Joanna James
From romantic escapes and artistic enclaves to cutting-edge adventure hubs and nature-kissed hideaways, Thailand is full of exhilaratingly moving experiences for every brand of wanderer. Here are some essential destinations to intimately discover in the Land of Smiles.
Thailand's theatrical Capital has the flamboyantly thrilling nuances of a theme park or ambient carnival and will take your senses by storm with a wild medley of experiences. From retro-chic avenues full of shoppable glamour and windswept tuk-tuk food tours for sampling the city's firework-worthy flavours to bijou night markets selling hand-painted sneakers and antique home décor, mesmerising epochal architecture at old-world summer palaces, and lush parks infused with heritage and contemporary aesthetics, Bangkok is a treat for any tribe of thrill-seeker!
A jungle-clad island oasis floating on jewel-blue seascape, Koh Samui is known to render the savviest globetrotters breathless with wonder with its serene coves, fascinating rock formations, and iridescent coral gardens. Perfect for any budget range and rich in Instagrammable moments, whether it's drinking in the majestic vistas of Ang Thong's marine park, kayaking across the gentle sapphire Koh Taen Bay, or hitting picturesque Fisherman's Village for a whirlwind of street stall soul food, vintage souvenir shopping, and quaint interactions with vibrant locals. From exhilarating rock-climbing expeditions and chasing crystalline tropical waterfalls to scooting through rustic rainforest-cloaked villages and leaping from Sail Rock into an exotic marine kingdom, Koh Samui is an irresistible blend of down-to-earth vivacity.
From bijou night markets, mouthwatering eat streets, and retro-chic settings to jet ski tours between gorgeous island gems, mysterious sea cave kayaking, and viewpoints carved into the sunset like Prometheus Cape, Phuket is a deliciously amphibious mosaic of land and sea enticements. Whether it's roaming the colourful tableau of Sino-Portuguese streets, swimming with the gentle giants at the ethically-conscious Green Elephant Sanctuary, or gorging on authentic local delicacies at Naka Weekend Market, Thailand's pulsing largest island harmonises free-spirited serenity. If you're looking for prime Phuket real estate close to its multitude of allurements, venture no further than those offered by the likes of Layan Residences by Anantara.
A utopia of wildlife-rich landscapes, moving historical landmarks, and elegant imperial ruins, Kanchanaburi is an idyllic place for discovering revolutionary remnants of Thailand's turbulent past that has irrevocably shaped its future. From Erawan National Park with its stalactite-riddled cave mazes, dazzling tiered waterfalls, and exotic fauna inhabitants to eye-opening war museums, recreated ancient villages, and the controversially iconic River Kwai Bridge, there is plenty of thought-provoking enticement in this charismatic microcosm.
While still Southeast Asia's most coveted beach getaway, Pattaya is more than rolling powdery beaches glistening with turquoise waves; whether its stunning European Renaissance-themed gardens embedded in a traditional Thai village, splash-worthy water parks, storybook coral isles, or quirky floating markets, this multi-faceted hotspot captivates in more ways than one.
Whether it's getting playfully competitive on a fun overwater obstacle course, plunging off a rope swing into waterfall pools, daunting hikes for Pinterest-perfect panoramas, or racing-long tail boats past majestic limestone architecture, this island brims with invigorating nature-kissed enchantments.
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.
