Celebrate the Magic of May in Thailand

Enchanting festivals, vibrant culture, and a bounty of fresh produce make May a wonderful month to experience the “Land of Smiles.” 

May is a magical time of year to experience the wonders of Thailand. After the vibrant energy of April—when the Songkran Festival soaks the country in a frenzy of excitement—the kingdom embraces a more relaxed, laid-back ambiance. Guests can take their time exploring Thailand’s many attractions, from blissful beaches and idyllic islands to historical landmarks and cultural icons. 

What to do in May 

May offers an array of unique experiences. Thailand’s deep-rooted Buddhist heritage is on full display during Visakha Bucha Day on May 11, a national holiday that commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and passing of the Lord Buddha. The day is marked by peaceful processions and spiritual rituals at temples across the country—an inspiring occasion for all who witness it. 

It’s also a fantastic month for food lovers. The countryside flourishes with seasonal produce such as durians, mangosteens, and dragon fruit. Widely available at local markets and street-side stalls, these tropical fruits offer a delicious and refreshing way to enjoy Thailand’s rich culinary scene. 

Where to visit in May 

Bangkok, the world’s most-visited city, is a bustling metropolis that never fails to inspire the senses and ignite the imagination. In May, travelers can enjoy a more laid-back rhythm of the Thai capital. Couples, families, and friends can take a boat ride along the Chao Phraya River and explore the city’s labyrinthine network of canals. Shoppers can immerse themselves in a retail paradise at Bangkok’s ultra-modern lifestyle malls or browse treasures at Chatuchak Weekend Market, one of the world’s largest, with a staggering 15,000 stalls. 

The lively resort town of Pattaya is a haven of adventure for all ages. Parents and kids can enjoy hours of fun at world-class water parks, including the movie-themed Columbia Pictures Aquaverse and the exhilarating Ramayana Water Park. For thrill-seekers, activities like zip-lining, bungee jumping, and go-karting await. Cultural attractions such as the iconic Big Buddha Temple and the spectacular Sanctuary of Truth, along with offshore excursions to idyllic islands, showcase the best of Thailand’s tropical wonders. 

Nestled on Thailand’s golden Gulf Coast, the royal beach town of Hua Hin has been a favorite escape for Bangkok residents since the 1920s. Today, this charming resort offers the perfect blend of beachside excitement and cultural discovery. When it’s time for a change of scenery, nearby vineyards nestled in the cool, rolling hills showcase Thailand’s emerging wine scene, Baan Sillapin Artists Village reveals the area’s vibrant creative spirit, and the famous Hua Hin Night Market is the perfect spot for an evening stroll and souvenir shopping. 

For the ultimate Thai island escape, Koh Samui is an exotic jewel that always evokes a sense of adventure. Known as the “Coconut Island,” it’s famed for its powder-soft sandy beaches, crystal-clear seas, and succulent seafood—especially in popular areas like Chaweng and Fisherman’s Village in Bophut. Don’t miss the chance to snorkel in the awe-inspiring Ang Thong National Marine Park and explore the region’s colorful marine life. 

Where to stay in May 

With more than 20 exceptional hotels and resorts all across Thailand, BWH is one of the country’s leading hospitality providers.  

SureStay by Best Western Iconic Ari–Jatujak puts guests in the heart of Bangkok’s trendy Ari district, just a short distance from Chatuchak Weekend Market and only a few BTS skytrain stops from the city center. With modern amenities and a stylish rooftop restaurant and pool, this is the perfect place to chill out in the Thai capital. 

The Sanctuary Resort Pattaya, BW Signature Collection is a highly original hotel where travelers can unwind in style, cool off in the outdoor pool, or simply stroll to nearby Dongtan Beach. Oceana, the hotel’s onsite restaurant, even features its own aquarium so guests can dine while marine giants such as sharks glide serenely past! 

Best Western Plus Carapace Hotel Hua Hin lets couples and families relax in freeform lagoon pools that flow through the resort, including an Aqua Play Zone for kids. On the ground floor, pool access rooms let guests step straight into the inviting water from their private terrace, while the spacious family suites will ensure memorable vacations. 

Best Western Chaweng Samui is located in the center of Koh Samui’s most popular tourism district, just a short stroll from Chaweng Beach. With just 67 rooms and modern amenities, all surrounded by the area’s vibrant restaurants, bars and attractions, this is an exceptional base from which to uncover the wonders of this iconic tropical island. 

To book your stay with BWH Hotels in Thailand this May, please visit bestwesternasia.com and worldhotels.com.