Hostels in Thailand

Thailand. Home of some of the most impressive islands and jungle in the world, it isn't hard to see why so many tourists and backpackers flock here every year. The number of hostels around the country is enormous and you should be able to find a hostel pretty much anywhere you decide to go.

Some of the most popular islands down in the south to visit are Ko Pha Ngan, Ko Tao and Ko Phi Phi. These islands host full moon parties once every four weeks and so during these times you will need to make sure that you book your hostel in advance so that you don't miss out on having somewhere to sleep... not that you will be doing much of that! While they have some of the most amazing parties known around the world, the beaches here are incredible and a great place to chill out and relax during the day in preparation for more partying.

Also down south are the popular destinations of Phuket, where Patong Beach is the most popular party hub, Krabi and Ao Nang. There is so much to do around this area you could spend months here snorkelling, rock climbing, exploring the vast beaches and partying.

Up through into the capital city of Bangkok, you will find total crazy in the main city. The most popular strip for tourists to stay on is Khoa San Road. Many of the buses to other destinations also leave from around this area. It is hustling and bustling with backpackers and hostels and nightlife. From here you can head out on a tuk tuk towards one of the many impressive temples or sights around the city to see such as the Grand Palace. Ask your hostel the best places to visit and how to get there. A trip to the weekend market is also recommended if you are there on a weekend. You can get a stack of incredible clothes and knick knacks. Getting around is quite easy if you are near to the train line so to keep your accommodation cheap, check out whether your hostel is close to the line.

Heading north you will find the incredible town of Chiang Mai. It's close to the jungle, home to some of the best Muay Thai fighting shows in the country, and also to some of the most incredible cooking classes. There is ample to see and do in Chiang Mai, whilst getting more of a cultural experience that you wouldn't necessarily experience in the south on the beaches.

Heading even further north is the town of Pai. It is a great place to hang about for a couple of days and explore some of the nature and stunning views around the area. Street food in Pai is also amazing. Make sure that you book your hostel in advance here as they can go pretty quickly.

Whatever you decide to do in Thailand, it is best to try and get a whole overview of the place by spending some time both at the beach and in the jungle. Getting off the beaten track will give you much more of an idea of who the locals are and how they live which you won't experience down south in many of the party areas of the country. There are cheap hostels literally everywhere, so do your research and you should be fine.

Handwritten by local expert for Thailand hostels Globetrotter