THREE weeks in Thailand around Christmas and New year

Hey guys,

I'm new to all this travelling, my boyfriend and i would like to spend three weeks in Thailand at Christmas and New Year we will be flying in to Bangkok and that's we all know. Where would be best to go next? How long do you stay in Bangkok for?

we was also wondering if its worth going to the full moon party on News Years?

Also travelling around Thailand what best Train, bus or Plane?

I really would love someone to help me out.

I'm just so confused where to go and start

Chrissie :)

I find the overnight trains in Thailand to be comfortable and relaxing. They're also inexpensive and give you an opportunity to meet other travelers as well as English-speaking locals.

It sounds like you want to spend at least some time at the beaches, so here's what I'd recommend: Spend three full days in Bangkok. Then, take an overnight train to Chiang Mai. You can easily spend the better part of a week up there. Do some trekking, elephant camps, tribal villages, whatever. (Try to visit Pai if you get a chance.)

Then, find a cheap flight to the south (make sure to check the cheap-o local airlines) and hit the beaches. When you've had your fill you can grab another overnight train back to Bangkok and maybe see some of the things you missed the first time around.

By the way, in Bangkok avoid Khao San Road in favor of Soi Rambutri just a couple of blocks away.

Info on Thai rail travel: http://www.seat61.com/Thailand.htm

Hey Chrissie,

I have travelled around Thailand a few times now. You only really need about 3 days in Bangkok to see everything and if you only have three weeks then you probably won't want to spend anymore than 3 days there because it will be cutting down on valuable time elsewhere.

Best way to travel to the islands is my bus - they are very very easy to book once you are there, just try to plan a few days in advance each time so they don't get busy. Most buses are overnight so saves you time and money. Personally, I would travel to Krabi from Bangkok and maybe spend a few nights there - then get a boat to Phi Phi. Beautiful islands although they are getting really touristy and will probably be super busy at that time of year so book accomodation in advance.

After that I would make your way to Surat Thani on the east side of the country - don't stay here any longer than you have to. Get a boat to Koh Phangan for the full moon. The full moon party is great, and probably even more crazy at NY- just be careful. I would advise that you do not stay on Haadrin beach because it will be very busy and people can get stuff stolen. Instead choose accommodation further away, maybe Ban Khai etc. You can easily get a taxi to the party.

Then make your way to koh Tao island- by far the best Thai island and you shouldn't miss it out. Much better than Samui. Stay on Sairee beach.

This trip can easily be reversed if it fits in better with the full moon dates.

Alternatively, if you want to see a bit more of Thailand culture head to Chaing Mai up north. It is a beautiful city and from here you can see some of the jungle, trekking, elephant rides etc. If you choose to go here a night train is the best way to get there. Don't bother with 1st class ticket- 2nd class with air con is fine.

Enjoy. Thailand is a great place, you will have plenty of fun. Just be careful of your stuff- especially at full moon.
Hope this helps!

Thanks for the heads up - I'm just about to book my trip to Thailand for 3 weeks over Xmas! I'm SO excited! This is great information!