovers of nature and silence. In the Pai Valley there are very vast areas without buildings or settlements, there are several waterfalls and a canyon. This place is also called the last refuge of hippies in Thailand. And indeed, there are quite a lot of these peace-loving “flower children” here. There are also a lot of Rastafarians. It’s no secret that both of them love weed and you might think that this is a hangout for drug addicts. In fact, there are many more ordinary tourists in Pai, and smokers gather in their groups at home. Definitely no one will offer you weed on the street.

The village is very calm, there are no discos, nightclubs or bars with girls. In the surrounding area, housing is presented in the form of bungalows and cottages. Prices for everything are very low - guests from 150 baht per night, motorbike rental - 80 baht for a semi-automatic and 100 baht for an "automatic", massage - 150 baht per hour, meat on skewers - 5 baht, a kilo 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 meet - Thailand, Burma (Myanmar) and Laos. Located an hour and a half drive from Chiang Rai. In the past, this was the main drug route into South-East Asia, and now a tourist attraction. In fact, it’s not worth coming here to see the opium museum (which is the only thing that reminds you of past times). But it’s worth visiting for nature lovers, as it offers very beautiful views of the river and its surroundings.

Mae Hong Son 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 in the surrounding area there is a lot of beautiful nature and various tribes live, for example, long-necked women. It is quite suitable for long-term living - there are hotels, restaurants, excursion bureaus. Quiet place.

Nowadays many people can afford a holiday in Thailand. In this country acceptable prices, 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 in Thailand. Only the main ones, because in fact, everything in Thailand is so exotic for us - residents 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 brief information about the most popular resorts (including those where the Thais themselves vacation).

Pattaya

Resorts in Thailand should rightfully begin to 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. The distance between the capital - Bangkok - and Pattaya 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 (natives from the CIS countries) live in Pattaya and the surrounding area for a long time or permanently. In fact, all resorts in Thailand are populated by “ours”, but Pattaya has the most of them.

In general, the resort is year-round and is constantly filled with tourists, and it’s difficult to immediately 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 these, of course, are not only our compatriots, there are many Europeans and Americans.

What you will find in Pattaya

Pattaya has found the glory of the city for debauchery. This is wrong. Yes, there is plenty of debauchery here, but there is no obsession at all. Therefore, Pattaya opens its arms to lovers of spicy entertainment, to those who want to swim in the sea and sunbathe in the sun, and to families with children of all ages who love excursions, parks, attractions and quiet nights. The nights in Pattaya are not quiet everywhere, but these are details that you just need to check with your tour operator. When you board a plane to Pattaya, make sure there are plenty of children 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 travel by ferry or boat to, which is visible 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 you can travel throughout the country)
A very developed infrastructure for tourists, thanks to which Pattaya leads the resorts of Thailand in terms of attendance
In comparison with other resorts, the cost of vacation is low (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
Not concentrated in Pattaya itself a large number of cultural and historical attractions
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 relaxation are comfortable, and the entertainment is varied. 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 along which automobile transport. You can also fly by plane, sail by sea transport. Boats also depart from the port with excursions to islands with pristine nature.

The largest and most popular beach is Patong. At night there are big parties that attract several thousand people. Patong is home to the most popular nightlife street for adults.

Nai Thon Beach attracts newlyweds - you can get married right on the beach in the sun.

The advantages of the Phuket resort include the presence of both busy beaches with comfortable hotels, bars, cafes and discos, and places where you can be secluded near the tropical forest and coral reefs. Hotels here are of different classes, from five-star to simple and budget. There is a lot of entertainment, but the most vivid impressions come from trips to the islands, for example, and. There are still fewer recreational options on land than in Pattaya. But this is not surprising - from Pattaya you can travel very far to different directions throughout Thailand.

But in Phuket the impressions are brighter active rest on and under water: 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 are forced for some reason to go to the mainland, you will have to waste 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. The city is very dynamic, the population is already more than 8 million. There are skyscrapers everywhere, but the most interesting things are somewhere between them.

This is a paradise for shopping lovers, because the prices are much lower than in our country, the choice is simply huge (and not only Chinese factories), the service is at a high level.

Bangka has many attractions, including the royal palace. For young people it will probably be important to have huge amount night clubs.

