GUIDE TO Thailand INSIDER GUIDE TO THAILAND
Thailand Picture Thailand. Are you sinking your toes into the soft white sand of a deserted beach? Discovering the lush and leafy forests of a national park? Maybe you re exploring one of the hundreds of stunning, ancient temples? Wherever your mind wanders when you picture Thailand, welcome to our mini destination guide to this dramatic, tropical location. With friendly locals and exciting and varied culture, Thailand is the perfect destination for the traveller who wants a little bit of everything. Population: 68.2 million Capital: Bangkok National Anthem: Phleng Sansasoen Phra Barami (A Salute to the Monarch) Currency: Thai Baht Official Language: Thai
Interesting facts... Thailand is the world s 51st largest country and the 20th most populous. Approximately 10% of the world s bird species live in Thailand, a greater proportion than in all of Europe or North America. Popular energy drink Red Bull originated in Thailand and was originally called Red Guar. Thailand is home to the world s largest crocodile farm, the largest restaurant and the largest gold Buddha. The official ceremonial name of Bangkok is Krung Thep Mahanakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Ayuthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udomratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Piman Awatan Sathit Sakkathatiya Witsanukam Prasit. Thailand is made up of 1,430 islands. Among those is Koh Phi Phi Le, probably the most famous after being featured in Danny Boyle s film The Beach. Climate The climate of Thailand is best described as tropical and humid for the majority of the country. Interestingly, the area to the north of Bangkok has three seasons which determine the climate while the southern region only has two. Average Monthly Temperature: Bangkok Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 27 28 30 31 30 30 30 30 29 29 28 26
Things you must see while in Thailand Ayutthaya The former capital of Siam, and at one time one of the largest cities in the world, Ayutthaya still retains many of the enormous structures it once boasted. Many of the ruins have now been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and there is plenty to see across this 2,556-square kilometre city. Take one of the multiple buses from Bangkok to see this fascinating sight and experience some of the wondrous ancient history of Siam. Chiang Mai Temples A wonderful attraction for visitors, the old town of Chiang Mai is home to the most honoured temples and tranquil Buddhist sanctuaries. Wat Chiang Mai is the oldest temple while Wat Chedi Luang boasts a gigantic chedi ruin said to be the tallest structure in the old town. Be sure to take in Wat Umong whose main feature is a system of maze-like tunnels. Temple of the Reclining Buddha Adjacent to the Royal Grand Palace, Wat Pho is Bangkok s oldest, largest and most famous temple. The grounds contain over 1,000 statues of Buddha while the temple houses one of the most impressive sights, the Reclining Buddha. This 48m long and 15m high statue is gold-plated and inlaid with mother of pearl. In the 19th century, Wat Pho became a centre of learning and is considered the birthplace of the traditional Thai massage. Visitors today can still have a massage and learn about the ancient art of Thai Medicine. Mae Sa Waterfall Set in the lush Soi Suithep-Pui National Park only 10 miles outside of Chiang Mai, the Mae Sa Waterfall is definitely worth a visit. Follow the winding pathway to the waterfall s plummeting 10-tiered cascades with various secluded areas along the way to relax with a picnic. The jungle villages dotting the riverbanks are also fascinating to see. Phang Nga Bay This popular holiday spot is characterised by sheer limestone cliffs that jut vertically out of the emerald green water below. There is a fascinating collection of 3,500 islands (mostly uninhabited) which are unique in that they feature collapsed cave systems with hidden realms of flora and fauna. Many can only be reached by inflatable kayak which makes exploring the bay even more exciting. The most popular of the islands is James Bond Island, named for having been where the movie The Man with the Golden Gun was filmed.
