Expenses- Currency Thai baht
DAILY COSTSBUDGET (up to)
1000B
MIDRANGE
1000–3000B
TOP END (more than)
3000B
The basic unit of Thai currency is the baht. There are 100 satang in one baht; coins include 25-satang and 50-satang pieces and baht in 1B, 2B, 5B and 10B coins. Older coins have Thai numerals only, while newer coins have Thai and Arabic numerals. The 2B coin is similar in size to the 1B coin but it is gold in colour. The two satang coins are typically only issued at supermarkets where prices aren’t rounded up to the nearest baht.
Paper currency is issued in the following denominations: 20B (green), 50B (blue), 100B (red), 500B (purple) and 1000B (beige).
Tipping
Other traveling info-
Non-Immigrant Visas
The Non-Immigrant Visa is good for 90 days and is intended for foreigners entering the country for business, study, retirement and extended family visits. There are multiple-entry visas available in this visa class. If you plan to apply for a Thai work permit, you’ll need to possess a Non-Immigrant Visa first.
Thailand’s Immigration Offices
The following are two immigration offices where visa extensions and other formalities can be addressed. Remember to dress in your Sunday best when doing official business in Thailand and do all visa business yourself (don’t hire a third party). For all types of visa extensions, bring along two passport-sized photos and one copy each of the photo and visa pages of your passport.
The Thai government allows entry to 55 different nationalities, including those from Australia, New Zealand, the USA and most of Europe without prior visa arrangements for a set period of time. Some Eastern Europeans, Indians and Chinese qualify for a visa on arrival valid for 15 days, though talks are under way to allow Chinese visa exemptions. ASEAN countries are moving towards visa-waiving programs.
For most Western nationalities arriving in the kingdom by air, a 30-day visa is issued without a fee. For those arriving via a land border, the arrival visa is 15 days. Some countries (including Brazil, South Korea, Argentina, Chile and Peru) receive a 90-day free visa at all borders.
Without proof of an onward ticket and sufficient funds for one’s projected stay any visitor can be denied entry, but in practice this is a formality that is rarely checked.
If you plan to stay in Thailand longer than 30 days (or 15 days for land arrivals), you should apply for the 60-day Tourist Visa from a Thai consulate or embassy before your trip. Contact the nearest Thai embassy or consulate to obtain application procedures and determine fees for tourist visas.
Visa Extensions & Renewals
If you decide you want to stay longer than the allotted time, you can extend your visa by applying at any immigration office in Thailand. The usual fee for a visa extension is 1900B. Those issued with a standard stay of 15 or 30 days can extend their stay for seven to 10 days (depending on the immigration office) if the extension is handled before the visa expires. The 60-day tourist visa can be extended by up to 30 days at the discretion of Thai immigration authorities.
Another visa-renewal option is to cross a land border. A new 15-day visa will be issued upon your return and some short-term visitors make a day trip out of the ‘visa run’.
If you overstay your visa, the usual penalty is a fine of 500B per day, with a 20,000B limit. Fines can be paid at the airport or in advance at an immigration office. If you’ve overstayed only one day, you don’t have to pay. Children under 14 travelling with a parent do not have to pay the penalty.
Foreign residents in Thailand should arrange visa extensions at the immigration office closest to their in-country address.
People-
80% of the population of Thailand consists of ethnic Thais. Roughly 10% of the population is Chinese, with Malays adding an additional 4% to the blend. Most speak Thai.
Lao, Mon, Khmers, Indians, and Burmese make up a smaller percentage, while numerous ethnic hill tribes, inhabiting the mountainous border areas in the north of the country, are rarely included in population figures due to a lack of the necessary paperwork.
Thais greet each other with a prayer-like gesture called a Wai. Generally, a younger person Wais an older person, who will then return it. Thais address each other (and usually foreigners) by their first names (which is also how they are listed in the telephone directory followed by their family name) This is prefixed by the polite word Khun. Public displays of affection, shouting and wild gesticulation are to be avoided as they are considered impolite.
The head is considered the highest part of the body, while the feet are considered the lowest, both literally and figuratively. Touching someone's head or pointing at people or things with the feet are, therefore, considered extremely rude. As with entering temples, shoes are removed before entering somebody's home.
Climate/Weather-
Best time to visit:
The weather in Thailand is generally very hot, particularly between March and May. The monsoon season runs from June to October, when the climate is still hot and humid with torrential rains. The best time for travelling is November to February (cool season), although the southern islands are best from June to September.
