Valentine’s Day may have passed, but romance in Thailand lasts forever! Whether you’re planning a destination wedding, celebrating your honeymoon, or kindling a new romance, Thailand’s breathtaking scenery and warm hospitality make it the perfect setting for love.
While romance thrives in Thailand, traditional values remain deeply rooted in modern relationships. Understanding and respecting local customs is key to embracing the Land of Smiles with cultural sensitivity.
One key aspect of Thai dating culture is politeness. Even if you’re just visiting on a romantic holiday, show proper social etiquette that values grace and patience. Even in the vibrant streets of Bangkok, the flow of people remains calm and orderly, with locals waiting patiently for public transport rather than pushing through crowds. This same sense of courtesy and respect extends to relationships, where kindness, humility, and subtle gestures of affection hold more weight than grand displays of romance.
In larger cities, Westernized dating practices are becoming more common, though public displays of affection (PDA) remain subtle out of respect for kreng jai (the Thai phrase to be aware of other people’s feelings and showing politeness, respect, and consideration towards them) and social etiquette. Traditional gender roles still influence dating norms, so if you’re a man, it’s customary to cover the bill on the first date—and likely a few more—as a gesture of courtesy and respect.
Locals and expats alike frequently use apps like Tinder, Omi, and Bumble to meet new people, whether for casual connections or serious relationships. Surprisingly, Muay Thai gyms are also great social hubs, offering a unique way to meet people while staying active. Coworking spaces in cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai are a great place to meet other freelancers and entrepreneurs. Also, language exchange meetups and community yoga classes offer a relaxed setting to connect with both locals and other travelers.
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s dive into some fun and romantic date experiences you can enjoy while in Thailand.
The quintessential Thai date is, and forever will be, mu kratha, more commonly known as moo grata. Believed to have originated in Thailand, this beloved dining experience is popular across Southeast Asia and is never enjoyed solo—it’s a meal made for couples and groups. Similar to Korean BBQ, mu kratha combines tabletop grilling with a hotpot, where diners cook marinated meats on a grill while simmering vegetables and noodles in a broth.
Mu kratha features a charcoal grill with a unique tray design, allowing you to grill meat in the center while simmering vegetables and seafood around the edges. It’s affordable, widely available, and interactive dining experience, making it the perfect icebreaker for a first date. The interactive dining experience keeps the conversation flowing, helping you learn your date’s food preferences while avoiding awkward silences.
Since mu kratha is typically served outdoors, the charcoal heat and smoky aroma add to the experience—but be sure to bring mosquito spray!
Some of our favorite locations are below:
- Bangkok: Tang Jai Ping Moo-Grata
- Chiang Mai: Chang Phueak Mu Kratha
- Buriram: Moo-Grata Party 2021
- Pattaya: Rimbueng Plus Moo-Grata
Dating in Thailand is often easier and more affordable than in the West, with plenty of budget-friendly date night options. Why not try something more interactive and relaxed, like a night market?
Thailand is famous for its night markets, and no matter where you are—even in the countryside—you’ll always find one nearby. Low-key, fun, and stress-free, they take the pressure off deciding where to eat. Instead, you can wander endless food stalls, sampling everything from deep-fried delicacies to classic Pad Thai. Some markets have seating areas, but the best way to enjoy them is to walk, snack, and chat, letting the vibrant sights, smells, and sounds spark conversation. It’s the perfect casual, no-pressure date experience.
Below are a few night markets we enjoy:
- Bangkok: Srinagarindra Train Night Market
- Buriram: So Krao Walking Street
- Pattaya: Thepprasit Night Market
For a classic date, you can’t go wrong with the movies, and Thailand’s theaters are impressively luxurious. With plush seating, great service, and a memorable ambiance, a movie date here is anything but ordinary. Theaters are everywhere, from big cities to small towns, so finding one is easy.
English screenings are limited outside major cities, but most films now come with English subtitles. Be sure to bring a sweater—Thai theaters are notoriously freezing, making them the perfect escape from the heat.
While supernatural dramas and slapstick comedies are Thai favorites, the country’s film industry is rich in storytelling and tradition. Recent successes include How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies, shortlisted for an Oscar nomination, and Hunger, which won an Emmy Award.
Lastly, remember that in Thailand, moviegoers stand for the Royal Anthem before every film as a sign of respect.
- Bangkok: Quartier CineArt
- Buriram: SF CINEMA Robinson
- Pattaya: Major Cineplex Pattaya Avenue
- Phuket: SFX Coliseum Cinema
- Koh Samui: Major Cineplex Lotus Samui
- Chiang Mai: Major Cineplex Central Airport Plaza
Thailand’s nightlife is more than just neon-lit streets and rooftop bars—hidden behind unmarked doors, tucked away in alleys, or disguised as tailor shops and phone booths are some of the country’s best-kept secrets: speakeasies. Inspired by Prohibition-era underground bars, these exclusive spots offer expertly crafted cocktails, intimate settings, and a touch of mystery that make for an unforgettable night out.
From Bangkok’s hidden whiskey dens to Chiang Mai’s vintage-inspired lounges and Phuket’s oceanfront hideaways, Thailand’s speakeasy scene is thriving, blending innovation with nostalgia. Finding them is half the fun, and once inside, you’ll discover expert mixologists, world-class spirits, and an ambiance that transports you to another era. Whether you’re a cocktail connoisseur or just love the thrill of uncovering secret spots, Thailand’s speakeasies are a must-experience for any nightlife lover.
- Bangkok: The Locker Room
- Phuket: The Fool Speakeasy
- Chiang Mai: The White Rabbit
If the weather is nice and you’re feeling adventurous—or just on a budget—a temple can be the perfect date spot. After all, what’s more quintessentially Thai than visiting a temple? Make merit (tam-boon), pay homage to the Buddha (wai-pra), feed the fish, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Even in bustling cities, temples offer shade, greenery, and a slower pace, often with small coffee shops and libraries nearby.
- Bangkok: Wat Saket
- Buriram: Khao Kradong Forest Park
- Pattaya: Wat Phra Yai
- Chiang Rai: Wat Rong Khun
- Surin: Prasat Sikhoraphum
- Korat: Wat Ban Rai
Whether you’re seeking adventure, culture, or just a memorable experience, Thailand offers endless ways to make your date special—all while embracing the country’s unique charm and traditions.
