Thailand remains one of the world’s great value travel destinations and one of the most consistently enjoyable for Australian visitors. The food, the temples, the beaches, and the warmth of Thai hospitality all combine to make it a destination many Australians return to repeatedly. This guide covers the main regions and practical essentials for planning a Thailand trip from Australia.
Bangkok: More Than a Transit City
Bangkok deserves more time than most Australians give it. The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew are among Asia’s most spectacular temple complexes. Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) across the Chao Phraya River is extraordinary at sunset. The floating markets at Amphawa and Damnoen Saduak (about 90 minutes from the city) are worth the early start.
Bangkok’s food scene, from the Michelin-starred restaurants in the Silom and Sukhumvit areas to the street food at Or Tor Kor Market near Chatuchak, is one of the world’s best. Spend at least 3 nights in Bangkok on your first Thailand visit.
Chiang Mai: Northern Thailand’s Cultural Capital
Chiang Mai is Bangkok’s cultural counterpoint: slower, cooler (it’s 300 metres above sea level), and with a density of Buddhist temples, craft workshops, and cooking schools that makes it one of Southeast Asia’s most enjoyable cities. The Sunday Walking Street market along Wualai Road is excellent for handicrafts and silk textiles. Doi Suthep temple, overlooking the city from the mountains to the west, is accessible by songthaew shared taxi and provides a remarkable view over the city.
Elephant sanctuaries near Chiang Mai are one of Thailand’s most talked-about experiences. Ethical sanctuaries (no riding, mud baths and feeding only) are available and worth seeking out specifically.
Phuket and the Southern Islands
Phuket’s main beaches (Patong, Karon, Kata) are well developed and suit visitors who want resort amenities and a lively atmosphere. Kata Noi and the quieter southern beaches are more appropriate for those wanting something calmer. The real beach beauty in southern Thailand is on the smaller islands: Koh Lanta, Koh Phi Phi (touristy but genuinely beautiful), and the Koh Tao diving island in the Gulf of Thailand.
Practical Thailand: Flights, Visa, and Money
From Brisbane, Thailand is reached via a connection through Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, or Dubai. Total travel time is 9 to 12 hours. Thai Airways, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, and AirAsia are the main carriers.
Australians receive a 30-day visa exemption on arrival in Thailand (this is subject to current Thai government policy and should be verified at time of booking). Extension to 60 days is possible at Thai immigration offices. The Thai Baht (THB) is the currency. ATMs are widely available.
FAQ: Thailand for Australians
Do Australians need a visa for Thailand?
Australians currently receive a 30-day visa exemption on arrival at major Thai airports. This policy is subject to change, so verify current entry requirements before travel. For longer stays, tourist visas are available from Thai consulates in Australia.
What’s the best time to visit Thailand from Australia?
November to February is the coolest, driest period and the best overall time to visit. March to May is very hot. June to October is monsoon season in the west (Phuket, Krabi) but dry on the eastern gulf coast (Koh Samui, Koh Tao).
How much does a Thailand holiday from Brisbane cost?
A 10-night Thailand trip from Brisbane including return flights and mid-range accommodation typically costs AUD $2,500 to $4,000 per person. Thailand’s food and activity costs are very affordable once you’re there.
Is Bangkok safe for Australian tourists?
Bangkok is one of Southeast Asia’s most visited cities and is generally safe. Standard urban travel precautions apply. The main risks are scams (tuk-tuk tours to ‘closed’ temples are a common scam) and traffic, not personal safety.
Can I combine Bangkok and Phuket in one trip?
Yes. Most visitors fly into Bangkok, spend 3 to 4 days in the city (and optionally Chiang Mai), then fly domestically to Phuket (1.5 hours) for the beach portion. Return flights home from Phuket or Bangkok are both practical options.
Ready to book a Thailand trip? Sai World Travel books complete Thailand packages from Brisbane and all Australian cities. Call 1800 724 967 or visit saiworldtravel.com.au.