There’s something for children of every age in Thailand!
Many of us associate Thailand with being unbridled fun and indulgence.
And, sure, it can be perfect for a romantic break or a great vacay with the girls – but parents know that the country is also great for a family holiday.
There is, as the saying goes, something for everyone in Thailand. And something, really, for children of every age.
It helps that the Thai people are fond of children, and are generally indulgent of young visitors.
This, coupled with the fact that the country is a playground of beaches, national parks and wildlife sanctuaries.
Means that your kids are all set to have a very good time.
Getting about in Thailand is usually pain-free, even if you’re travelling with young children.
Public transport is convenient and well priced: children under a certain height ride free on the Bangkok Skytrain and subway, for example, and older children might enjoy discounted fares on the subway.
In less-developed parts of the country.
However, you might find it a little more difficult to travel with a very young child.
It makes sense to have a baby carrier – rather than a stroller – at hand.
The glorious availability of food courts almost everywhere makes it easier to find something your kids will eat.
Most shopping centres will have a food court, and a large play area as well, where your children can tire themselves out (under an adult’s supervision, of course).
It sure beats dragging bored kids along when retail therapy must be indulged in.
And, of course, you’ll find plenty of family-friendly accommodation choices as well, everything from standard hotels to serviced apartments and kid-friendly resorts at beachside destinations.
Here are some ways to have fun with the family on your holiday in Thailand
Hit A Beach
Thai beaches are great for a holiday, but some are more family-friendly than others.
Hua Hin Beach, in particular, is a local favorite for its kite surfing lessons, banana boat rides and horseback rides, and its restaurants can cater to sudden demands.
Other beaches to consider include Ko Samet, Tham Phra Nang Beach in Railay, Surin Beach and Nai Harn in Phuket, and Than Sadet Beach in Ko Pha-Ngan.
Keep an eye out, however, for the jellyfish that tend to appear after a monsoon.
Seek Out The Wildlife
Thailand’s diversity of flora and fauna is showcased in its wildlife sanctuaries and national parks.
Khao Yai, close to Bangkok, is particularly popular. Hire a guide to help you spot the monkeys, deer and elephants that dot the national park.
Guided boat tours at dusk in Amphawa will allow kids to ooh and aah over the fireflies congregated at the foot of banyan trees.
Get Onto The River
In Kanchanaburi, the river begs to be explored by river raft, paddle board or on a guided float. You can even have a splash by the popular Erawan Falls. Incidentally,
Kanchanaburi is also home to the famous Death Railway.
Older children might enjoy learning the story of how the railway came to be at the Thailand-Burma Railway Centre.
Another river to enjoy is the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok, which you can cruise by water taxi or a hotel shuttle boat.
