Officially named the Kingdom of Thailand, this Southeast Asian country merges both modern high-rises and neon lights with traditional fishing communities and Buddhist temples. It’s got an exotic and majestic atmosphere about it, bringing in a myriad of visitors, from backpackers to All Inclusive Thailand holiday seekers.
As destinations of the month go, no place is more inviting than Thailand.
Thailand at a glance
Thailand is much more than a party capital. There’s history aplenty, with the country’s early inhabitants dating back 40,000 years.
Thailand’s early heritage was very much influenced by its Asian neighbour India, which can still be felt today. The Indian Emperor Ashoka brought with him deep Buddhist roots and today there are 40,717 Buddhist temples in Thailand, with 33,902 still in active use.
The architecture and structures of these places of worship are extremely diverse, and they’re some of the top places to visit in Thailand, for both spiritual and historical enjoyment.
Thailand’s got a lot going on for modern day visitors, and it’s not all situated in the capital of Bangkok.
Phuket is an island just off the south coast of Thailand that’s known for its glorious white sand beaches and lively nightlife in Patong. For a holiday away from the crowded cities visit either Khao Lak or Krabi and check out the beautiful national parks and some of the best shores in Thailand.
If you’re looking for an escape to the sunshine you couldn’t have found a better place. Thailand has a tropical climate and its summer period, March to June, can see highs of 40°C with extremely high humidity. If that’s a bit too hot for you, travel during November to February when temperatures range from 20°C to 32°C.
5 fun facts about Thailand
- Leonardo DiCaprio’s film ‘The Beach’ was shot on the stunning islands of Krabi, definitely the definition of a tropical paradise, with wild hidden beaches and lush jungles.
- Thailand is the only Southeast Asian country that wasn’t colonised by Europe. In fact the word ‘Thai’ means ‘land of the free’.
- Bangkok is the world’s most visited city, with almost 16 million visitors passing through its airports and ports each year.
- Siamese cats are native to Thailand and the country was actually known as Siam until 1939, and then again from 1945 to 1949.
- Thailand is home to about a tenth of all animal species on the planet. Including the smallest mammal in the world, the bumblebee bat, and the largest fish, the whale shark.
Things to do
The Grand Palace
Bangkok’s most famous destination, construction began on this majestic palace in 1782 and was the official residence of the Kings of Siam. Today it’s still used for official royal events and ceremonies and is open to the public as a museum. Don’t miss the Emerald Buddha, the largest reclining Buddha in Thailand.
The Golden Triangle
The Golden Triangle is a river point where Burma, Laos and Thailand meet. Hire a boat or look out over Thailand’s river bank for the once-in-a-lifetime views.
The Bridge Over the River Kwai
You might have read the book, or seen the epic war film that won seven Academy Awards. The Bridge Over the River Kwai was part of the Burma-Siam railway and can be found in Thailand’s Kanchanburi. The reminders of World War II history make it a chilling visit and an essential spot for any Thailand itinerary.
Sukhothai Historical Park
This historical park comprised several ruins of royal palaces as well as Buddhist temples, the city gates, walls, moats and a water dyke control system. It was once the capital of the Sukhothai kingdom in the 14th century and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Hire a bike and ride around this park taking in the historic monuments.
Wildlife Friends of Thailand
Visit this wildlife rescue centre to see how they care for injured and neglected animals and helps nurse them back to health in their wildlife hospital.
Essentially a sanctuary, they care for a variety of native animals including monkeys, gibbons, wild cats, bears and even elephants. They aim to rehabilitate them back in to the wild, and a day spent here will deepen your knowledge and love for these beautiful animals.
Deals
Here are some of our top money-saving deals on holidays to Thailand.
Arinara Bangtao Beach Resort
Just like the name says you’ll be right on the beach in this Phuket All Inclusive hotel. A large lagoon style pool takes centre stage, along with a swim-up bar for all your refreshment needs. Spend your days walking along the postcard worthy coastline, trying out the array of seafood restaurants or testing out your watersport skills with a surfing or paddleboard lesson.
https://www.holidayhypermarket.co.uk/details/42940/arinara-bangtao-beach-resort
Mai Khao Lak Beach Resort and Spa
For luxurious living without the luxury price tag head to this 4* hotel located on a unspoilt and sheltered beach. You can stay in your own private villa and enjoy a well deserved pampering in their health and beauty spa.
Relax, unwind and let yourself be spoiled with body scrubs, floral baths, steam rooms and saunas – you may never want to leave.
https://www.holidayhypermarket.co.uk/details/42266/mai-khao-lak-beach-resort-and-spa
Apasari Hotel Krabi
At Apasari Hotel Krabi you’re in the ideal location for an epic Thailand adventure, with just a 15-minute walk to both the bustling main street of Krabi and Ao Nang’s Beach. This hotel makes for a great base while sightseeing and sun tanning on the coastline.
You’ll be close enough to walk to all your destinations, but far enough away to get a quiet and restful night’s sleep.
https://www.holidayhypermarket.co.uk/details/43696/apasari-hotel-krabi
Ready to start planning your Asian adventure? Check out our Thailand travel guide for more information on this beautiful and culturally rich holiday destination.
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