Rather, Bangkok is not the place where you should spend your entire vacation, but it is worth visiting here for a day or three. Some do just that, changing resorts in Thailand - they relax, for example, first in Pattaya, then go to Bangkok, spend some time there, then fly by plane to Krabi or Samui, or even to (Malaysia).

Bangkok is the capital of Thailand, so 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 concerns vacationers in Pattaya, although it has its own airport, but the majority of both regular and charter flights on which tourists fly to 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 pure, there is no industry. White sand on the beaches, clean, clear water, gentle entrance to the water.

Another one interesting feature Samui - there are no high-rise buildings, this is prohibited by law. Literally, the law states that a building cannot be taller than the palm tree or palm trees growing nearby. Therefore, buildings on Samui are mostly two or three storeys. There are many hotels where rooms are located in bungalows. You practically live in a tropical garden, birds trill from morning to night, plants smell fragrant, and fruits hang right in front of you from the trees.

What are the most popular beaches on Koh Samui?

Chaweng,
Menam,
Lamai.

Getting to Koh Samui is more difficult than getting to Phuket. How lucky you are with charters. There is another resort near Samui, which will also be discussed below - Krabi. Charters from Russia usually land in Krabi, then some tourists are taken to Samui, and some to Phuket (this is exactly what happened to us, although Phuket again has its own airport - not all planes fly to Phuket).

To get to Koh Samui you need to travel several tens of kilometers across the sea by boat or ferry. Maybe that’s why there aren’t many tourists on Samui (although there are actually enough). In fact, the prices here are quite high, there are a lot of Americans and Europeans.

Hotels on Koh Samui have an interesting feature:

if this is a hotel for guests from the USA or Europe, they don’t take tips, they get offended;
If the hotel is for Russians, they will be offended if there is no tip.

What is the reason for this?! I assume that in hotels of the first category, tips are already included in the price and these hotels definitely look more “civilized”. But we, on the contrary, are accustomed to the fact that nothing is included - so in, in Sochi, on, and everywhere. Therefore, the Thais decided not to violate the usual Russian order - everything is for a fee.

Samui, like Phuket, is distinguished by its exceptional natural beauty. White sand and coconut palms look no worse in reality than in a travel agency brochure. You can get acquainted with the sights of Samui, and from what is nearby, I recommend visiting the sea national park.

The disadvantages of Samui include not only relatively high prices, but also the fact that there is generally less entertainment here, 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 of changing resorts in Thailand will suit you. We went on such a tour - three days in Phuket (not enough) and a week in Samui. But keep in mind that moving will actually steal your day, and this is not pleasant.

Koh Chang

Koh Chang island is suitable for a relaxing beach holiday. There are quiet beaches, where sometimes there is no one at all except you. The noise remains somewhere in Bangkok or Pattaya. This does not mean that Koh Chang is like a village. There are hotels of different levels, bars, restaurants, cafes. You can find a disco and an interesting excursion.

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 the local nature, which has not yet been touched by the hand of progress.

Krabi

Resorts in Thailand will continue to Krabi. This is a province and an entire resort area. Krabi is located in the south of Thailand, on the shores of the Andaman Sea. Very beautiful nature. As stated above, planes fly to Krabi. You can also come from Phuket or Bangkok.

Krabi province also has marine territories. So the famous Phi Phi archipelago is officially located in the province of Krabi.

Read more about Krabi. There are natural attractions, cultural, and of course luxurious beaches.

There are conflicting opinions about the cost of a holiday in Krabi. On the one hand, the resort is not as popular as, for example, Phuket, so the cost of a vacation should be relatively low. On the other hand, I personally have never seen low prices for tours to Krabi from Russia. Perhaps a holiday in Krabi will seem inexpensive if you travel around Thailand on your own.

There are fewer well-maintained beaches in Krabi province. There are also few parties and entertainment. This is a place for relaxation 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 is located on the coast of the Gulf of Thailand. The distance is, in principle, small, which, given the developed transport infrastructure of Thailand, allows local residents to come here on weekends. That is, the bulk of vacationers are Thais themselves.

It began to exist as a resort where the royal family vacationed. 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 stench, like in some places in Pattaya. There is little street food here. Makashnitsa are only on the main streets, and in the depths it is extremely difficult to find a mobile cart.

A long beach with white sand, there are other beaches, but outside this generally 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 fairly long distances, so your holiday will be relaxing. The contingent of vacationers 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 so bright.

