My experience in Thailand!

 

My Experience in Thailand!

Thursday, January 24, 2019

 

Thailand is a land of dazzling diversity and a dream destination due to its unique cultural heritage and countless landscapes of extreme natural beauty. In the Land of Smiles, we can find remarkable ruins of ancient cities, modern and cosmopolitan cities like Bangkok, impressive forests, white sand beaches, uninhabited tropical islands, and a series of attractions that fascinate visitors. Hospitality is a genuine characteristic of the Thai people, who always welcome visitors with a warm smile.

 

Important dates include Loy Krathong in November (the date varies every year, celebrated on the full moon night of the 12th lunar month) and the Songkran Festival (Thai New Year), celebrated from April 13th to 15th, and known as the water festival.

 

Bangkok is the capital and most populous city of Thailand. It is located in the Central region, on the left bank of the Chao Phraya River. Bangkok was considered the "Best City in the World" by Travel & Leisure magazine for four consecutive years, from 2006 to 2010, and has received numerous international awards. Among the most sought-after attractions, I highlight the Royal Palace, the Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun temples, the Jim Thompson House (an example of traditional Thai architecture), and the famous floating markets. Regarding the markets, I highly recommend a visit to Klong Lad Mayom or Tha Kha, as they are much more traditional (and consequently less touristy) than Damnoan Saduak. Another market not to be missed is Ko Kret, a market that is an island in the middle of the river. Chatuchak Market only takes place on weekends, but as the "largest street market in Southeast Asia," it's worth a visit! To buy fresh fruit and other delicacies, I suggest a visit to Or Kor Tor. A visit to Chinatown, also called Yaowarat, is a must.

 

Bangkok has many shopping malls. In my opinion, the "normal" brands are not worth it. I recommend visiting MBK (a paradise of technology and cheap goods) and Terminal 21 (shops with various price ranges, mostly Thai). Don't miss a visit to Asiatique (night market) for shopping and dinner (good Thai restaurant: Baan Khanutha by the river), and you can even catch a live Muay Thai show. Inside the luxury shopping center Central Embassy there's a food court that recreates food trucks, but in a more sophisticated setting; it's called Eat Thai and has good prices.

 

I also recommend a dinner cruise on the Chao Phraya River and getting plenty of massages (there are massage parlors on every corner, but for me, nothing beats the Thai oil massage at The Osasis Spa). For golf enthusiasts, Thailand is an incredible destination. There are also several schools and hotels offering cooking classes, such as the Blue Elephant Cooking School.

For a drink (skybar): Sirocco (very touristy), Long Table, or Zoom Sky Bar and Restaurant.

 

Ayutthaya was the capital of Thailand for 400 years, between 1350 and 1767, and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981. Located about two hours from Bangkok, it can easily be visited on a day trip. It's nice to drive up and take a lunch cruise down. If you want to stay overnight, I recommend Sala, which has a terrace for dinner with an incredible view of the river and a historic park. A must-see: the Summer Palace, where you can even bring a book and a picnic and spend a relaxing afternoon. Kanchanaburi is also a historical area linked to World War II. It's in this province that you can find the Bridge over the River Kwai. The trip from Bangkok to Kanchanaburi can be made by train, but I always traveled by private van. The Float House River Kwai is an incredible floating hotel, but there's more. It was in Kanchanaburi that I visited and bathed in the most incredible waterfalls ever: Huay Mae Khamin Waterfalls.

 

Kho Samui, known as the Pearl of the South China Sea, is an island in the Gulf of Thailand. Rich in natural resources, it has become famous for its white sandy beaches, coral reefs, and marine life. It has a vast array of hotels and restaurants. By ferry, you can visit Ko Phangan (known for its full moon parties) and Koh Tao. Koh Tao is highly recommended for diving.

 

Phuket is Thailand's most famous beach tourist destination, combining beaches of unparalleled natural beauty with excellent hotel accommodation and a huge variety of tourist attractions. The Laguna and Mai Khao areas are very peaceful and have incredible beaches. They are close to the airport and far from the busiest areas. In any case, for those looking for some liveliness, Kata or Patong can easily be visited. A great advantage of Phuket is its international airport, which allows visitors to return to Europe without having to go through Bangkok.

 

I highly recommend a visit to the Big Buddha Temple because, although it is still under construction (awaiting donations from the faithful and tourists), it has an incredible view over the island of Phuket and on clear days it is still possible to see the Phi Phi Islands. If you want to visit a more traditional temple, I suggest Wat Chalong. Phuket Town and its Chinese-Portuguese houses are also worth a visit. In addition to the historical connection to Portugal, you will find many cafes and restaurants. On Sundays, the Sunday Night Market takes place with lots of street food and some local crafts.

 

If you'd like to visit an elephant camp/retreat, I recommend the Elephant Retirement Park.

 

Krabi is located about two and a half hours from Phuket and is popular with those seeking a quieter holiday. Ao Nang and Railay Beach are the busiest areas. If you'd like to visit an elephant camp/retreat, I recommend the Krabi Elephant House Sanctuary.

 

The famous Phi Phi Islands, where the movie "The Beach" was filmed, can be visited by ferry from Krabi or Phuket. For accommodation on Phi Phi Don, my suggestion is Zeavola (a hotel nestled in nature, which may not be to everyone's taste). A more "urban" alternative is the Holiday Inn. Monkey Beach and Nui Rock are located on this island. On Phi Phi Lee, you'll find Pileh Lagoon and Maya Bay.

 

For inter-island travel using public transfers, you can visit Phuket Ferry.

On the islands and in Krabi, you can enjoy water sports, diving, snorkeling, and more. In the North (Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai and Mae Hong Song) my top recommendation is to watch the episodes of Around the World:

 

Episode 1.
Episode 2.
Episode 3.
Episode 4.

 

The article published in the online April issue can be read here, and if you want to visit an elephant camp/retreat, I recommend the Elephant Nature Park.

 

For tourist trips to Thailand, Portuguese citizens must carry an individual passport with a minimum validity of six months and a visa, only for stays longer than 30 days, which can be obtained from the Embassy of the Kingdom of Thailand. Travelers who are not Portuguese citizens should inquire at the Embassy about entry requirements.

 

The electrical current is 220 volts (similar to Portugal) throughout the country.

 

I also advise you to take out travel insurance. Healthcare in Thailand is good, and in the main hospitals (both private and public), service is easily provided in English.

 

For more information, visit:

https://www.facebook.com/TurismoTailandes/
https://www.turismotailandes.org.pt/
https://www.tourismthailand.org/About-Thailand/

https://www.instagram.com/turismo_da_tailandia/

 

Have a good trip!

Isa Martins