Required clothing:
Lightweights and rainwear are advised.
GeographyThailand is bordered to the west by Myanmar and the Indian Ocean, to the south and east by Malaysia and the Gulf of Thailand, to the east by Cambodia, and to the north and east by Laos. Central Thailand is dominated by the Chao Phraya River.
Art/Music-
MusicThailand is a musical and artistic nation. But don't expect there to be the same kind of music or appreciation for art or sophistication of cultural activities as there are in the West.
However, there is a wealth of local folk music and jazz. The 50's & 60's music is still very popular here. And there are regular visits from top stars to Thailand - Lady Gaga, Sting, Sacred Love, Russel Peters, Eric Clapton, Eagles, Santana, JYJ, L'Arc-en-Ciel, Scorpions, Dream Theater, Maroon Five and Avenged Sevenfold.
In Chiang Mai, there are several music schools and colleges and classical music enthusiasts who put on concerts a few times every month.
In Bangkok, there are many performers from the universities, as well as the Bangkok Symphony Orchestra (who tend to play more popular classical music), as well as regular concerts organized by various cultural groups.
The Asia International Guitar Festival and Competition is held every year in June, along with The Thailand Mozart International Piano Competition. And there's usually a Jazz festival in Hua Hin about the same time (although last year it was cancelled and this year it was a bit of a damp squib). The German Goethe Institute in Bangkok puts on regular classical music recitals. There are a number of serious amateur classical music enthusiasts who arrange recitals by leading international performers, usually once a month, both in Bangkok and Chiang Mai.
The Bangkok Symphony Orchestra puts on free concerts in Lumpini Park. It's usually fairly light, popular music of course.
Chamber music is quite popular also.
There are jazz clubs and guitar and rock groups playing live in pubs and restaurants hidden away in secret venues. At least it seems that way, because on the surface there doesn't seem to be much on - we don't have the equivalent of Time Out that lists every single event in the city. You have to be 'in the know' - either by subscribing to the various arts & music newsletters, or have some Thai friends introduce you to the hot spots. Most of the 5-star hotels will have a resident singer or jazz band that plays every night in the lobby.
Stand up comedy is very popular in Thailand - some English pubs put on acts at various times; but there are several Thai comedians who have become household names, such as Note Udom (but you have to understand Thai to quite an advance level to understand the humor).
As for theater, plays are put on several times a year by amateur theatrical groups such as Bangkok Community Theatre. They usually put on quite humorous performances, such as The Mikado by Gilbert and Sullivan, or The Importance of Being Earnest, or Puss in Boots. I'm always suprised by how good they are, considering they're all amateurs drawn from the expats who happen to be in town that year!
You will not find much in the way of serious, experimental theatre - or ballet or opera. There is only one opera company, and that's in Bangkok and I'm not sure how often they have performances. There are a few ballet and dance schools, mostly for young children - I haven't heard of any performances, other than those for the traditional ballet, known as Ram Thai. These are highly elaborate dance pieces with strange oriental music and incomprehensible plots (not unlike European ballet and opera libretti!) You can usually see Ram Thai performces just before the Muay Thai fights.
Muay Thai is a very popular spectator sport, elevated almost to an art form. The fighters train daily in local gyms and their only income is when they win in a fight and even then it isn't usually much. The only way to win is to knock out your opponent. They certainly pull no punches! And it takes a lot to bring a fighter down. It's a very entertaining blood sport.
ArtArt is huge in Thailand. It's just mostly hidden. There aren't huge public galleries with famous collections. You have to know people in the art world to discover what's happening and who's doing what.
Every second Thai person is an artist it seems - and many of them are really good. You will find many, many (mostly private) art galleries, displaying the works of Thai, Chinese, Burmese and Vietnamese artists. Less sophisticated yet highly attractive original art can also be found in the street markets, probably the only public outlet of secret or hard-to-find one-man art studios.
It's not just paintings. You can find beautiful wooden carvings and bronze and stone sculptures. A good not-so-well-known center for art and sculpture is River City in Bangkok, several floors of store upon store selling antiques and modern works from throughout the region. There's also a garden of statues on the roof.