Cons of Hua Hin resort:

The resort is quite expensive: Budget tourists come (for an experiment), but mostly wealthy people come, and the standard of hotels is high - as a result, the cost of living is high.
Hua Hin is probably 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 (or our St. Petersburg for Russia). The city has many attractions, but there is no sea or beaches. Chiang Mai is located in the north of the country in a mountainous area. Tribes who have preserved ancient traditions still live near Chiang Mai to this day. 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 strange plants and picturesque waterfalls, and go to.

Mostly independent tourists come to Chiang Mai, who want to visit different resorts in Thailand, or on separate excursions. A seaside holiday can be successfully diluted with a visit to this city and its surroundings, if you are interested in Thai culture and ancient temples.

Koh Phangan Island

Koh Phangan Island is located in the Gulf of Thailand, 56 km from mainland 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.

There are many wonderful people living on the island, just like Goa in India. There are many beaches that you can read about in, so there is somewhere to swim and sunbathe.

Koh Phangan is a very green island. Paradise for those who seek natural beauty, clear sea and sun. But getting here is not easy - you can go by sea from Samui, or by plane on local airlines from Bangkok.

There are still a lot of people on Koh Phangan, the tourist infrastructure is developed, and places of pristine natural purity have been preserved here. There are few Russians. Prices are average, but you need to take into account the costs of travel to the island itself and back.

Koh Samet

I’ll end my story about the resorts of Thailand with another small island. Koh Samet is a quiet island with clean beaches.

In custody

The main resorts in Thailand are listed. Moreover, I am sure that not everyone who read this article to the end knew about each of them. In fact, there are more resort areas in Thailand. For us, residents of a snowy country, almost any corner of this tropical country can become, in some sense, a resort. Just don’t camp right in the middle of the jungle if you don’t know how to do it correctly, and don’t sunbathe for more than two hours - you’ll get sunburned.

Although Thailand is a small country, it has a lot of diversity: from the white beaches of Samui to the cold mountains of Doi Ang Khang, from the glitz of Bangkok to the rural tranquility of indigenous villages, from the adult entertainment of Pattaya to the historical heritage of Ayutthaya.

Today we will look at the main resorts in Thailand and try to understand where it is better to relax in Thailand.

Resorts of Thailand: where is the best place to relax in Thailand?

Of course, it is impossible to answer this question unequivocally - after all, everyone goes to the land of smiles for their own. Therefore, when describing the resorts of Thailand and the main cities, we will indicate their main values and advantages for which people go there.

It’s funny that many Thais who gave us a lift during hitchhiking were surprised at what we were doing, for example, in the north of Thailand)) They say “after all, all Russians go to Pattaya.” But that's not all! And the large Russian community in Chiang Mai this winter is proof of this.

Well, let us tell you about the resorts of Thailand, and you yourself will choose where to go to Thailand, based on your preferences. You need to understand that here we have collected the most important ones, besides them there are many others that the tourist boom has not yet reached.

For convenience, here is a map of Thailand in Russian, which shows all the main resorts and cities of the country. The original is there.

Bangkok

City of contrasts! Although it sounds banal, this is the first thing that comes to mind when visiting the capital of Thailand. Luxurious skyscrapers, huge shopping complexes and office buildings coexist with slums on the water, where many wooden houses on stilts are nestled. You will probably start your trip in Bangkok, and we advise you not to go immediately further to the islands, but to devote 2-3 days to walking around the capital.

There is a lot to see here: the Royal Palace, many temples, both tourist and quiet, hidden in the alleys, parks, Chinese and Indian quarters. Be sure to visit the city center, and children will certainly enjoy the Dusit Zoo or the Siam park and Dreamworld amusement parks.

For shopping lovers, Bangkok is simply a paradise! In the city center there are huge malls where absolutely everything is sold: electronics, clothes, Thai silk, souvenirs and much more. If you're on a budget, I recommend visiting the Chatuchak market in the north - one of the largest markets in Asia with cheap prices on everything. Even if you don’t buy anything, just take a look!

Nightlife in Bangkok is simply in full swing - check out the Sukhumvit area for its many bars and venues, where many backpackers gather.

