Imagine Holidays share seven great reasons to visit “The Land of Smiles”. From Full Moon parties to sighting tigers and leopards there’s so much to do… and it doesn’t have to break the bank!

With its stunning beaches, exciting nightlife and unique culture, it’s easy to see why Thailand is such a popular destination for youngsters looking to get away from it all and broaden their horizons. With all of this and so much more on offer in this diverse country, you might think that you’ll have to save for years to afford a trip to Thailand, but this is not necessarily the case. Here are seven reasons why Thailand is perfect if you’re working on a strict budget.

It offers incredible value for money

Thailand is a place where your money stretches so much further, so you won’t have to break the bank to experience this outstanding location. GoBackpacking produced a useful guide for tourists, calculating the average cost of all the essentials like food, accommodation and public transport, and they found that entire dishes of street food usually start at just $2 per person, while the average cost of a 1.5L bottle of water is just $0.43. However, if you’d prefer to have all of your costs and essentials taken care of during your trip to Thailand, then booking an all inclusive package with an operator like Imagine Holidays is the perfect solution.

You’ll be made to feel welcome

In 2013, the World Economic Forum ranked Thailand as the world’s 13th most welcoming country to foreign tourists. Even if you’re going with a group of friends, stepping foot in a strange country can be pretty daunting, so it’s good to know that locals and fellow tourists will be more than happy to help you out if you encounter any issues.

There is a great infrastructure in place

Whether you’re undertaking a backpacking expedition or just enjoying the sights and sounds of the major cities, Thailand has a multitude of facilities to make your life easier. The bus, ferry and road networks are extensive – meaning you’ll find a plethora of ways to get from A to B. Thailand is also well-versed at welcoming explorers and backpackers, so finding somewhere to stay will not be a problem. From basic hotel rooms to opulent spas, this country has something to suit all budgets.

Thailand is perfect for island-hopping

This is such a diverse country. In just a couple of hours, you could leave the bustling cities behind and head towards the paradise islands that make Thailand so popular with youngsters. Islands like Ko Phi Phi and Ko Samui are most popular with tourists, and you can get there via a ferry. However, if you’d prefer an island away from the tourists, then Ko Raya is a great choice. Although more secluded, it’s still easy to get to. Thailand’s islands are a great destination for tourists who want to sample a slice of paradise at a fraction of the cost.

Full Moon Parties are sure to be the highlight of your trip

No trip to Thailand would be complete without a visit to a Full Moon Party. These all-night extravaganzas take place on the island of Ko Pha Ngan every month throughout the year. Famed for its party atmosphere, live music, fire breathers and so much more, this event is sure to create some unforgettable memories. Full Moon Parties are incredibly popular with tourists – meaning it’s a great place to meet like-minded people and maybe even make new friends. However, it’s advised that you keep some of your travel budget back for these events because the cost of drinks and food can soon add up.

There are plenty of free activities to enjoy, too

If your budget doesn’t quite stretch to a Full Moon Party, do not fret. Thailand has numerous wonderful attractions that can be enjoyed for free. This country has a strong Buddhist population, and the influences of this religion are scattered throughout the country. Thailand has a selection of ornate temples for you to explore, like The Grand Palace in Bangkok, which is full of Buddhist influences. This landmark is steeped in historical splendour, is beautifully crafted and does not cost a penny to view from the outside. If you take a little time to explore the city or town you’re in, then you’re sure to unearth a hidden gem.

You can get closer to nature

Jungle safaris are incredibly popular in Thailand and are a great way of escaping the hustle and bustle of city life. The Khao Sok National Park is the perfect example of Thailand’s biodiversity. Gibbons, tigers, leopards and so much more have all been spotted here, and it just goes to show that beauty can be found off the beaten track in Thailand.