Joanna James
Thailand is an extremely cultural place that also has a modern, party going side to it. This can be very confusing to the visitors as they wouldn't know how to be, well here's a little help for you.
A typical Thailand trip begins in Bangkok and ends in a beach area of a Samui resort, but, before you rush out of Bangkok as soon as you land, slow down, stay in the city for a while and soak up its vibes before you take off. Also, don't try to fit in too much, you are a tourist, and nobody will hate you if you don't blend in with the natives.
This country does not lack impressive temples; you can find them in all sizes and colours in any part of Thailand. The most sought after temples are Wat Pho, Wat Phra Kaeo, and Wat Phra Si Sanphet. Extravagant architecture, vivid colours, and religion are what Thailand culture is all about.
Even if you are staying at a place that offers excellent dining services, like Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort, step out to the streets once in a while and taste the amazing food served at the street food stalls. Look for the shop with the biggest crowd as this means the food runs out soon and therefore, the food you get will be freshly made and not leftovers from the day before.
Being a tropical country, Thailand has so many mosquitoes that you have to be armed with a repellent at all times. Take precautions in denser areas like jungles and near lakes as these mosquitoes can be carrying a variety of diseases, anything from dengue to malaria.
A haven for shopaholics, Thailand has many places to choose from, if a shopping spree is what you are craving for. Be aware of what you are buying though, Thailand is also famous for duplicate products of every brand in the world. Bargaining skills are essential if you don't like being ripped off when shopping at the markets here, as a good haggler can bring the price down to a half of what it was quoted before. The best markets to go to are Chatuchak Weekend Market, Tha Kha Floating Market and Chiang Mai's Night Bazaar.
A backpacker's dream destination, Thailand has everything from bed and breakfasts to luxury resorts that make you feel like royalty. You can choose from a variety of great places to stay at regardless of which part of Thailand you are visiting.
Every tourist country has its share of scammers, the people who are waiting to take you for a ride and getting as much money off of you as they can. Don't follow friendly stranger anywhere, and certainly never just hire a tour guide on the streets of Thailand. If you are getting into a tuk tuk, always agree upon a rate before you get in, and try to use vehicles that have a taximeter in them.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
