Rabia Mayet | rabiamayet@radioislam.co.za

28 February 2026

4-minute read

Thailand, the “Land of Smiles,” is a top Southeast Asian destination blending rich culture, stunning tropical beaches, and affordable, world-renowned street food. Visitors can explore bustling Bangkok, visit historic cultural sites, or relax on southern islands like Phuket and Samui. It offers a mix of adventure, relaxation, and rich heritage.

Sister Ammaarah, an accountant from Johannesburg says that the best flight options for travelling from South Africa to Thailand is via the Emirates or Qatar to Bangkok, as flying directly into Phuket is quite expensive. Visas can be acquired on arrival, with South Africans qualifying for visa-free entry for up to 60 days on a passport valid for at least 6 months. All travellers are required to complete the digital arrival form online before entering the country.

Thailand is a fantastic family-friendly destination, with many hotels offering larger rooms and suites, kids’ clubs and child-friendly activities catering to families. Accommodation ranges from luxury resorts and villas to affordable hotels and budget-friendly cosy BnB’s.

Famous for its breathtaking beaches and the wide variety of adventures available, both inland and at sea, Ammaarah suggests booking activities with your hotel or the kiosks situated along the roadside. Among the most spectacular sights in Thailand are “the iconic Maya Bay, the stunning James Bond Island and the beautiful Similan Island.” For animal lovers, unique experiences like visiting the tiger sanctuaries or bathing with the elephants can be included. Most boat tours run for the full day and include sightseeing, snorkelling, and light snacks, with a stopover at a central facility where halal food and prayer facilities are available.

Getting around Thailand and going from one city to another using the reliable public transport system is advisable. Taxis, tuk-tuks, buses, Uber-similar apps like Grab and the BTS sky train, much like those found in European countries, make it easy to navigate the city. For sightseeing, the shuttle services conveniently handle pick-ups and drop-offs, taking tourists to and from the pier.

Halal food is widely available in the main cities where restaurants, street vendors and food courts abound. As a precaution, look out for alcohol-free eating places that have proper halal certification.

Thailand is home to a vibrant Muslim community in the bigger cities like Phuket and Bangkok, and in the southern provinces of Patani and Yala. One will find many local service providers like taxi drivers and tour agents who are Muslim in those cities.

Timing can make a huge difference when planning your trip to Thailand. The best and most affordable time of the year to visit is in the shoulder seasons, typically May to June and September to November, when the crowds are less, and flights and day tours work out cheaper.

Ammaarah’s tips for first-time travellers to Thailand:

• Plan your internal travel to maximise time during your stay,
• Try local transport apps that make getting around easy, and
• Budget for sightseeing tours, day trips and cultural excursions that usually include food.

With its welcoming culture, diverse experiences, and ease for Muslim travellers, Thailand truly offers an unforgettable holiday for the whole family.

Listen to the full interview with Ml Ibrahim Daya and Ammaarah here.