Attractions- (Top 10)
1 Railay Beach
Krabi province is home to some of Thailand's most famous beach destinations, and Railay is the cream of the crop. Widely considered one of the best beaches in the country, Railay delivers on promises of white sand beaches, clear blue water, and a feeling that you've found a slice of paradise. You have to take a boat to reach the island getaway, with services available from Krabi town and Ao Nang.
The beaches are the main reason to visit Railay, but it's also a rock-climbing hotspot. Railay's karst peaks draw adventurers both experienced and novice to try their hand at climbing the towering limestone cliffs. Among the many other active things to do, you can go elephant trekking, whitewater rafting, kayaking, and snorkeling, or take on some lighter options such as cooking classes and indulging in a massage. There's also the tourist-friendly Diamond Cave, with a convenient walkway to accommodate curious visitors looking to do some exploring between stretches of sunbathing.
2 Koh Phi Phi
The Phi Phi Islands, also in Krabi, are one of Thailand's most popular resort areas for a reason. Only Phi Phi Don is inhabited, with day trips available to the surrounding islands. One of the fun spots on Koh Phi Phi is Monkey Beach, where you'll come face-to-face, literally, with the namesake creatures. You can hire a guide to take you out on a small wooden boat or rent your own kayak. There's also a small stand where you can buy snacks and fruit shakes, but hang onto your treats. If you leave them unguarded, the monkeys will brazenly dig in and chow down right in front of you. Long Beach is another nice spot on the island; it's not a secluded place, but is great for watching the sunset. If you're lucky and the tide is out, it's a beautiful walk back toward the main part of the island.
Tour operators offer packages for snorkeling and diving trips, as well as excursions to the infamous Maya Bay, where the Leonardo DiCaprio movie The Beach was filmed. Because Koh Phi Phi draws so many tourists, there are plenty of tour companies arranging tickets to other beach destinations, such as Phuket, Koh Chang, and Koh Lanta. Though you would hardly know to see it now, Phi Phi Don was one of the areas hit hard by the 2004 tsunami. Guesthouses, restaurants, and markets have been rebuilt and crowds still come in droves to the resort island. There is a small, somber memorial park to honor those who died in the tragedy, yet the resort areas appear otherwise revived.
3 The Grand Palace, Bangkok
Even if your plans for Thailand mainly involve frolicking on a beach, cozying up to elephants, and eating as much Massaman curry and tom ka gai as humanly possible, you'll probably spend at least a day or two in Bangkok. There's plenty to see and do in the capital, but it's perhaps best to start with the Grand Palace. This is the number one sightseeing attraction in the city, and it's staggering in historical significance and craftsmanship. The grounds are a maze of royal halls, temples, and ancient relics, the most important being Wat Phra Kaeo, Temple of the Emerald Buddha. A relic within this temple is said to be a piece of bone or hair from the enlightened Buddha himself. Allow several hours to do the Grand Palace justice, but if you're up for more walking afterward, you can easily take in some of the city's other major landmarks. The famousWat Po and Wat Arun, the Temple of the Dawn (a great place to watch the sunset), are also nearby. And as Bangkok is a main hub for international travel, it's a great starting point for excursions throughout the country.
4 Sunday Walking Street, Chiang Mai
Every Thailand visitor looks forward to cheap and delicious food, and it can be found in abundance at Chiang Mai's Sunday Night Walking Street. Vendors sell all kinds of treats: pad Thai, chicken satay, samosas, crab cakes, fried bananas, sweet rotees, and fresh fruit shakes - often for less than $2 a piece. When you've satisfied your culinary cravings, you can peruse hundreds of stalls selling an array of unique goods such as all-natural soaps, hand-dyed textiles bearing the unique patterns of local hill tribes, incense and essential oils, musical instruments, paintings, wall hangings, and more.
The market gets crowded every week without fail, no matter what time of year you're visiting, so brace yourself and try to enjoy being part of the throng. This is a must-do in Chiang Mai, and is an essential part of the Thailand experience. If you're not around for the Sunday market, or just want to get a taste of other market experiences in Chiang Mai, check out the Saturday Night Walking Street or the Night Bazaar on Chang Klan Road, a daily event. For something less touristy, check out the daytime Warorot Market, near Mae Ping River.
