Attractions
Floating Markets
No visit to Thailand is complete without experiencing all the colours, aromas and chatter of the floating markets. Watch produce laden boats float by, piled high with colour. Sample the tasty treats on offer or purchase a souvenir or two. Some of our favourites include Damnoen Saduak (most popular), Amphawa (most authentic) and Khlong Lat Mayom (closest to Bangkok). Floating Markets are popular with Thai locals and tourists alike.
Koh Phi Phi
Just a 45 minute speedboat ride or 90 minute ferry ride from Phuket or Krabi, you will discover the pristine white sands and turquoise sea of the Koh Phi Phi islands. Renowned for its natural beauty, the main islands of Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh attract thousands of visitors a year. Snorkel in the crystal-clear waters and marvel at the colourful marine life. Swim in the natural pools and admire the sheer rock cliffs that tower above the beautiful bays.
Doi Inthanon National Park
Known as ‘the Roof of Thailand’, Doi Inthanon is one of the country’s most popular national parks. Located in the Chiang Mai province, the park is home to over 600 bird species and mammals including elephants and tigers. The main attractions are amazing waterfalls, hiking trails and incredible vantage points to view both sunrise and sunset. Siamese Sakura pink blossoms cover the area for a few short weeks between January and February drawing locals from all over the country to view this spectacular sight.
Shopping
From amazing shopping malls to the hustle and bustle of the buzzing street markets. Thailand has a plethora of places to blow your baht. You’ll find everything from the finest antiques to designer clothing, the softest Thai silks and a huge array of wonderful handicrafts. Visit one of the world’s largest markets, Chatuchak Weekend Market with over 8,000 stalls. Shop for high end fashion at MBK, Siam Paragon and Central World in Bangkok, Junceylon and Central Shopping Mall in Phuket and Central Festival Mall in Pattaya. Thailand is a shopaholic’s paradise.
Bridge on the River Kwai
Immerse yourself in the history of World War II as you travel to Kanchanaburi – home to the infamous Bridge on the River Kwai. Steeped in history, the bridge became famous when it was featured in the movie of the same name. The cliff-hugging tracks are surrounded by the natural beauty of the mountains and valleys. The track has been developed into a walkway, allowing visitors to cross the bridge either by foot or small train. Every year in late November through early December, the River Kwai Bridge Festival is celebrated by a magnificent sound and light show.
Underwater Playground
Thailand’s crystal-clear waters, beautifully formed corals and spectacular marine life make it the perfect place for diving and snorkelling. Krabi and Ang Thong Marine Park are great sports for viewing vibrant coral gardens and colourful fish. Snorkel straight from the white sands of Kata Beach for some of the best underwater views in Phuket. Diving around the Similan Islands is one of Thailand’s best kept secrets and home to Manta rays and turtles. Slip on a pair of flippers and discover this underwater haven.
Elephant Hills
For a back to natural experience that is second to none, Elephant Hills is Thailand’s first luxury tented Jungle Camp. It combines the camps experience of the African National Parks with the Thai tropical forest. Guests can interact with Asia’s largest land animal by helping to clean them and prepare meals for them. After the experience guests are encouraged to watch the mammals play, interact and graze. Following strict ethical protocol, elephant riding is not offered at Elephant Hills.
Phang Nga Bay
Upon entering Phang Nga Bay, you will be in awe of the size of the immense limestone karats rising out of the emerald green water. This breath taking scenery has been the backdrop for many blockbuster Hollywood movies including ‘Star Wars: Eposode III – Revenge of the Sith’ and James Bond’s ‘The Man with the Golden Gun’. The easiest way to experience Phang Nga Bay and explore the surrounding caves, lagoons and beaches is on either a speedboat or kayak tour.
Thailand Temples
Eighty kilometres north of Bangkok, discover Ayutthaya Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Inside, marvel at the temples and palaces of the original capital of Thailand. Artefacts discovered during excavations are on permanent display. Other temples (wats) to explore include ‘the Sanctuary of Truth’ in Pattaya, Wat Phra Kaew (the Temple of the Emerald Buddha) and Wat Arun (the Temple of Dawn) in Bangkok. The Temple is covered in porcelain. When lit by the morning sun, it is absolutely breath-taking.
Thai Eats
Thailand’s flavoursome food is one of the reasons people visit again and again. Join in a cooking class and learn to create traditional Thai dishes. Venture into Bangkok’s Chinatown or Khao San Road and sample street cuisine in a lively atmosphere where masterful chefs make up fresh food, spiced and flavoured to personal taste. Street food is a delicious and easy way to get a real feel for the local culture. Bangkok is also known for its Michelin-starred restaurants and amazing rooftop bars.