A Two Week Thailand and Cambodia Itinerary

Living in Berlin and Cologne, a place where winter seemingly never ends, I realized the importance of taking a break from it all and restocking my diminished Vitamin-D deposits. So, I decided to embark on a journey to a place where I could bask in the warmth of summer.

Having the mesmerizing scenery from movies like the first "Mortal Kombat" and Danny Boyle's "The Beach" (starring DiCaprio) etched in my memory, my choice of destination was clear – Thailand 🇹🇭.

The allure of its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture drew me in, making it the perfect place to embark on my adventure. It didn't take me long to choose Thailand as my destination. Having heard numerous travel stories about it and never having been to Asia before, I knew it was the perfect place to start my adventure, particularly because it is renowned for being one of the most tourist-friendly and gay-friendly 🏳️‍🌈 destinations on this continent.

On top of it, with Cambodia bordering and a desperate urge to see Siem Reap (probably thanks to "Tomb Raider"), my friend and I found we were soon booking tickets for a 2-week trip to Thailand and Cambodia.

Thailand and Cambodia are the perfect first South-East Asia countries to visit to prepare yourself for visiting neighboring countries like Malaysia, Laos, or even Myanmar.

In this guide, we will break down topics such as preparations, safety and then jump into a loosely planned 2-week Thailand and Cambodia itinerary. Of course, this all just our own personal experience, so feel free to spice your trip up with whatever additional ideas you may have!

Preparations for a Two-Week Thailand and Cambodia Itinerary

When is the best time to visit Thailand (and Cambodia)?

You might be wondering when is the best time to visit Thailand (and Cambodia) for the best possible weather. The optimal window is during the dry season, which typically runs from November to April. In my experience, visiting in February was absolutely perfect. Throughout my trip, the weather was fantastic, with very minimal rainfall.

It only rained once in Bangkok, and while it added a certain charm to the streets, I noticed that heavy rainfall could lead to some flooding in certain areas, causing some inconvenience. Coming from Venice, where street flooding is a familiar sight, I found it somewhat reminiscent. (Did you know that another popular nickname for Bangkok is the "Venice of the East," owing to its intricate network of canals and waterways similar to those found in Venice, Italy?)

Mind you that if you are planning to go there for New Years, you can even go to White Party Bangkok, an epic event that draws over 20,000 party goers from more than 50 countries across the globe each year, making it one of the largest LGBTQ+ gatherings in the world. This extravagant festival takes place during New Year's celebrations and is a dazzling extravaganza that brings together people from all walks of life under the rainbow flag.

Then there is Songkran, happening in April, where the streets of Bangkok turn into an absolute mad-house party. The gays have adopted it in recent years, and it has become one of the largest gay festivals in Asia.

My one experience of rain in Thailand and workers trying to sweep the water off of the roads 🤣

How do I get to Thailand?

With a direct flight booked from Düsseldorf to Bangkok, I was eagerly anticipating a smooth and exciting journey ahead. Given the favorable weather, I opted to travel light, packing only the essentials for a sun-soaked adventure.

Getting to Thailand is straightforward, with Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) serving as the primary international gateway. As one of Southeast Asia’s busiest hubs, it connects travelers to destinations worldwide, including direct flights from major cities in Europe, North America, Australia, and Asia. Budget travelers often take advantage of connecting flights through hubs like Doha, Dubai, or Singapore for affordable options.

Once in Bangkok, Thailand’s well-developed transportation system makes exploring the country easy. Trains from Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong Station offer scenic routes to destinations like Ayutthaya and Chiang Mai, while modern high-speed rail lines are expanding access across the region. For a seamless (generally less bumpy) trip, travelers can also book domestic flights from Bangkok to other major cities and islands like Phuket, Krabi, or Koh Samui.

What injections do I need for Thailand and Cambodia?

Before embarking on any foreign trip, vaccinations are a crucial consideration. The CDC and WHO recommend an extensive list of vaccinations for most travelers to Thailand, including Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, Yellow Fever, Japanese Encephalitis, Rabies, Meningitis, Polio, Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR), Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis), Chickenpox, Shingles, Pneumonia, and Influenza. It may seem like a lengthy list, but think of it as an essential part of the exciting journey, similar to packing, but with a few more needles.

