Thailand: The Heart of Southeast Asia

Thailand, located in the heart of Southeast Asia, is considered by many to be among vacation spots in the world. Home to some of the most happening party destinations and the best beaches in the world, Thailand is thronged by thousands of tourists and is especially famous for its spa culture and hospitality. Thailand is also among the most liberal destinations in the world and is also infamous as among the world’s largest sex-tourism destinations. Thailand’s no-holds-barred nightlife is perhaps the most inviting of the many Thailand tourist attractions.

Places to visit in Thailand

Thailand is home to some of the most happening beaches in the world, and is particularly famous for its beach nightlife and beach parties. Thailand also has a rich tradition of hospitality and this amply reflected by the fact that the country is home to some of the best spas in the world. Thailand is home to a plethora of different types of tourist sites including diving sites, reclusive sandy beaches, deserted and enchanting tropical islands, impressive archaeological sites, lovely museums, exceptional flora and bird life, opulent palaces, Buddhist temples, UNESCO-recognised World Heritage Sites, etc.

Prominent tourist sites in Thailand include:

• Phuket
• Ko Samui
• Bangkok
• Pattaya
• Kanchanaburi
• Ayutthaya
• Sukhothai
• Chiang Mai
• Chiang Rai
• Mae Hong Son
• Pai
• Khao Yai National Park
• Phimai Historical Park

Thailand- Travel tips, languages spoken, cuisine

Thailand is very safe for tourists; nevertheless, it is advisable that certain rather necessary precautions be taken including avoiding certain areas after dark, keeping valuables out of sight, etc. Thailand boasts a very vibrant and very good nightlife, considered by many to b the best in Southeast Asia. English is very much understood by most of the locals. The local currency is Thai baht (THB). The local cuisine draws influences from a variety of cuisines but has its own unique and distinct flavour. What’s more, it is freely available at very affordable prices. Street food in Thailand is a must. Thailand is also home to a large number of eateries catering to all types of cuisines and suited to all types of budgets; it is also home to some of Southeast Asia’s better restaurants and bars.

Best time to visit

Thailand can be visited any time of the year. However, during the monsoons, that is, between the months of June and September, one may not be able to soak up a whole lot of sun. Further, as Thailand and its beaches are well-connected to most major regional destinations, Thailand has emerged as one of the world’s premier weekend getaways. Consequently, Thailand is not so secluded during the weekends. Also, Thailand gets very crowded during the months of November and December when tourists from all over the world throng its beaches. However, reclusive and unspoilt beaches can also be found. If, however, one digs trance and beach parties, Thailand is the place to be, especially during the New Year’s.

Best way to reach

• By Air: The international airport at Bangkok (Thailand’s state capital) is among the busiest in the world. Bangkok also boasts of excellent regional and domestic connectivity. As such, Thailand is well connected to most important destinations in the world via air.
• By Rail: Thailand has a limited but well-functional railway network. Fares, too, are rather cheap. The major metropolitan regions also have a rail-based intra-city rapid transit networks.
• By Road: The road network within Thailand is rather excellent and all the important cities and other beach resorts in the region are well connected. Local transport largely consists of non-metered auto rickshaws, unregulated and regulated buses and hitch-hiking. Perhaps, the best way to enjoy Thailand is by hiring a motorbike.

Accommodation

Thailand accommodation scene is very active and wide enough to cater to all budgets and needs. Thailand is home of some of the finest hotels in the continent. Further, many local and international tour operators offer Thailand vacation package tours. These tours cover most of the Thailand tourist destinations, but do not carry the element of risk and adventure that going solo does.