Joanna James
As one of the best holiday hotspots to visit with friends, the Thai capital offers group travellers a plethora of fun activities. Here are some of the best things to do in Thailand with friends.
Featured in Hollywood blockbusters the likes of "The Beach" Thailand's pristine beach hotspots are the envy of the world. Offering friends and loved ones a stunning beachfront landscape to enjoy and experience the sun and the surf, some of the country's top beach holiday destinations include Pattaya and Koh Samui. It was Angthong Marine Park that served as the picture perfect backdrop for the Leonardo Dicaprio starring film. The area boasts not only one of the top beaches in the world but is also ideal for scuba diving and kayaking adventures. Trekking across the forests of thee mangrove laden islands and discovering its many natural wonders including waterfalls and cliffs or limestone can provide weeks of enjoyment to a group of travellers.
Nature lovers travelling together in Thailand should also take advantage of the diverse geographical landscapes occupying the country by signing up for hiking excursions. Chiang Rai is a must-visit highlight for avid hikers as it is where iconic trails which lead to Phu Chi Fa are found. A mere two hours away from the heart of Chiang Rai, the 30 minute hike transports visitors to a plateau where they can catch a spectacular sunrise and see as far as Myanmar and Laos on a clear day.
As a Thailand specialty, dancing the night away in a full moon party in Koh Phangan is a rite of passage for young groups of travellers vacationing in Thailand. Taking place on the beach of Haad Rin, a full moon party not only include thousands of revellers and DJ music but also fire dancers and other showcases by local performance artists. Known as the best way to grab a beer and party till the sun comes up, this unique night time party option is open to all who happen to be in Koh Phangan during the full moon each month.
Home to some of Asia's largest and most coveted retail highlights, a shopping experience in Bangkok is one that a group of travellers can get truly excited about when holidaying in Thailand. From Siam Paragon, MBK and Pantip Plaza to Gaysorn and CentralWorld, the choices are seemingly endless when it comes to department store havens and malls in the city. Those in search of a more eclectic shopping encounter should head to the Chatuchak weekend market, the Ladies Market or any of the countless night markets in Bangkok where one can haggle down the price of souvenirs and clothing to 40% of the original price.
No visit to Bangkok with your friends would be complete without touring the many temples and cultural attractions occupying the banks of the Chao Praya River. From the Grand Palace to the Temple of Dawn, Wat Pho and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the variety of iconic religious institutions and stunning Thai structures are truly worth the trip. What's more, you can easily visit each of these highlights by hopping on board and off the commuter boats ferrying visitors and locals to and fro. Culture buffs based in AVANI Khon Kaen Hotel & Convention Centre can also enjoy a temple tour of its many beautiful ancient edifices as its one of the best things to do in Khon Kaen.
The Mae Hong Son loop is not only a treat for nature enthusiasts but also for companions who love to bike together. The 600km long loop not only offers visitors the chance to explore the jungle and mountain landscapes of the area but also the beauty of pastoral Thailand.
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.
