SOUTHEAST ASIA · BEST MAY-OCTOBER
Thailand
It wasn't even high on our list. Then we went. Now it's at the top.
Why we love it
—Remarkably affordable for a family — food, activities, transport all cost a fraction of what you'd pay in Europe or the US
—The food is extraordinary — especially khao soi in Chiang Mai, which we had three times in two days
—The markets: night bazaars, floating markets, street stalls — endlessly fascinating for kids
—The people are some of the warmest and most welcoming we've encountered anywhere
—Completely safe and tourist-friendly — we never once felt worried
—The variety is unmatched: jungle, islands, temples, cities, rainforest — all in one trip
—Thailand's 7-Elevens deserve their own category — ice cream stops became a nightly ritual
Our tip
Don't skip Chiang Mai. Bangkok and the islands get all the attention, but the cultural capital of northern Thailand — with its temples, night markets, khao soi, and incredible private driver day trips — ended up being the family favorite of the whole trip. Give it at least three nights.
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