Thailand is one of those places you need to see to believe. Stunning natural landscapes, delicious food, rich cultural history, art and culture – there’s something for everyone, including the most seasoned travellers.
But with so much to see and do, you’ll want to come up with a plan of action to ensure you don’t miss out on the best of what Thailand has to offer. So if you’re looking for some ideas to get you started, check out the list below.
Big City Highlights
With unbeatable street food, breathtaking historic temples, bustling street markets and over-the-top luxury, it’s easy to see why Bangkok is one of the most visited cities in the world.
Like any big city, it’s hard to find the hottest spots without the help of an acclimatized local to show you around, so try linking up with a Thailand Tour guide to really get stuck in.
But as a start, make sure to visit Wat Pho and see the reclining Buddha, walk around the stunning 214,000 sq. meter Grand Palace, grab some food at Chatuchak Market, and shop till you drop at Siam Paragon.
Beautiful Beaches
When you imagine a perfect island paradise, the picture in your mind is probably not far off Thailand’s coastlines. And it really doesn’t get any more idyllic than Phuket on the South West coast – the country’s largest island and most prominent tourist destination.
However, being one of the most beautiful parts of the world means there are a lot of people in the area and it may have lost a bit of its natural ‘authenticity’ over the years.
So if you want to party all night in paradise with people from all over the world, then start at Phuket. But if you’re looking for something a bit more secluded you can spend some time on Bon island – an ideal location for a more relaxing escape.
Here you can enjoy the warm ocean, soft sand and a variety of marine life – a true paradise for snorkeling and scuba-diving.
Diverse Landscapes
It’s easy to get distracted by Thailand’s bustling capital city and heavenly beaches, and miss out on the astonishing beauty of its inland landscapes.
Northern Thailand, particularly the western region near the Burmese border, is marked by mountainous jungle terrain that is both rugged and beautiful. Pai, in Mae Hong Son province, is the perfect starting point from which to enjoy the country’s natural beauty, as well as the famed Thai hospitality and cooking.
This small town has developed a reputation as a mecca for hippies and backpackers, though you will see plenty of families traveling in the area as well. There is a small street market that comes alive every night, a variety of local and Western foods, and easy access to nearby Buddhist temples, waterfalls, and the impressive Pai canyon.
There is an air of cheerfulness and relaxation as you walk through the tiny town center, a vibe that continues to draw crowds season after season despite its somewhat remote location.
And there we have it! This list is the tip of the ice-berg in terms of what Thailand has to offer any traveller. So whatever you chose to do, just make sure you experience this beautiful country before you die. You won’t be disappointed.
