Thailand has enough unique attractions to keep any visitor satisfied. So where do you get started? Our introductory list includes the essential Thailand experiences we think everyone should try.
Food, Glorious Food
No trip to Thailand would be complete without sampling its delicious food. From ordering a local classic such as pad kra pao from a street food vendor to sitting in a fine-dining establishment, such as Nahm in Bangkok, it seems almost impossible to eat badly in Thailand. Be adventurous, try it all and experience one of the world’s greatest cuisines.
National Parks
The natural beauty of Thailand is perhaps best encountered in its countless national parks. Nam Nao, Khao Yai and Erawan national parks are just some of the highlights, with gushing waterfalls, isolated lakes and dense forests waiting to be explored. Wildlife lovers will also have the opportunity to go searching for elephants, monkeys, deer, exotic birds and even tigers as part of organised hikes.
Temples
Thailand’s glittering temples have come to occupy the front cover of many a travel book to the region. These architectural gems offer solitude and a glimpse into Thailand’s ancient past, and temples such as Wat Phra Kaew and Wat Arun in Bangkok steal much of the attention. How ever, the breath-taking White Temple in Chiang Rai and ancient temples of Ayutthaya are also worth visiting.
Shopping
From gleaming mega-malls to sprawling local markets, Thailand is home to some of the world’s best shopping. You’ll also encounter bustling food markets, flower markets and of course, the country’s famous floating markets. One of the joys of shopping in Thailand are the bargains to be found here —making it the perfect destination to put any bartering skills you have to great use.
Trekking
When you’re trekking through the mountainous forests of Northern Thailand, it’s hard to believe you’re still in the same country as all those picture-perfect southern beaches. Group trekking tours allow the option of staying overnight in local villages, riding elephants and travelling down river on-board your own bamboo raft — a wonderful escape into the country’s lesser-visited wilderness.
