THG Recommended Hotels in Thailand

June through to September is considered the low season when the southwestern monsoon or wet season hits Thailand. The beaches become more choppy and more dangerous so swimming is not advised. There are much fewer tourists because it can rain most days, but generally in short downpours in the afternoons or evenings, so it is possible to plan activities during the day that avoid these times. Thailand deals can be extra good value during low season.

The best places to stay in Thailand are Bangkok, Hua Hin, Phuket, Krabi, Koh Samui, and Chiang Mai. Thailand accommodation in all these cities and towns is diverse with something to suit every traveller’s budget.

Where to stay in Thailand is a hard question to answer. It’s completely subjective and dependent on your personal tastes. Thailand is a diverse country with so many places to see and things to do. One thing you can be sure of is that no matter where you go, you will have an unforgettable experience.

Avoid drinking the tap water; it’s not unsafe to consume. Avoid eating food that’s been sitting around for a while. Only pick food stalls that are popular with a high turnover of produce. When dealing with taxi drivers, only choose metered taxis. It’s illegal for drivers to refuse to use their meters.

The answer is very subjective. There are many beautiful destinations throughout the nation from the lush vegetation of the mountainous regions in the north, through to the ricefields in the central plains down to the pristine coastlines and various tropical paradise islands of the south. Each region of Thailand has something special to offer with its own version of picturesque natural beauty.

Luxury beach resorts can range anywhere from AUD 150-1500 per night, depending on the time of year and season. Some of the best resorts in Thailand are located on the southern coastline and nearby islands of Thailand, in the Andaman Sea or Gulf of Thailand Sea.

Some of the best hotels in Thailand can be found in Bangkok, Phuket, Koh Kood, Koh Yao Noi, Koh Samui, Krabi, Hua Hin and Chiang Mai. Phuket boasts an impressive list including the Rosewood, Banyan Tree, Amanpuri and Keemala.

The best beach accommodation in Thailand is found down south and on the nearby islands.

The cheaper end of accommodation can vary from AUD 15-40 per night with some including a pool and depending on the location. You can choose from hostels, homestays, bungalows and hotels. Accommodation in northern Thailand is generally cheaper than the south.

Thai hotels vary in prices and facilities based on their location. The average cost per night for one person in a decent hostel or budget hotel in Chiang Mai is around AUD 25-35. In Bangkok, the average is a little more towards the AUD 30-55 range. By contrast, in the south, for example in Phuket, a basic hotel is likely to be upwards of AUD 45 per night. If you will be staying in higher-end hotels and resorts, expect to double, triple and even quadruple the price per night in your chosen location.

The most exclusive and opulent Thailand resorts can be found on the southern islands with their spacious and exquisitely designed luxurious interiors, first-class facilities and world-renowned standards of Thai hospitality.
A good example of a high-end luxury escape is Soneva Kiri resort on the island of Koh Kood. Only reached by its private aircraft from Bangkok, their island villas range from 1 to 6 bedroom options and come with private infinity pools (the 6-bedroom villa even has its own water slide!), dedicated private butler service, and incredibly chic furnishings. Priced at around AUD 1400 per night.

Bangkok is a vibrant city filled with culture, shopping, street food and nightlife.
Chiang Mai is best known for its mountains, hill tribes, ancient history and temples, elephants and artisan markets.
Sukhothai is the former ancient capital of Thailand. Consisting of the UNESCO world heritage listed Sukhothai Historical Park and the “new city” about 12 kilometres away, visitors can marvel at the ancient ruins and stay nearly the old city biking around the huge site.
The former Siamese capital, Ayutthaya (1350-1767), is another World Heritage Site It’s an absolute must-visit the city in Thailand and it’s easy to reach by train or bus from Bangkok.
Only a three- hour train ride from Bangkok is the city of Kanchanaburi. Rich with World War II significance, the most notable sites here the Death Railway, and the ‘Bridge Over the River Kwai’ and WW II museums and monuments. It also located near Erawan Waterfalls National Park where you can witness its natural beauty and multi-tiered turquoise waterfalls.

The best beaches are in the southern part of Thailand’s coastline and the surrounding islands. Here are a few highlights:
In Phuket, the best beaches are on the west coast offering family-friendly paradise fun with good food and hotels. Kata and Kata Noi are the best choices. Kata is the more lively version with Kata Noi being a calm oasis.
Railay Beach in Krabi is accessible only by longtail boat as its surrounded by limestone cliffs and lush rainforest. It makes for a popular day trip to snorkel and explores its pristine waters. but if you want to stay overnight, a handful of accommodation options ranging from basic bungalows to luxurious resorts.
Donald Duck Bay is located at the Northern end of Similan Island No. 8. With its large boulders, white sand and clear blue seas, this sheltered bay offers shallow and easy diving- perfect for beginners. It houses an official National Park Camping area if you ish to stay overnight, otherwise, it makes a great day trip.
Koh Tao mainly known for its spectacular diving spots but it also has idyllic beaches. Snorkel amongst blacktip reef sharks and green turtles at Shark Bay Beach or explore the rich underworld world in Sai Daeng Beach’s turquoise waters. The island has a full range of accommodation for solo travellers, couples and families.
Lamai in Koh Samui is a beautiful stretch of white sand further south than the busy Chaweng beach. But it has all the facilities and without being too far removed from the party scene but with an overall laid back vibe. Maenam Beach in the north of Koh Samui is a favourite with backpackers and offers budget shopping and no-frills dining, fun activities along with a good range of less expensive beachfront hostels and hotels. It also caters to the higher-end market with a range of premium five-star resorts, fine dining options and quieter cosmopolitan nightlife.
Koh Yao Noi island is one hour on a boat from Phuket and has stunning remote powder -white sand beaches with a just a few simple beach shacks. The accommodation here ranges from a backpacker-style yoga shala to the five-star Six Senses luscious resort.