Thailand: the Best Places to Visit

Mention Thailand and visitors are instantly transported to a Southeast Asian haven of peace, sandy beaches, sparkling Buddhist temples, delicious street food, and welcoming locals.

Picture yourself sipping coconut water from a freshly cut coconut, reggae music playing softly, while clear waters lap against limestone cliffs. Thailand is a top destination worldwide, offering something for everyone. From stunning beaches and rainforests to mountain views with waterfalls, Buddhist temples, and the bustling life in Bangkok, explore Thailand's unique corners that you won't find anywhere else.

>>> Remote and less frequented routes often involve traveling with a layover at the airport. To ease your worries, we bring you some tried and tested tips.

Phuket

Our first stop is Phuket, Thailand's largest island. Surrounded by the Andaman Sea and about an hour's flight from Bangkok, it's a slice of paradise. It's the perfect balance between tranquility and bustling life. When not surfing, snorkeling, or watching the sunset, enjoy local culinary delights or explore the island's nightlife.

Beaches

Patong Beach is one of Phuket's most famous resorts, known for its vibrant nightlife. Bars, restaurants, Thai massage parlors, and music create a lively atmosphere. For a moment, you find yourself in a concrete jungle that comes alive at night.

For the true beauty of the Andaman coast, visit Mai Khao Beach. This 11-kilometer stretch of soft white sand meets the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea. The beach remains largely untouched, with few jet skis or vendors. Its popularity is partly due to the proximity of Phuket International Airport, where you can watch planes land and take off. Capture the moment as a plane glides overhead—a memory to last a lifetime!

Temples

One of Phuket's most impressive sites is the Big Buddha temple and statue. This 45-meter-high statue, made of reinforced concrete and white marble, is a popular attraction. Located high above sea level, it's visible from Karon Beach and Phuket town. The Big Buddha is an active temple, often filled with prayers and melodic chants. The gentle music of dharma plays all day, creating a sacred atmosphere. During quieter times, receive blessings from local monks. The temple offers a stunning 360-degree view of the southern island, leaving visitors inspired. Remember the dress code—cover shoulders and wear knee-length clothing when entering temples.

Koh Samui

Our exploration of Thailand continues on Koh Samui, the second largest island. This tropical paradise offers white sand beaches and welcomes those seeking relaxation, water sports, and Thai cuisine.

Beaches

Chaweng Beach is a favorite, stretching about 5 km in a majestic crescent. It's been a tourism hub for decades, offering activities like jet skiing, kayaking, and banana boat rides. The southern and central parts have deeper waters, ideal for fun, while the northern end's shallow coastline suits families. Vendors sell coconut ice cream, fresh fruit, and souvenirs. Services like pedicures, henna tattoos, and hair braiding come to you. Enjoy a Thai massage on the beach, with oil massages or aloe vera wraps soothing sun-irritated skin.

Lamai Beach is another popular spot. Relax on white sands near bars, restaurants, or jet ski rentals. As the sun sets, the beach transforms into a romantic scene with fairy lights and candles. Sip a cocktail made from fresh fruit or a chilled coconut cut before your eyes.

Nature and Temples

Koh Samui offers more than beaches. Visit Ang Thong National Marine Park, an archipelago of islands, for unforgettable boat trips or snorkeling to see vibrant underwater life.

Cultural enthusiasts will love Wat Phra Yai, a Buddhist temple with a stunning panoramic view. The massive golden Big Buddha statue is visible from afar.

Krabi

Krabi is a must-visit in Thailand, known for its white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and limestone cliffs. It's one of the most stunning places, offering photogenic sunsets with lightning displays, best seen from a beach bar. Krabi is home to famous islands like the Phi Phi Islands, Hong Island, and Koh Lanta. Railay Beach is a top choice.

Railay Beach is famous for its limestone cliffs rising from clear waters. Accessible only by boat, it has a unique atmosphere. Enjoy rock climbing, kayaking, and exploring a cave that connects both ends of the beach. Admire limestone formations and encounter monitor lizards or monkeys.

Koh Phi Phi

Phi Phi Island offers a paradise escape. This archipelago of six islands off Krabi's coast features untouched nature, postcard-perfect beaches, and turquoise seas. Enjoy boat rides on “long tail boats” for stunning bay views. Visit Maya Bay, where “The Beach” was filmed with Leonardo DiCaprio.

Koh Hong

Koh Hong, or Hong Island, is a small gem in southern Thailand, part of Thanbok Kharanee National Park. Its limestone formations attract travelers worldwide. These impressive formations rise from azure waters, surrounded by white sand, creating a harmonizing feeling. The waters are rich in colorful marine life, so bring a snorkeling mask. Enjoy a bird's-eye view of Hong Island by climbing about 400 steps. Explore the beautiful bays, including Hong Lagoon, accessible only by boat.

Koh Lanta

Koh Lanta offers a step back in time, with a slower pace. This sophisticated Thai island features mysterious places, deserted beaches, long-tail boats, and otherworldly sunsets. The long coastline boasts beautiful beaches, each with its charm. At the southern end, Mu Ko Lanta National Park showcases the island's exotic and authentic nature. Admire untouched nature, coral reefs, white beaches, and local wildlife.

For those interested in Thai boxing, Koh Lanta has excellent schools. Nicha Muay Thai Gym offers training with professional instructors. I trained there five times a week during my three-month stay. Advanced fighters can participate in Thai fights firsthand.

Bangkok

Our final stop is Thailand's capital, Bangkok. This bustling, humid, and exotic city blends beautiful temples, historic markets, modern skyscrapers, and rooftop bars, creating an irresistible atmosphere. Every street mixes traditional and modern elements. In one area, dilapidated buildings stand next to remarkable shrines, while elsewhere, modern hotels, offices, and sky bars dominate the skyline.

Despite its constant evolution, Bangkok remains one of the most visited cities globally. The traditional lifestyle thrives on the streets, in sacred places, at markets, and in street food stalls. Most visitors start their Bangkok journey in Rattanakosin – the Old City, known for the Grand Palace and Wat Po.

The Thonburi River separates the city from its old capital, illustrating why Bangkok was called “the Venice of the East.” To the east lies modern Bangkok, alive day and night. It features endless traffic jams, brightly lit night bars, countless eateries, shopping malls, and street food markets. Chinatown is a popular spot for traditional Thai dishes and cuisine from nearby Asia. For a touch of extravagance, visit nearby Pattaya, the world of “ladyboys.”

Conclusion

Thailand is a Southeast Asian gem and earthly paradise. It offers quiet places for rejuvenation, remote beaches with fine sand, azure waters, sacred Buddhist temples, and breathtaking views. Learn Thai boxing for a unique souvenir or experience Bangkok's urban jungle adventure. Few places offer such a sense of freedom.