While the recommendations are comprehensive, I made a personal decision not to get vaccinated for all the listed diseases. Since my plans revolved around staying primarily in Bangkok and the beach areas of Phuket, and not venturing into rural regions, I assessed my risk of exposure to certain diseases as relatively low. However, I didn't take any chances when it came to mosquito-borne diseases. To protect myself from potential threats like Dengue Fever and Zika Virus, I packed two remedies for mosquito bites 🦟 - a spray and a roll-on.

Once in Thailand, I remained extremely vigilant about food and water precautions. Although the local street food scene is tempting, I decided to avoid it altogether, even if the food was cooked or served hot. This ensured I had a delightful culinary experience without any health concerns (and awkward explosive diarrhea).

The most dangerous thing I experienced in Thailand was a wild tuktuk ride. As soon as I mentioned my Italian roots, the driver transformed into an ardent Valentino Rossi fan, racing through the chaotic streets of Bangkok, leaving me fully thrilled 😄!

Is Thailand Safe? Understanding the Connection Between Its Fame and Sexual Tourism

Let's address the elephant in the room – the issue of sexual tourism in Thailand. It's true, this is a reality in certain areas. However, Thailand is not just about that. The country is a smorgasbord of cultural experiences overflowing with stunning beaches, lush jungles, majestic temples, and bustling markets. Rest assured, you can easily immerse yourself in Thailand's rich cultural tapestry without brushing up against its infamous red-light districts and ping pong bars 🏓🤐.

During my trip, the issue of sexual tourism was always in the back of my mind. I didn't partake or personally experience any form of it, but there's no denying its existence. Driven by a cocktail of economic factors, social norms, and tourist demand, it's an issue that's as complex as it's concerning.

The reality is, poverty and limited economic opportunities can push some individuals into the sex industry. And, like it or not, Thailand's vibrant nightlife scene does attract those seeking such experiences, unintentionally fuelling the growth of the sex tourism industry. But hold your horses! It's not all as shady as it might sound. As responsible travelers, we need to stay informed and conscious about this. Supporting ethical and responsible tourism is key to protecting local communities and respecting the rights of those involved in the sex industry.

The good news? The Thai government, local communities, and numerous NGOs are working tirelessly to regulate the industry, protect workers' rights, and combat human trafficking. It's a long journey, but rest assured, steps are being taken in the right direction.

A Two-Week Thailand and Cambodia Itinerary

As mentioned, here is a loose 2-week Thailand and Cambodia itinerary we followed to help you pick and choose what you'd like to put in your own itinerary. For us, the pace was not too fast, giving us plenty of time to immerse ourselves in each place.

Day 1-3: Exploring Bangkok’s Top Attractions

Ah, Bangkok, what a love at first sight! The city's vibrant energy and infinite charm swept me off my feet. Despite the muggy temperatures and occasional smog, the aroma of delicious food wafting through the streets was a delightful cultural experience in itself.

So, ready to explore? After recovering from a bit of jet-lag and settling in, make sure to fit some of these attractions into your 2-3 days in Bangkok:

Where to Stay in Bangkok

We stayed at the W Hotel Bangkok, which is now a Travel Proud member (suitable for the LGBTQ+ crew)!

Attractions in Bangkok: Top 5 Unmissable Spots

Cruise on the Chao Phraya River

Picture this: A gentle breeze, a breathtaking sunset, and the city skyline unfolding before your eyes... If you want to do something extra special, book a dinner cruise.

Wat Pho (The Temple of the Reclining Buddha) and/or Wat Phra Chetuphon

With the biggest indoor Sleeping Buddha Statue you will probably ever see - This temple isn't just a feast for the eyes; it's a soothing experience that lingers in your heart and mind long after your visit.

There is nothing like wandering around Wat Pho

Bangkok's Chinatown

Calling all food lovers! This buzzing neighborhood will tantalize your taste buds! If you haven't tried durian yet in your lifetime, this is the time to just give it all you've got (just don't bring it back to your hotel room).

Who here has ever tasted a durian?!

Mahanakhon Skyscraper

Chatuchak Weekend Market

For something a bit more local, check out Chatuchak Weekend Market boasting 15,000 stalls and claiming to be the world's largest market.

Nightlife in Bangkok: Bangkok's Best Gay Street and Area

As the sun set on my first night, I couldn't resist exploring Silom Soi 4, the lively gay street, a welcoming hub for the LGBTQ+ community. The street was filled to the brim with bars, each offering affordable cocktails 🍹 that made me want to try them all! And to my delight, a karaoke bar beckoned, adding to the excitement of the night.

