How about Southeastern Asia, Thailand and Vietnam!  See if any of these deals can inspire an exotic adventure in you where you can getaway from your everyday!

Coolest Places in Thailand

Thailand is a collage of animated scenes that comprise bustling modern cities crowded with motorbikes and tuk-tuks, Buddhist temples tended by orange-robed monks, hill tribes selling handicrafts, lush landscapes dotted with traditional farming villages, ancient ruins and stunning coastlines peppered with gorgeous beaches and blue lagoons. Such a captivating portrait explains why Thailand is Southeast Asia’s most popular travel destination.

The northernmost city in Thailand, Chiang Rai serves as the main commercial hub of the Golden Triangle, which contains the borders of Thailand, Laos and Myanmar. A busy town offering something for everyone, Chiang Rai is often used as a base for exploring the surrounding region. The town itself is quiet during the day, when most of its package tourists are out on day trips, but at night the neon lights flash on and souvenir stalls and restaurants spring into action.

 

Once just a quiet village in northern Thailand, Pai is now a booming town that is part of the Mae Hong Son Loop stretching between Chiang Mai and Mae Hong Son. Noted for its picturesque valley and relaxed atmosphere, Pai is a favored destination among backpackers and tourists wishing to explore the region. With Pai’s location in the foothills of the mountains there are several options for trekking and visiting hill tribes. Also just outside the city are elephant camps, hot springs and beautiful waterfalls. Additionally, the Pai River offers tubing and whitewater adventures.

 

Sitting on an extinct volcano in northeastern Thailand, Phanom Rung is a Hindu shrine complex regarded for its outstanding architecture. Located near the village of Nang Rong, this temple sanctuary was built by the Khmer culture between the 10th and 13th centuries as a dedication to the Hindu god, Shiva. Constructed of sandstone and laterite, Phanom Rung was built to represent Mount Kailash, the sacred home of Shiva. The complex faces east, and four times a year the sun shines through all 15 sanctuary doorways. During these events the park extends its hours, and locals celebrate the Phanom Rung Festival around the April alignment, with ancient Brahmin ceremonies and modern sound-and-light shows.

Railay (or Rai Leh) is a small peninsula that is only accessible by boat due to the high limestone cliffs cutting off mainland access. These cliffs attract rock climbers from all over the world, but the area is also a popular attraction in Thailand due to its beautiful beaches and quiet relaxing atmosphere. Almost every patch of buildable land fronting in the eastern and western part of the peninsula has been taken over by bungalow resorts, and development is creeping up into the forest behind. But at least there are no high-rise buildings, and much of the construction is hidden among trees or set amid prettily landscaped gardens

 

Considered by many to be one of Thailand’s most beautiful wildlife reserves, the Khao Sok National Park covers jungle forests, limestone karsts, rivers and lakes in the Surat Thani province of southern Thailand. The reserve is home to wildlife such as Asian elephants, barking deer, wild boar, bears, Malayan tapirs and various monkeys breeds like gibbons, pig-tailed macaques and langurs. There are several trails in the park from which visitors can choose to enjoy trekking through the jungle to spot wildlife, photograph beautiful waterfalls, swim in natural pools and admire stunning vistas from elevated viewpoints.

 

Founded in 1350, the city of Ayuthaya is located in the Chao Phraya River valley in Thailand. It sits on an island surrounded by three rivers connecting it to the Gulf of Siam. King U Thong proclaimed it the capital of his kingdom, the Ayuthaya Kingdom, better known as Siam. Once declared the most magnificent city on earth, Ayuthaya was an impressive site, with three palaces, more than 400 temples and a population that reached nearly 1,000,000. In 1767, the Burmese attacked and conquered Ayuthaya however and the capital was moved to Bangkok. The ruins of Ayuthaya are now a major attraction for those visiting Thailand. It is just 80 km (50 miles) north of Bangkok, and is easily reached by train, boat, bus or van.