TC Recommended: Thailand Take a look at some of our Travel Counsellors recommendations for a unique, once in a lifetime experience in Thailand Railay Bay is the perfect place for outdoor adventure. The rock faces are perfect for rock climbing and a magnet for enthusiasts, with professionals on hand to help beginners and experienced climbers make the most of their time. Diving and snorkelling are also both extremely popular here. Railay Bay also has some of the most beautiful beaches where you can relax after your adventures. Stuart At the Boon Lott s Elephant Sanctuary you are able to watch the elephants take mud baths which is an amazing experience. You can walk with them, feed them and, when they allow you to, interact with them. It s an amazing experience that will stay with you forever. Graham Check out the three-day Laanta Lanta Festival in March which takes place in Lanta Old Town. There are plenty of stalls offering unique and strange foods including crickets and cockroaches! There are also stages with traditional live music and a fabulous atmosphere. Debbie Bangkok is an amazing place to spend New Year the hotels on the river put on a brilliant display of fireworks which seems to last forever. As well as the fireworks, all the dinner cruise ships parade up and down, turning the river into an array of colour! An undiscovered gem of Thailand is the island of Koh Muk, meaning Pearl Island in Thai. A short boat ride from Trang, the tranquil golden sandy beaches and glistening blue sea are a miniature paradise. There is a variety of accommodation, ranging from comfortable tents in the forest to luxurious resorts with infinity pools, all at amazing value for money. Ian I would recommend catching an evening of Muay Thai boxing at Bangkok s oldest stadium, Rajademnern stadium. It costs about 40 per ticket for ringside seats for four hours of boxing. The atmosphere is amazing with many locals betting noisily on the fights. Claire Trish To share your special holiday memories, please upload your images to your social media account using #TCexperience
Why not try Thai? Want to recreate those authentic Thai flavours at home? Then we ve got the perfect recipe for you. Tom yum soup, a famous hot and sour soup, originates from the Central Region and packs all the delicious Thai flavours you would expect. INGREDIENTS 1 litre chicken stock 300ml water 6 sticks lemongrass, lightly crushed 4 fresh coriander roots, crushed 110g fresh galangal, peeled and sliced (available from Asian supermarkets) 8 tomatoes, cut into quarters, seeds removed 6 kaffir lime leaves 1-2 limes, juice only 75ml tamarind water (available from Asian supermarkets. Soak the tamarind in hot water and push through a sieve to make tamarind water) 3 red chillies, thinly sliced 75ml fish sauce 75g palm sugar (use brown sugar if unavailable) 12 raw tiger prawns, shelled, gutted and split in half 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks METHOD 1. Place the stock and water into a large pan over a high heat and bring to the boil. 2. Add the lemongrass, coriander roots, galangal, tomatoes, lime leaves, lime juice, tamarind water and red chillies. Return to the boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes. 3. Taste the stock and add as much fish sauce and palm sugar as necessary to keep the salty-sour-hot-sweet taste, then remove from the heat. 4. Transfer 220ml of the stock into a separate pan over a high heat and bring to the boil. Add the chicken and cook for 1-2 minutes, then add the prawns and cook for a further 1-2 minutes, or until completely cooked through. 5. To serve, pour the soup into two bowls and top up with the hot stock. Garnish with some Thai basil, coriander leaves and a wedge of lime.
TC Hidden Gems: The small islands of Thailand Koh Phi Phi Overlooked by soaring cliffs, Koh Phi Phi is set in a magnificent bay with a curving white sand beach. With no roads on the island and a jungle-like terrain, you really feel like you ve escaped to a tropical paradise. You might want to simply lay back and enjoy the sunshine on the glorious beach but those looking for a little more action can partake in diving, sailing or trekking, to name a few. You can transfer to Koh Phi Phi from Krabi or Phuket by boat. Koh Yao Yai With amazing landscapes of rice paddies, rubber plantations and untouched rain forests, Koh Yao Yai is truly a paradise island where you can escape the tourist crowds and feel at one with nature. Not for those who want plenty to do, this island is the true meaning of secluded tranquility. Transfers to Koh Yao Yai are by boat from Phuket. Koh Lanta An abundance of graceful palms, quiet beaches and inviting water beckon you to this beautiful island. A perfect destination for those looking for a luxury getaway, Koh Lanta still guarantees miles of unspoiled beaches and vast culture. For divers, the Hin Muang outcrop at a depth of about 20m is the perfect place to see barracudas, moray eels and the occasional whale shark. Koh Phangan A hidden gem in the Thai Gulf, Koh Phangan is famous for hosting its monthly full moon party. It offers a wide variety of experiences with everything from the quiet beaches and colourful reefs to the bustling night markets and lively bars.
