Thailand

Thailand has a tropical monsoon climate with three seasons: hot, rainy, and cool (relatively). Bangkok averages 28-35°C year-round, with the hottest period in March and April before the monsoon arrives. The southwest monsoon (May to October) brings heavy rain to the Andaman coast (Phuket, Krabi) and much of the country, while the Gulf coast (Koh Samui, Koh Phangan) stays drier. The cool season (November to February) is the best time to visit most of Thailand, with temperatures dropping to a comfortable 25-30°C and minimal rain. Chiang Mai and the north get cooler: December and January mornings can dip to 10°C, and the burning season (February to April) brings poor air quality from agricultural fires. The Gulf islands (Koh Samui, Koh Tao, Koh Phangan) have a different monsoon pattern with the heaviest rain from October to December.