Thailand is one of the top holiday destinations in the world, with more than 30 million visitors in 2018 and there are many reasons for this. The colourful culture of the smiling Thai people is one big draw; Thailand, formerly Siam, is the only South East Asian country to avoid colonisation, largely thanks to their astute monarch at the time, King Rama V. Thailand consists of the tropical south, with many beautiful tropical islands, the central plains (Bangkok), the eastern seaboard (Pattaya) and the mountainous northern part of the country.
If you are planning a 2021 holiday in the Land of Smiles, here are a few day trip ideas to inspire.
- Bangkok Temple Touring – The Internet hosts a wealth of information and for those who wish to visit 3-4 top Buddhist temples in Bangkok, Google is your best friend. Check out the BTS routes or you could go the whole hog and ride around in a Tuk-Tuk and in the evening, sample some of the best street food in the world. Remember to dress appropriately when visiting temples and always keep your valuables secure whenever in busy places.
- Day Cruise from Pattaya – Explore the Gulf of Thailand on a fully-crewed luxury yacht with affordable daily boat rentals in Pattaya, with luxury vessels including superyachts. Search with Google to find a yacht rental company and they can help you to plan the perfect day and have a taste of the millionaire lifestyle!
- Trekking in the North – Rather than a day trip, you should plan at least 5 days in the northern part of Thailand; you can arrange daily treks with local guides and sample the amazing views while visiting the various hilltribe people that inhabit the region. North of Chiang Rai is part of the Golden Triangle and great trekking territory. If you are thinking of travelling around the world, click here.
- Full Moon Party – The epic Full Moon Party on Koh Phangan is famed around the world and after a short ferry ride from the mainland, the small tropical island of Koh Phangan is the perfect backdrop for all-night dancing on the beach, with fire throwers and other artists performing. Search online for the best routes and times to visit and you simply must spend a few days on Koh Samui, a nearby island with many bars, resorts and hi-end spas.
- Traditional Thai Massage – No holiday in Thailand would be complete without enjoying at least one traditional Thai massage. Make sure you find a professionally licensed practitioner, they will have completed a minimum of 800 hours of training and be registered with the Public Health Ministry’s Department of Health Service Support. It might be physically painful, but we’re sure you’ll feel so much better afterwards.
Prior to making any travel plans, do check regarding Covid-19 entry requirements, which might still be in place and apply for your visa online from the Thai Embassy in your home country. If you are already living in Thailand, check the latest bulletins regarding inter-provincial travel.
Thailand is a very special place that seems to capture the hearts of all who visit and once you’ve experienced the Land of Smiles, you will want to return!
Image Credits: Siriphong Pakaratsakun
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