Thailand is certainly one of the most popular places to go to on your gap year travels; the statistics add up that it is the most popular place to go according to ABTA (Association of British Travel Agents) members. But is it all it’s cracked up to be?

Bangkok, Thailand’s capital, can be extremely intense in places, with a high-density population. Koh San Road is very popular with tourists, with the all day and night markets, restaurants and bars. If you are a fan of Hangover 2, then visiting the Sky Bar Rooftop, where Mr Chow commences with the bank transfers, is highly recommended, make sure you grab yourself a cocktail and enjoy the amazing views of the city’s capital.

The north side of Thailand, places like Pai and Chang Mai are very stunning, full of jungles and waterfalls. Whereas the south side, like Phi Phi Island and Phuket, is more touristy and more based for the party goers, so there is a good balance. One of the biggest and famous beach parties, the Full Moon Party is located in Koh Phangan, Haad Rin Beach, with over 10,000 people each party!

Thailand is extremely famous for its Pad Thai, a dish of noodles, veg and meat/fish which on average costs 50p and fills you up! Finally, the backpacker’s famous cheese and ham toastie, from the very reliable 7 11 store, ask anyone who has been to Thailand, and they will agree that these become part of your daily diet!

PROS:

• A country of stunning natural beauty, unrivalled and is considered to be the gem of Southeast Asia.
• The food – most dishes from Thailand use natural ingredients and are the traditional cuisine of Asia.
• Cost of living is incredibly low compared to other countries.
• Free 30 day Visa for UK Citizens

CONS:

• Personal safety has been known to be a problem for many people, with lots of reports indicating that pickpocketing and various other theft-related crimes are rife.
• Political instability is proving an issue, given the recent bombing attempts on August 11th and 12th 2016 in Hua Hin, Phang Nga, Trang, Surat Thani and Phuket safety is a concern.
• Tap water, therefore ice too, is generally considered a no-go if you’re in Thailand as the same with many places in Asia, so we recommend practically living off the bottled water!