With cheap flights, accommodation and activities, offset by amazing beaches and great food, Thailand has become a tourist hub. In most parts of the country, tourists outnumber the local in large numbers. But there are certain secrets that people visiting this amazing country won’t tell you, just to keep their vacation seemly amazing or to hide their favourite spots. We reveal Thailand’s top tourist secrets.

1. There’s More To Thailand Than Just Bangkok and Phuket

Even though these two cities are the most popular for tourist to visit, they aren’t the only. Thailand is filled with loads of small islands and beautiful landscapes including Chiang Mai, Koh Samui and Krabi.

2. Bangkok, The Stinky City

There’s a certain stench about Bangkok that you’ll  never get use to. As soon as you leave the air-conditioned airport it will hit you and will stay with you till you leave the city.

3. Phuket is Cheap But Crowded 

For those looking for a cheap holiday, you’ll find the cheapest in Phuket – but don’t expect quiet beaches and spacious tours. Due to its popularity and affordability, beaches, bars, tours and hotels are often packed especially in peak season.

4. Koh Phangan Ain’t Just For Partying 

When thinking Koh Phangan, most tourists think the infamous Full Moon Party, but this island can also be romantic and peaceful. If you head to the other side of this beautiful island, you’ll find amazing resorts with secluded beaches.

5. The Hustle is Real 

Thai people are some of the hardest working people and know how to hustle to make their money. From a makeshift restaurant or a scooter repair shop in their front yard, to selling gas in bottles from their homes, everyone is making money somehow.

6. Thai People Are The Nicest

The Thai are the nicest people. With a smile on their faces or a helpful hand to lend, they are always willing to help out where ever they can. All you have to do is ask!

7. Wipe and Throw into The Bin 

In most part of Thailand you can’t throw toilet paper into the toilet, so after you do your number one or two, you’ll need to throw the toilet paper into the bin. Most hotels and resorts have western toilets where you don’t need to do this.

8. Lady Boys Are The Third Gender 

A kathoey or lady  boy in English is a transgender woman or an effeminate gay male in Thailand. Lady boys are highly accepted in the Thai community and usually work at cabaret shows.

9. The Expats Run Everything 

From Australian bars and Italian Pizzeria to German run accommodation and American scuba diving companies, you’ll find that most flourishing businesses are run by expats. With the huge amount of tourists, expats have taken advantage of the situation and monetised it.

10. Russians Love Thailand

Second to the Thai, Russians are everywhere in Thailand. It must be something about the short flight, cheap accommodation and warm weather that attracts them. If you don’t like Russians, don’t go to Thailand.

11. Chiang Mia is a Digital Nomad Hub

With good internet, cheap accommodation and a laid back lifestyle, Chiang Mia is swarming with location independent freelancers and entrepreneurs. You’ll find loads of forgeiners in coffee shops and cowering spaces with their laptops out, just working.

12. Koh Samui is for Families and Honeymooners

The second largest island in Thailand, Koh Samui is made for honeymoons and family time. A watered down version of the craziness that is Phuket, Koh Samui is peaceful with just enough nightlife to keep you entertained.

13. Shop at Bangkok Markets

For the cheapest prices and the best bargaining, shop at the array of Bangkok markets. From clothes and accessories, to food and technology, you’ll find it all at these huge markets.

14. Roads Are Quite Chaotic

If you do decided to drive, hop onto a scooter. But be warned, the roads in Thailand are chaotic and almost no road rules are followed. Drive defensively or not at all if need be.

15. Good Snorkelling Is Not on Your Doorstep 

If you’re looking to snorkel you probably want to head out to a secluded island. Snorkelling off the beach is possible, but often there is no real coral or fish to sea.

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