But let me tell you, the gay scene in Bangkok is not confined to just one street. Oh no, it's a thriving and diverse community with plenty of options to explore! 

For those seeking a night of adventure, the gay clubs in Bangkok are a must-visit. Dance the night away with fellow gay revelers, and you'll quickly find yourself immersed in the contagious energy of the crowd. You can start from DJ Station, 11 Soi Si Lom 2/1.

Plus, if you're a shopping enthusiast, you're in for a treat! Strolling along the streets, you'll find various merchandise, including fake copies of famous gay brand clothing 🥸.

And let's not forget about the many gay saunas, offering a unique experience in the city's LGBTQ+ scene. These saunas provide a chance to unwind and socialize in a more intimate setting. Popular ones include Chakran and r3.

In Thailand, the LGBTQ+ community is celebrated and embraced (same-sex marriage was finally put into action in January 2025), creating an incredibly inclusive and accepting environment. While it's essential to be aware of local customs and norms, I found the gay life in Bangkok to be incredibly vibrant and liberating. Even the drag scene there is huge, with their own drag race TV show!

Take a Day Trip to Ayutthaya

The initial plan for my trip to Thailand was to spend some days in Bangkok, then visit Siem Reap to explore the temples, followed by a relaxing week on the beaches of Phuket before returning to Bangkok for my flight back to Europe.

On the third day of our adventure, we decided to visit Ayutthaya, which turned out to be an amazing experience. Ayutthaya is an ancient city of profound religious significance, its ruins now designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering a captivating blend of Thai, Khmer, and international influences that beautifully illustrate the region's rich cultural history.

A Reminder to Get Travel Insurance!

At this point, something unfortunate happened.

Okay, in all seriousness, it was a pretty silly situation. I won’t enter into the details, but I might 🤐 have been trying to strike a stunning pose for a picture, completely oblivious to the risks lurking around. Note to self and fellow sexy travelers: Always be conscious of your surroundings when you're in "supermodel" mode for that perfect shot! It was quite a blunder on my part, and I ended up breaking my knee. Can you believe it?

At first, I thought it wasn't too serious, but later I discovered that I had almost broken one of my bones. The knee was very swollen in the day after the incident, and I had to rush to the hospital for medical attention. Thankfully, I had the foresight to purchase travel insurance, which proved to be a lifesaver in this unexpected situation. I was recommended one of the best clinics in Bangkok for my treatment, and I received the care I needed.

Being in a hospital in Bangkok was an entirely different experience. The insurance (Genki is our favorite) covered the expenses, but I had to use crutches 🩼, which was not ideal during a vacation.

The hall of the private hospital in Bangkok

Day 4-6: New Location Unlocked: Siem Reap, Cambodia

Due to my unfortunate accident, my friend had to proceed to Siem Reap alone, so this part of the itinerary is all provided by him.

Siem Reap is a charming city in Cambodia and the gateway to the ancient temples of Angkor, that I really wanted to see.

How to Get to Siem Reap (from Bangkok)

My friend flew there from Bangkok, which is a direct one-hour flight on Air Asia or other budget airlines.

Alternatively, there are mini-buses, which take about 8 hours to get there.

Most countries need a visa for Cambodia, but in most cases, it can be obtained on arrival.

Where to Stay in Siem Reap

My friend ended up staying at the Villa Kally Siem Reap and enjoyed it, but if you are looking for more gay-friendly accommodations, you can try the luxurious The Privilige Floor or the men's only Men's Resort & Spa (you can also do a day pass there if you just want to use the facilities).

Attractions in Siem Reap

Angkor Archeological Park

Angkor Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, houses the remarkable remains of the Khmer Empire, dating back to the 9th to 15th centuries.

Angkor Wat Temple was not my friend's favorite because it was too hot and too crowded to really enjoy. But if you head there in the early morning (we are talking sunrise), you can escape the majority of the crowds.

There are some lesser-known alternative temples in Angkor Archaeological Park if you want to avoid the Angkor Wat crowds:

• Banteay Srei: A small but stunning temple known for its intricate pink sandstone carvings, often called the “Jewel of Khmer Art.”
• Beng Mealea: A hidden jungle temple, mostly unrestored, with a mysterious, Indiana Jones-like vibe.
• Preah Khan: A massive temple complex with tree roots growing over the ruins, similar to Ta Prohm but less crowded.
• Neak Pean: A unique water temple built on an artificial island in the middle of a sacred reservoir.
• Ta Som: A smaller, atmospheric temple with giant tree roots swallowing its eastern gate.
• Koh Ker: A remote temple complex featuring Prasat Thom, a massive 7-tiered pyramid, which is very different from Angkor Wat.

