When contemplating a vacation in Thailand, many people ponder whether to plan it themselves or opt for a package tour to enjoy a hassle-free getaway. The answer to this question is nuanced and depends on various factors. Let's explore which vacation option suits you best.
Thailand Package Vacation
The internet is brimming with travel agencies offering package tours to various resorts in Thailand. These packages can be either standard or customized. So, what are the advantages of choosing a package tour?
Planning
Planning a trip to Thailand independently requires a significant amount of time, researching forums, and scouring the internet for information. Alternatively, when you turn to a travel agent, they take care of all the planning for you:
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They provide recommendations on a suitable resort based on your preferences, whether it's a family vacation or geared towards youth.
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You'll receive guidance on the best time of year to visit, including information on weather conditions such as heavy waves or rain.
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They will narrow down your options to a select few from thousands of choices.
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Organize transportation to and from your hotel.
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You will likely have a choice of various excursions from trusted tour operators.
Language Barrier
Not knowing the local language doesn't have to be a hindrance to your travels. Opting for a package tour can help mitigate this barrier: all transfers are arranged, hotels are ready to welcome you, and you may even have a guide accompanying you.
Pricing for Package Tours
There's a common misconception that package tours are significantly more expensive than traveling independently. However, this is more of a myth. The travel market is highly competitive, with many tour operators offering budget-friendly rates. Additionally, tour operators often secure discounts from airlines and hotels due to their volume, resulting in attractive prices for travelers.
For instance, you can find enticing deals for a trip from Kiev to Thailand starting at $560-600 per person for double occupancy, including flights and breakfast for 6 nights. In contrast, the standard price of a round-trip ticket to Thailand from Kiev typically begins at $400 per person. Choosing a package tour means you won't need to worry about hotel bookings, transfers, and excursions separately.
Customized Individual Tours
If budget constraints aren't a concern, consider opting for customized tours. These tours are tailored exclusively to your preferences, offering the best hotels, personalized transfers, and a customized sightseeing program with a guide.
Package tours are particularly ideal for first-time travelers to Asia. They ensure an exotic vacation experience and complete peace of mind without unnecessary stress.
Exploring Thailand Independently
An increasing number of individual travelers, through their blogs and stories, are inspiring others to consider organizing their independent travel experiences. Thailand is an excellent country for such adventures, boasting a well-developed tourist infrastructure and a local population accustomed to hosting tourists. So, what makes independent vacations so appealing?
Freedom of Travel
When you travel to Thailand independently, you have the freedom to choose where you go and how long you stay. Furthermore, you can be spontaneous, altering your plans to leave one city early and extend your stay in another. While such flexibility is possible on a package tour, it may result in forfeiting the money you've paid for pre-booked accommodations.
Unhurried Sightseeing
Exploring attractions on your own allows you to spend as much time as you need at each location. You can wait for the perfect lighting for a photo, meditate by a Buddha statue, or savor a sunset at one of Bangkok's temples. Conversely, group tours often adhere to a strict schedule that everyone must follow.
Culinary Exploration
An independent trip to Thailand offers you the chance to savor a diverse range of national dishes at different cafes and cities. With a package tour, dining options may be limited to pre-arranged meals, limiting your culinary experience.
Budget Considerations
When planning an independent trip, you can hunt for favorable flight deals, significantly reducing your expenses. Furthermore, for extended stays in Thailand, considering apartment rentals can be a cost-effective lodging option.
Traveling on your own is a unique adventure, providing life experiences that everyone should consider. However, remember that it's advisable to plan such a trip with at least a basic understanding of English and an appreciation for the destination country's traditions.
Travel Tips
We have compiled some important tips for you that will be useful for all travelers going to Thailand.
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When going to a restaurant, have cash ready. Not all catering establishments accept cards, but there are usually plenty of 24-hour ATMs around the city. However, the further you get from the capital, the rarer they are.
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Alcohol lovers should take into account that in the country alcoholic beverages are sold strictly according to the schedule: at 11:00-14:00 and 17:00-24:00. During some holidays, there is a total ban on its sale.
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Bringing your beloved pet with you, keep in mind that no emergency veterinary care is available here, but 24-hour clinics are plentiful.
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It is advisable to take out an international health insurance policy before traveling, although you can get insurance from local companies. Without insurance, you will be treated at a clinic but will not be released until treatment is paid for.
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If you want to get vaccinations, it's cheaper to get them done when you arrive in Thailand. At the same time, the quality of vaccines is not lower than in the CIS countries.
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It is worth to carefully take care of the sun: use sunscreen, do not overheat, drink enough water, avoid intense physical exertion, do not abuse alcohol. All this, against the backdrop of the climate, can lead to unpleasant consequences.
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It is worth considering the strictness of local laws to the possession, use, and distribution of drugs. Even a couple grams of detected marijuana can result in a fine of 20,000 THB (600 USD) or a minimum of a year of suspended imprisonment. In severe cases, the death penalty can also be awarded.
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Please note the strict penalties regarding theft. Shoplifters caught shoplifting won't get away with monetary compensation for what they've stolen - they'll be turned over to law enforcement. And under local law, the penalty can be up to five years in prison.
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In no way can you disrespect the royal family. Even defacing their images, including on banknotes, is punishable by criminal prosecution and 3-15 years imprisonment.
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To visit temples and other shrines, one must strictly adhere to the rules established there. It is generally not allowed to go there in shorts and provocative attire.
