Why Choose Thailand

Hey, I just got back from my Thailand honeymoon and can't wait to share this super memorable journey! To be honest, I initially chose Thailand because of budget constraints, but looking back now, it was absolutely amazing!

Guess what? Latest data shows Thailand has been the top honeymoon destination for Chinese newlyweds for 5 consecutive years, accounting for 38%! Why do so many people choose Thailand? Let me, a freshly returned "veteran traveler," explain slowly~

First, Thailand's value for money is unbeatable! With the same budget, you can enjoy much higher-grade vacation experiences in Thailand. Think about it - while a four-star hotel in China might cost 1000-2000 yuan, that same amount in Thailand can get you a resort with a private pool!

Plus, Thailand's tourism industry is super mature, from airport pickup to accommodation, from attractions to food, all services are well-arranged. As newlyweds, you don't need to worry about too many details and can focus on enjoying time together.

And the service attitude of Thai people is incredibly touching! When we arrived at the hotel, the front desk saw we were on our honeymoon and immediately upgraded our room for free, even sent champagne and a fruit platter, which really moved us.

Pre-trip Preparation

Regarding preparations, we started planning 3 months ahead. Looking back, this timing was just right - neither too rushed nor too early to cause constant plan changes.

The first big task is of course the visa! Although visa-free entry to Thailand is currently available (policy valid until August 31, 2024), it's still recommended to closely monitor policy changes. After all, international situations change rapidly, and policies might adjust at any time.

Passport matters must be taken seriously! Make sure it has at least 6 months of validity remaining. Speaking of this, I witnessed a real case: a newlywed couple was denied boarding at the airport because their passports didn't have enough validity left, and the bride was crying. Such disappointing situations must be avoided!

Flight selection is also crucial. We booked two months in advance, spending 4,800 yuan total for round-trip tickets for two. This price was reasonable as it was a direct flight. Connecting flights might save 1,000+ yuan, but for a honeymoon, direct flights are more comfortable.

Then there's the money exchange issue. We exchanged some in China and withdrew more in Thailand using UnionPay cards. We found the exchange rates in Thailand were slightly better than in China. We prepared 15,000 Thai Baht in cash (about 3,000 RMB), mainly for tips and places that don't accept cards.

Don't forget to buy insurance before departure! We bought comprehensive travel insurance including medical coverage, costing about 300 yuan for both of us. Although we didn't use it, having this protection gave us peace of mind.

Best Time

Choosing travel timing is truly an art! We went in mid-January, which is considered peak season in Thailand. The temperature was very comfortable, generally between 25-30 degrees, and there was very little rain.

However! Peak season prices are indeed a bit higher. We found flights and hotels were about 30% more expensive than off-season. Specifically, the Pullman Hotel we stayed at in Phuket cost 1,500 yuan per night during peak season, while in off-season it would only be around 800 yuan.

Honestly, if budget allows, I highly recommend the golden period from November to February next year. Not only is the weather good, but importantly, the seawater is especially clear! When we went snorkeling in Phuket, we could see clearly even 5 meters underwater - it was incredibly beautiful!

If budget is limited, consider April-May. Although temperatures are higher (possibly 35-38 degrees), prices are much lower. Plus, this is during Thailand's traditional New Year Songkran Festival, everywhere is lively, offering a different experience.

Of course, July-October is rainy season, which is best avoided. Although prices are even lower, rainy days really dampen the fun, especially if you're going to islands - it basically ruins the trip.

Itinerary

Our itinerary was: 3 days in Bangkok, 4 days in Phuket, 3 days in Chiang Mai. This combination was perfect! We experienced the bustle of the big city, enjoyed romantic island life, and ended with an artistic and refined finish - simply perfect!

Let's start with Bangkok's three days. On the first day, we stayed at Park Hyatt near Siam Square, the location couldn't be better! It's a 5-minute walk to Siam City and 10 minutes to Siam Paragon, super convenient for shopping. The best part was the infinity pool on the 43rd floor - floating in the water while viewing Bangkok's night scenery, romance level maxed out!

On the second day, we visited the Grand Palace and Wat Pho. Honestly, the Grand Palace is truly magnificent, but also really crowded. Suggest going early in the morning, otherwise it's too hot! Remember to wear long pants or skirts and cover your shoulders, or you'll need to rent clothes at the entrance. In the evening, we experienced a Chao Phraya River dinner cruise, enjoying Thai food while viewing the riverside scenery - super enjoyable!

The third day was crazy shopping time! From Siam Paragon to Siam Discovery, various Thai boutique designer brands, local cosmetics, unique handicrafts - we shopped till we dropped! Note that major malls accept UnionPay cards, but ask about card processing fees.

Then came the most anticipated part - Phuket! We chose the Cape Panwa area because it's relatively quieter than Patong. We stayed in a suite with a private pool, though expensive at 2,800 per night, it was totally worth it! Lying by the pool watching the sunset, we didn't want to move at all.