One of the many sights you'll encounter at Angkor Archaeological Park

Other Remote Temples

If you are not yet templed-out and want to see more off-the-beaten-path temples outside of Angkor Archaeological Park, take a look at these:

• Phnom Kulen: A sacred mountain with waterfalls, a reclining Buddha, and hidden temple ruins.
• Kbal Spean: Known as the “River of a Thousand Lingas,” featuring ancient carvings in a riverbed deep in the jungle.
• Chau Srei Vibol: A quiet, overgrown temple ruin far from the main tourist trails.

War Museum Siem Reap

It wasn't long ago that Cambodia was involved in a tragic genocide, where the Khmer Rouge killed 1.5 to 3 million people. While most of the sights are in other parts of the country, there are certainly a few places around Siem Reap.

One such place is the Cambodia War Museum, which houses tons of artifacts from the genocide. It is striking and a must-visit if you can handle the emotions that may come with it.

Nightlife in Siem Reap

In coming up with the top 20 off-the-beaten-path gay destination, Siem Reap was chosen because of the nightlife reputation it has built up over the years.

Some staple gay bars to check out in Siem Reap are Miss Wong Cocktail Bar and Barcode Siem Reap.

If you want to get your sauna on, you have the aforementioned Men's Resort & Spa as well as the gay-friendly Sokkhak Spa.

Meanwhile, karaoke was in full-force in Bangkok

Day 7-10: Relaxation and Nightlife in Phuket

Time for the next big part of the journey - Phuket!

How to Get to Phuket (from Siem Reap)

I hopped on a flight with Thai Lion Air from Bangkok, a national low-cost airline, and to my surprise, everything went smoothly. Considering my injured knee, the airline staff was incredibly accommodating, bringing me to the plane with a wheelchair and providing a seat with extra legroom.

As I flew directly from Bangkok, my friend flew back to Bangkok from Siem Reap to get me before we flew on to Phuket. Nevertheless, there are direct flights to Phuket from Siem Reap, although they are infrequent. Even if you do stop through Bangkok, it shouldn't be too much extra time added onto your itinerary.

Where to Stay in Phuket

We stayed at the Aquarius Gay Guesthouse & Sauna and loved it as it was in the Patong part of Phuket.

Attractions in Phuket

The Beaches (but avoid the touristy ones)

Phuket welcomed me with its tropical paradise vibe - hot weather and beautiful beaches 🏖️ that seemed to stretch into eternity. The influx of tourists seemed to have an impact on the locals' attitudes towards visitors, and I noticed some locals were a bit less friendly compared to Bangkok. One intriguing aspect of Phuket's tourism was the significant presence of Russian tourists. I recall someone mentioning that Phuket is sometimes referred to as the "Ibiza of the Russians". This has only increased in number since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022.

For more remote beaches away from the swathes of tourists, head to Bangtao (aka Laguna) Beach. There is also the hidden Ao Sane Beach or Khao Lak’s White Sand Beach.

Get a Massage (or Many)

During my stay in Phuket, I indulged in a relaxing massage, but I must confess that the cost was higher than I expected, especially compared to prices in Bali.

Still, there are tons of places to get a massage. Make sure to use a bit of instinct when choosing a place. If it looks dirty, it probably isn't going to offer the best quality massages.

Take a Day Trip to Khao Lak

Unfortunately, my injured leg limited some of my adventures in Phuket, but I still managed to partake in an excursion with Get Your Guide to one of the national parks (Khao Lak).

We visited a monkey sanctuary, a rescue animal place, and a breathtaking waterfall. One of the highlights was navigating with a real raft on a picturesque lake (here I saw a wild Python descending from a tree).

Try a Muay Thai Class

If soccer is the national sport in Italy, Muay Thai is even more hyped up in Thailand. If you want a truly local experience, give the local sport a go! It is intense and even beginners can experience a class led in English.

While I couldn't try it this time because of my knee, I met a few people in Phuket who highly recommended Bangtao Muay Thai.