 

Located in western Thailand and admired for its beautiful scenery and accessibility to national parks and waterfalls, Kanchanaburi is best known for the Bridge over the River Kwai that is linked with the historic Death Railway to Burma in which thousands of Asian laborers and POWS died during its construction under Japanese occupation during WWII. Several museums and war cemeteries all present information about the city and its bridge during the 1940s Japan occupation. Outside of Kanchanaburi are several national parks, including Erawan and Srinakarind National Parks, which offer beautiful scenery, waterfalls and caves.

 

Surrounded by the mountains of northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is a flourishing city often used as a base among both backpackers and tourists wishing to explore the lush landscapes, hill tribes and outdoor adventures of the region. Nevertheless, Chiang Mai itself is a large and culturally important city where historical and modern Thai architecture and traditions coexist. A walk around the historic center bestows views of old city walls and dozens of Buddhist temples. However, the most famous of these temples, Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, lies outside Chiang Mai on a mountainside overlooking the city.

 

Thailand’s capital city and by far the largest city in the country, Bangkok, is a buzzing cosmopolis of high rise buildings, magnificent palaces, ancient temples, glittering nightclubs, bustling markets and streets lined with vendors hawking souvenirs and tantalizing foods. While the city is sometimes described as a concrete jungle jam-packed with noisy traffic and air pollution, Bangkok is not without its natural beauty that is seen in its remaining canals, green spaces and flowering tropical plants. The famous tourist street, Khao San Road, is a good place to begin with its cheap shopping, dining and nightlife. Also not to be missed is the sacred Wat Phra Kaew temple, which contains the Emerald Buddha.

 

The islands off the coast of Thailand are famous throughout the world for their beautiful beaches, others for their gorgeous scenery and some even claim their fame for the party atmosphere. There are three main sets of islands in Thailand. To the east of Bangkok there are Ko Samet and Ko Chang, in the Gulf Ko Samui lie Ko Pha Ngan and Ko Tao, and in the Andaman Phuket and Ko Phi Phi. Phuket is the country’s largest and most developed island, connected to the mainland by two bridges. Ko Phi Phi is famous for the movie “The Beach”, while Ko Tao is Thailand’s diving mecca. But there are many, many more beautiful islands to choose from.

 

Check out these deals:

Adventures in Thailand     10 Day Hong Kong and Thailand Discovery Starting At: $ 1629.00 It's time to Disover Hong Kong,this British-Chinese hybrid destination astounds visitors with its striking juxtaposition of dense skyscrapers and lush landscapes. From sandy beaches to rugby pitches, there's more fresh air than most travelers suspect.   Treasures of Thailand with Phuket Starting At: $ 4170.80 Your relaxing escape awaits on the tropical island of Phuket, but its true treasure lies in the effortless fusion of culture, history and cuisine that shaped Thailand's largest island over centuries.   Thailand and Cambodia Uncovered Starting At: $ 4743.10 The heritage of two ancient kingdoms are traced along this pilgrimage through Thailand and Cambodia. Visit the spiritual centre of Sukhothai, explore the ruins of Angkor Wat and embrace the effervescent energy of Phnom Penh - a city that has emerged from the past to recapture its reputation as the 'Pearl of Asia'.   Hyatt Regency Phuket Resort   Starting At: $ 953.00 With a privileged setting along Millionaire's Mile, the Hyatt Regency Phuket Resort offers an idyllic island experience for guests of all ages. Built into a hillside overlooking the Andaman Sea, most of the 201 rooms and suites, ranging in size from 495 to 2500 square feet, feature private balconies and dazzling sea views.   InterContinental Bangkok Starting At: $ 1021.00 Experience ultra-modern luxury at this cosmopolitan hotel in Bangkok's vibrant heart. InterContinental Bangkok is one of the city's largest hotels, and stands directly within walking distance of Thailand's largest shopping malls and adjacent to the skytrain station for easy access to popular attractions.   Enchanting Vietnam With Bangkok Starting At: $ 2269.00 14 Days, featuring: Hanoi-ha Long Bay Cruise   Enchanting Vietnam With Siem Reap, Bangkok, & Chiang Mai Starting At: $ 3199.00 20 Days, featuring: Hanoi   10 Day Bangkok & Beaches of Thailand Starting At: $ 5440.00 Delve into the contrasts of Thailand on a trip that blends the bustle of Bangkok, the majesty of imperial temples, and the blissfulness of Phuket's beaches. Taste Thai-flavored Chinese food on a nighttime tour, visit UNESCO-protected temples and wats, and more.   10 Day Thailand in Style Starting At: $ 8550.00 Delve into the contrasts of Thailand on a trip that blends the bustle of Bangkok, the majesty of imperial temples, and the blissfulness of Krabi's beaches. Taste Thai-flavored Chinese food on a nighttime tour, visit UNESCO-protected temples and wats, and so much more.   Explore Northern Thailand Starting At: $ 1125.00   Thailand Vacation Package with Luxury Tented Camp Starting At: $ 1665.00 2 Nights In Bangkok At Siam@siam Design Hotel bangkok City And Temples Private Tour 2 Nights At Elephant Hills Luxury Tented Camp meals Included At Elephant Hills 3 Nights In Phuket At banyan Tree Phuket one Day Private Driver breakfast Included In Bangkok And Phuket   Vietnam & Cambodia: A Grand Adventure With Bangkok & Chiang Mai Starting At: $ 4814.00 19 Days, featuring: Bangkok   Thailand Experience Starting At: $ 1489.00 12 Days, featuring: Chiang Mai   Thailand Experience With Siem Reap Starting At: $ 2139.00 15 Days, featuring: Bangkok

