The one thing you can be certain of when you’re in Thailand is that you won’t run out of things to do. It’s full of stunning beaches, bustling cities and an intriguing culture; so take a look at our top 10 things to do in Thailand to make your trip an unforgettable experience!
1) Elephant Trekking
Tourists can often get the impression that travelling by elephant is just as common as getting the bus or train in Western cities. You can trek through local towns and nearby forests – I’m guessing that’s not something you’ve done before.
2) Take a Thai Cooking Lesson
One of the best things about Thailand is the delicious food and you have the chance to master the art of Thai cooking. Individual or group Thai cooking lessons are available and by the end of the lesson you’ll be able to create a fantastic Thai dish for yourself.
3) Go to Koh Chang
Koh Chang is the third largest island in Thailand, which is situated on the east coast near the border of Cambodia. It’s one of Thailand’s most spectacular islands, with immaculate white beaches, waterfalls and an array of animals. You won’t run out of things to do on the island either – there is hiking, snorkelling, elephant trekking. There are also many restaurants and bars that you can use to unwind after a fun-filled day on the island.
4) Visit Temples
Visitors to Thailand often focus on the main tourist attractions and beaches, meaning cultural spots like the temples in Thailand get neglected. Thailand has over 26,000 temples and they are certainly worth a visit. It’s a great way to learn more about Buddhist philosophy and the history of Thailand.
5) Experience Bangkok
Bangkok has so many wonderful sights, that of the Grand Palace and Khao San Road. The nightlife is Bangkok shouldn’t be missed though. As the famous song goes ‘One night in Bangkok and the world’s your oyster’, so just imagine what you could do in just one weekend. Bangkok offers something for everyone; from expat bars and clubs on Khao San Road, to late night shopping in Patpong and river cruises along the Chao Praya there’s certainly plenty to keep you busy. So whether you want a quiet, relaxed evening or a rowdy night out you’ll find what you’re looking for in Bangkok.
6) Watch a Thai Kickboxing Match
Yes, boxing might not be unique to Thailand, but it’s the nation’s national sport and is really exciting to watch. Thai kickboxing, or should I say ‘Muay Thai’, has a long history , and it hasn’t changed much over time and is now practiced all over the world. It is known as the “Art of the Eight Limbs”, as fighters strike using eight different points of contact, including the hands, shins, elbows and knees.
7) Go to Local Festivals
Asia loves a good festival and Thailand is no different. Thailand hosts all sorts of different festivals all throughout the year. One of the most unusual festivals is the ‘Monkey Buffet festival’ (no, I haven’t made this up!). It’s held every year in Lopburi on the last Sunday of November and gives the resident monkeys of Lopburi a real feast.
8) Visit the Phi Phi islands
The Phi Phi islands offer stunning white sandy beaches, tropical jungle vegetation, and extraordinary snorkelling and scuba diving. The popularity of the island with tourists has increased due to its staring role in the film, The Beach. If you’ve seen it, you’ll understand that it’s a truly stunning island but it’s got to be visited in real life to really experience its beauty. So, don’t miss seeing it when you’re in Thailand.
9) Go to the Grand Palace
The Grand Palace is a must-see sight that no trip to Bangkok would be complete without. It was built in 1782 and has served as the official residence of the Kings of Thailand from the 18th century onwards. The Grand Palace is a spectacular site filled with lots of interesting history.
10) Shop At a Floating Market
How many people can say they have shopped for fruit and vegetables whilst on a boat in a river?! I’m guessing it’s not part of your daily routine. Whilst you’re in Thailand you shouldn’t miss trying it out for yourself. Floating markets are a traditional way of buying and selling for the locals, it may not be as common these days, but it is still very much in existence. The Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is one of the most popular markets for tourists, so check it out!
We know we haven’t covered all the amazing experiences there are to have in Thailand. Tell i-to-i about yours below!