5 Pai
Thailand's reputation as a country of beautiful landscapes and friendly people is thanks largely to the world-renowned southern beaches. Most people don't realize that the vast north is also home to breathtaking landscapes, though these are of a different nature entirely. Northern Thailand, particularly the western region near the Burmese border, is marked by mountainous jungle terrain that is both rugged and beautiful. Pai, in Mae Hong Son province, is a perfect place from which to enjoy the country's natural beauty as well as the famed Thai hospitality and cooking. This small town has developed a reputation as a mecca for hippies and backpackers, though you will see locals and families here as well. There is a small nightly walking street market, a variety of local and Western foods, and easy access to nearby temples, waterfalls, and the impressive Pai canyon. There is an air of cheerfulness and relaxation as you walk through the tiny town center, and it is this vibe that continues to draw crowds season after season.
6 Khao Yai National Park
Elephants are revered in Thailand, and statues and paintings of them can be seen everywhere you go. There are many tour groups and elephant camps throughout the country allowing you to spend a day or more with the creatures, trekking through the jungle, bathing them, and even getting to help out with their morning feedings. But perhaps more exciting is the chance to see them in their natural environment, and Khao Yai National Park provides a great opportunity to do just that. You'll see elephants roaming near waterfalls, exotic birds of prey, monkeys, and plenty of other tropical creatures that call the park home. If a one-day stay isn't enough to take it all in, it's possible to camp out at the park and get up early enough to watch the sunrise over the lush landscape.
7 Sukhothai Old City
This is a favorite stop for history buffs and photography enthusiasts, as there are many lovely photo ops in this ancient capital of Thailand. Ruins of this old city still stand proud despite enduring centuries of battle and exposure to the elements. Sukhothai's Old City is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and much has been invested to restore and preserve one of Thailand's most significant historical sites. Attractions here include many wats, which speak to the country's long history of Buddhist devotion. Each structure tells its own story of the old society, with relics and influences from other ancient civilizations appearing in the design of each.
8 Historic City of Ayutthaya
Ayutthaya presents a glimpse into the glory of ancient Thailand, where visitors can wander the haunting but romantic ruins of the former capital. After the Sukhothai period, the city was the most important in Thailand, and the old palaces and temples stand as a testament to this. There are also several foreign settlements, where you can gain a greater understanding of the influence other countries had in Thailand at the time. Ayutthaya is located only a short bus trip or train ride from Bangkok, making it convenient for a day trip if you're pressed for time. If you're on a more leisurely schedule, plan on spending a few days in the ancient capital and rent a push-bike to tour both the old city and the new.
9 Doi Suthep
Perhaps the best-known wat in Chiang Mai sits atop Doi Suthep, a mountain overlooking Thailand's northern rose of a city. In a crowd of monks, devout Buddhist followers, and fellow travelers, you'll have a chance to marvel at intricate religious carvings, observe worship rituals, and gaze out over the ever-growing sprawl of Chiang Mai city. Just be sure to bring a bottle of water and your walking shoes - the staircase to the temple is steep. At the base of the stairs, vendors hawk everything from tasty local treats to goods handmade by villagers from the surrounding mountains. There's also a shop selling masks, elephant carvings, and home furnishings so you can do some shopping while recovering from the trek up and down the stairs.
You can combine your trip to Doi Suthep with excursions to Doi Pui, a small Hmong village in the mountains. It's far more touristy than other villages, but if you're on a tight schedule, this will give you a taste of Hmong culture and a chance to learn more about the hill tribe communities in the region, not to mention purchase some beautiful hand-woven textiles. The Bhubing Palace, open to tourists, is on the way to Doi Pui from Doi Suthep as well.
10 Floating Markets
A visit to one of the floating markets is a fun way to do some shopping and eating while supporting local vendors and observing local commerce in action. Some do seem to cater more to the tourist crowds than to be part of the fabric of local Thais' daily lives, but there are others that make for a nice authentic travel experience. You'll need to get up early to visit a floating market, as vendors are out in their long wooden boats first thing in the morning with their goods, fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, and tasty dishes.
There are several floating markets near Bangkok, Amphawa and Damnoen Saduak being among the most popular. You can go it alone or join a guided tour, which can include visits to local houses and shops.
