There are so many things to do on a trip to Thailand that it would be hard to list them all, but here are some tips to inspire you.
Of course, it all depends on everyone’s tastes, you can also see our more general guide: Where to travel in Thailand, what to see, what to visit?
Here are the 8 things to do according to Sarah Gambles, journalist at deseret.com:
There is no better time than the present to visit this amazing tropical country which is full of exquisite tasting tropical fruits, friendly people, beautiful ancient temples and pleasant beaches.
Thailand is not only beautiful and rich in unique cultural experiences, it is also very affordable.
The average cost of meals per day per traveler is 481 baht, or about 12.91 euros.
The price of hotels isn’t bad either, especially if you book early.
I was able to get a nice hotel for six nights overlooking the beach for only 559 euros.
One of my top tips for Thailand is to book flights, hotels, and even excursions early.
But here are some of the top things I highly recommend doing while traveling in Thailand.
1. Visit ancient temples
Ayutthaya Historical Park. Photo: Bond Supanat
There are many ancient temples in different cities in Thailand that offer a window into history, and many of them offer “monk talks” where you can talk with Buddhist monks about life, tourist attractions and anything you want to talk about.
I highly recommend you to visit Wat Chedi Luang in Chiang Mai.
According to the 2020 International Religious Freedom Report, 93% of Thais are Buddhist, so you can learn more about the Buddhist religion.
Just be sure to wear clothes that cover your shoulders and legs, as women are not allowed to enter temples if these body parts are not covered.
See: Do’s and Don’ts When Visiting a Buddhist Temple in Thailand
2. Visit an elephant sanctuary
Elephants in a tourist park in Thailand.
Many places in Chiang Mai offer the opportunity to interact with Asian elephants without harming them.
The encounter with these majestic elephants is an incredible experience and many tours allow you to feed the elephants or bathe them in the river.
On my trip, the elephants in the camp were never chained and every night they were free to roam the wild in search of food, but they came back because they were fed for sure.
Lonely Planet has compiled a list of some sanctuaries that offer the best tours to see elephants without harming them.
See also: How do you know if an elephant attraction in Thailand is ethical?
3. Take a cooking class
Chicken satay skewers. Photo: Huahom
Many cafes and excursions offer cooking classes.
The elephant riding tour I took included a cooking class, which gave me an insight into Thai culture and a better understanding of what makes Thai food so delicious.
4. Taste the street food
Street food in Thailand. Photo: Lee Lefever
Street food is ubiquitous in Thailand and offers unique dining experiences, especially for those traveling from the United States.
I recommend trying fruit, especially mangoes and bananas.
Another advantage of street food is that it is very affordable and often delicious.
See: Street food: the best street food in Thailand
5. Visit the Muslim Floating Fishing Village and James Bond Rock
Koh Panyi Village, a Muslim village built on stilts in Phang Nga Bay, Thailand. Photo: Glen MacLarty
In Phuket, there is a fishing village built right on the water, called Koh Panyee, which is part of Ao Phang Nga National Park.
A giant limestone rock formation is home to the floating island, which was created “two hundred years ago by three fishing families from Java, Indonesia”, reported Thailand Magazine.
From Phuket or Krabi, it is possible to take an excursion to the village on the island, which has a restaurant with amazing cuisine.
Many tours offer kayaking trips in the park, as well as a stop at Khao Ping Kan, or James Bond Island.
James Bond Island. Photo: René Ehrhardt
It is one of the essential stops in the James Bond film “The Man with the Golden Gun”, released in 1974, for its landscapes and its emblematic images.
6. Take a ferry to the Phi Phi Islands
Tourists on a Koh Phi Phi beach in Thailand. Photo: Next Voyage
Thailand is surrounded by beautiful islands, and one of the most beautiful is Phi Phi Island.
You can take a ferry and spend the night in one of the island’s hotels to enjoy gorgeous beaches, amazing snorkeling, and a more laid-back stopover than in busy towns like Phuket or Krabi.
Traditional Thai boat tours are a great way to see the island, and most captains offer very affordable tours for small groups.
I paid 42 euros for a day trip around the island, including snorkeling and snacks.
7. Pamper yourself with a spa treatment
Thai massage session
Thai massage techniques have gained worldwide fame for a very specific reason: they are relaxing.
There are tons of shops where you can stop for a full body, shoulder or even foot massage.
And just like food and excursions, relaxation is offered at relatively affordable prices.
8. Plan a day at the beach
Koh Kradan Beach. Photo: Places of Juma
Thailand offers pristine beaches and a day at the beach is a must, especially if you are staying in one of the beach towns like Phuket.
Some resorts offer full-day services, such as full cabanas, hand-delivered meals and drinks, and a relaxing day at the beach.
See as well :
Why is Thailand one of the best travel destinations in the world?
Top 10 places to visit in Thailand
Preparing for your trip to Thailand: the complete guide
