Phuket’s best beaches: where to spend an unforgettable holiday

Thailand is a mosaic of a thousand shades: each resort is like a separate fragment, which together form the perfect holiday picture. There is everything from boisterous fun on the beaches to peaceful sunsets among coconut palms. It is here that every form of holiday imaginable is possible, whether it’s adventure in Phuket, relaxation in Samui or a busy entertainment life in Pattaya. Let’s immerse ourselves in the atmosphere of each and find the place that will be the fulfilment of a dream.

Phuket is a paradise for adventure lovers and comfortable holidays

Thailand’s largest island and one of the most popular destinations for travellers from all over the world. Locations that combine the wildness of nature with the glamour of modern resorts. The coastal paradise offers the perfect combination of adrenaline-pumping activities and relaxing holidays. From elephant rides to sumptuous dinners overlooking the ocean, there is something for everyone.

Beaches in Phuket: from secluded nooks to party spots

In the centre of the tropical resort, there are beaches for every mood:

1. Patong is the heart of nightlife. It’s always buzzing with music and every night is a celebration. Patong is the perfect destination for those looking for a fun and exciting holiday.
2. Surin is quieter and more prestigious. It is chosen by those who value comfort and privacy. White sand and clear water make it an excellent option for family holidays.
3. Karon is one of the longest sand lines. It is spacious and has room for everyone: sunbathers, people who appreciate walks along the beach and active sports.

Entertainment and excursions

The resort of Thailand Phuket gives a lot of opportunities for active holidays. Here it is worth visiting excursions, which will allow you to see the island from a different side. Tourists can climb the hill to the Big Buddha statue, one of the symbols of the tropical enclave, which offers spectacular views. And a trip to Fantasia, a unique show in Phuket with elements of circus and theatre, where you can experience all the magic of Thai culture.

Don’t forget attractions like Chalong Temple, the largest sanctuary on the island, which is famous for its architectural beauty and history. You can also take a boat trip to the Phi Phi Islands, which are known for their picturesque coastlines and crystal clear waters.

Samui is a fusion of luxury and nature

A magical combination of luxury resorts, cosy beaches and magnificent scenery. The paradise piece of land is known for its upmarket villas, which are lost amongst coconut groves, and peaceful vistas. It offers a tranquillity that is sometimes sorely lacking in the cities. Thailand’s Samui resort is about relaxation and savouring every moment.

Samui’s best beaches for different types of holidays

1. Chaweng is the most popular in Samui. It has a lively atmosphere, plenty of bars and restaurants, and the water is always clear and warm. Suitable for those looking for active holidays and parties.
2. Lamai is a more tranquil space where you can enjoy nature and peace. The option is chosen by families and couples looking for romance and privacy.
3. Bophut is a fishermen’s village that has retained its authenticity. It is suitable for those who want to experience the real atmosphere of Thailand and taste the local cuisine.

Samui tours: from temples to waterfalls

One of the best ways to get to know Samui is to go on excursions. Thailand programmes in Samui include a visit to the Big Buddha, a majestic statue towering in the north of the island, and a walk to Namuang Waterfalls, surrounded by rainforest. Each waterfall offers cool coolness and tranquillity, perfect for a hot day.

Also worth a visit is the Laem Sor Temple, a unique structure with golden tiles that looks particularly impressive against the blue sea. You can also head to Koh Tao, which is considered one of the best places for snorkelling and diving.

Pattaya Resort is a city in Thailand for fun and unique experiences

Pattaya is known as the entertainment capital of Thailand. There is always something going on here: parties, concerts, shows. But apart from nightlife, there are many other interesting activities here. Holidays in Pattaya are suitable for those who like an eventful holiday.

Entertainment in Pattaya: from water parks to nightclubs

Pattaya offers a variety of entertainment for all categories of tourists:

1. Ramayana Water Park is one of the largest water parks in Asia. There are dozens of slides and attractions suitable for both children and adults.
2. The Pattaya Lookout is a great place to admire the view of the city and ocean, especially at sunset.
3. Woking Street is a famous street with a concentration of clubs, bars and restaurants. This is where Pattaya comes alive at night and becomes the city that never sleeps.
4. The Temple of Truth is an amazing wooden structure that reaches a height of 105 metres. Here you can see unique carved sculptures reflecting the philosophy of life and traditions of Buddhism.

Diving in Pattaya: Discover the underwater world

Diving in Thailand is an adventure in its own right, and Pattaya provides plenty of diving opportunities. Locations such as Koh Lan offer crystal clear waters and a variety of coral reefs where you can encounter a host of colourful marine life. The underwater world here is as beautiful as the famous resorts of the Maldives.

It’s also worth going diving off the coast of Ko Sak, which is famous for its underwater caves and rich marine life. A variety of fish, rays and even small sharks can be found here, making diving particularly exciting.

Conclusion

Phuket is mesmerising with adventure and excitement, Samui is quiet and luxurious and Pattaya offers endless fun. In the beautiful country, everyone will find a place that suits their expectations and dreams. This is what makes the best resorts in Thailand so popular among travellers – they offer unique experiences that will last a lifetime.

