Thailand
My first trip as a solo female traveller
THAILAND
My first trip as a solo female traveller
Welcome to my first experience as a solo female traveller. Thailand was the first place I visited by my own when I was 23yo and that’s why this country holds a special place in my heart.
Get ready to discover all the information you must know for 15-days adventure. Wander through the bustling streets of Bangkok, where ancient temples mingle with towering skyscrapers. Traverse the misty mountains of Chiang Mai, Pai and Chiang Rai, where hidden temples and lush forests beckon. Then, lose yourself in the southern islands, with their pristine beaches and chilled streets. Expect to discover vibrant markets, savor exotic flavours, and embark on jungle treks, all while immersing yourself in the natural beauty that surrounds you.
Thailand
My first trip as a solo female traveller
THAILAND
My first trip as a solo female traveller
Welcome to my first experience as a solo female traveller. Thailand was the first place I visited by my own when I was 23yo and that’s why this country holds a special place in my heart.
Get ready to discover all the information you must know for 15-days adventure. Wander through the bustling streets of Bangkok, where ancient temples mingle with towering skyscrapers. Traverse the misty mountains of Chiang Mai, Pai and Chiang Rai, where hidden temples and lush forests beckon. Then, lose yourself in the southern islands, with their pristine beaches and chilled streets. Expect to discover vibrant markets, savor exotic flavours, and embark on jungle treks, all while immersing yourself in the natural beauty that surrounds you.
THAILAND
My first trip as a solo female traveller
Thailand in 15 days
My first trip as a solo female traveller
Welcome to my first experience as a solo female traveller. Thailand was the first place I visited by my own when I was 23yo and that’s why this country holds a special place in my heart.
Get ready to discover all the information you must know for 15-day adventure, unfolding a world of captivating wonders. Wander through the bustling streets of Bangkok, where ancient temples mingle with towering skyscrapers. Traverse the misty mountains of Chiang Mai, Pai and Chiang Rai, where hidden temples and lush forests beckon. Then, lose yourself in the southern islands, with their pristine beaches and chilled streets. Expect to discover vibrant markets, savor exotic flavours, and embark on jungle treks, all while immersing yourself in the natural beauty that surrounds you.
- Insurance
- Weather & Luggage checklist
- Upon arrival:
- Communication
- Money
- Transportation.
- Day 1, 2, 3 (night departure) – Bangkok
- Day 4 (early morning arrival), to day 9 (night departure) – The North: Chiang Mai, Pai and Chiang Rai
A) Chiang Mai || Day 4, 5, 6 & 7 (11th to 14th Oct)– Day 4 (11th Oct.) – City center & night market Ploen Ruedee Night Market
– Day 5 | 12th Oct. – Suthep
– Day 6 | 13th Oct. – Mae Wang Elephant Sanctuary and chasing waterfalls
– Day 7 | 14th Oct. – Grand Canyon Water Park
B) Pai (Day trip) || Day 8 (15th Oct.)
– Day 8 | 15th Oct. – rented a car and headed to Pai Canyon + Santichon Village + Mae Na Tong Waterfall
C) Chiang Rai (Day trip) || Day 9 & 10th (super early morning departure (16th, 17th Oct.)
– Day 9| 16th Oct. – Ride to Chiang Rai to visit the Wat Rong Khun (White temple) and the Wat Song Suea Ten (Blue Temple)
– Day 10 | 17th Oct. – Super arly morning departure (6 a.m. flight) - Day 10 (super early arrival), 11, 12 (midday departure) – The South: Surah Thani + Koh Pa Ngan
- Day 13 (morning arrival) & 14 (midday flight back home) Bangkok
INSURANCE
This was my first venture into purchasing travel insurance, and after thorough research, I opted for IATI Backpacker Insurance + Cancellation. Priced at €81 for a 14-day period, it provided comprehensive coverage from my departure in Spain to my destination in Thailand, including any stops along the way.
I chose this option because of its extensive coverage, ensuring protection for adventurous activities, as well as against theft, loss, and medical emergencies abroad. Fortunately, I didn’t require any assistance during my journey, but having the peace of mind from such a comprehensive policy was invaluable.
Based on my experience, my advice is to carefully review insurance companies that suit your budget and country of residence. From there, prioritize your needs for coverage during your trip. In my case, adventure activities were a priority, but the mood might be different for your trip. For this reason, make sure you are selecting a policy that aligns your specific requirements, as it will ensure you can travel with confidence, knowing you’re adequately protected.