 

Here's a few Cruising options:

Cruising Thailand

 

Magnificent Mekong Starting At: $ 5599.00 Ship: Viking Mekong Explore the stunningly scenic and culturally distinctive lands that lie along the remarkable Mekong River on this 15-day cruisetour. Encounter ancient Khmer monuments at Angkor Wat and the elegant French colonial capital of Phnom Penh in Cambodia; and in Vietnam, visit the floating markets of the Mekong delta, experience the intimate charm of Hanoi's old city and tour dynamic Ho Chi Minh City, formerly Saigon. Here you will find gracious hosts, delicious cuisine and the natural beauty and rich history along the magnificent Mekong.

Southeast Asia Horizons Starting At: $ 17798.00 Ship: Viking Orion Trace the coast of East Asia when you combine Far Eastern Horizons and Southeast Asia & Hong Kong for an enlightening 29-day voyage into the heart of the Far East and Indochina.

Bangkok, Bali & Beyond Starting At: $ 4299.00 Ship: Viking Orion Witness the fascinating juxtapositions of Southeast Asia, where long-held traditions infuse bustling capitals. See the floating markets of Bangkok with a Thai guide. Marvel at Kuala Lumpur's soaring Petronas Towers through a local's eyes. Absorb the vast cultural diversity of Singapore with a resident. And gain unmatched insight into the spiritual and arts culture of Java, from the enormous temple of Borobudur to the historic riches of Jakarta and Surabaya.

7 Night Phuket to Phuket Cruise Starting At: $ 4110.00 + 240.00 taxes/fees Ship: Star Clipper

Penang & Phuket Cruise Starting At: $ 426.00 + 52.46 taxes/fees Ship: Quantum of the Seas Designed with our Chinese guests in mind, Quantum of the Seas® is a fully immersive ship, complete with Mandarin speaking crew and local cuisines served onboard. Travel to the most sought-after cities of Japan to explore the cutting-edge architecture, stylish shops and ancient temples. With more sea days, you'll have more time to discover all that this vacation visionary has to offer. And you can share it all in real-time with VOOM®, the fastest internet at sea.

Spice Of Southeast Asia Cruise Starting At: $ 482.00 + 66.29 taxes/fees Ship: Quantum of the Seas Designed with our Chinese guests in mind, Quantum of the Seas® is a fully immersive ship, complete with Mandarin speaking crew and local cuisines served onboard. Travel to the most sought-after cities of Japan to explore the cutting-edge architecture, stylish shops and ancient temples. With more sea days, you'll have more time to discover all that this vacation visionary has to offer. And you can share it all in real-time with VOOM®, the fastest internet at sea.