Read also:

Summary: Excursions/Shopping/Nightlife

Pattaya

Perhaps the most famous resort among Russians is in Thailand - this is where a good portion of package tourists go. All over the world it is known primarily for its adult entertainment, go-go bars, discos, and vibrant nightlife. Pattaya is quite affordable for accommodation, food and entertainment and is very close to Bangkok - you can get there directly from the airport by bus.

There are quite a lot of interesting places in the surrounding area that you can visit on a tour: elephant and snake farms, the Nong Nooch tropical garden, the Temple of Truth, water activities and much more.

Where is the best place to go in Thailand? Temple of Truth in Pattaya

You shouldn’t go to Pattaya for the perfect beach holiday - most likely you will be disappointed, the sea is quite dirty, and the beaches leave much to be desired. But you can go to one of the nearby islands and have a great swim in the clear sea and sunbathe!

Summary: Nightlife/Entertainment/Beach Holidays (on the islands)

Koh Chang Island is located in the Gulf of Thailand near the border with Cambodia and is also a fairly popular holiday destination. The island is quite easy to get to from Bangkok: first to the city of Trat, and then by ferry, many companies sell a single ticket.

Koh Chang Island

Almost the entire territory of the island is a national park, so it has partially retained its originality and impresses with its beautiful untouched nature. You can visit the jungle, waterfalls, arrange treks through the forests, and also go diving! Here you can find those same snow-white beaches and swim to uninhabited islands.

You shouldn’t count on developed infrastructure and nightlife here, but that’s the beauty of Chang.

Summary: Beach holidays/Diving/Excursions

The second most popular resort among Russian tourists is Thailand. Located on the Andaman coast in southwest Thailand. There are direct charter and regular (during the season) flights directly from Russia to the island. If you fly to Bangkok, then you can get to Phuket by plane or bus: set aside time and budget for this.

Phuket is known primarily for its beautiful beaches and excellent tourist infrastructure - many hotels from the simplest to the luxurious five-star ones. You can settle on Patong Beach and party all night long, or find a quiet beach where you may not meet anyone.

Where to go in Thailand? Phuket

There are many excursions to interesting places in Phuket; you can take a walk through the forest, ride elephants or quad bikes, or visit temples.

It is worth noting that Phuket is a more expensive resort than Pattaya, but it is ideal for families with children.

Summary: Beach holidays/Excursions/Entertainment

Koh Samui

Another popular holiday island in Thailand, located in the Gulf of Thailand, near the city of Surat Thani. There are no direct flights to the island from Russia, and flights from Bangkok are so cheap, which is probably why it is generally quieter and calmer than Phuket.

If you are looking for secluded, perfect beaches with fine sand and palm trees, like in the picture, then this is definitely the place for you! The island is famous for its coconut plantations and tropical nature. There are both active beaches, with discos and bars (Chaweng), and secluded beaches without any infrastructure, where you can sunbathe alone.

Maenam beach on Koh Samui

In general, Koh Samui has many hotels for every taste and color, as well as entertainment and natural attractions: waterfalls, a butterfly garden, a snake and elephant farm. You can also enjoy diving and other water sports. It’s good to relax on Samui with children, although of course it depends on the beach. We always met whole families on Maenam beach - there is sand there and the entrance to the sea is smooth.

Summary: Beach holidays/Excursions/Water sports

Koh Phangan Island

The island of Koh Phangan is located very close to Koh Samui and is rarely considered as a separate independent resort, rather as an addition to its neighbor. This is where the famous lunar parties are held once a month on the new moon. Young people from all over the world come to the “Full Moon Party” and have a blast! The atmosphere of hippies and unbridled fun!

However, the rest of the time or in other parts of the island, it is quite quiet here, so the place is popular among lovers of yoga, meditation or simply relaxing against the backdrop of untouched exotic nature.

Summary: Parties/Beach Holidays/Nature

Koh Tao Island

A very small island, nevertheless popular among tourists. Located close to Koh Samui and Koh Phangan, the easiest way to get here is from Chumphon by ferry.

Ko Tao is known as one of the best places for diving and snorkeling, so if you are a real fan, then this place is simply paradise for you! This is perhaps the main reason why people come to the island. You can also wander through the local mountains, ride a mountain bike or bike along scenic roads and, of course, soak up the beautiful beaches.

