After visiting Thailand during low season last year and being less than impressed, I could have done with this advice back then. Luckily, as I’m selfless when it comes to my dear readers, you can spare yourselves the same fate.
While planning your holiday to Thailand you will probably have lots of ideas about what you want to do and where you want to go. As the country has a tropical climate and three distinct seasons then the time of year that you visit will impact on these plans.
Despite the coldest temperature to be recorded in Bangkok being ten degrees, some periods of the year can be cooler than you might expect and the rain is an important factor. Strong monsoon downpours can lead to roads becoming impassable.
All of these elements make it vital that you plan your trip carefully with consideration of the seasons and the type of activities you wish to undertake.
The cool season
The months of December and January are known as the cool season in Thailand, but do not let this fool you. Yes, it is not as hot as at other times of the year, but it is still pretty warm in the majority of the country. This can be a blessing for those who cannot stand extreme temperatures.
Chiang Mai and the northern region is the only part of Thailand that could reasonably be described as cool during this season and that is due to its altitude. The lowest temperature you can expect is 15 degrees Celsius, while it can still get as warm as 35 degrees.
Meanwhile, in the south of the country, the cool season is almost non-existent. The difference in temperature between the hottest and coldest times of the year equate to a few mere degrees.
The cool season is a popular time to visit Thailand and especially Bangkok, however, as it makes it possible to walk further, explore more and undertake activities without feeling uncomfortable because of the heat.
The hot season
Between February and May in Thailand it is the hot season, which is relatively self explanatory – it is scorching! With temperatures reaching 37 degrees on some days it is important to plan your trip accordingly.
If you are expecting to spend time sunbathing and taking a dip in the sea on a regular basis to cool off then this is the time to travel to Thailand. Precautions must be taken with sun lotion, hats, drinking plenty of water and seeking shade, however, as the searing heat can be dangerous.
Being in the city can be exhausting at this time of year and it is a good idea to build a siesta into your itinerary. Do not expect the heat to desist at night either – sleeping can be difficult.
The rainy season
From June right through until November, it is the rainy season. Fortunately, unlike the UK, Thailand does not experience drizzle that lasts for hours when it rains. Instead, you can expect intense monsoon deluges that soak you through. The funny thing about this too, is that it is still warm.
If you don’t mind dodging the rainstorms and aren’t planning on travelling on rural roads that may have been swept away, the rainy season can be a good time to visit. There are generally fewer tourists in the country and the deluges can be refreshing. Just expect to get wet from time to time.
Photo credit: koh yao noi
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