Thailand with a Twist This 10-day tour is perfect for anyone who wants to take in some of Thailand s most alluring destinations. Seeing both city and rural aspects of Thailand, this tour will give you a true feel for the diversity of this wonderful country. Day 1 Bangkok Arrive in Bangkok and begin with a street food walking tour of some of Bangkok s best kept secrets. Discover the bright lights, smells, sounds and tastes of Bangkok s backstreets and sample various local foods before enjoying a cocktail at one of the hot spot bars by the river. Day 2/3 Bangkok With so many amazing cultural landmarks, two days are needed to truly appreciate the country s capital. Visit the Royal Grand Palace and Wat Pho, with a knowledgeable guide to explain all about Thailand s rich history. You ll have the opportunity to join a Thai massage training course, learning all about the body s energy lines and how to apply the correct pressure points. Take a cycling tour from the Golden Mount and down into Bangkok before watching the sun set over the Temple of Dawn. Day 4 Bangkok - Kanchanaburi Just a short drive from bustling Bangkok is the rural idyll of the Ratchaburi Provinces. Visit the bustling country markets before taking a relaxing paddle boat ride to see the local lifestyle along the canal side. Continue on to Kanchanaburi for lunch at a local restaurant and a stroll past the charming shop houses in the Pak Preak community. Day 5 Kanchanaburi Enjoy a once in a lifetime experience at Elephants World where you ll have the opportunity to meet, feed and work with the elephants. You ll then enjoy an active afternoon with a guided bike ride followed by a slow paddle down the river in a canoe. Day 6 Kanchanaburi - Ayutthaya Dating back to the 14th Century, Ayutthaya gives you the chance to see the breathtaking templestudded landscape, local markets and the town s Muslim Quarter where you can sample the unusual local delicacy; candy floss roti. Take a boat ride down the Chao Phraya River followed by a cable car to visit the majestic Bang Pa-In Summer Palace. Day 7 Ayutthaya - Bangkok - Chiang Mai Today you will return to Bangkok for a flight to Chiang Mai, Thailand s blissfully calm northern capital. Visit Wat Umong with its network of tunnels and caves dating back to the 14th Century followed that evening by dinner at a luxury hotel. Day 8 Chiang Mai Do as the locals do and take a cycling tour to the temples and markets, explore the ancient city of Wiang Khum Kham and say hello to the Thai locals fishing in the Ping River. You ll also venture to Ban Tawai, well known as The Village of Handicraft, making it a fascinating place to wander around and see true Thai craftsmanship. Spend your evening in the company of a local Thai family and sample their delicious homecooked meals with the family. Day 9 Chiang Mai Begin the day by heading to Thailand s highest mountain at Doi Inthanon National Park, a treasure trove of wildlife, flora and fauna. You ll hike to a local village to meet some of the community before trekking along lush forest trails with some astounding scenery. Take a picnic lunch in front of the spectacular Wachiratharn Waterfall. You ll finish your day with dinner and a trip to the colourful Waroros night market where you can enjoy local Thai delicacies for desert. Day 10 Chiang Mai Departure Unfortunately the time has come to take breakfast before heading to the airport for your flight home.
Wat Arun Temple, Bangkok
Spending money Wondering how much spending money you ll need for your travels? To help you plan your trip, here s a rough guide to the cost of some of the things you might be buying whilst you re there! 100B A beer in a local bar 15B A 1.5 litre bottle of water 30B A single taxi ride 180B Typical fee to use an ATM 500B A two course dinner with a drink in a restauant Tipping is not standard but is appreciated so if there are a few coins left over from a taxi fare or food bill, it is common to offer it as a tip.
Chatter with the locals Can t speak Thai? Never fear! We ve collated some useful phrases for you to practise before you go. ENGLISH - THAI HELLO THERE! HELLO (GENERAL GREETING) SÀ-WÀT-DEE HOW ARE YOU SÀ-BAAI DEE MĂI REPLY TO HOW ARE YOU SÀ-BAAI DEE KÂ - FEMALE SÀ-BAAI DEE KRÓP - MALE THANK YOU KÒP KUN DOES ANYONE SPEAK ENGLISH? MEE KRAI PÔOT ANG-GRÌT DÂAI MĂI GOODBYE BÁAI BAAI LET S GET A BITE TO EAT I AM A VEGETARIAN PŎM GIN MANG-SÀ-WI-RÁT CAN I SEE THE WINE LIST? KŎR RAAI GAAN WAI NÒI? I D LIKE TO RESERVE A TABLE JONG DTÓ NÒI
Here, we ve chosen a few of the things we think you should see, do and eat while you re in Thailand. We hope it inspires you to journey to Thailand time and time again and taste a little of Thai life. Get in touch to build a bespoke itinerary, tailor-made just for you! We d love to see your photos and stories on social media so please share your memories using #TCexperience