Summary: Diving/Beach Holidays/Excursions

Until recently, this resort was just developing, but now package tours are already being organized here. Krabi is a picturesque province located off the Andaman coast of Thailand. You can get here by plane or bus from Bangkok or other regions. - the most popular holiday destination here.

There is a lot to see and do in Krabi, in addition to a beach holiday - the surrounding cliffs are chosen by rock climbers as some of the best routes in the world, and other active entertainment is also popular. The province has many attractions such as caves, temples and waterfalls.

Rock climbing in Krabi

Have you heard anything about Phi Phi Island, where the movie “The Beach” was filmed? (thanks to the film, by the way, the popularity of this island has increased significantly). It is from Krabi that it is most convenient to go there on an excursion. It’s also very beautiful, I recommend swimming there!

Summary: Active entertainment/Beach holidays/Excursions

Hua Hin

Once upon a time, the king built a summer palace, and a resort was subsequently formed on the site of a small village. By the way, to this day the king and his family come here. Getting there from Bangkok is very easy and quick: a few hours by bus or train.

Hua Hin is known primarily for its calm atmosphere; there are many European retirees, families with children and those who want to have a respectable holiday - the resort has many luxury hotels with their own territory.

Hua Hin Beach

In the vicinity of the city there is a national park, caves and villages, and the beach is perfect for lovers.

Summary: Excursions/Kitesurfing/Beach Holidays

— perfect for retirees and those who love silence

— a gorgeous bay and beach near Prachuap

- not yet such a popular resort on the shores of the Andaman Sea

Chiang Mai

- the second largest city in Thailand, a kind of Thai Petersburg, located in the north of the country. You can get here by plane, bus or train - it will take about 10 hours to travel by land.

In the past, the capital of the Lanna kingdom, now it is the cultural capital of Thailand, where holidays, for example, are held on the greatest scale. In the square of the old city, surrounded by a moat, every now and then you come across Buddhist temples - there are a lot of them here. In some of them you can talk to monks or even sign up for meditation courses.

One of the temples in Chiang Mai

The surrounding area of Chiang Mai is famous primarily for its mountain landscapes, villages of local peoples and huge selection active entertainment: trekking, rafting, elephant rides, zip lining and more.

Chiang Mai is a place with a special atmosphere, unlike others - come and you will be satisfied!

Thailand is considered one of the wonderful corners of the world where any Russian can get without a visa. Warm climate all year round, exotic food, a huge length of sea coast, paradise islands. Thailand primarily attracts beach lovers. We bring to your attention a rating of the best beach resorts in Thailand.

Popular beach resorts

Krabi

Pattaya has become a favorite Thai resort for Russians. Firstly, the prices here are the most affordable. Other popular places in Thailand will cost 15-30% more. Decent accommodation can be found here starting from 700 baht per day.

Secondly, Pattaya is the most fun and "tear-off" resort People come here not only for relaxation, but also for entertainment. Restaurants, huge shopping centers, nightclubs, shows of various subjects, including 18+. Tickets for various performances start from 300 baht.

Pattaya beaches:

Dongtan Beach
Wong-Amat
Jomtien
Dongtan
Naklua

The convenient geographical location of Pattaya allows you to travel from here to the islands: Koh Larn, Koh Sichang. Cambodia is nearby - very close. From here you can go to the north of the country, to places not trampled by tourists or to the capital - (160 km.). The cost of excursions varies from 500 baht for a visit to the Mini Siam park to 15,000 baht for a two-day air tour to neighboring Singapore.

The sea in the city is muddy due to the nature of the sand and the abundance of hotels and tourists. Those who do not like the hustle and bustle should avoid Pattaya or choose hotels further from the city center.

Phuket

The largest island in Thailand. Located in the Indian Ocean. Connected to the mainland by three bridges. Has its own. Phuket is no less loved by Russian tourists than Pattaya. There are also plenty of opportunities for shopping, excursions and entertainment.

But still, Phuket is more calm and pleasant for relaxation. An abundance of beaches for every taste, beautiful landscapes, mountains and islands.

Phuket beaches:

By the way, Phuket is not just one island. The province of the same name includes 32 islands. This represents a huge opportunity for the tourism industry. Prices in Phuket vary greatly. Starting from 500 baht per day for a small city apartment away from the sea and ending with luxurious villas, whose maximum price goes far beyond the understanding of a simple tourist.

