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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: Exploring Kanchanaburi - 2 Days

Visit the Jeath War museum, which houses a replica of the bamboo huts used to accommodate allied prisoners of war (POWS) during the occupation. You also visit the nearby war cemetery before you reach the infamous Bridge over the River Kwai.

RV River Kwai, Bangkok
The bridge over the river Kwai, Kanchanaburi

Exploring Kanchanaburi - 2 Days

Kanchanaburi & The River Kwai, Thailand
  • Cruises, Sailing & Water
  • Culture & History
  • Outdoor Activities
  • Walking & Biking
  • Wildlife & Nature

Visit the Jeath War museum, which houses a replica of the bamboo huts used to accommodate allied prisoners of war (POWS) during the occupation. You also visit the nearby war cemetery before you reach the infamous Bridge over the River Kwai. It is estimated that over 16,000 POWS died whilst building the Death Railway to Burma, of which the bridge was only a small part. From here you will take the train to Tham Kra Sae station which will include crossing the bridge over the River Kwai and also the Tha Kilen viaduct.

On arrival you stop for some lunch at a local restaurant before continuing to Hell Fire Pass, 80 kilometres northwest of Kanchanaburi. This was the name given by the prisoners to the largest of a series of mountain cuttings through soil and rock, which were accomplished with minimal equipment. From here you can look out onto Burma as well as climbing down onto part of the famous railway. You have time to explore the area here and if you wish you can take a short walk along the old railtrack heading to Burma before returning to your hotel.

On the second day, depart your hotel for Erawan National Park where you are able to visit Erawan Falls. These falls are best visited in the rainy season when the pools are full and the falls are at their most impressive. The falls are in seven levels and are quite spectacular. The climb can be quite hard going and it's necessary to wear good walking shoes. Also bring a swimming costume as several of the pools beneath the falls are great for a dip.

From the national park, continue to Tham Phra That, the site of a large cave 790 metres above sea level and over 200 metres in length. Here there are some incredible stalactites and stalagmites to be seen.

In the afternoon you visit Tham Wang Badan - a limestone cave also featuring many impressive formations as well as an inner pool full of fish. Here you'll also have the opportunity to try rafting on the Kwai Noi River before returning Bangkok or onto your hotel in Kanchanaburi.

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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