26 Jan 2024
ThailandWe're visiting Thailand with four kids in March-April and are concerned about the burning season in the north. Do you have any advice?
March to April is peak burning season, and during that period Chiang Mai in the north is routinely ranked among the worst air quality on earth. Visiting Thailand with kids, I'd definitely avoid the north during that period and if you're worried about air quality, I'd probably avoid Isaan and the central region, too. Perhaps even more pressing for travelling with family, the heat can be brutal during this time.
On the other hand, the coast and islands in southern Thailand are lovely in March/April. Still hot, but with the cooling effect of the ocean to help with the kids.
If you feel like you're missing out on the north you can visit scenic mountain areas like Khao Sok and Khao Luang. And for the best family friendly beaches/islands at that time, I'd recommend Khao Lak on the Andaman coast – it's popular with families, with plentiful activities including day tours to some of Thailand's most spectacular islands, namely the Similans and Koh Surin. The Gulf side such as Koh Samui and around is also pretty in March - April.
David Luekens
Based in Thailand since 2011, David first waded into Southeast Asia in the early 2000s via friendships forged in the Thai, Vietnamese and Karen communities of Vermont, almost Canada, USA. He is a bona fide nerd in maps, islands and travel planning with a research background in Buddhism and the environmental, political and human rights issues of Southeast Asia. Bylines include CNN Travel, Conde Nast Traveller China and more than 100 Travelfish guides.
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