Country holidays are well developed here. Many Russians living in Thailand call it that. You can book a dacha for 5-10 days, or for several months. The owners will help you with everything. Such a vacation can be an excellent alternative to a hotel. Prices for the accommodation you like can be found out in advance on the Internet.

The most affordable "batch" a tour to Phuket for 10 days/9 nights will cost from 57,000 rubles per person (in ).

Phuket provides ample opportunities for excursions. The most inexpensive is the sightseeing tour, from 700 baht for half a day. The most expensive type of entertainment is. One dive will cost at least 1900 baht. You can admire the island from the air by paying about 5,000 baht or arrange a professional photo shoot - from 3,000 baht.

Samui

This island is located off the western shore of the Gulf of Thailand. It is smaller than Phuket in size and noise level. Your holiday here will be calm and measured. The many beaches, located mainly on the east coast, will delight those who like not to sit still. Hundreds of cozy corners on the uninhabited islands of the Ang Thong archipelago will allow you to enjoy complete relaxation and a break from the benefits of civilization.

There are many hotels on Samui of different levels and price categories. Prices "packages" start from 63,000 rubles per person for 10 days of vacation. Houses for rent are also common here. A wonderful small bungalow, with all amenities, will cost from 1,700 baht for two per night. You can actually find it cheaper. Moreover, you can bargain on the spot and reduce the price by 30-50%. But this is only with the locals; compatriots are less accommodating in this regard.

Koh Samui is a small island, there are no huge shopping centers. Instead, there are markets - grocery, fruit, clothing, where you can buy everything you need for life in Thailand, as well as souvenirs. On Koh Samui you can find excursions to suit every taste.

Koh Chang

This small island on the eastern coast of the Gulf of Thailand is a state reserve. The first tourist appeared here only in 1989. Over the years, the island's tourism infrastructure has grown greatly. But since this is a protected area, huge hotels are not built here and entertainment events are not held. Beach sports are also prohibited.

Only the western coast of the island can be called touristic. There are several dozen hotels, from 5* - lost in the jungle above the sea, to 2* bungalows on the shore. There are small houses that can be rented. If you go by prices, Koh Chang is 15-20% more expensive than Pattaya.

Koh Chang beaches:

Beach of the Grand Laguna Hotel
Long Beach
Kong Koi
Bang Bao
Balian Beach
Longley Beach
Kai Bay Beach
Klong Prao
Tea Chet
White Sand Beach

You can get here from Pattaya (2-3 hours) or from Bangkok (6-7 hours). Ferries run from the pier on the mainland to Koh Chang, the journey takes about 30 minutes.

Krabi

We won’t talk much about this place; it is already known throughout the world for its stunning beauty. Holidays in the province of Krabi are considered elite. Of course, you can find relatively inexpensive housing here too. It all depends on which place you choose. Mostly those who travel independently or as part of excursion groups (for 2-3 days) get here.

The islands of Lanta and Phi Phi are the quintessence of relaxation in style.

In Krabi town itself you can find various types of entertainment.

Prices for Krabi are not cheap, but those who live here will enjoy for free or at a minimal price (500-800 baht) what tourists from other places will pay several times more for.

Where to go on vacation in Thailand? Find out about the best resorts! We talk about the features of a beach holiday, entertainment, prices for tours and hotels.

Map of Thailand resorts in Russian

When is the best time to go on vacation?

Apart from summer, there are no other seasons in Thailand. The air temperature on the coast does not fall below +25°C, and sea water is heated to +27...+30°C. The most comfortable period for a beach holiday is from before the start, when there is no extreme heat or rain.

Interesting facts about Thailand. Islands and resorts.

Pattaya

Thailand's popular beach resort is located from Bangkok. It appeared in the early sixties, when the king provided the territory for the recreation of American soldiers fighting in Vietnam. Military personnel began to come to the small fishing village, and a whole network of entertainment arose in it.

Modern Pattaya is a large city; its population grows to half a million people in high season. Sex tourists and couples with children get along well here.

Beach holiday in Pattaya evokes mixed responses from tourists: some believe that it is better to relax in Thailand at this resort, others prefer Phuket and the islands. In Pattaya, due to the shallow lagoon and overpopulation, the sea is not very clean. Vacationers swim at Wongamat Beach in the north and Jomtien promenade in the south. Many people take ferries to the beaches of Koh Larn.

