Thailand
Thailand is the most popular tourist location in the whole of southeast Asia. It is known for its temples, Bangkok, and breath-taking beaches; you cannot idle around or get bored in Thailand. Thailand is also known as the “Land of Smiles” because it has some of the most friendly, genuine, and down to earth people.
Below is a list of fun things you should do when you visit:
Go for a Thai Massage
Thai massages are famous globally for their unique style that stretches your body and works on the pressure points. The stretches and massages will leave you well-balanced and rejuvenated. You can get one of these at massage parlors in every city and towns at low prices.
Make sure to ask for oil if this is your first time! They will reach every crack and creak in your body. Make sure you get the right pressure to suit you!
Try out Thai foods
Thailand cuisines are famous all over the world, but nothing compares to the real thing. Sample all the cuisines, whether it’s from street vendors or fancy restaurants. Their food is delicious and can go for as low as one dollar/pound. It will be the most authentic tasting and the flavours are incredible! If you love thai food you are in for culinary heaven!
Honestly, it is some of the best food in the world and the cheapest to buy while you are there! Kaeng khiao wan, Larb, Thai omelette and Tom yum! Delicious and will cost you half the price of western food.
Attend a Buddhist Holiday
You don’t have to be Buddhist to attend this holiday. Join the big crowds in the temple at any location in Thailand, and Thai people will warmly welcome you. You just have to act and dress appropriately.
Make sure you follow the protocols and respect the Buddhist religion.
Visit the Buddhist temples and relish in the exquisite design and colours. There are many temples across the whole of the country. In Bangkok, there is the Wat Traimit Withayaram Worawihan (where you will see the incredible Golden Buddha), Wat Phra Chetuphon (the reclining Buddha) and Wat Phra Kaew absolutely stunning.
Go up the Sathorn Unique Tower
The Sathorn Unique Tower was built in the late nineties but was later abandoned before completion due to the global financial catastrophe. There are 49 stories to climb; although this will be difficult, the breath-taking view from the top makes it worthwhile.
Drive around like a local
The most popular means of transport is driving by scooter; both locals and tourists are used to it. With very few road rules, it can provide a fun experience to weave in and out of traffic as you wish as you explore other interesting places on foot. However, be careful and look out for any unexpected ordeals. Ensure you have ridden before and take the necessary caution if carrying a person on the back! Trust me on that one #typicaltouristcrash
If you haven’t ridden a scooter before… no worries! There are Tuk Tuks ready to take you to all the destinations! Each one as individual as the next.
Play with Water During Songkran
Songkran is Thailand’s most famous festival. An important event on the Buddhist calendar, this water festival marks the beginning of the traditional Thai New Year. The name Songkran comes from a Sanskrit word meaning ‘passing’ or ‘approaching’.
The event takes place every year in April, from 13th to 15th. Water is sprinkled throughout as it is believed to wash away sins and bad luck.
If you visit during this period, prepare to be soaking wet wherever you are; there have been changes in the way activities take place, with huge water fights breaking out all over the cities.
Songkran is a hugely important festival to Thai people, but it’s also very popular with visitors and many tourists specifically arrange their holidays around this unique event. Anyone and everyone can and will get involved in the celebrations. If you’re out and about during Songkran, you’re guaranteed to end up soaked but you’ll have lots of fun in the process!
Celebrate the Full Moon
The legendary party was started by a group of tourists who, one day, realised that from the beach of Koh Phangan, there was the most beautiful view of the full moon. It is now celebrated with colorful parties filled with drinking and music.
Take a boat out to the island. It is easy to get to from nearby Koh Samui. There are plenty of places to stay on the beach if you want to be in the thick of it for the Full Moon Party or you can head to the other side of the island for a more peaceful trip. Be sure to book ahead if you are coming for the Full Moon as accommodation fills up quickly.
Head to Haad Rin beach for the best beach parties and fun to be had. There will be people selling buckets along the whole stretch of the beach for you and your friends to enjoy. Drink from a bucket, watch the fire dancers, enjoy mellow mountain and dance the night away.
Get to know the locals in the bars – and enjoy all the Thai hospitality
Bottom Line
Asia has some of the most incredible tourist destinations, including Bali and Thailand. You can never run out of fun activities to do in Thailand, from the interesting places to visit, events to attend, and authentic Thai Cuisine to taste at affordable prices. Attend a full moon party, get yourself soaked in a water fight during Songkran, drive like a local on a scooter or tuk tuk, climb the Sathorn Unique Tower, and go for a Thai massage.
Do’s
- Be respectful at all times.
- Bring first aid kit, toothpaste, and toiletries – it is expensive otherwise.
- Get a massage – I really did not get enough.
- Do try all the activities
- Do barter – you can do it – do it with a smile and be fair.
- Leave your Western, Busy Schedule, Fast paced lifestyle and creature comforts behind and come with an open mind.
- Learn Thai – Kop–khun–kha for women (is thank you) and kop–khun-krub
Don’t’s
- Get angry. Like most Asian countries you must save face and never lose your cool. If a situation gets difficult just smile and walks away.
- Spirits… buy a litre of spirit at duty-free and just stick to the beers.
- Do not be afraid to sit and enjoy the wonderful welcomes of these people and how they are willing to share the food from their table, the drinks from their kitchen and question you about your life.
Dreaming of holidaying but can’t afford it right now… some people use Buddy Loans while they save up. Remember to only borrow what you can easily repay.
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