Thailand: The Pearl of Southeast Asia

To south, north or around Bangkok – either way you won’t get bored. There are many options what to do. We present you a list of tips what to do there.

Rest below the palms

There are many islands in Andaman Sea and the Gulf coastline on the south of Thailand. One imagines turquoise sea, white sand, many restaurants and bars offering delicious dishes, cheap Thai massage on the beach and countless sporting activities. This ones imagines when he hears words Thai beach. Fabulous beaches lure tourists from all around the world. The prices there reflect its international popularity. Accommodation and food is bit more expensive than in Bangkok and the north of the country. Do not be frightened. The prices are still affordable. You pay some of the lowest rates in the world for diving and snorkeling courses.

Travelling between the islands is very easy. It is perfectly organized and prices are really good. Transportation is offered by hotels. You can easily buy a ferry ticket at a hotel’s reception.

Phuket, Phi Phi ostrovy, Ko Lanta, Ko Samui, Ko Phangan, and Ko Chang, Ko Tao are among the most popular destinations.

Ayutthaya, a Spot of Historical Significance

The ancient 14th century capital is true paradise for those who love historical sights and ruins. Its historical park in the down town is home to many Buddhist temples and portrayals of Buddha. Some temples are in outskirts. Therefore, the best means of transport are tuk-tuks or bikes. Apart from sights, there is also the History Museum and the Toy Museum.

Learn the Secrets of Thai Cuisine

Thai meals are really tasty and easy to prepare. Fresh ingredients and various spices make the food always unique. Thai cuisine is easy to love. Be sure to take cash with you for once you try the so called street food you won’t eat anywhere else.

Many keep eating Thai cuisine even when returned home. Cooking classes have become very popular among tourists. You can easily partake at one almost anywhere in the country. The best cooking classes, in the north of the country, are held in Chiang Mai. During a four-hour course you can learn to prepare Pad Thai – a popular meal which consists of baked rice, yellow curry, sticky rice with mango and a papaya salad. All you cook you can eat, indeed. Thai Secret Cooking School is one of the most popular Thai cooking courses.

Switch Off and Relax in Pai

It is really interesting once you realize that a small town of 2200 on Thailand’s north became a popular resort among tourists. There is not much interesting in its center though. It consists of the main street and dozens of restaurants and bars. Nature is amazing here. Just several kilometers from the town there is a canyon. There are cliffs, the views of the valley, Pam Bok and Mor Paeng waterfalls and mountain range which is great for tourism. The best is to visit these places in the early morning hours to avoid unpleasant sun and crowds of tourists. The north of the country is cooler. Therefore, you can visit hot springs with pools. These are open all day long. Pai is the perfect place to relax. It seems as if the time stopped here. Be sure to stay for more than a one day once you decided to spend some time there.

Experience Walking Street, Pattaya

Pattaya – a popular spot mainly for man is about two hours from Bangkok. Historical sights or beaches are not why people travel there. Pattaya is known for other – rather specific – type of tourism. It is only for adults. Its greatest attraction is the so called Walking Street. It comes to live in the evening when it becomes a busy party place. Ladyboys lure tourists to night go-go bars or massages which have happy ending. Non-stop fun – if you seek this than Pattaya is the place to be.

The list of things you can do and trips you can take is infinite. If you really want to learn Thailand you should plan your vacation at least for a month.

GPS: (Bangkok) 13°45'06.7"N 100°30'52.0"E

Text and photos: Viktorie Fričová