Things to do. Pattaya tops the ranking of Thailand resorts in terms of entertainment: there is an aquarium, a dolphinarium, water parks, elephant and crocodiles farms, large zoos, several transvestite shows, museums, an ice skating rink and other attractions. Holidaymakers are offered various excursions to Bangkok and other places in the country.

Prices. Pattaya is one of the cheapest resorts in Thailand. About 1000 hotels and guesthouses have been built in the city - from expensive hotels and resorts to budget accommodation. Near the beaches, rooms are rented for $15-20. For $25 you can rent a cozy apartment with a swimming pool.

Pattaya in high season (November to February):

Phuket

In addition to Pattaya, Phuket is very popular among tourists - a large island separated from the mainland by a strait along which a bridge is laid.

A hundred years ago, Phuket had only agriculture and tin mining. These days, the seaside resort has a well-developed infrastructure. Many Bangkok residents vacation in Pattaya, while Phuket is entirely focused on foreigners.

Things to do. There is a lot of entertainment in Phuket: Simon Cabaret Show, diving, sea fishing, windsurfing, water parks, zoos, golf, flying over the jungle on zip lines and badge jumping. Sea excursions to Phang Nga Bay, Phi Phi and the Similan Islands are popular among vacationers.

Tourists interested in Buddhism visit Wat Chalong. Go see the Chinese-Portuguese buildings of Phuket Town, visit the Bangla Road nightclubs, admire the coast from the height of the hill where the Big Buddha is installed. Spend the evening watching spectacular Muay Thai competitions.

Phuket in high season (November to February):

The best beach resorts in Thailand include Koh Samui, the country's second largest island. It is located 700 km from the capital in the Gulf of Thailand.

Beach holiday. Koh Samui has more than three dozen excellent sandy beaches. Each of them is unique and beautiful in its own way. Some places have all the necessary infrastructure - for example, in Chaweng. Other beaches are stretches of almost deserted coastline.

Things to do. With a variety of activities and excursions to offer, Koh Samui has become a popular holiday destination in Thailand. Tourists are attracted by natural attractions: Ang Thong Marine Park, Coral reefs, waterfalls and bizarre rocks. Adults and children enjoy going to Safari Park, Paradise Park, Butterfly Garden and Insect Museum, Aquarium and Tiger Zoo. Diving enthusiasts enjoy diving near the turtle island of Koh Tao.

Look at the mummy of the monk Luang Pho Deng, revered by the Thais, in Khunaram Wat, admire the decor of the Buddhist Laem Sor pagoda and the natural monument - Grandmother and Grandfather Rock. Visit the Buddha Magic Garden and Samui Cultural Center. Explore the mangroves located in the south of the island.

Prices. A small bungalow with air conditioning on the seashore is rented for $35. Rooms in good 3* hotels cost from $60. A direct flight from Moscow to Koh Samui and back will cost 35,000 rubles. Prices for dishes in inexpensive restaurants are $1.8-3.

Samui in high season (November to February):

If you have not yet decided which resort in Thailand to choose, take a closer look at the Andaman coast - the province of Krabi.

Beach holiday. From an environmental point of view, Krabi is one of best resorts Thailand. Wonderful golden-white sand, a gentle entrance to the water and a clear sea attract tourists from different countries peace.

The most crowded beach of Ao Nang is considered a tourist center. The Railay Peninsula has picturesque beaches - Phra Nang, West Railay, East Railay and Tonsai. A fashionable resort with luxurious 5* hotels is located near Klong Muang beach. 18 km north of the administrative center there is a good beach called Nopparat Tara. There are no sunbeds or sun umbrellas on it, but tourists have a great time relaxing in the shade of casuarina trees.

Things to do. The main attractions of the province - National parks. Fans of rock climbing are attracted by picturesque cliffs, divers by coral reefs, and followers of Buddhism by Wat Tham Sua, or the Temple of the Cave Tiger. Visit the ancient seashell cemetery and take time to explore the Butterfly Garden, Orchid Garden and Pearl Farm.

Prices. Krabi is one of the resorts in Thailand that are designed for people with different levels income. Holidays here are cheaper than in Phuket. In different parts of the coast you can find furnished rooms with air conditioning and a private bathroom for $15-27.

