May Break Bonanza: How to Maximize Your Holiday in Thailand

Photo courtesy of Royal Vacation

With May around the corner, it's time to plan for a travel opportunity that could give you a much-needed escape without depleting your entire leave balance. Following the Songkran celebrations in April, May offers a string of public holidays, perfect for a long getaway. Whether you’re in the government or private sector, smart planning could allow you up to 10 days of relaxation.

For Government Workers and Civil Servants:

This May, the calendar is rife with opportunities for long breaks.

• Sunday, May 4: Coronation Day
• Monday, May 5: Substituted holiday for Coronation Day
• Friday, May 9: Royal Ploughing Ceremony
• Sunday, May 11: Visakha Bucha Day
• Monday, May 12: Substituted holiday for Visakha Bucha Day

These holidays sum up to:

• A 3-day long weekend from Saturday, May 3 to Monday, May 5
• A 4-day break from Friday, May 9 to Monday, May 12

Here's the secret to extending your holiday:

Take leave on May 6, 7, and 8. This small investment in leave days will unlock a 10-day holiday from May 3-12.

For Private Sector Employees and Banks:

While bank holidays are slightly different, there's still a great opportunity for an extended break.

• Thursday, May 1: Labour Day
• Sunday, May 4: Coronation Day
• Monday, May 5: Substituted holiday for Coronation Day
• Sunday, May 11: Visakha Bucha Day
• Monday, May 12: Substituted holiday for Visakha Bucha Day

This schedule allows for:

• A 3-day break from Saturday, May 3 to Monday, May 5
• Another 3-day weekend from Saturday, May 10 to Monday, May 12

To transform this into a full-scale escape, consider asking for leave from May 6-9, giving you the same 10-day holiday window.

As with any plan, it’s crucial to consult your company's leave policy and get the necessary approvals from HR well in advance. If it all lines up, you're set for an ultimate May getaway. Early bookings might be key, so plan now and get ready to recharge.

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-04-30