Phuket Getaway Cruise Starting At: $ 468.00 + 47.54 taxes/fees Ship: Quantum of the Seas Designed with our Chinese guests in mind, Quantum of the Seas® is a fully immersive ship, complete with Mandarin speaking crew and local cuisines served onboard. Travel to the most sought-after cities of Japan to explore the cutting-edge architecture, stylish shops and ancient temples. With more sea days, you'll have more time to discover all that this vacation visionary has to offer. And you can share it all in real-time with VOOM®, the fastest internet at sea.

Bangkok (Laem Chabang) to Abu Dhabi Starting At: $ 12499.00 Ship: Seven Seas Voyager Fresh from her complete and total refurbishment, Seven Seas Voyager now boasts a refreshed elegant style in her restaurants and lounges, as well as luxurious new décor across her 350 suites. And with 447 international crew on board, personal service is exceedingly indulgent throughout.

Grand Asia Starting At: $ 2015.00 + 250.00 taxes/fees Ship: Sapphire Princess Princess® indulge your every whim. Over 700 balconies, world-class gourmet dining and dazzling entertainment options are just the beginning of your sea-going adventure. Dance the night away, enjoy casino gaming or relax and rejuvenate body and mind at the Lotus Spa®.

14-Day Far East Discovery Holiday Starting At: $ 699.00 + 196.00 taxes/fees Ship: Westerdam Recently updated with new bar, entertainment and dining venues, plus completely reimagined suites, Westerdam is a fascinating destination in her own right. On board, enjoy live entertainment with Music WalkT, including Lincoln Center Stage, B.B. King's Blues Club and Billboard Onboard. Learn culinary skills at a cooking show or hands-on workshop with America's Test Kitchen. Enrich your travel experience at the new Exploration Central atop the ship.

Majestic Mekong Discoverer Cruise Starting At: $ 3995.00 Ship: Emerald Harmony New in 2018, Emerald Harmony will sail the Mekong in South East Asia, taking you to places others can't, including the center of Ho Chi Minh City.

14 Days, Timeless Treasures & Ancient Cultures Starting At: $ 6299.00 Ship: Crystal Serenity 14 Days, Timeless Treasures & Ancient Cultures Commanding the world's great oceans with grace, Crystal Serenity enchants with an unrivaled chic elegance. Discover the superb cuisine, welcoming hospitality and gorgeous suites and staterooms of The World's Most Awarded Luxury Cruise Line.

Vietnam, Philippines, Hong Kong Starting At: $ 1619.00 + 153.91 taxes/fees Ship: Celebrity Millennium

Best Of India & South East Asia Starting At: $ 2159.00 + 153.94 taxes/fees Ship: Celebrity Constellation

Southeast Asia Holidays Cruise Starting At: $ 819.00 + 109.84 taxes/fees Ship: Celebrity Millennium

Ultimate Southeast Asia & The Majestic Mekong With Sapa - Southbound Starting At: $ 9099.00 Ship: Avalon Saigon 25 Days, featuring: Phnom Penh

The Heart Of Cambodia & Vietnam With Sapa And Luang Prabang - Northbound Starting At: $ 9079.00 Ship: Avalon Siem Reap 24 Days, featuring: Phnom Penh

Ultimate Southeast Asia & The Majestic Mekong With Hue & Danang - Northbound Starting At: $ 9549.00 Ship: Avalon Siem Reap 25 Days, featuring: Phnom Penh

 

Best Destinations in Vietnam

Though Vietnam looks small on the map, you could easily spend weeks exploring this fascinating country. From the jagged mountains in the north to the tropical beaches in the south – and all of the history and culture in between, Vietnam can be for you.

 

Hà Giang

is rugged, remote and spectacular. This area features some of the best views in the country, overlooking terraced rice paddies and deep valleys that have been carved into the limestone mountains over thousands of years. And if you love motorbike rides, be sure to check out either the Quản Bạ Pass or the Mã Pí Lèng Pass.

