How to Find the Best Thailand Hotels with Hotels.com

Thailand is a subtropical paradise. With its beautiful forests, idyllic beaches, mysterious temples, and diverse wildlife, you can get lost in its heady cocktail of delights. Stay on one of the islands off the south coast such as Phuket or in the buzzing metropolis of Bangkok, but wherever you stay, let Hotels.com take the hassle out of your trip by offering the best places to stay that the Land of Smiles has to offer. From luxurious resorts to hotels right in the heart of the cities, we have it all, with handy maps so you can stay near the attractions that interest you. From intrepid backpackers to honeymooning couples to families with kids eager for adventure, we can cater to all your travel requirements.

What's Thailand Like?

Thailand has an array of wondrous sights both natural and man-made. In Bangkok the Grand Palace, the former royal seat, is an impressive sight on the skyline. Nearby, there's Wat Pho (the Temple of the Reclining Buddha) with its impressive long statue of the Buddha (about 150 feet in length and covered in gold) taking it easy. The Golden Buddha in Wat Traimit is another iconic representation of Thailand's benevolent deity, made from solid gold and weighing in at 5.5 tonnes. You'll find Thailand hotels near all these attractions. Venturing further afield, we have the famed Bridge over the River Kwai, bombed by the Allies in 1944 and well worth a day trip. The Similan Islands are the number one dive spot in Thailand with their glorious unspoiled coral reefs.

Tips for Getting Along with Locals in Thailand

The Thais are a welcoming people; being peaceful and serene are tenets of Buddhist teachings. Still, it's good to know the dos and don'ts of how to act. You should learn the basics of the language; "please", "thank you", and how to ask for directions. Never show the palm of your hand to a stranger as this is a terrible insult. Understand the rules of the wai, the standard greeting: hold palms together as if in prayer, between your chest and your forehead. When dining, fork in the left hand and spoon in the right is the norm, and leaving a little on your plate is a polite way of saying you are satisfied. Follow these rules in Thailand hotels in order to show respect to your hosts. Needless to say, when visiting sacred sites you should cover up legs and shoulders and many can lend you clothing for this purpose.