10 Things Not to Miss in Thailand

With its immaculate white beaches, energetic cities and fascinating culture, you can be sure you won’t get bored when you’re in Thailand! Here are just 10 things you shouldn’t miss out on when you’re there:

1- Go on an elephant ride

You’d be forgiven for getting the impression that travelling by elephant is as common as getting the bus or train is in Western countries. Tourists can take a trek on an elephant through local villages and surrounding forests. It’s something you’ve probably never had the chance to do before, so don’t miss out!

2- Take a Thai cooking lesson

Food in Thailand is a big part of their culture and you can certainly tell they take pride in it. You can learn from the best with an individual Thai cooking lesson. You’ll be able to get all the secrets of mastering a fantastic Thai dish and be able to create this yourself. Check out Bridgets’ experiences of Thai cookery lessons here:

http://www.onlinetefl.com/tefl-chalkboard/bkramer88/posts/4703-eat-more-rice-bitch

Bridget in action on her Thai cooking lesson!

3- Go to Koh Chang

Koh Chang, meaning ‘Elephant Island’ is the third largest island in Thailand, located on the east coast near the border of Cambodia. Koh Chang is one of Thailand’s most beautiful islands, with stunning beaches, waterfalls and a wide range of wildlife. There is plenty to do on the island too, whether that’s hiking, snorkeling, elephant trekking or visiting the many restaurants and bars, you can be sure you won’t run out of things to do!

4- Visit Temples

Most tourists who visit Thailand rave about the delicious food, stunning beaches and diverse nightlife, so the cultural spots often don’t get the mention they deserve. Thailand actually has over 26,000 temples and it’s a great way to learn about Buddhist philosophy, the culture and history of Thailand.

5- Experience Bangkok

Bangkok has so many wonderful sights that of the Grand Palace and Khao San Road. The nightlife is Bangkok shouldn’t be missed though! As the famous song goes ‘One night in Bangkok and the world’s your oyster, so just imagine what you could do in just one weekend. Bangkok offers something for everyone; from expat bars and clubs on Khao San Road, to late night shopping in Patpong and river cruises along the Chao Praya there’s certainly plenty to keep you busy! So whether you want a quiet, relaxed evening or a rowdy night out you’ll find what you’re looking for in Bangkok.

6- Watch a Thai kickboxing match

Yes, boxing might not be unique to Thailand, but it’s the nation’s national sport and is really exciting to watch. Thai kickboxing, or should I say ‘Muay Thai’, has a long history , and it hasn’t changed much over time and is now practiced all over the world.It is known as the “Art of the Eight Limbs”, as fighters strike using eight different points of contact, including the hands, shins, elbows and knees.

7- Go to local festivals

Asia loves a good festival and Thailand is no different. Thailand hosts all sorts of different festivals all throughout the year. One of the most unusual festivals is the ‘Monkey Buffet festival’ (no, I haven’t made this up!). It’s held every year in Lopburi on the last Sunday of November and gives the resident monkeys of Lopburi a real feast!

8- Visit the Phi Phi islands

The Phi Phi islands offer stunning white sandy beaches, tropical jungle vegetation, and extraordinary snorkeling and scuba diving. The popularity of the island with tourists has increased due to its staring role in the film, The Beach. If you’ve seen it, you’ll understand that it’s a truly stunning island but it’s got to be visited in real life to really experience its beauty! So, don’t miss seeing it when you’re in Thailand.

9- Go to the Grand Palace

The Grand Palace is a must-see sight that no trip to Bangkok would be complete without! It was built in 1782 and has served as the official residence of the Kings of Thailand from the 18^th century onwards. The Grand Palace is a spectacular site filled with lots of interesting history.

10- Shop at a floating market

How many people can say they have shopped for fruit and vegetables whilst on a boat in a river?! I’m guessing it’s not part of your daily routine. Whilst you’re in Thailand you shouldn’t miss trying it out for yourself. Floating markets are a traditional way of buying and selling for the locals, it may not be as common these days, but it is still very much in existence. The Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is one of the most popular markets for tourists, so check it out!

If this article has inspired you to go to Thailand, you could be heading out there in October for an amazing adventure with the Teach in Thailand Internship. Download your free guide to teaching in Thailand to get the lowdown here – http://www.onlinetefl.com/tefl-thailand-lawoe-guide.html

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