 

Sa Pa

Home to several ethnic groups, has grown substantially in the past few years. While some are put off by the tourism boom in this once-quiet mountain town, there are still many good reasons to visit. We recommend you seek out a homestay in one of the surrounding villages. Also, if the weather permits, you can climb Fansipan, the tallest mountain in Indochina.

 

Hanoi’s Old Quarter

Vietnam’s capital city is full of history and culture, especially in the Old Quarter near . This is epicenter of tourism in the city, with market streets, nightlife options and some of the best Vietnamese food in the country.

 

Hạ Long Bay

When it comes to Vietnamese tourism, you have to mention . The rampant commercialisation of this natural wonder may detract from its raw, undeniable beauty, but you have to escape the crowds first. Try to get on a reputable tour boat, or stay on Cát Bà island. Another option is a trip to nearby Bai Tu Long Bay.

 

Ninh Bình

This is likely the most popular of the many excellent day trip options out of Hanoi, and it’s no wonder why. The limestone karsts, serpentine rivers and lush scenery make for perfect holiday photos. Most trips to this area are combined with a visit to the Tràng An caves and grottoes as well.

 

Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park

Unless you’re making your way the whole length of Vietnam, this national park is pretty far out of the way. But those who do make the effort to get here will be rewarded with some of the most unique experiences in all of Vietnam. is famous for its caves, and even has the largest in the world by volume.

 

Huế

was once the capital of imperial Vietnam, and much of its rich history still remains. The centerpiece is the Citadel and the enclosed Imperial City. Much of it was destroyed by American bombers during the war, but plenty remains to give you an idea of the former splendor. Huế is also famous for its spicy cuisine, so be sure to check some local versions of popular Vietnamese dishes.

 

Hải Vân Pass

The mountains that run along the Laos border jut out into the sea between Huế and Đà Nẵng. Here, the road climbs up into the clouds, with twists and turns and views you’ll never forget. In a country known for its motorbike routes, the Hải Vân Pass is definitely the most famous.

 

Hội An

If you only have time to visit a few places in Vietnam, make An one of them. The first time you walk out by the river in the Ancient Town is a special moment. It’s exactly as captivating as the pictures show, and it gets even because of all the lanterns. This town is also home to hundreds of professional tailors, so spend a couple of days and have a nice dress or suit made just for you.

Nha Trang

Though is significantly busier than some of the other beach towns in the south, that also means there is so much more to do. The nightlife is a lot of fun, and there are so many extreme activities for the adrenaline junkies among you – jet skiing, surfing or even a flyboard, if you’re brave enough.

 

Đà Lạt

For those of you looking to escape the heat, is exactly what you need. This mountain town is a popular holiday destination for families and young couples from , which is why it’s also known as the City of Love and Flowers.

 

Mũi Né

Even if you aren’t a morning person, it’s worth waking up early to see the sunrise at the sand dunes in . After that, relax at one of the amazing resorts, or just find a nice spot on the beach to read and sip on your favorite drink. This sleepy little town is a popular stop for tourists – and for good reason. You’ll love how peaceful it is.

 

Ho Chi Minh City

Now we’re into the traffic madness of . Many are put off by the hectic pace of Saigon – as it’s also known – but there’s so much to love about this place. There are museums, world-class restaurants, rooftop bars, luxury hotels, street food stalls and as good a nightlife scene as you’ll find anywhere in the region.

 

Cần Thơ

Most people opt for the easier day trip to , but if you have the time, you really should venture farther into the Mekong Delta and visit . The floating market, Cái Răng, is the largest in Vietnam, and much more impressive than the others in the region. If you have your heart set on visiting a floating market, make it this one.

 

Phú Quốc

Here’s a slice of heaven for . This island, just off the coast near the border with Cambodia, has some of the most pristine beaches you’ll ever see. Parts of the island have big resorts, but others are secluded, with nothing but you, palm trees and the waves.