DAILY COSTSBUDGET (up to)
1000B
- Basic guesthouse room: 300–800B
- Market and street stall meal: 40–60B
- One beer: 100B
- Get-around town with public transport: 20–50B
MIDRANGE
1000–3000B
- Flashpacker guesthouse or midrange hotel room: 800–1500B
- Western lunches and seafood dinner: 150–350B
- Organised tour or activity: 1000–1500B
- Motorbike hire: 300–500B
TOP END (more than)
3000B
- Boutique hotel room: 3000B
- Fine dining: 350–500B
- Private tours: 1500B
- Car hire: 1500B
The basic unit of Thai currency is the baht. There are 100 satang in one baht; coins include 25-satang and 50-satang pieces and baht in 1B, 2B, 5B and 10B coins. Older coins have Thai numerals only, while newer coins have Thai and Arabic numerals. The 2B coin is similar in size to the 1B coin but it is gold in colour. The two satang coins are typically only issued at supermarkets where prices aren’t rounded up to the nearest baht.
Paper currency is issued in the following denominations: 20B (green), 50B (blue), 100B (red), 500B (purple) and 1000B (beige).
Tipping
- Tipping is not standard but it is appreciated. If there is a small bit of change from a restaurant bill or metered taxi fare, it is common to offer it as a tip.
Other traveling info-
Non-Immigrant Visas
The Non-Immigrant Visa is good for 90 days and is intended for foreigners entering the country for business, study, retirement and extended family visits. There are multiple-entry visas available in this visa class. If you plan to apply for a Thai work permit, you’ll need to possess a Non-Immigrant Visa first.
Thailand’s Immigration Offices
The following are two immigration offices where visa extensions and other formalities can be addressed. Remember to dress in your Sunday best when doing official business in Thailand and do all visa business yourself (don’t hire a third party). For all types of visa extensions, bring along two passport-sized photos and one copy each of the photo and visa pages of your passport.
Bangkok immigration office
Chiang Mai immigration office
The Thai government allows entry to 55 different nationalities, including those from Australia, New Zealand, the USA and most of Europe without prior visa arrangements for a set period of time. Some Eastern Europeans, Indians and Chinese qualify for a visa on arrival valid for 15 days, though talks are under way to allow Chinese visa exemptions. ASEAN countries are moving towards visa-waiving programs.
For most Western nationalities arriving in the kingdom by air, a 30-day visa is issued without a fee. For those arriving via a land border, the arrival visa is 15 days. Some countries (including Brazil, South Korea, Argentina, Chile and Peru) receive a 90-day free visa at all borders.
Without proof of an onward ticket and sufficient funds for one’s projected stay any visitor can be denied entry, but in practice this is a formality that is rarely checked.
If you plan to stay in Thailand longer than 30 days (or 15 days for land arrivals), you should apply for the 60-day Tourist Visa from a Thai consulate or embassy before your trip. Contact the nearest Thai embassy or consulate to obtain application procedures and determine fees for tourist visas.
Visa Extensions & Renewals
If you decide you want to stay longer than the allotted time, you can extend your visa by applying at any immigration office in Thailand. The usual fee for a visa extension is 1900B. Those issued with a standard stay of 15 or 30 days can extend their stay for seven to 10 days (depending on the immigration office) if the extension is handled before the visa expires. The 60-day tourist visa can be extended by up to 30 days at the discretion of Thai immigration authorities.
Another visa-renewal option is to cross a land border. A new 15-day visa will be issued upon your return and some short-term visitors make a day trip out of the ‘visa run’.
If you overstay your visa, the usual penalty is a fine of 500B per day, with a 20,000B limit. Fines can be paid at the airport or in advance at an immigration office. If you’ve overstayed only one day, you don’t have to pay. Children under 14 travelling with a parent do not have to pay the penalty.
Foreign residents in Thailand should arrange visa extensions at the immigration office closest to their in-country address.
People-
80% of the population of Thailand consists of ethnic Thais. Roughly 10% of the population is Chinese, with Malays adding an additional 4% to the blend. Most speak Thai.
Lao, Mon, Khmers, Indians, and Burmese make up a smaller percentage, while numerous ethnic hill tribes, inhabiting the mountainous border areas in the north of the country, are rarely included in population figures due to a lack of the necessary paperwork.
Thais greet each other with a prayer-like gesture called a Wai. Generally, a younger person Wais an older person, who will then return it. Thais address each other (and usually foreigners) by their first names (which is also how they are listed in the telephone directory followed by their family name) This is prefixed by the polite word Khun. Public displays of affection, shouting and wild gesticulation are to be avoided as they are considered impolite.