On our first day in Phuket, we took an island-hopping tour to Emperor Island and Coral Island. Honestly, those prone to seasickness should consider carefully, as it can be quite bumpy at sea. On the second day, we tried diving - though it required advance preparation, seeing the underwater world made everything worthwhile!

The third day was purely beach relaxation, sunbathing, drinking coconuts - super comfortable. At night we went to Jungceylon Night Market for food, various street snacks were cheap and delicious. On the fourth day, we got couples spa treatments - two and a half hours of oil massage for just over 600 yuan, a price that wouldn't even get you in the door in China.

Finally, Chiang Mai, where the pace immediately slowed down. We stayed at a boutique hotel in the old city, very atmospheric and only 600+ per night! First day we rented motorcycles to tour the old city, visited Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh, experiencing the artistic atmosphere of the old city.

Second day we went to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep on Doi Suthep mountain - suggest going in the morning as the mountain road is winding and gets very hot in the afternoon. Evening at the Sunday Night Market had various handicrafts and snacks, much cheaper than Bangkok. Third day we visited a coffee plantation, drinking coffee in a glass house on the mountaintop - simply incredible!

Food Recommendations

Speaking of Thai food, I'm drooling just thinking about it! Bangkok's food is truly irresistible, every day we looked forward to our next meal.

You must visit the seafood stalls at Pratunam Market! Though it looks a bit like a roadside stand, the taste is top-notch! We ordered Tom Yum Goong seafood pot, curry crab, and grilled shrimp - only spent about 300 RMB for two people, great value!

Near Siam Square, you must try Tom Yum Goong at Nara Thai, a popular restaurant recommended by locals. Remember to book in advance, otherwise the wait is very long. Their lime juice is also especially good, perfectly complementing the Tom Yum Goong!

Phuket's seafood is indeed more expensive than Bangkok's, but the freshness is completely different. At Banzaan Fresh Market near Patong Beach, 600 yuan got us huge lobsters, and you can select them live. However, remember to bargain - initial prices should be negotiated down by at least half.

Chiang Mai's food is even cheaper. A curry rice at any small shop in the old city is only about 20 yuan, but the taste is no worse than big restaurants. Especially recommend Khao Soi Mae Sai in the old city - their signature curry noodles will leave you craving more!

Important Notes

When traveling in Thailand, their service attitude is most impressive, but note that tipping culture is really important here. Tipping isn't charity, but recognition and respect for service.

Generally, restaurants expect about 10% of the bill as tip. For massages, 100 baht is usually sufficient. Hotel porters typically get 20-50 baht, and if room cleaning service is especially good, you can leave some daily tips.

Sun protection is crucial! Especially on islands, Thailand's sun is very strong. We used SPF 50+ sunscreen and brought UV protection clothing, but still got tanned. Suggest bringing hats, sunglasses, and carrying sunscreen spray for reapplication.

Be especially careful about authenticity when shopping in Thailand. Shopping in places like Bangkok's Siam Square malls is very safe, but if buying bags or cosmetics at places like Pratunam Market, make sure to stick to official retail stores.

Regarding transportation, Bangkok's BTS and metro are convenient, but when taking taxis, always insist on using the meter. If drivers refuse, better find another taxi. In Phuket and Chiang Mai, better ask hotels to call taxis - might be more expensive but more reliable.

Honeymoon Tips

After this trip, I've summarized some experiences for couples planning their Thailand honeymoon. First, regarding budget, for a 10-day trip staying at four/five-star hotels, including flights, accommodation, food, shopping, etc., two people need about 30,000-40,000 RMB.

Of course, this budget can be adjusted based on personal circumstances. For example, choosing value-for-money four-star hotels can save 500-800 per night; for dining, you don't need fancy restaurants every meal as street food is also great; shopping should be planned, don't buy everything you see.

For timing, don't rush. After all, it's a honeymoon, not a sightseeing race. We often slept in naturally, then leisurely went for brunch, had afternoon spa, evening walks - felt really relaxing.

Accommodation choice is also important. Suggest splurging on at least one or two nights at better hotels, like suites with private pools or ocean views. Though expensive, they provide very different experiences.

Final Thoughts

Looking back, choosing Thailand as our honeymoon destination was really a great decision! It has romantic beaches, delicious food, comfortable spas, and shopping fun. Most importantly, prices are reasonable and service is excellent.

Every time I think of the sunset in Phuket, leisurely time in Chiang Mai's old city, shopping sprees in Bangkok, I feel incredibly happy. This is probably the meaning of a honeymoon - creating unforgettable memories with your most loved one during the most beautiful time.

If you're planning a Thailand honeymoon, hope my sharing provides some reference. After all, you only honeymoon once, so plan well, make every penny count, and make this journey extra special.

Honestly, I'm already thinking about another trip to Thailand! Next time might choose some places we haven't been, like Koh Samui or Hua Hin. Looking forward to the next Thailand adventure!