Thailand With Teens

Bangkok

Bangkok is a city that pulses with color and energy. A food tour in Bangkok was one of the highlights of our time in Bangkok! Traveling by tuk tuk, we hopped between local food stalls and sampled everything from spicy papaya salad to crispy pork skewers and mango sticky rice. The kids loved trying Thai iced tea and watching the action on the streets of Bangkok’s Chinatown. It was the perfect introduction to Thailand’s food culture.

Tip: Book a guided food tour early in your stay—it helps you feel confident navigating street food for the rest of your trip.

Chiang Mai

After a short flight north, we arrived in Chiang Mai, Thailand’s cultural capital. We did a two-day jungle trek, which was one of the most memorable parts of our trip! We hiked through lush forests, crossed bamboo bridges, and visited a hill tribe village, where we stayed overnight in a simple homestay.

Our teens loved the adventure—swimming in waterfalls, learning how to cook over an open fire, and chatting with our local guides about life in the mountains. It was an experience that challenged and inspired all of us.

After our trek, a good shower, and a restful night’s sleep, we traded hiking boots for aprons at a Thai cooking school. The class began with a visit to the local market to pick out fresh ingredients. Each of us chose our own dishes to make—from pad thai to green curry and spring rolls. The hands-on experience (and delicious results) made it a family favorite.

Don’t miss: Wandering the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar and the Sunday Walking Street Market, perfect for finding souvenirs, local art, and the best coconut ice cream in Thailand.

Koh Pha Ngan

To wrap up our adventure, we flew south to Koh Samui and hopped on a quick ferry to Koh Pha Ngan, a tropical island known for its laid-back vibe and turquoise waters. Our beachfront bungalows opened right onto the sand, and the sunsets were spectacular.

We loved the relaxed pace here—mornings swimming, afternoons exploring beachside cafes, and evenings watching sunsets, enjoying delicious food, and being with the locals at the Sunday night market on the northern coast of the island.

Tip: Koh Pha Ngan isn’t just for the full moon parties—there are many family-friendly areas with calm waters and a mellow atmosphere.

Thailand’s street food and night markets are a must-try for any visitor. From sizzling pad Thai and fresh seafood to sweet mango sticky rice, street vendors serve vibrant, made-to-order dishes around every corner. Evening night markets combine food, shopping, and live entertainment. They’re social hubs where locals and tourists mingle, providing a fun, colorful, and flavorful glimpse into Thai life.