The head is considered the highest part of the body, while the feet are considered the lowest, both literally and figuratively. Touching someone's head or pointing at people or things with the feet are, therefore, considered extremely rude. As with entering temples, shoes are removed before entering somebody's home.
Climate/Weather-
Best time to visit:
The weather in Thailand is generally very hot, particularly between March and May. The monsoon season runs from June to October, when the climate is still hot and humid with torrential rains. The best time for travelling is November to February (cool season), although the southern islands are best from June to September.
Required clothing:
Lightweights and rainwear are advised.
GeographyThailand is bordered to the west by Myanmar and the Indian Ocean, to the south and east by Malaysia and the Gulf of Thailand, to the east by Cambodia, and to the north and east by Laos. Central Thailand is dominated by the Chao Phraya River.
Art/Music-
MusicThailand is a musical and artistic nation. But don't expect there to be the same kind of music or appreciation for art or sophistication of cultural activities as there are in the West.
However, there is a wealth of local folk music and jazz. The 50's & 60's music is still very popular here. And there are regular visits from top stars to Thailand - Lady Gaga, Sting, Sacred Love, Russel Peters, Eric Clapton, Eagles, Santana, JYJ, L'Arc-en-Ciel, Scorpions, Dream Theater, Maroon Five and Avenged Sevenfold.
In Chiang Mai, there are several music schools and colleges and classical music enthusiasts who put on concerts a few times every month.
In Bangkok, there are many performers from the universities, as well as the Bangkok Symphony Orchestra (who tend to play more popular classical music), as well as regular concerts organized by various cultural groups.
The Asia International Guitar Festival and Competition is held every year in June, along with The Thailand Mozart International Piano Competition. And there's usually a Jazz festival in Hua Hin about the same time (although last year it was cancelled and this year it was a bit of a damp squib). The German Goethe Institute in Bangkok puts on regular classical music recitals. There are a number of serious amateur classical music enthusiasts who arrange recitals by leading international performers, usually once a month, both in Bangkok and Chiang Mai.
The Bangkok Symphony Orchestra puts on free concerts in Lumpini Park. It's usually fairly light, popular music of course.
Chamber music is quite popular also.
There are jazz clubs and guitar and rock groups playing live in pubs and restaurants hidden away in secret venues. At least it seems that way, because on the surface there doesn't seem to be much on - we don't have the equivalent of Time Out that lists every single event in the city. You have to be 'in the know' - either by subscribing to the various arts & music newsletters, or have some Thai friends introduce you to the hot spots. Most of the 5-star hotels will have a resident singer or jazz band that plays every night in the lobby.
Stand up comedy is very popular in Thailand - some English pubs put on acts at various times; but there are several Thai comedians who have become household names, such as Note Udom (but you have to understand Thai to quite an advance level to understand the humor).
As for theater, plays are put on several times a year by amateur theatrical groups such as Bangkok Community Theatre. They usually put on quite humorous performances, such as The Mikado by Gilbert and Sullivan, or The Importance of Being Earnest, or Puss in Boots. I'm always suprised by how good they are, considering they're all amateurs drawn from the expats who happen to be in town that year!
You will not find much in the way of serious, experimental theatre - or ballet or opera. There is only one opera company, and that's in Bangkok and I'm not sure how often they have performances. There are a few ballet and dance schools, mostly for young children - I haven't heard of any performances, other than those for the traditional ballet, known as Ram Thai. These are highly elaborate dance pieces with strange oriental music and incomprehensible plots (not unlike European ballet and opera libretti!) You can usually see Ram Thai performces just before the Muay Thai fights.
Muay Thai is a very popular spectator sport, elevated almost to an art form. The fighters train daily in local gyms and their only income is when they win in a fight and even then it isn't usually much. The only way to win is to knock out your opponent. They certainly pull no punches! And it takes a lot to bring a fighter down. It's a very entertaining blood sport.
ArtArt is huge in Thailand. It's just mostly hidden. There aren't huge public galleries with famous collections. You have to know people in the art world to discover what's happening and who's doing what.
Every second Thai person is an artist it seems - and many of them are really good. You will find many, many (mostly private) art galleries, displaying the works of Thai, Chinese, Burmese and Vietnamese artists. Less sophisticated yet highly attractive original art can also be found in the street markets, probably the only public outlet of secret or hard-to-find one-man art studios.
