Getting the Most Out of a Trip to Thailand
A trip to Thailand is a fantastic experience with lots to see and do. In fact, most people come home eager to get back, because they haven’t seen even half of the things that they’d like to in this idyllic location. If you are heading out to Thailand soon or considering a trip, you’ll want to make the most of it. Here are some tips to help you.
Do Some Research
The first thing that you should do is think about where in Thailand you want to stay. If you are looking for a lively break, then you might want to stay in Bangkok. If you want to go to temples and explore cultural sites, Chiang Mai might be a better option. If you are looking for a peaceful break with time to explore the oceans and long sandy beaches, then staying on an island like Koh Samui can be a better choice.
Boats, buses, trains, and even inter-Thailand flights mean that you can get about and see more of both the Mainland and Islands wherever you stay. But knowing what kind of trip you want can help you to find the best base to make the most of your time.
Invest in Great Accommodations
Luxury accommodations give you somewhere to rest after a busy day. But if you chose a villa from Samui holiday villas, the luxury beaches and pools can become a valuable part of your trip as well.
Pack for the Weather
For most of the year, Thailand is dry and humid. Northern Thailand has three clearly defined seasons, including the monsoon season. In southern Thailand, there’s really just wet and dry, which run at different times on the east and west side. So, the weather will depend on where you are going and when. But make sure you know what to expect and that you pack appropriate clothing for the weather so that you can get out and make the most of the sights no matter what.
Pack Clothes for Temple Visits
If you want to visit temples, you’ll need to respect the culture and religious values, which can mean wearing appropriate clothing. Both men and women should cover their shoulders. Women should wear skirts longer than knee length, or long pants. Men should wear long pants, not shorts. Footwear depends on the temple; some are okay with sandals, but others will ask for fully covered feet. If there are any specific temples that you want to visit, it’s worth looking online before you travel, as requirements can vary.
Visit Animal Sanctuaries with a Focus on Conservation
Years ago, everyone wanted to ride an elephant while in Thailand. But over time many of these businesses have been forced to close because poor treatment of the animals came to light. However, there are now some fantastic sanctuaries that have rescued animals, elephants included, and will use the money that you spend there on conservation and care.
Enjoy Street Food
Thai street food is some of the best in the world and you should try to sample plenty of it while you are there. Just beware that if you ask for it to not be too spicy, the vender’s definition of what is spicy might be very different from your own.
Thailand is a great place to visit. But unless you plan a long break, chances are you’ll need to go back time and time again to see everything that you want to.