Thailand

Thailand, the land of smiles, a country so easily travelled with children, if you haven't yet, make it the next on your list.

Where to start: 
Depending on what you want from your holiday will determine where you stay. Perhaps consider the location first and then research what there is to do there, or visa versa, if you really want to see a particular attraction – then this will determine your location. Below is a snapshot of some popular holiday spots...
What is there to see and do: 

There is an abundance to see and do in Thailand. From islands to mountains, Thailand offers an amazing cultural experience as well as a world of nature and beauty. There are markets, amazing eateries, golf courses, spa resorts, snorkelling, diving, amusement parks and a whole lot more. Your location will determine what you can do but whatever you are looking for, you will find it in Thailand!

You will more than likely fly into the capital, Bangkok and could spend a couple of nights here shopping for the kids and yourselves of course, and stretching your legs after the long flight before your onward journey.

Chiang Mai is a cool mountainous city in the North and you could catch the sleeper train from Bangkok (Hualamphong train station) and is about a 14 hour trip. Kids will love the adventure the train ride will offer. A few highlights to do with the kids in Chiang Mai are riding the elephants through the forest at Maesa Elephant Camp, enjoy an evening bus ride through the night safari or the delightful Chaing Mai zoo is a favourite stop for animal lovers too, which can be enjoyed during the day or in the evening which is a bit cooler.

Hua Hin is a beautiful beach resort which is often overlooked by tourists making it popular amoung the locals to escape to the beach away from the more common beach spots Thailand has to offer. The convenience of a roughly3/ 4 hour train or bus trip from Bangkok makes it easily accessible for a beach holiday, a break from Bangkok or even part of your holiday adventure as you head south. Attractions in Hua Hin include Monkey Mountain, where you can visit a temple, enjoy the views and of course the monkeys.

Heading south, Phuket is an extremely popular location and get very busy at times. But like most of the beautiful islands it’s a great place to visit amazing beaches like Kata, Karon and Patong and also enjoy the superb snorkelling spots.

Koh Samui is not as busy as Phuket but not quite as relaxed as Krabi which makes it an ideal family holiday spot. The main beaches are Mae Nam, Bohput and Chaweng being right in the hustle and bustle. Aside from the beaches and snorkelling you can visit the Ang Thon National Marine Park and enjoy the Na Muang Elephant Camp and Waterfalls.

Railay Beach, Krabi is a fabulous family spot where you can relax and unwind. This peaceful car-free island is popular for rock climbing and of course its beaches and snorkelling. Phra Nang is a highly rated attraction and a must see on your to do list.

Where to stay: 
Thailand accommodation options are endless from high end spa resorts to guest houses and backpackers you are sure to find an accommodation option to suit your style and budget.
Child Friendly Dining: 
High Chairs are few and far between in Thailand so investing in a portable one would be worth while. As for worrying about your baby / kids while you eat, well the Thai people LOVE kids and will keep your littlies entertained in just about any restuarant while you have a meal.

Country Facts

Currency:
Thai Baht
Language:
Thai
Official Tourism Site:
http://www.tourismthailand.org/tourismthailand_index/en/
Phone Details:
+66 for international dailing 191 for emergencies
Time Zone:
+7 GMT

Food & Supplies

Baby Food Brands:
Heinz and Gerber the popular American brand (owned by Nestle) are available
Formula:
Similac and S26 formulas are available
Nappies:
Huggies and Pampers, Mamy Poko brand (A Japanese brand very popular throughout Asia) and Baby Love (not the same as the Australian brand)
Where to shop:
Tesco Lotus, Robinsons, Carrefour, Boots pharmacy, Watsons and even convenience stores generally stock baby goods

Travelling

Getting There:
Most international airlines will fly you into Bangkok and you can then get connecting flights onwards. The national carrier is Thai Airways which is great for domestic travel. You also have the option of flying via neighbouring countries like KL or Singapore, consider a stopover for a day or two to enjoy the culture and sights of these fabulous places and then fly onto your destination like Koh Samui, Phuket etc. Flying with a low cost carrier is simply what it is. Consider all your options before buying your ticket.
Airport Facilities:
Getting Around:
The famous Tuk Tuk, taxi's or hire cars. Driving is a bit crazy, with 100's of scooters!

Safety

Car Seat Regs:
From the research we have done there seems to be no law stipulating child car seats. Most children travel on scooters with there parents or in cars. Back seat belts have only recently been introduced. Having your baby in a sling / carrier in a taxi or shuttle bus will be fine or you can bring your own car seat, but bear in mind the older model cars may not have seat belts in the rear or anchor points for the straps.
Hiring Baby and Children's Equipment:

Two main sites are worth checking out, as yet though we have no reviews of either:

http://www.phuketbabyrentals.com/english/

http://www.tinytots.in.th/homeeng.htm

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