It's not just paintings. You can find beautiful wooden carvings and bronze and stone sculptures. A good not-so-well-known center for art and sculpture is River City in Bangkok, several floors of store upon store selling antiques and modern works from throughout the region. There's also a garden of statues on the roof.
Attractions- (Top 10)
1 Railay Beach
Krabi province is home to some of Thailand's most famous beach destinations, and Railay is the cream of the crop. Widely considered one of the best beaches in the country, Railay delivers on promises of white sand beaches, clear blue water, and a feeling that you've found a slice of paradise. You have to take a boat to reach the island getaway, with services available from Krabi town and Ao Nang.
The beaches are the main reason to visit Railay, but it's also a rock-climbing hotspot. Railay's karst peaks draw adventurers both experienced and novice to try their hand at climbing the towering limestone cliffs. Among the many other active things to do, you can go elephant trekking, whitewater rafting, kayaking, and snorkeling, or take on some lighter options such as cooking classes and indulging in a massage. There's also the tourist-friendly Diamond Cave, with a convenient walkway to accommodate curious visitors looking to do some exploring between stretches of sunbathing.
2 Koh Phi Phi
The Phi Phi Islands, also in Krabi, are one of Thailand's most popular resort areas for a reason. Only Phi Phi Don is inhabited, with day trips available to the surrounding islands. One of the fun spots on Koh Phi Phi is Monkey Beach, where you'll come face-to-face, literally, with the namesake creatures. You can hire a guide to take you out on a small wooden boat or rent your own kayak. There's also a small stand where you can buy snacks and fruit shakes, but hang onto your treats. If you leave them unguarded, the monkeys will brazenly dig in and chow down right in front of you. Long Beach is another nice spot on the island; it's not a secluded place, but is great for watching the sunset. If you're lucky and the tide is out, it's a beautiful walk back toward the main part of the island.
Tour operators offer packages for snorkeling and diving trips, as well as excursions to the infamous Maya Bay, where the Leonardo DiCaprio movie The Beach was filmed. Because Koh Phi Phi draws so many tourists, there are plenty of tour companies arranging tickets to other beach destinations, such as Phuket, Koh Chang, and Koh Lanta. Though you would hardly know to see it now, Phi Phi Don was one of the areas hit hard by the 2004 tsunami. Guesthouses, restaurants, and markets have been rebuilt and crowds still come in droves to the resort island. There is a small, somber memorial park to honor those who died in the tragedy, yet the resort areas appear otherwise revived.
3 The Grand Palace, Bangkok
Even if your plans for Thailand mainly involve frolicking on a beach, cozying up to elephants, and eating as much Massaman curry and tom ka gai as humanly possible, you'll probably spend at least a day or two in Bangkok. There's plenty to see and do in the capital, but it's perhaps best to start with the Grand Palace. This is the number one sightseeing attraction in the city, and it's staggering in historical significance and craftsmanship. The grounds are a maze of royal halls, temples, and ancient relics, the most important being Wat Phra Kaeo, Temple of the Emerald Buddha. A relic within this temple is said to be a piece of bone or hair from the enlightened Buddha himself. Allow several hours to do the Grand Palace justice, but if you're up for more walking afterward, you can easily take in some of the city's other major landmarks. The famousWat Po and Wat Arun, the Temple of the Dawn (a great place to watch the sunset), are also nearby. And as Bangkok is a main hub for international travel, it's a great starting point for excursions throughout the country.
4 Sunday Walking Street, Chiang Mai
Every Thailand visitor looks forward to cheap and delicious food, and it can be found in abundance at Chiang Mai's Sunday Night Walking Street. Vendors sell all kinds of treats: pad Thai, chicken satay, samosas, crab cakes, fried bananas, sweet rotees, and fresh fruit shakes - often for less than $2 a piece. When you've satisfied your culinary cravings, you can peruse hundreds of stalls selling an array of unique goods such as all-natural soaps, hand-dyed textiles bearing the unique patterns of local hill tribes, incense and essential oils, musical instruments, paintings, wall hangings, and more.
The market gets crowded every week without fail, no matter what time of year you're visiting, so brace yourself and try to enjoy being part of the throng. This is a must-do in Chiang Mai, and is an essential part of the Thailand experience. If you're not around for the Sunday market, or just want to get a taste of other market experiences in Chiang Mai, check out the Saturday Night Walking Street or the Night Bazaar on Chang Klan Road, a daily event. For something less touristy, check out the daytime Warorot Market, near Mae Ping River.
