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Thailand

5

Reasons To
Visit Thailand

  • Beaches

    For some Thailand is synonymous with beaches and there is no debating that many of the islands and beaches in the south of the county are truly stunning with a dramatic backdrop of limestone casts which literally erupt out of the water. Many of the islands are still relatively undeveloped and the crystal clear water and abundance of marine life make for some stunning diving and snorkelling.

    Beaches

  • Local cuisine

    An absolute paradise for food lovers, from the spicy soups of the north to the sublime creamy green curries in the south, Thai food is adored by visitors and locals alike. For those who wish to broaden their palate Bangkok is one of the cuisine capitals of the world with food from virtually corner of the planet represented in the various stalls and restaurants.

    Local cuisine

  • Local culture

    "Mai pen rai" is a common expression used by the Thais which means "it's all right". This sums up their approach to life and is reflected in their warm smiles and genuine love for giving warm and friendly service to the farangs (friends) who visit their country. Many people say their main reason for repeat visits is down to the warmth of the people. This warmth permeates through all levels of Thai society from city dwellers to the many ethnic hill tribe people living in the north of the country.

    Local culture

  • National Parks

    Nowhere does the natural beauty of Thailand shine through more than in the national parks dotted around the country. Thailand has one of the highest percentages of protected land of any nation in the world. Whilst today the larger species such as the Asiatic bear and Asian tiger are rather elusive, there are still great viewing opportunities available including hornbills in Doi Inthanon, wild elephants in Khao Yai and giant manta rays in the Similan Islands.

    National Parks

  • Temples

    The majority of Thais are devout Buddhists and this devotion manifests itself in the ornate and wonderfully sculptured temples, or wats, which can be found in every part of the country. The two most famous examples are Wat Pho in the capital, Bangkok and the magnificent Doi Suthep in the northern town of Chiang Mai which is perched on a hill overlooking the city. However a typical journey through Thailand will throw up an array of more subtle but no less interesting wats where the locals can be seen paying their respects to Buddha.

    Temples
 
 

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Excursions in Thailand: Chiang Mai City Tour

Begin this fascinating tour by taking a Songthaew to Wiang Kum Kam. Following a massive flood, the city of Wiang Kum Kam vanished without a trace and for over 200 years became a lost civilization buried under layers of earth.

Wat Chedi Luang, Chiang Mai, Thailand
Wat Chedi Luang, Chiang Mai, Thailand

Chiang Mai City Tour

Chiang Mai, Thailand
  • Culture & History
  • Walking & Biking

Begin this fascinating tour by taking a Songthaew (local truck) to Wiang Kum Kam. Following a massive flood, the city of Wiang Kum Kam vanished without a trace and for over 200 years became a lost civilization buried under layers of earth. Explore the main ancient ruined temples by bike before proceeding along the Mae Ping River to the old trader community of Wat Gatekaram.

Through narrow alleyways and winding pathways best accessed with two-wheel transport, you will pass markets, temples and a vast array of unique "street life". Lunch will be taken at Just Khao Soi, a restaurant aimed at elevating "Khao Soi" curry noodles from its street food status to its rightful place as the signature dish of northern Thai cuisine.

Continue by rickshaw along Tapae, Chiang Mai's main street. From the eastern gate, you will explore by foot the more traditional parts of Chiang Mai including the Monument of Three Kings (who established Chiang Mai as the Capital of Lanna Thai Kingdom), the city's most important temples Wat Chedi Luang where the famous Emerald Buddha was once enshrined and Wat Phra Singh home to a very old and sacred Buddha image.

End the day with an optional tuk-tuk ride to Baan Kingkaew and visit this orphanage that was opened in 1966 and named after a Thai lady who donated her home, her land and a financial endowment for the benefit of local orphans. Assistance can be provided to the 50 children through child sponsorship and donations.

Further reading:
ThailandWhen to GoHighlightsItinerary IdeasPlaces to GoThings to DoAccommodationAbout ThailandCountry Guides

Other countries in Southeast Asia:
BorneoBurmaCambodiaIndonesiaLaosMalaysiaPapua New GuineaThe PhilippinesVietnam

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