Krabi in high season (November to February):

Koh Chang

The Big Island in Trat province is one of the most popular resorts in Thailand, where people come to relax with children.

Beach holiday. Tourists are attracted by excellent sandy beaches, untouched jungles and clear seas. There are 10 main beach areas on Koh Chang. Except for Long Beach, they all occupy the western part of the island. The east of Koh Chang is not suitable for swimming.

The noisiest and most famous beach - White Sand Beach - is located close to the ferry crossing. There are shops, cafes, night discos, bars and shops with inexpensive street food.

Things to do. Ride elephants, go for walks along the sea and to waterfalls, play paintball, climb the rope park and kayak to neighboring islands. Look out over the sea from observation decks and visit the colorful fishing village of Bang Bao.

Prices. Living on the “elephant island” is very comfortable, but the distance from the mainland affects prices. Products are a little more expensive because they are imported by sea. The lowest prices are in 7 Eleven stores. Here you can buy baked goods and sausages, sweets, nuts, snacks, milk, yogurt, water and alcoholic drinks. The cost of a comfortable room for two is $35 - twice as high as in Pattaya.

Koh Chang in high season (November to February):

If you don't know where to go on vacation in Thailand, pay attention to the coastal city in the western part of the Gulf of Thailand. Hua Hin is 200 km from Bangkok. People come here by bus, by rail and by sea.

Beach holiday. The most populated coastal economy is located near the Hilton Hotel and to the south of it. North of the hotel to the pier the sea is not suitable for swimming. Even further away there begins a long strip of sand, where there are almost no vacationers.

In Thailand, you can have a wonderful holiday in the small resort village of Cha Am, which is 26 km north of Hua Hin. Excellent sandy beaches stretch for several kilometers. Quieter areas give way to an equipped coastline with sun loungers and sun umbrellas. Horseback riding along the sea's edge and water activities such as jet skis and banana boats are in demand here.

Things to do. Hua Hin does not have as many entertainment venues as Pattaya. This resort in Thailand is designed for a relaxed family vacation. Explore the retro village of Plern Wan, the floating markets and the night markets. See Palau Falls, Hua Hin Farm and the royal palaces of Klai Kangwon and Maruekathaiyawan. Go for a Thai massage.

Prices. The cost of accommodation in this Thai resort is higher than in Pattaya. There are many comfortable hotels and budget hotels in Hua Hin. Prices for rooms in inexpensive guesthouses start from $12 per night.

Hua Hin during high season (November to February):

Where else to go?

When choosing a resort in Thailand, many tourists prefer traveling to the north of the country. Occupies a special place Ayutthaya - the former capital of Siam, which was captured and plundered by the Burmese at the end of the 18th century. Preserved ruins and old temples attract many travelers from around the world. The city has inexpensive housing for $10-13 and several 3-4* hotels, where an overnight stay costs $20-150.

Vacationers love the Thai city Chiang Rai, where there are several interesting monuments and museums. People come here to see the picturesque White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) and visit the authentic ethnic tribes that live in the province. On the banks of the Kok River there is an equipped beach 1.5 km long.

Tourists leave a lot positive feedback O Chiang Mai- the second largest city after Bangkok, home to about a million residents. It is very interesting to visit Chiang Mai during the colorful Flower Festival in February or during the launch of Chinese lanterns during the Loy Krathong festival in mid-autumn.

Bangkok, or Krungthep, as the Thais call it, attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists. The huge, dynamic metropolis offers recreation for every taste and budget. It surprises with skyscrapers, excellent parks, interesting museums, palaces, luxury shopping centers and long khlong canals. Residents of Bangkok usually go for a swim at the beaches of Bang Saen, a resort town in Chonburi province, which is located 105 km from the Thai capital.

Where is the best place to relax in Thailand?

Which resort to choose in Thailand? It depends on the purpose of the trip. Many people like beaches on the mainland, while others prefer to relax on the islands. Krabi and Phuket are ideal for water activities, snorkeling, windsurfing and diving.

If you like attractions and interesting excursions, you should go to Pattaya. For a more secluded holiday, people go to Koh Chang, Samui and other islands. Those who are not attracted to beach holidays are happy to spend their holidays in the north of the country or in Bangkok.

Introductory image source: unsplash.com / @good_citizen.