Hello all,

We're thinking about taking off to Thailand at short notice at the beginning of October, but we're a bit worried about the weather. I know that rainy seasons vary widely in their intensity and frequency - so can we expect any good weather at all? BKK, Chiang Mai and Krabi/Ao Nang are the likeliest destinations. Thanks in advance!

S.

Take a look at www.weatherbase.com

October is a difficult time as it is when the monsoon changes.

You might consider skipping the beach and spend more time up north. The Anantara (outside Chiang Rai) has gotten great reviews and may serve as a relaxation substitute for the beach. You could fly into Chiang Mai, drive to Chiang Rai and fly back to BKK from CR.

The beginning of October can still be wet here in Chiang Mai, but not enough to spoil your holiday. This year the rains have been very light locally, but that is no guarantee that we could not get some heavy rain towards the end of the wet season, but it does not rain all day every day and the majority of the rainfall is overnight.

Most of the time when it rains the rain stops in an hour or two and the sun comes out again. Depending on where you are there could be some localized flooding until the drains can handle the downfall.

Often the rain falls at night time. During the day if it rains take in a dinner, hit a bar, go to a mall or hit the rack! There is plenty of sunshine in Bangkok or even Chiangmai to give you a sunburn - even during "rainy season!"

Buy a cheap umbrella and keep it with you for sudden downpours.

If you are worried about flooding make sure all of your hotel rooms are on upper floors!

October is not a bad time to travel. Some hotels still have low season or reduced pricing and there are fewer crowds.

Have a good trip!