 

Adventures in Vietnam     19 Day Indochina Explorer Starting At: $ 3055.00 This comprehensive journey takes in the history, culture and natural beauty of Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos. In historic Cambodia, uncover the museums and monuments of the capital, Phnom Penh, before witnessing the incredible temples of Angkor.   Highlights of Vietnam Starting At: $ 2666.10 Float on the sparkling emerald waters of Halong Bay on a traditional Vietnamese Junk. Glide past hidden islets, giant limestone karsts and colourful fishing villages, stopping only to gain insight into the lives of the local fishermen at Cua Van and to practice T'ai Chi in exquisite surroundings.   Vietnam and Cambodia Uncovered Starting At: $ 4205.10 Journey from the beauty of Halong Bay to a spine-tingling encounter with the abandoned capital of Angkor Thom, left to ruin in the depths of the dense Cambodian jungle and on to Phnom Penh - a city that has emerged from the past to recapture its reputation as the 'Pearl of Asia'.   Vietnam and the Temples of Angkor Starting At: $ 3556.90 Delve into the layers of Cambodia's captivating culture, ancient lost capitals and rural villages, witnessing first-hand beautifully choreographed performances, local cooking customs and the centuries-old traditions that remain to this day.   Mekong and Yangtze Rivers Odyssey Starting At: $ 10795.00 Ship: Scenic Spirit Scenic's Mekong River cruises take place aboard Scenic Spirit, a 279-foot vessel that was launched in 2016 and can accommodate 68 passengers in 34 one-bedroom balcony suites. The Scenic Spirit, offers an almost 1:1 staff-to-guest ratio and is equipped with a sleek swimming pool, a steam sauna, and an open-air cinema.   11 Day Vietnam Insight Starting At: $ 1665.00 Gain a deeper understanding of magical Vietnam with a more in-depth journey through its historic cities, provincial culture and glistening coastline. Be enchanted by the smiling locals you meet throughout your journey, on the bustling streets of Hanoi and Saigon, or the tranquil villages of the Mekong Delta.   Enchanting Vietnam Starting At: $ 1739.00 11 Days, featuring: Ha Long Bay Cruise-hanoi-danang-hoi An   12 Day Cultures and Cuisine of Vietnam Starting At: $ 9552.00 Ancient pagodas, immaculate temples, vibrant cultures and delectable food; Vietnam has it all. On this luxury experience, explore Halong Bay aboard an incredible Junk-style ship, enjoy a beach-side barbecue at sunset in Hoi An, and discover unique speakeasies in Saigon. Best of all, you'll meet several inspiring individuals, including a former pilot from the Vietnam War, a Kung Fu Grandmaster, and a renowned historian, all with fascinating stories to share that you're sure to remember for a lifetime.   10 Day Vietnam Highlights: Pearl of Indochina Starting At: $ 2850.00 Delve into scenic natural wonders, journey through history, and sample Vietnamese culinary delights. Experience the must-sees of Vietnam from top to bottom - all without breaking the bank.   Vietnam & Cambodia: A Grand Adventure Starting At: $ 3249.00 13 Days, featuring: Siem Reap   Vietnam & Cambodia: A Grand Adventure With Bangkok, Chiang Mai & Luang Prabang Starting At: $ 5559.00 22 Days, featuring: Ho Chi Minh City. Cu Chi Excursion   Simply Vietnam With Laos & Cambodia Starting At: $ 3374.00 19 Days, featuring: Hoi An-ho Chi Minh City

 

 

City Spotlight Bangkok

 

