How to Plan a Holiday to Thailand with Kids - Tips on Organising a Family Getaway to Thailand

 Ranked among Asia's top family holiday destinations, Thailand truly packs in a punch in terms of the sheer variety of experiences up for grabs in the country. As an affordable vacation hub, families can enjoy a memorable time in this dynamic backpacker's paradise, which is not only a beach Mecca for the masses but also a nature lover's dream come true. From planning activities to finding the right hotel, here are some tips on planning your next holiday with the kids in Thailand.

File:View from Baiyoke Sky Hotel, Bangkok (7053110333).jpg: David McKelvey from Brisbane, Australia derivative work: Paul_012, View from Baiyoke Sky Hotel, Bangkok (7053110333) cropped, CC BY 2.0

1. Timing is Everything

Although there is no such thing as a time of year that is not conducive to a family holiday in Thailand, those who wish to experience certain aspects of the country must time their holiday. As a rule of thumb, the period from November to April is deemed ideal for a vacation in Thailand as sunny skies can be expected in the beach capitals and islands belonging to the country. Those who wish to witness local festivals such as Songkran, the Thai New Year, or the annual Dragonboat Festival, on the other hand, should time their trip to coincide with these red-letter days in the Thai calendar. Families on a budget, however, may wish to travel during the off-season as hotel prices are lower but it is important to keep in mind that certain outdoor activities may be unavailable or inaccessible.

2. Find Suitable Accommodation

Thailand is a popular holiday hotspot among backpackers, honeymooners and solo travellers, which means that there are hotels and resorts that cater specifically to these demographics. This is why selecting a family-friendly Bangkok city hotel the likes of Pathumwan Princess Hotel or similar property is crucial as you don't want your family to be exposed to unnecessary people, places and behaviour. Choosing hotels with an enviable location will also come in handy as your family will need to spend less time on the road travelling to and from attractions and activity bases.

3. Start with Bangkok

As the first point of contact that most tourists will have with Thailand, the capital city of Bangkok deserves at least a day or two in your family holiday itinerary. Apart from Lumpini Park and Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum and other recreational highlights, Bangkok is also home to a collection of heritage sites that are not limited to the Grand Palace and the Temple of Dawn. A cruise on the Chao Phraya River is a great way to discover these landmarks while wining and dining in popular food streets in the city is also a must for travellers. Siam Paragon, CentralWorld, Gaysorn and the biggest malls in the country are also found here so families can spend whole days shopping, gaming, dining and enjoying these mega retail compounds.

4. Schedule a Beach Getaway

With Koh Samui and countless island paradises to its name, no family holiday in Thailand would be complete without some beach time. The kids and adults alike can enjoy the beauty of the country's stunning beaches and the countless marine species that call venues such as the Ang Thong National Marine Park their home. In addition to water sports activities such as snorkelling, scuba diving and surfing, Thai beaches are also ideal for banana boating and jet skiing.

5. Spend Time in the Hills

Lined with elephant sanctuaries and mountainous terrain that's ideal for hiking and spending time in the great outdoors, Chiang Mai is another Thai destination that should be part of your travel plans.  Doi Inthanon and the charming Doi Pui village will provide you and your offspring such a contrasting atmosphere from the bustle of Bangkok and Thailand's beach hubs while also allowing families the chance to tour iconic temples such as Wat Chedi Luang.