Thailand

“Sawadee krap” – you will hear it often and it means hello in Thai. Additionally, their prhases represent the gender speaking, so this is what you say if you are a man. However, if you are a woman you say, “sawadee ka”. I’ve been to Thailand on two separate trips. First, my brother and I went with to Northern Thailand and Laos. Second, I went with my wife, brother and sister in law to Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia. Keep reading for the Best Things to Do in Thailand.

Bangkok

If you fly into Thailand, there is a good chance that it will be into Bangkok’s airport. Also, Bangkok is the largest city in Thailand and is more than just backpackers and nightlife, although those things are there. However, there are a lot historic and cultural things to do in Bangkok as well.

Additionally, I think it is fun to do some “normal” things, like go to the mall or see a movie, just to experience how they are different. For instance, we saw Twilight 3 – Eclipse while we were there. However, before every movie, they play the national anthem and everyone stands up.

Some of the sites we visited include:

• The Grand Palace (in detail below)
• Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
• Wat Pho Thai (golden reclining Buddha)
• Wat Benchamabophit (Marble Temple)
• Vinanmek Mansion (permanently closed)
• Khaosan Road (backpacker nightlife)
• Chatuchak Market (giant weekend market)

The Grand Palace in Bangkok

The Grand Palace is a must visit. Additionally, it is very large and will a solid few hours to visit.

Also, within the Grand Palace grounds is Wat Phra Kaew, which houses the famous Emerald Buddha.

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is the second largest city in Thailand. It has its own culture and cuisine. There are numerous Thai cooking classes offered here and treks into the north-western border with Myanmar.

We visited the following sights during our visit:

• Wat Phra That Doi Suthep (and Naga stairway)
• Wat Chedi Luang
• Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan
• Royal Park Rajapruek
• Old Chiangmai Cultural Center

Chiang Rai

We did not spend a whole lot of time in Chiang Rai, but used it for a jumping off point to take a boat trip down the Mekong through Laos. However, we did purchase some local art, talked with the artist and he insisted we get a picture with him.

Nong Khai & Sala Keoku

If you take the Mekong River from Chiang Rai through Laos, you will end up back in Thailand at Nong Khai. The city has a wonderful sculpture garde, Sala Keoku.

Additionally, we rented motorbikes in Nong Khai and drove the couple hour drive up to Wat Phu Tok (described below). However, it is definitely “off the beaten path” and you will encounter a lot less people who speak English.

Wat Phu Tok

Wat Phu Tok is definitely an adventure. It is a temple and a series of bridges/walkways built into the side of the cliff face. Also, we rented motorbikes to do the drive to Wat Phu Tok. However, make sure to bring sunscreen, because no one sells it outside of the big cities.

Additionally, when we went, I remember there being some story that the 7 levels of Wat Phu Tok represent the 7 levels of enlightenment (or something along those lines). Regardless, it is a place of immense beauty and wonder. 

Thai Beaches

I’ve been to Thailand on two separate trips and somehow I’ve never made it to Thailand’s amazing beaches! However, my brother and his wife went before we met up with them so I’ve included a couple of their photos.

Also, some popular beaches/islands/towns include:

• Pattaya
• Koh Samui
• Phuket Island
• Phi Phi Islands