Lifestyle

Top 5 Destinations in Thailand

Thailand is one of the most beautiful of destinations where you can find such a variety of terrain, a plethora of history and culture. Some of the kindest people I have ever met.

Here are my top 5 destinations in Thailand, and some of the key “moments” to enjoy aside from the more mainstream tourist spots that you should also check out.

1. Bangkok

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Rooftop Bars

Watch the sunset from a rooftop bar – Yes, the drinks are probably overpriced, but the views are stunning.

The two most commercialized ones are probably the Sky Bar at the Lebua hotel and Vertigo at the Banyan Tree hotel.

Aside from these, there are so many others, it’s probably worth finding the right balance between height above ground, proximity/location and price.

Shopping

 Shopping mall galore. Before you roll your eyes and wonder why one should travel half way across the world just to enter a shopping mall, let me explain.

Malls like Siam Paragon, EmQuartier, and Central Embassy are great places to do your designer shopping.

Retail in Bangkok is all about the experience, with leisure activities, great food selections and a LOT of shopping options and people watching.

MBK

If the plethora of night markets and Chatuchak are too hectic for you, MBK is a good option for discounted shopping.

Spanned across a number of floors, which can make it more convenient if you’re aiming to buy something specific rather than spending too much time “window shopping”.

Lumpini park

Bangkok spans quite widely, and though you may already be doing a lot of walking as you go site-seeing, Lumpini park is a fresh breath of air between the concrete.

The park hosts a track, gardens, and a lake; a great place to get your morning exercise if you feel so inclined.

Perhaps join in on one of the many outdoor classes, and if you aren’t going to join, simply marvel at the volume of people moving in sync.

Foot Massages

These are a staple during any Bangkok trip, but it is important to find the right place at the right price (and the right kind of massage too).

Most of the of the parlors stay open until midnight so a good strategy may be finding one close (preferably walking-distance) to your hotel as a way to end the day.

Don’t hesitate to do a quick search around the area and pop in to a few of them to check the cleanliness, space and comfort.

Eats

Bangkok is food-heaven, where you can find whatever your heart desires.

From authentic Thai, to fusion pan-asian, gastro-culinary experiences, vegan dessert parlors, food courts and international chains.

Whilst in Bangkok, it would be a sin not to enjoy the culinary experience. The beauty is that you do not have to spend an arm and a leg to get excellent food.

The list could go on, but perhaps the beauty of Bangkok is also in self-discovery. Since you will most probably be spending a lot of your time outdoors, be prepared with enough sun protection.

Try on a pair of Dolce & Gabbana DG4278 sunglasses to keep your eyes protected and your style flawless:

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2. Chiang Mai

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Outdoor Activities

Bamboo rafting, white water rafting, bungee jumping, zorb balling – I know that these are kind of general activities that can be done anywhere in the world, but a day trip doing a few adrenaline-spiked activities can be refreshing after a lot of sightseeing.

Elephant sanctuary

Visit an elephant sanctuary / rehabilitation center – Please do not sign up for places that offer elephant rides.

Unfortunately, many of these elephant experiences involve hurting the animals (who are often chained afterwards).

It’s worth doing a bit more research into wherever you decide to go in order to avoid supporting/encouraging unethical behavior.

Go for places that rehabilitate/rescue elephants or that promote ethical interactions and marvel at the beautiful creatures.

Walk

Walk around the town – Chiang Mai has a completely different feel to Bangkok. Its a much smaller scale city, but just as much fun.

Have a look at the night markets, and as you walk around, keep a look out for joints selling Kôw soy (a spin of the Burmese dish) and enjoy it to your heart’s content.

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3. Khao Lak

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Take a break at the JW Marriott – The busyness of Bangkok can get tiring sometimes, especially if your days are filled with sight-seeing and getting as much done as possible.

Spending a few days away at the Marriott in Khao Lak will give you the well-deserved rest and pampering. The pool is huge, the sunsets are incredible and the hospitality is amazing.

You’ll just need a pair of sunglasses, your swimsuit and a good book.

Try on these Tiffany & Co. TF4005G for the perfect balance of form and function:

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4. Khao Yai

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Khao Yai National Park

Khao Yai national park is a great break from the hustle and bustle of the city . Hike up to the beautiful waterfalls,one of which is the featured in The Beach (the scene where Leonardo di Caprio jumps off the cliff). It may be worth renting a car to go to Khao Yai depending on how much/how long you plan to be hiking.

DusitD2

Stay at the DusitD2 – This newly opened hotel has a stunning view of the mountains from its swimming pool, a rock climbing wall, and a super chic interior design!

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5. Phuket

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Island Hopping 

Island hopping and snorkeling – Yes this is indeed a ‘touristy’ thing to do, but it is an incredible experience.

Rent out a private yacht or speedboat and spend the day soaking the sun, snorkeling in the clear waters and swimming in the picturesque lagoons.

Coconut Water

Swensons and fresh coconut water – If you’re visiting Phuket in summer, it will most likely be sweltering.

Keep hydrated by enjoying some chilled fresh coconut water in one hand, and some Swensons ice cream in the other.

Remember to keep your skin and eyes protected, perhaps with a pair of JIMMY CHOO JADE/S:

 

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Most important of all, when in Thailand, be open to explorations, new experiences and an incredible culture. Thailand is one of the places you can visit multiple times and still have new places to see and things to do.

Want to explore Lake Como? Check out this Travel Guide

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