WEATHER
October marks the end of the rainy season in Thailand, giving way to the dry period. Overall the monsoon season comes to an end in most parts of the country, but occasional showers may occur in some areas, especially in the northern or central regions. However, it is typical for the weather to become more stable and pleasant.
I was fortunate during my trip as I encountered no rain and the temperatures were warm yet pleasant, allowing me to engage in a variety of outdoor activities without limitations. To give you an idea, temperatures during my stay (from October 7th to 21st) ranged between 28ºC to 32ºC degrees, and humidity levels decreased as the days passed.
CLOTHES
Packing Essentials
Although my experience aligned with the typical weather patterns for these months in Thailand, let’s not forget we’re in a tropical environment. Therefore, being prepared for any unforeseen changes in weather is essential.
Trip Highlights:
– Recommended to bring an adapter. Depending on the city or even the building, in Thailand they use type A (America) and C (Europe) and I found places where they didn’t have the Spanish one (type C), so the adaptar was needed for me.
– Insect repellents: don’t waist your time looking for options in your country. The most effective ones will be found in any thai local pharmacy.
– Luggage list: follow the “Tropical Packing List” to prepare your suitcase: include rain jackets, long clothes for temples, caps and sunglasses and insect/illness medicines.
– Prepare your stomach for spicy food!
CLOTHES
- Short sleeve and shorts
- Long & light dress/skirt + linen shirt
- light rain jacket & sweatshirt
- Comfy sportswear
- A cap and sunglasses
- Swimsuits
- Pyjama, towel, underwear, travel sheet
- Mid-rise socks (a tool against mosquitos)
- Teva sandals, trainers & flip-flops
- Small backpack and tumbler
- Sleep mask and travel pillow
TOILETRIES & MEDICINES
- Toothpaste, toothbrush & hairbrush
- Hand sanitizer & wet wipes.
- Shampoo/gel, creams & sunscreen
- Deodorant, perfume
- Personal medication, ibuprofeno, paracetamol
- Band-aid, Afterbite & Repellent
DOCS & ELECTRONICS
- Passport, ID, Inter. driving license
- Chargers, adapter & power bank
- Camera or GoPro
- A book, notebook and headphones
- Wallet and some cash for 1st day
UPON ARRIVAL
📲 MONEY & SIM CARD💰
If you arrive in the country without any cash, you can withdraw some at the airport itself to cover immediate needs like food or transportation. However, I advise visiting any currency exchange you’ll find on the streets of Bangkok once you reach the city center. Pay attention to the exchange rate; they tend to offer better rates in the early morning and worsen towards the end of the day.
The next to do is to get a Sim Card that can cover all your needs along the way. Here you have the best Sim Cards to buy in Thailand in 2024:
AIS
- Coverage 5/5
- 15 DAYS | 35GB | $17
- 30 DAYS | 50GB | $25
DTAC
- Coverage 4/5
- 8 DAYS | 15GB | $8
- 15 DAYS | 30GB | $16
TRUE MOVE
- Coverage 4/5
- 15 DAYS | 10GB | $16
- 15 DAYS | UNLIMITED | $19
- 30 DAYS | UNLIMITED | $27
🚌 NAVIGATING THE CITY
To get to downtown from the airport, you can choose between public buses, taxis, or ride-sharing services such as Gojek.
- Opting for a public bus: the cheapest option. You may find the communication a bit difficult but the service makes it job and it doesn’t take that long.
- Taxi or ride-sharing alternatives: those options are more comfortable and convenient as they are not that cheap as they could be in another country.
Whether this is your first solo trip or just another stop on your Southeast Asia route, I assure you’ll find kindness at every corner of Thailand. Safety shouldn’t be a concern for you, as this country is known for its hospitality and warmth towards travelers.
Though over the years we’ve seen the rise in prices, Thailand still remains one of the cheapest destinations in every aspect: from accommodation to food and transportation. Don’t worry about the budget, here you’ll always find options that fit your needs.
Personally, I must say that my visit to the north of Thailand was the most authentic part of the whole trip. The mountains, the local tribes, and the rich culture left an indelible impression on me.
And let’s not forget about the food. Get ready to experience the best flavors and culinary experiences of your life, along with a ton of Pad Thai that will surely leave you craving for more.
In summary, Thailand is a destination that has something for everyone: from adventurers to food lovers, to those seeking to immerse themselves in the local culture. I can’t wait to come back and explore more of this incredible country!