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Thailand

Golden beaches, golden temples, golden memories

Thailand The Great Holy Relics

Paradise found, and it tastes like Pad Thai!

Sawasdee! Dreaming of tropical shores, captivating culture, and flavours you'll crave forever? Welcome to Thailand! Imagine yourself strolling on powder-soft sands, diving into crystal-clear waters that stay blissfully warm year-round, and uncovering hidden beaches you'll swear were made just for you.

Every day offers something special here: from tasting tantalising street food bursting with vibrant flavours to melting your worries away with soothing massages or exploring magnificent temples steeped in history and spirituality.

Whether it’s finding your bliss on a secluded island, seeking adventure in bustling Bangkok, or unwinding with the friendliest locals you’ll ever meet, Thailand promises pinch-me moments you'll talk about for years to come.

Excited yet? Chat to one of our Thailand travel specialists and we’ll craft your Best. Holiday. Ever!

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Flight time.

The journey from Auckland to Thailand typically takes around 11-12 hours, usually involving a stopover. Despite the long travel time, the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes make it worth the trip.

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Best time to go.

The ideal time to visit Thailand is from November to February, when the weather is cool and dry. This period is perfect for exploring temples, beaches, and bustling markets without the intense heat.

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Time difference.

Thailand is 5 hours behind New Zealand. Be prepared for a time shift that will take a bit of adjustment.

Our favourite things to do in Thailand

Ariel view of shoreline

Island hop through Thailand

This is what Thailand is known for - its dramatic, emerald dotted islands.

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Tuk-Tuk outside temple

Experience local life

Dare yourself and jump on a Tuk Tuk (motorised rickshaw) and zoom through the lively streets of Bangkok! While a cab might cost the same (or even be cheaper), the nimble tuk tuk gets you there faster, zipping through the hustle and bustle.

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Woman cooking on open fire

Thai cooking class

Fancy yourself as a chef?

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Ancient Temples in Thailand

Make your way Bangkok temples

A great day trip from Bangkok.

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Women getting massage at day spa

Your zen zone in Thailand

Massage and medicine is synonymous with Thai culture.

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Boat on the water travelling in Khao Sok National Park

Family fun in the wild

If you're traveling with kids, Elephant Hills in Khao Sok National Park is a must-visit!

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Palm trees on the beach at sunset

Treat yourself with a traditional Thai massage

Beach masseuses can usually be found frequenting the beaches between November and April, especially on Patong Beach.

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View of a beach standing behind palms

Stay in a luxury Thai treehouse

Coax out your inner child at Tree House Villas, a luxury adults-only hideout on Thailand’s stunning Koh Yao Noi island.

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Meet our Thailand specialists

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Hannah Brown

Hannah Brown

House of Travel Wanaka

Always with a smile I will be just as excited and passionate about your future adventures as you are! Originally from the UK I've spent the last 10 years travelling around the globe before finally settling in heavenly New Zealand.

Here I've turned the joy of travel into a profession I love. I enjoy nature, the beach, spending time with loved ones and exploring new places especially on the open road or by cruise.

I believe the biggest adventure you can take is to live the life of your dreams!

To me, traveling is so much more than a simple trip or relaxing vacation; it is a journey that always leaves me transformed and forever changed by the experiences presented. I have had the pleasure of visiting too many countries to count from backpacking on a shoestring budget around Asia to going all out on a private luxury adventure filled holidays such as trekking Machu Pichu! 

My firsthand recommendations will ensure that your destination choices, no matter how uncommon, are always extraordinary. No matter what you are looking for, whether it’s a bucket list adventure or something that completely takes you off the grid, you can count on me to open doors to the most exceptional experiences and enhance every travel adventure.


Hannah


Jared Wilson

Jared Wilson

House of Travel Christchurch City


No. of countries visited: 40+ 

Favourite place to visit: Anywhere in South America

Next place on the list to visit: Kenya


Quote: “Never pass up a bathroom”

About me: With over 2 years of solo travel across 40+ countries, I am passionate about immersing myself in new cultures and uncovering the unique experiences each destination has to offer. Fluent in Spanish, Latin America is my particular area of experience and expertise. Whether you're after an exciting adventure or a peaceful getaway, I’m committed to designing a memorable and seamless trip tailored specifically to you. 