Regardless of your choice, a holiday in Thailand will leave you with unforgettable memories and emotions that you will want to experience again.

Thailand has long been one of the most popular destinations for travellers from all over the world. Its tropical climate, rich cultural heritage, stunning beaches and low holiday prices attract millions of tourists. Before travelling to exotic Thailand, it is important to understand whether a tourist visa is required for entry.

Visa-free travel in Thailand: who can enter without restrictions?

Thailand actively welcomes tourists, providing visa-free entry for citizens of many countries. For most travellers, including citizens of Russia, Ukraine and EU countries, there is a special regime. This means that it is possible to come on holiday for up to 30 days without applying for a tourist visa.

It is important to remember that the visa-free regime is only valid for short-term stays. If a longer stay is planned, a permit will need to be issued depending on the purpose of the trip. For those travelling to Thailand for tourism purposes for up to 30 days, there is no need for a visa.

Minimal changes to the rules are expected in 2025, so it’s always worth checking up-to-date data on official sources.

Do I need a tourist visa for Thailand when buying a holiday?

When travelling as part of a tourist tour, visa-free entry can be used if the period of stay does not exceed 30 days. The rule applies to most travellers, regardless of whether you buy a tour through an agency or decide to organise the itinerary on your own.

It is worth knowing that if you exceed the period of stay, for example, if you need to stay in the country for more than 30 days, you will need to apply for a visa. It is important to remember that tourists who decide to stay on the territory of the state for more than a month must obtain permission from the consulate or embassy before travelling.

For those who plan to travel for an extended period of time or take up employment in Thailand, there is also the option of longer visas such as entry clearance for work or study. Under the terms, you can stay in the country for 60 days or longer.

Documents to enter Thailand

To get to Thailand travellers who do not require a tourist visa just need to carry a standard package of documents:

1. A passport valid for at least another 6 months from the date of entry.
2. A return ticket or a ticket to a third country.
3. Proof of financial solvency – the tourist must have sufficient funds to stay in Thailand. This is usually confirmed by 10,000 baht per person or 20,000 baht per family.
4. Sometimes confirmation of a hotel or other accommodation booking is required.

Note: the presence of the above documents does not automatically guarantee an entry permit. It is at the discretion of the Thai Border Guard.

Tourism and holidays in Thailand: conditions for entry in 2025

Thailand has long established itself as one of the best holiday destinations due to its unique nature, warm climate, and high level of tourist services. In 2025, tourists will continue to enjoy attractive low holiday prices, as well as a variety of accommodation, excursions and water sports.

Many tourists decide to visit Thailand to spend time on the beach, and this is not surprising, because the famous resorts of Phuket, Krabi, Pattaya and the islands of Koh Samui offer excellent conditions for holidays at sea. At the same time, the country is known for its natural and cultural attractions like ancient temples, the capital Bangkok, jungle mountains, exotic flora and fauna.

List of popular beach resorts:

1. Phuket is Thailand’s largest and most popular island.
2. Krabi is a quiet, picturesque resort known for its beaches and mountainous landscapes.
3. Pattaya is for lovers of outdoor activities, entertainment and vibrant nightlife.
4. Ko Samui is an island with stunning beaches and chic resorts.

How to apply for a tourist visa to Thailand in 2025

For those planning to spend more than 30 days in Thailand, a tourist visa can be applied for at the country’s consulates or embassies abroad. To obtain authorisation, you need to submit a package of documents including:

1. Completed visa application form.
2. Passport valid for a minimum of 6 months.
3. Two 3×4 cm colour photos.
4. Confirmation of financial solvency.
5. Confirmation of ticket and accommodation bookings.
6. Health insurance (if required).
7. If necessary, proof of the purpose of the trip (e.g. documents confirming participation in an exchange programme, courses or business events).

The process of obtaining a certificate usually takes between 3 and 10 working days depending on the type and workload of the consulate.

Moving to Thailand: Residence Permit and Permanent Residence

For those who choose to stay in Thailand for an extended period of time, there is the possibility of obtaining a residence permit (PRP). In 2025, there are several programmes available for foreign nationals to obtain a residence permit and a permanent residence permit. Some of the projects require investment in the country’s economy or the purchase of property.

Tourism, business and investment:

1. For investors willing to invest in the Thai economy or property, the options of obtaining a residence permit or permanent residence are open.
2. It is also possible to obtain a residence permit after 3-5 years of residence in Thailand with a valid residence permit. To do so, one must comply with all visa requirements and not violate migration laws.

Conclusion

The answer to the question whether a tourist visa to Thailand is required depends on the plans for the trip. For a short-term stay (up to 30 days), a permit is not required if the citizen comes from a country with a visa-free regime. In case the period of stay exceeds 30 days, it is necessary to issue a visa at the consulate. All tourists planning a trip to Thailand should carefully familiarise themselves with the rules of entry and prepare the necessary documents to avoid unpleasant situations at the border.

Thailand continues to attract tourists with its culture, nature and hospitality. The year 2025 will be no exception and the country will provide excellent holiday and accommodation facilities.