5 Pai
Thailand's reputation as a country of beautiful landscapes and friendly people is thanks largely to the world-renowned southern beaches. Most people don't realize that the vast north is also home to breathtaking landscapes, though these are of a different nature entirely. Northern Thailand, particularly the western region near the Burmese border, is marked by mountainous jungle terrain that is both rugged and beautiful. Pai, in Mae Hong Son province, is a perfect place from which to enjoy the country's natural beauty as well as the famed Thai hospitality and cooking. This small town has developed a reputation as a mecca for hippies and backpackers, though you will see locals and families here as well. There is a small nightly walking street market, a variety of local and Western foods, and easy access to nearby temples, waterfalls, and the impressive Pai canyon. There is an air of cheerfulness and relaxation as you walk through the tiny town center, and it is this vibe that continues to draw crowds season after season.
6 Khao Yai National Park
Elephants are revered in Thailand, and statues and paintings of them can be seen everywhere you go. There are many tour groups and elephant camps throughout the country allowing you to spend a day or more with the creatures, trekking through the jungle, bathing them, and even getting to help out with their morning feedings. But perhaps more exciting is the chance to see them in their natural environment, and Khao Yai National Park provides a great opportunity to do just that. You'll see elephants roaming near waterfalls, exotic birds of prey, monkeys, and plenty of other tropical creatures that call the park home. If a one-day stay isn't enough to take it all in, it's possible to camp out at the park and get up early enough to watch the sunrise over the lush landscape.
7 Sukhothai Old City
This is a favorite stop for history buffs and photography enthusiasts, as there are many lovely photo ops in this ancient capital of Thailand. Ruins of this old city still stand proud despite enduring centuries of battle and exposure to the elements. Sukhothai's Old City is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and much has been invested to restore and preserve one of Thailand's most significant historical sites. Attractions here include many wats, which speak to the country's long history of Buddhist devotion. Each structure tells its own story of the old society, with relics and influences from other ancient civilizations appearing in the design of each.
8 Historic City of Ayutthaya
Ayutthaya presents a glimpse into the glory of ancient Thailand, where visitors can wander the haunting but romantic ruins of the former capital. After the Sukhothai period, the city was the most important in Thailand, and the old palaces and temples stand as a testament to this. There are also several foreign settlements, where you can gain a greater understanding of the influence other countries had in Thailand at the time. Ayutthaya is located only a short bus trip or train ride from Bangkok, making it convenient for a day trip if you're pressed for time. If you're on a more leisurely schedule, plan on spending a few days in the ancient capital and rent a push-bike to tour both the old city and the new.
9 Doi Suthep
Perhaps the best-known wat in Chiang Mai sits atop Doi Suthep, a mountain overlooking Thailand's northern rose of a city. In a crowd of monks, devout Buddhist followers, and fellow travelers, you'll have a chance to marvel at intricate religious carvings, observe worship rituals, and gaze out over the ever-growing sprawl of Chiang Mai city. Just be sure to bring a bottle of water and your walking shoes - the staircase to the temple is steep. At the base of the stairs, vendors hawk everything from tasty local treats to goods handmade by villagers from the surrounding mountains. There's also a shop selling masks, elephant carvings, and home furnishings so you can do some shopping while recovering from the trek up and down the stairs.
You can combine your trip to Doi Suthep with excursions to Doi Pui, a small Hmong village in the mountains. It's far more touristy than other villages, but if you're on a tight schedule, this will give you a taste of Hmong culture and a chance to learn more about the hill tribe communities in the region, not to mention purchase some beautiful hand-woven textiles. The Bhubing Palace, open to tourists, is on the way to Doi Pui from Doi Suthep as well.
10 Floating Markets
A visit to one of the floating markets is a fun way to do some shopping and eating while supporting local vendors and observing local commerce in action. Some do seem to cater more to the tourist crowds than to be part of the fabric of local Thais' daily lives, but there are others that make for a nice authentic travel experience. You'll need to get up early to visit a floating market, as vendors are out in their long wooden boats first thing in the morning with their goods, fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, and tasty dishes.
There are several floating markets near Bangkok, Amphawa and Damnoen Saduak being among the most popular. You can go it alone or join a guided tour, which can include visits to local houses and shops.