I became fascinated by Thailand many, many years ago when I watched the King and I. Silly I know but factual since Thailand was once known as Siam. Thailand is one of those destinations that you hope and dream of one day visiting.
Thailand is known for tropical beaches, opulent royal palaces, ancient ruins and ornate temples. Bangkok, the capital, is a modern city that sits next to quiet canal-side communities and iconic temples. Beach resorts offer visitors relaxing and beautiful serenity.
Tourists go to Thailand for many reasons. Visitors come for sandy beaches, archaeological sites, museums, palaces, Buddhist temples and several World Heritage sites. The country is rich with culture and history.
Sa-wat dee ka! Welcome to Thailand!
If you would like to take in the beauty of Thailand but are not an adventurous traveler, there are many guided tours available out of Bangkok to help you experience the culture of the nation.
Private tour guide services, not only in Bangkok, but also the surrounding areas, can expose you to the culture of this beautiful country in a way you may never be able to do on your own. Explore on a private, customizable tour where you set the pace and tell your personal guide what you would like to see.
Yoo tee nai…? (where is…)
Choose from sights like the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, or Chatuchak Market. An itinerary will be created and tailored to your interests. There is no better way to gain local insight into Thai culture. You will receive recommendations on the best spots to eat gourmet or street food A-roi (delicious), learn about the city’s history, and visit tucked-away places that most tourists miss. Ideally, this will make you comfortable enough to head out on your own on another day.
Approximately an hour outside of Bangkok, a visit to the Ayutthaya Historical Park is a must for anyone visiting Thailand. The old capital of Thailand (Kingdom of Siam) from 1350 until 1767, Ayutthaya was largely destroyed by the Burmese and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site full of intact temples, monasteries, palace ruins and beheaded Buddhist statues.
Notable Ayutthaya temples include Wat Phra Si Sanphet (part of the Ancient Royal Palace ruins), Wat Mongkhon Bophit, Wat Yai Chai Mongkol and Wat Phanan Choeng, known for its gilded seated Buddha statue. Marvel at the Buddha’s head resting in the tree roots overtaking Wat Mahathat and visit the well-preserved summer palace of King Rama IV with its mixture of Thai, Chinese and Gothic architecture – Thi swy mak (very beautiful).
Thailand national festivals range from Thai New Year Songkran to Loy Krathong, with many localities having their own festivals. Among the best-known is the “Elephant Round-up” in Surin. All of the festivals have deep roots in tradition and culture.
There is much to see in Thailand when you Yeuxn (pay a visit) so plan wisely before you arrive.
After your visit and before heading home, be sure to say Khop koon (thank you)
