The Cold Season in Thailand

OK, I’m being a bit playful, but for an expat living here year-round, when the temperature drops around December to January it really does start to feel a bit chilly. We’re spoiled by almost year-round hot, warm conditions, so anything approaching 20°C can be a shock to the system.

But I actually like this season — it’s fresh in the mornings and warms up nicely during the day. In many ways, it’s perfect.

And what makes it even better is the change in atmosphere. Locals start pulling out light jackets, tourists suddenly feel like they’re experiencing “winter in Thailand,” and morning walks have that cool, crisp air you don’t get at any other time of the year. It’s a tiny seasonal shift, but it somehow transforms the whole mood of the place.

It’s also the best time of year to get outside without instantly overheating. Whether it’s a beach walk, a morning coffee outdoors, or even just sitting on the balcony, the cooler breeze makes everything feel that bit more relaxing. You can enjoy the sunshine without feeling like you’re melting into the pavement — which, let’s be honest, is a luxury here.

And perhaps the nicest part is that it still feels like Thailand. It’s not cold in the traditional sense — just cool enough to refresh you, reset you, and make the hot season feel special again when it returns. It’s a reminder that even in a tropical climate, we get our own little version of the seasons, and this one might just be the most underrated of them all.