What to know before you go on your family holiday
The word ‘Thailand’ evokes images of stunning white beaches, crystal clear waters and gorgeous sunsets for many. It’s certainly known as an ideal holiday spot for honeymooners and backpackers, but the country is also very much a family-friendly destination.
If you are planning to travel in Thailand with your kids, here are some helpful tips to make the most of your holiday:
Give yourselves a day to adjust to the time difference
Chances are you’ll be flying into Thailand from a different time zone. Instead of sightseeing immediately, book a room at a family-friendly hotel and make sure your little ones get on their normal sleep schedule as soon as possible. Ideally, book a flight that lands in the afternoon so that you can settle down for a good night’s rest after checking in and eating dinner.
Choose easy-to-eat Thai food
Thai food will be different from what your child is used to eating. Luckily, there are several child-friendly choices to look out for. These include non-spicy crowd pleasers such as pad thai, Hainanese chicken and fried rice. For a tasty dessert, try fresh mango and coconut sticky rice. For especially picky eaters, Thailand’s major cities and beach destinations have plenty of Western restaurants and even some familiar fast-food chains.
Arrange activities around Thailand’s heat
Thailand is hot! Prevent cranky toddlers (and adults for that matter) by limiting outdoor trips or half-day excursions to the morning time when it’s cooler. Save activities such as swimming in your hotel’s pool or exploring air-conditioned museums or malls for the hotter afternoons.
Be prepared for the attention
Thais LOVE all babies and children and are especially intrigued by foreign children, particularly those with light coloured eyes or curly hair. Don’t be surprised if a stranger comes up to your children wanting to take photos or requesting to pick them up. Be sure to explain to your children that this is not unsafe and that Thai people are very friendly – it’s just their way of saying hello! Staff at hotels and restaurants will usually be particularly attentive, and often whisk kids a way to show them something fun and give the parents a little break.
Daypack essentials
There are several must-pack items that will keep you and your children comfortable throughout the day. Always carry water to keep yourself cool and hydrated. If you run out, visit a 7-Eleven store and stock up on boxed juices, bottled water and other snacks. Additionally, keep your kids clean and germ-free with wet wipes because lavatories don’t always have tissue or hand soap.
Love your accommodation
Thailand has a wide range of accommodation options to fit all styles and budgets but not all are created equal. Look for places that provide plenty of space for your little ones as well as some luxurious comfort for you reconnect with your family and spouse. In Chiang Mai, try Rice & Zen Boutique Resort, an intimate homestay about 45 minutes out of town where kids can run free exploring the gardens and playing in the pool while parents indulge in some well-deserved R&R. Reverie Siam in Pai offers stylish riverside stays in the charming mountain town complete with two saltwater pools. Down south in the tropical haven of Krabi, Le Passe Temps is known for its private bungalows right on the sea and fun loving staff. From the comfort of the resort families can organise a range of activities and excursions, such as snorkelling, island hopping boat rides, nature treks and more, to ensure kids stay active and entertained.