Why I love travel: It allows me to escape the sometimes repetitive nature of daily life. I enjoy experiencing new places or returning to ones that I love. I like making connections with people from places around the world and having experiences that can’t be replicated.

My travel tips:

  • Meet the locals Almost all of my favourite and most cherished travel experiences have involved meeting and making friends with the local people. It is a sure-fire way to have a more unique and intimate holiday experience.
  • When in Rome A cliché but one to that will enrich your travel, observe how the locals live and learn from it. Try the local brew or dish, join in on the fun. Also respect local customs and traditions, this will allow a richer and safer experience.
  • Expect the unexpected- Be ready for unforeseen circumstances that will inevitably occur at some point during a trip. If you are expectant and prepared for troublesome scenarios you can save yourself a lot of grief. After all, you want to make your break from reality as stress free as possible.

My top 3 favourite destinations:

  • Colombia- An up and coming travel destination, a country cursed with the reputation earned from its past. It is extremely geographically diverse and amazing bang for your buck. I still haven’t found a country with warmer and friendlier people.
  • Spain- A country full of amazing destinations to discover, with a rich history and a world class gastronomical scene. The fun loving people, the nightlife and the picturesque towns with uniquely their Spanish architecture are a must experience.
  • Mexico- Mexico is a country which is truly fascinating, an amazing place to get to know. It’s a big country with lots to explore - like the US it is made up of states (32), the more you see the more you’ll want to see. It is full of the most beautiful places you’ve never heard of. The locals are extremely friendly and of course the cuisine one of the best and most famous on the globe.

What’s in my suitcase:

  • Spare phone, cables and a travel adaptor- Fact is electronics are a very important travel tool and to be prepared is important so you don’t have to go in the dark.
  • A Journal- A great way to record all the little details and memorable moments. When moving fast and or experiencing a lot we naturally forget things. Writing it down will help to recall in future and also to have what you’ve written forever is something special.
  • Travel cubes- Will help you to keep your suitcase nice and organised for easy packing and ultimately will save you time making things easier to find.

My most memorable travel stories:

  • Walking the Camino de Santiago in Spain together with part of the Camino Portugues from Lisbon to Porto – totalling 1200kms. My hiking shoes broke so I did the last 1000kms in Sandals.
  • Doing a 32 day Top Deck bus tour around Europe. Easily one of the best months of my life full of laughs and all round good times. I made some strong friendships and saw a lot in such a short space of time.


Jared

Jessica Osbourn

Jessica Osbourn

House of Travel Papamoa

I have always been a lover of travel, family holidays as a child sparked my love of seeing the world. I was born in England, moving to New Zealand with my family at the age of six. Drawn to the outdoors and the natural beauty of the world, I enjoy nothing more than exploring new landscapes, immersing myself in local living or being a major tourist. Whether that’s wondering narrow streets, exploring a big city or lounging on a sun-soaked beach.

In addition to my knowledge of travel, I'm currently training to become a Contiki champ with a passion for adventure and a love of meeting new people, I am eager to help you plan your own exciting Contiki, Top Deck, G-adventures or Intrepid tour and create unforgettable memories. 

I was fortunate enough to be sent to Disneyland California and loved every aspect of its adrenaline packed adventure. It is an unforgettable trip and I cant wait to help others book their magical Disney holidays. 

With a passion for adventure and a keen eye for detail, I’m always on the lookout for hidden gems, unique experiences and trending destinations. Whether you're looking for a thrill-seeking adventure or a peaceful escape into nature, I have the drive to help you plan the trip of a lifetime.

Jessica
Nicci Smith

Nicci Smith

House of Travel Ellerslie

I love everything about travel - the exploring new or much loved places, the landscapes, food, drink, history, culture, language, adventure, time with loved ones and the anticipation!

I have travelled a lot of the world and now love to do so with my family.  We return to UK/Europe to visit family but I also love the amazing places we have closer to home - the Pacific Islands, Australia and Asia.  I also love getting into the outdoors you can't beat NZ for that.

Planning holidays is my dream job - and taking the time to listen to your needs, make suggestions where needed and matching it all up with something that suits you and your budget is always my goal.

