There’s a reason Thailand is a top spot for travellers of all ages – it has so much to offer visitors that you can spend months traversing the country and still have so much left to see! To truly get as much as you can from visiting Thailand you will need to travel to different ends of the country – it would be a good idea to check out car rental Thailand to give you the freedom to explore on your own schedule. As a helpful guide consider our top 5 things to do in Thailand here…
1. The Grand Palace, Bangkok
Bangkok has a reputation for drinking and partying, but the capital also offers beautiful architecture, most notably the Grand Palace. You will probably have to battle through a great number of tourists on your visit but the crowds are worth it. You can still appreciate the vast history and the exceptional grandeur this golden-clad palace has to offer. While in the area you should also take this opportunity to visit the nearby Emerald Buddha and Wat Pho, home of the largest reclining Buddha.
2. Take part in an ethical elephant experience
The elephant is revered in Thailand as the country’s national symbol. Despite this, animal cruelty is still a major issue, and many people exploit these creatures in order to make money from tourists. There are still plenty of ethical experiences you can enjoy, so do your research before getting booked in. The Elephant Nature Park is a well-known sanctuary that rescues and rehabilitates elephants.
3. Island Hopping
The beauty of Thailand isn’t limited to the mainland – many of its most beautiful spots lie in the surrounding islands. The coastlines of Koh Phangan, Koh Phi Phi, Koh Tao, Phuket and Koh Samui are just a few of our favourite islands for white-sand beaches and picturesque coastlines. The calm, clear sea makes for perfect conditions for kayaking and snorkelling.
4. Venture up to Northern Thailand
Whilst Chiang Mai is a popular spot, this city in the northern hills of Thailand still has spots “off the beaten track”. Wats (temples) are in abundance here. There are both well-documented classics as well as plenty of lesser-known temples you can discover for yourself on your travels. Many famous tribes can be found across the north of Thailand. Why not spend a day or a few days with a local family to experience their way of life? Do your research to ensure your guide is operating ethically and sustainably.
5. The Floating Markets
The famous floating markets of Thailand are a must see. You can take your pick for floating markets as they operate all across the country and offer a lot of the same produce. Whether you are looking for a great photo opportunity or wanting to bag a bargain, a floating market should be at the top of your to do list in Thailand. This is also a great opportunity to try some local fruits such as the durian or custard apples.