Best Thailand Travel Destinations


Thailand has long been known as a must-see, exotic, warm and economical destination for everyone ranging from the young backpacker to the retired traveler. Whether looking for new culinary delights, jaw-dropping historical sites or a sunny beach holiday, Thailand will provide them all - and more. Figuring out what matters to you the most will go a long way in helping decide where to visit in Thailand.

For The Foodie

Bangkok has long been known for cheap and adventurous street food. More recently, however, many high caliber chefs from around the world have relocated to the Thai capital.  The modern city provides any food lover a vast array of culinary choices.  

If you’re looking to eat with the locals, the best place to start out is in Chinatown, locally known as Yaowarat.  Considered the birthplace of Thai street food, you’ll be able to chow down on Thai staples such as chicken satay (chicken skewers with peanut sauce), khao gang (curried rice) or khao soy (curried noodles.)  If you want to get adventurous, feel free to try tadpoles (mok huak) or duck beaks (baak bpet) and let us know how it went!

Bangkok doesn’t disappoint when it comes to upscale dining.  Vogue Lounge is helmed by the two Michelin star chef, Vincent Thierry, and features an international menu with a price range from 40 to 50 NZD for mains.  

Topping the Michelin published guide “Asia’s 50 Best List” is Gaggan which features “progressive Indian cuisine” and sampler menus from 200 NZD per person.  These two restaurants are only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Bangkok’s burgeoning fine dining scene.

For The Culture Vulture

Chang Rai, in Thailand’s northeast, boasts the Wat Rhong Kun also known as the White Temple  The stunning, but unconventional Buddhist temple began to be rebuilt starting in the late 90’s.  Although it won’t be finished until 2070 it remains a spectacular sight for locals and travelers alike.

Between Bangkok and Chang Rai is Sukhothai Historical Park.  The ancient walled city is full of striking temples, crumbling palaces, Buddha statues, and moats.  Explore the area by foot, rent a bicycle or get driven around in various motorized vehicles. A major contrast to the bustle of Bangkok, the UNESCO World Heritage Site is peaceful and serene.     

For The Beach Bum

When it comes to beaches, Thailand covers all the bases.  From all night, full moon parties to quiet, secluded and picturesque, Thailand will provide a beach for every kind of kind of traveler.

If you’re looking for a beautiful beach with all the modern conveniences, Patong Beach on Phuket is the most famous.  Complete with hotels for all budgets, literally hundreds of restaurants and a nightlife that rivals most big cities, Patong is nothing if not a bustling beach town.

If you need something more relaxed and quiet, the uncrowded beaches of Ko Lanta Yai might be more your pace. Located in the southern Krabi province, Ko Lanta Yai has long, white sand beaches, excellent dive spots, and hotels that cater to all budgets.

The full moon party has become a tradition amongst beach going partiers.  If dancing the night away on the beach with copious quantities of alcohol and fellow travelers is your idea of a good time, Kho Pangan is where you want to be. That said, make sure to book accommodation well in advance. Showing up on the day of the party will mean you spend most of your time (and money) looking to secure a place to sleep.

Thailand offers a wide array of experiences that will satisfy any traveler’s tastes.  From Thailand holiday packages, the country caters to anyone with a willingness to see something different.  However you like to spend your holiday time, Thailand has something to offer.

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