With so many places to visit and things to do in Thailand, it's hard to know where to begin. Along with the rich culinary options, the possibilities are diverse – a traveler might be riding an elephant one day and immersing themselves at a Buddhist temple the next.
In any country, however, there are certain places or activities that truly highlight that country's culture and should be at the top of any visitor's "must see" list. For those journeying to Thailand, that list should include Phi Phi or James Bond Island, where you can snorkel, swim, sunbathe, or just relax. More adventurous travelers who do not mind some intense trekking can go on an elephant safari, where they will also see some of the country's spectacular waterfalls.
For those who prefer to stay in urban environments, cities such as Bangkok or Phuket offer many avenues for entertainment. Phuket FantaSea is advertised as the "ultimate nighttime cultural theme park," with several shows and restaurants that appeal to the entire family. Siam Niramit also offers a high-tech stage show that highlights Thailand's history and culture.
For a more thorough immersion into the culture, however, the tourist must head to the more out-of-the-way areas like Krabi, which hosts several national parks and where many locals still live in fishing villages. Also in the area is Bor Thor, whose villagers take guests on tours of the sprawling mangroves in handmade kayaks, and Phi Hua Toh Caves, which have ancient cave paintings.
Another destination in the country to see the culture of Thailand is in the province of Kanchanaburi, an area that borders Myanmar and is the third largest province in Thailand. Home to two of Thailand's most important rivers, Kwai Noi and Kwai Yai (which form the famous Mae Klong River), it is here that the land proudly displays the country's largest waterfalls and most extensive wildlife sanctuaries.
A standout in this region is the Tiger Temple, where visitors have the chance to see the resident tigers. The first cub, a female, arrived at the temple in 1999. When she was only a few months old, her mother was killed by poachers. By the time the cub was moved to the temple, she was in critical condition, and the monks adopted her and nursed her back to health. From there, the temple took on many more tiger cubs over the years as well as began breeding their own. It is said that the tigers are conditioned to humans.
No matter what experience you are seeking in Thailand, you will find it. From Bangkok's popular restaurants and shopping experiences to the country's wild finds, the food, people, and experiences urban and rural will be a thing that keeps you returning again and again.
For more information visit www.tourismthailand.org.