What to do in Thailand

Thailand is famous for its floating markets, where you’ll find traditional longtail wooden boats bobbing through tight canals, laden with colourful produce. Damnoen Saduak, closest to Bangkok is the busiest, while travelling slightly further out brings you to the quieter and more authentic Amphawa market. The latter can also be paired with the famous ‘railway’ market in Maeklong.

Thailand’s northern capital Chiang Mai is a laidback, atmospheric alternative to Bangkok, with its historic centre, numerous attractive temples, and bustling weekend markets. The city is ringed by lush hills and picturesque farmland, so makes a great base for day trips. Rafting, trekking, village visits, and extended tuk tuk driving tours (guide-driven or – should you wish – self-drive!) are just a few of the many exciting activities on offer.

Thailand is littered with lush national parks boasting dense jungles, steamy mountains, hiking trails, waterfalls, and abundant wildlife. Khao Yai is around two hours’ from Bangkok to the east, while Erawan and Sai Yok are three hours’ to the west, accessed via the historic city of Kanchanaburi. Khao Sok in the south offers staggering karst scenery and memorable floating accommodation on Cheow Lan Lake. These national parks typically house around 70 mammal species including elephants, gibbons, bears, and deer, as well as over 400 tropical bird species.

Thailand is one of the world’s most colourful and vibrant destinations both on land…and under the water. The country is a global leader in diving and snorkelling tourism, with many enthusiasts coming back year-after-year to dive new sites or explore old favourites. Koh Tao, Khao Lak, Koh Yao, Koh Phi Phi are just a few excellent bases for your underwater adventures, with great diving off-island or providing access to protected marine reserves Ang Thong, Phang Nga, and the Similan and Surin islands.

The Thais are a busy and energetic bunch, and with many living in small and multi-generational homes there’s neither the space nor the time for home cooking. As such dining out – the cheaper and faster the better – is a central part of Thai culture. A typical street food market will offer a huge range of mouth-watering cheap eats: rich curries, spicy salads, grilled meats and seafood – all cooked hot and fresh to order. Exclusive guided tours can be arranged throughout the country, with Bangkok and Chiang Mai particularly good places to dive in!