Revealing Phuket's Nightlife

Discover Patong's Lively "Paradise Complex"

Phuket boasts an insane nightlife, including a diverse and exciting gay scene centered around the "Paradise Complex" in Patong Beach. This lively district offers a variety of gay bars, clubs, and entertainment venues within walking distance of each other.

The gay bars in Phuket are known for their inclusive atmosphere, where you can enjoy delicious cocktails and fantastic drag queen shows performed by talented artists.

For food enthusiasts, the night market in Patong Beach is a must-visit spot. As the sun sets, the market comes alive with a plethora of street food stalls offering mouthwatering Thai delicacies. From savory delights like Pad Thai, satay skewers, and seafood dishes to sweet treats such as mango sticky rice and coconut ice cream, the night market is a food lover's paradise.

Additionally, don't miss the chance to try the vibey Beach Club & Italian Restaurant called Kudo, situated right on the beach, run by a passionate fellow compatriot 🇮🇹.

The Dynamic Atmosphere of Bangla Road

Apart from the gay nightlife and night market, Phuket's famous Bangla Road is a hub of nightlife and entertainment. It's a bustling street filled with neon lights, music, and party vibes. Here, you can find numerous bars, clubs, and lively performances, making it an unforgettable experience for all visitors.

Eat my feet garra ruffa 🐟! aka The fish pedicure at the night market

Day 11-14: Island Hopping and Hidden Gems

Spend the last few days of your journey getting out of Phuket and doing some island hopping!

Ferries between each island will do the job, but if you are a bit strained for time, doing some tours are never a bad idea (plus, you'll meet plenty of others on the way).

Phi Phi Islands: Stunning but Crowded

A speedboat ride from Phuket whisked us away to the legendary Phi Phi Islands, known for their dramatic limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters. The sheer beauty of Maya Bay, made famous by The Beach, was undeniable—but so was the crowd.

If you’re hoping for a quiet paradise, an early morning tour is your best bet. Otherwise, expect to share the view with other tourists and boats jostling for the perfect Instagram shot 🤣.

Koh Yao Yai & Koh Yao Noi: Peaceful Escapes

For a more tranquil experience, we hopped over to Koh Yao Yai and Koh Yao Noi, two neighboring islands that felt like stepping back in time.

Unlike the party-heavy vibe of Phi Phi, these islands offered an authentic Thai feel—local fishing villages, unspoiled beaches, and an absence of rowdy tourist crowds. We spent an afternoon cycling through coconut groves and lounging in a hammock by the water (my knee allowed a very leisurely pace), appreciating how refreshingly slow-paced life was here.

Coral & Racha Islands: Quick Getaways

If you need some more options, just a short boat ride from Phuket, Coral Island (Koh Hae) and Racha Islands are ideal for a quick island escape.

Coral Island delivered exactly what the name promised—vibrant coral reefs perfect for snorkeling.

Meanwhile, Racha Island (Koh Racha Yai) boasted powdery white beaches and shockingly blue waters, making it a picture-perfect spot to relax or try some scuba diving. The day-tripper crowds do arrive, but if you stick around for sunset, you’ll get a glimpse of the islands at their most peaceful.

Similan Islands: Unreal Diving & Snorkeling

The Similan Islands left me in awe—this chain of islands, located further from Phuket, offers some of the best diving and snorkeling in the world. The underwater visibility was unreal, with schools of colorful fish and even the occasional sea turtle gliding past.

The islands are a protected national park, meaning they’re closed from May to October for conservation, so plan accordingly.

Conclusion

My trip to Thailand has been an unforgettable gateway to Asia. For anyone who has never been to Asia, Thailand is the perfect place to start exploring the continent due to its high level of tourism. I fell in love with the country's rich culture, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. And while I didn't quite make it to Cambodia during this trip, I will make it a priority to return at some point.

Thailand has captured my heart, and I yearn to return to explore more, such as Chiang Mai—with its stunning mountainous landscapes and pleasant, cooler temperatures compared to other parts of Thailand. While my stay in Phuket was amazing, the allure of other Thai islands like Krabi beckons me to embark on a new adventure, uncovering even more hidden gems. Exploring Krabi, with its breathtaking limestone cliffs, pristine beaches, and thrilling water activities like snorkeling and island hopping, is an experience I can't wait to add to my Thai journey.

Oh, the allure of riding in the back of a Thai tuk-tuk