Exploring Thailand

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Guide to Thailand.

Bangkok, where the action is, where east meets west, where sex and sacrament live side by side with sacred temples and holiness. It is undoubtedly one of the world’s great cities. Here you can find every western convenience if so desired or delve into the true history of Thailand. Shop Koh San Road, pay respect to the largest reclining Buddha, try your tastebuds on some spice-infused Thai cuisine or take in some authentic Thai performing arts.

Blessed with numerous powdery, soft beaches encased by warm inviting seas there is a lot more to Thailand than Bangkok. Park yourself on any of the surrounding islands for ultimate recreation and relaxation. Accessible only by boat, Koh Samui, Ko Phan Ghan and Koh Tao are all popular island destinations floating in the Gulf of Thailand. These islands are especially geared towards the adventure traveller on a budget. Many other resorts of a more up market calibre can be found on the other side drifting in the Indian Ocean including the increasingly popular Phuket and Pattaya.

For yet another taste of Thailand, head north to Chang Mai. Away from the beach and the fast-paced nature of central Thailand, Chang Mai is the second largest city with extensive offerings. Trek through the jungles along the Burmese border, discover Thailand’s true shopping capital and respect some of the country's rich cultural heritage in the northern hilltribes. Whereas Bangkok has become overrun by influences of the western world, Chang Mai preserves much of it's traditions and history. For a look at some authentic monasteries and temples, Chang Mai is the place to go.

Home to many Buddhists whose very philosophy is based around peaceful living, Thailand is one of the most harmonious societies in the world, therefore, a safe destination. And with spicy food, colourful people and customs, mountains, jungles, and beaches, Thailand offers an assortment of activities and settings. Therefore, for a holiday with a ‘far from home feel’, an exotic tone with a splash of adventure, Thailand is the perfect destination.

Chang Mai Shopping.
Bangkok often outshines Chang Mai as the city of Thailand. However, one thing is undeniable – Chang Mai’s shopping is out of this world and Bangkok’s knock-off designer stalls and its markets cannot even come close to Chang Mai’s retail therapy options. For any fabrics and textiles especially bolts of Thai silk can be found in abundance in Chang Mai’s finer shops. Wood carvings, silver and lacquer items are also popular in the area. For the serious bargain hunter, the Night Bazaar cannot be missed. Here you can weave in and out of the thousands of stalls selling everything from Thai spices to exquisite art. Be prepared to bargain though you’ll run the risk of getting ripped off.

Hill tribes of the Golden Triangle.
Within the northern section of Thailand bordering Burma you will find the hilltribes of the Golden Triangle. There are 8-10 different tribes living off the land and holding true to old tradition and way of life. It is up here that you can catch a glimpse of authentic Thailand as it has been untouched by the western world. Perhaps the most notable of the tribes is the Padaung. Often photographed and found on postcards are the women of the tribe with their stretched and braceleted necks. While visiting the north you will have the opportunity to go on hilltribe trek where you will visit some of the tribes and stay on their land. It is a fantastic way to encounter Thailand’s Tribal people but you must first battle with your conscience. Should they really be a tourist attraction? If you do decide to visit the tribes, proceed with the utmost respect.

Similan Islands National Marine Park.
Constituting nine granite islands, the Similans are considered to be Thailand’s premier diving destination. The Islands also top the charts as one of the best diving sites worldwide. The active waters surrounding the Similan Islands are out of this world for marine life and cleanliness. Since it is now a protected national marine park you will be blown away at the clarity of the water. You can actually peer up to 30 metres below through the clearest of waters around. The sheer number, variety and colour of the fish teeming in the waters surrounding the rugged coastlines will take your breath away. The islands themselves are uninhabited except for park officials so it is unlikely you will be staying long. Short and ever so sweet, the Similan Islands National Marine Park cannot be missed.

Street Food.
One of Thailand’s true treasures is its exotic, fresh cuisine. Whether you like it hot or not, Thailand has plenty on offer especially found in stalls or carts littering the streets. In the morning head to any on the fruit vendors where you can indulge in some fresh exotic fruits or perhaps get them whipped into a tasty shake. For the midday munchies try some chicken satay or some seriously yummy hot and sour soup. Finally for a little sweet treat, try a banana pancake with chocolate sauce smothered in condensed milk, bad for the waistline, great for the tastebuds. The options are truly endless, be adventurous and shop around. Just a tip: Avoid stalls that have had raw poultry or fish roasting in the sun all day.

Sukhothai.
Once the capital of Thailand, the walled city of Sukhothai is now a place to go and explore the legacy of the Thai people. Now a historical park, Sukhothai is an awesome display of elegant ruins, temples and the famous Sukhothai Buddha. The best way to view this area is on bicycle giving you a chance to view it all. Sukhothai is not located near the major centres of Bangkok and Chang Mai however; it will be well worth the trek if you decide to go. Sukhothai is truly the only place to go in Thailand to hear the real story about the birth of the nation. It will illustrate there is a whole lot more to Thailand than beaches and Bangkok.