Having worked in travel for 20 years + in a range of roles including wholesale reservations, corporate travel and retail, you can rest assured you are dealing with experience.  I am friendly, responsive and efficient, and love to find good deals for my clients.

I really look forward to meeting and working with you. 


Nicci

Frequently asked questions

What is the best time to visit Thailand?
Phuket is November to March - pleasant weather with lower humidity, ideal for exploring beaches, cities, and cultural sites. But if you want to get better value for money, then travel between May – October.  
However, if it’s Koh Samui you’re interested in, you can travel year around, but a Top Tip -if you aren’t a fan of the crowds avoid October- November as it’s the raining season and try to avoid local holidays like Songkran (water festival) where there is a lot of local / domestic travel.

When you should go really depends on your preference and plans. The cooler season is the most popular, the hot season is the hottest and most festive, and the rainy season is the wettest and therefore tends to be the least crowded. Talk to one of our consultants and we can create you a trip that is perfect for what you need


Where to go on holiday in Thailand?
Thailand has something for everyone, from cities to islands, from temples to skyscrapers, from festivals to nature. Visit Bangkok for its vibrant street life and cultural landmarks, Chiang Mai for its temples and mountain scenery, and Phuket or Krabi for beautiful beaches and island hopping. Don't miss the historical sites in Ayutthaya and Sukhothai. If you're planning a holiday in Thailand, explore our Thailand travel guide and find out how to make the most of your time on your holiday.


How to find the best holiday package to Thailand?
Speak to one of our House of Travel Asia experts.  Or visit our Asia deals section on our website or sign up for our newsletter to get the latest holiday deals sent straight to your email. 

Where to stay in Thailand?
If you are looking for a tropical haven with stunning beaches, clear water, and a variety of sea life you will want to visit Thailand’s top islands of Phuket, Krabi, and Koh Samu. In Bangkok, stay in the central areas of Sukhumvit or Silom. In Chiang Mai, the Old City is perfect for cultural experiences and Hill Tribe Treks 


What is there to do in Thailand?
Thailand has something for everyone! Chill on beautiful beaches, savor amazing Thai food, visit temples, and dive into the vibrant culture and fascinating history. It’s the perfect mix for an unforgettable adventure!  If you are into diving, head to Koh Tao to experience the wonders of the deep blue sea.  


What should I pack for my trip to Thailand?
Pack light, breathable clothing for warm weather, swimwear, sunscreen, insect repellent a hat, and sunglasses. Include comfortable walking shoes and modest clothing for temple visits. If visiting during the rainy season, pack a poncho or umbrella.  

Do I need travel insurance for Thailand?
Yes, it is highly recommended to have travel insurance for your trip to Thailand. We offer a range of travel insurance options suitable for travel to Thailand. Find more information on our website.


Can I use New Zealand dollars in Thailand?
No, you will need to exchange your New Zealand dollars (NZD) for Thai baht (THB). Currency exchange services are available at airports, banks, and exchange bureaus. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in major tourist areas.

What are some of the best street foods to try in Thailand?
Thailand is famous for its street food culture, where you can find a variety of mouth-watering dishes at cheap prices. 
Some of the most popular, must try street foods are pad thai (stir-fried noodles), som tam (spicy green papaya salad), khao niao mamuang (sticky rice with mango), tom yum (hot and sour soup).  

What are some of the cultural dos and don'ts in Thailand?
Thailand is a country with a rich and diverse culture, and it is important to respect its traditions and customs. Some of the dos and don'ts are: 
- do greet people with a wai (a slight bow with palms pressed together), 
- do dress modestly and cover your shoulders and knees when visiting temples, 
- do remove your shoes before entering a house or a temple, 
- don't touch a child’s head.   

What are some family-friendly activities in Thailand?
Depending on where you are heading there is a huge variety of activities to keep everyone entertained.  Visit the water parks, kayaking in the ocean or hire a long tail boat to a private island.  Or for something special, we recommend the Elephant Hills rainforest camp in Khao Sok National Park. Stay in luxury tented accommodation and enjoy activities like jungle treks, canoeing, and ethical elephant encounters. 

Customer holidays snaps

Best. Thailand Holidays. Ever!

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