Holiday homes in Thailand.

For most of the country the dry, cooler high season runs roughly from November to February, with pleasant temperatures and lower rainfall — this is peak time in Bangkok, Chiang Mai and the Andaman coast around Phuket and Krabi. The Gulf islands (Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao) follow a slightly different pattern and can stay dry into spring and early summer, while their wettest months tend to fall later in the year. May to September is generally the low season across much of the mainland, bringing more rain but also thinner crowds and better rates. Check conditions for the specific region you're booking, as Thailand's weather varies by coast.

It depends on the trip. Phuket and Krabi on the Andaman coast are the classic beach-and-limestone choice, with everything from budget rooms to clifftop villas. Koh Samui suits families and couples wanting resort comforts, Koh Phangan draws yoga retreats and the Full Moon Party crowd, and Koh Tao is a diving hub. Bangkok is the arrival city and best for food, culture and nightlife; Chiang Mai offers cooler weather, temples and cooking classes in the north. Hua Hin and Pattaya are the easiest beach escapes from Bangkok. Many travellers combine two or three regions in one trip.

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Thailand's rules are nuanced. Under the Hotel Act, renting most residential properties for stays shorter than 30 days generally counts as running a hotel business and requires the proper licence or registration; stays of 30 days or more are treated differently. Regulations have been updated in recent years and enforcement varies by area and property type, and many condominium buildings also restrict daily rentals in their own bylaws. Reputable hosts operate within these rules. If it matters to you, ask your host directly about the property's status, and check current official guidance, as this is an area that continues to change.

Usually yes, and it's worth planning ahead. Thailand's regions are spread out: domestic flights link Bangkok with Phuket, Krabi, Koh Samui and Chiang Mai, while ferries connect the mainland to the Gulf islands and the Andaman islands. Within a destination, options range from taxis and ride-hailing apps to scooter and car hire. Ask your host for local advice — they often know the best transfer routes, the nearest airport or pier, and whether the property has parking or is walkable to the beach and shops.