Bangkok Chaotic, carnal and congested, Thailand's capital is divided by the Chao Phraya River and is nestled in one of the world's most fertile rice-producing deltas. Bangkok's 605 square miles (1,568 sq km) are criss-crossed by a series of canals carrying passengers and cargo, its roads clotted with endless traffic jams, while the city sprawls in all directions with a hodgepodge of urban, commercial and industrial buildings. An overland metropolitan railway speeds above the city, providing visitors with a relaxed and efficient way to observe the hustle and bustle below. Despite its pollution and overcrowding, Bangkok is undoubtedly one of Asia's most exciting cities, and one of the world's largest, promising to reveal to each traveler the wild and untamed mysteries of the east. Khao San Road is one of the city's most vibrant streets, and is probably one of the best examples in the world of a backpacker's 'ghetto'. Day and night the short stretch of road is abuzz with activity. On the banks of the Chao Phraya, visitors will find the Grand Palace as well as Wat Phra Kaew, the palace temple housing the Emerald Buddha, constructed entirely from translucent green jade. Slightly upriver are the exquisitely ornamented Royal Barges, still used today for special floating processions. Of the 30 or so temples in Bangkok, the largest is the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, which houses an impressive statue of the deity. The famous Floating Market is a delight to visitors and well worth a visit. As the sun lurches towards the horizon in the west and the sweat cools, this city of royalty and religion comes alive with a palpable decadence. Music and dazzling neon advertise a plethora of trendy bars and nightclubs, as well as the notorious 'girlie joints' that have ensured the Patpong district its reputation for hedonism. Though the city's frenetic pace and infamous congestion can be overwhelming, a holiday in Bangkok is a must for anyone travelling in Thailand.

 

Travel to Bangkok Climate for Bangkok

Bangkok has a hot, tropical climate with average high temperatures ranging between 88°F (31°C) and 93°F (34°C) all year. November to February is the driest time of year and the most popular with tourists. March, April and May are the hottest months, and the rainy season runs from May to October. During the wet season, short showers are likely during the afternoon, though sometimes it will rain all day.

 

Attractions in Bangkok, Thailand

The most visited attractions in Bangkok expose visitors to Thailand's fascinating history, despite Bangkok's relatively recent construction as a city. The most impressive of these is the enormous and extremely ornate Grand Palace, and the adjacent Temple of the Reclining Buddha. Numerous temples spread over older districts near Chao Phraya River, making up an inexhaustible number of interesting visits, each one with a unique religious significance. Attractions in Bangkok aren't all serene sights as the city also holds a vibrant and flashy appeal. Among the most fun of attractions is watching a Muay Thai boxing fight; spectators can put some money down to increase the thrills. Bustling markets, which sell literally almost everything, can be wandered for a full day, especially the giant Chatuchak weekend market. Bangkok's unique neighborhoods encompass many small treasures. Both Khao San road in Banglamphu district and alleys off of Sukhumvit are attractions in themselves. The first is a backpacker's Disneyland, and the second an expat playground famous for its debauchery. Little Arabia, a middle-eastern district, is also a unique and fun place to explore. Hiring a river cruise is the only real tour of the city, although only a few attractions are visited.

 

Royal Grand Palace

The Royal Grand Palace is a popular Bangkok attraction. Construction of the palace began in 1782 and was completed in time for the coronation of King Rama I, and opened in 1785 to signify the end of the Burmese invasion of Thailand. The palace itself is made up of a complex array of smaller buildings, most notably the Wat Mahatat (the Palace Temple) and the Wat Phra Keow (the Royal Chapel), which houses the famous Emerald Buddha sculpted from a single piece of jade, one of the most revered objects in Thailand.

 

Royal Barges National Museum

The Royal Barges National Museum houses several decorative royal barges, the earliest of which dates back to 1357. Most of the barges served as War Vessels at one point, and were subsequently used on royal or state occasions on the Chao Phraya River. Due to their age, the barges are now rarely used, but their intricate designs reflecting Thai religious beliefs and local history are of great importance to the country's heritage. The barges were last used at the end of 1999 to celebrate the king's 72nd birthday.

 

Temple of the Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho)

Situated adjacent to the Royal Grand Palace, Wat Pho is Bangkok's oldest, largest and most famous temple, recognised by the UNESCO Memory of the World Programme. The grounds of Wat Pho contain over 1,000 statues of Buddha, and the temple houses one of Thailand's most spectacular sights, the Reclining Buddha: a 151-foot (46m) long and 49-foot (15m) high statue that is gold-plated and inlaid with Mother-of-Pearl on the soles of its feet. In the 19th century King Rama III turned Wat Pho into a centre of learning and it 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.

 

Wat Suthat and the Giant Swing

Wat Suthat is among the oldest and largest temples in Bangkok and is home to the beautiful 13th-century Phra Buddha Shakyamuni, a 25-foot (8m) tall bronze Buddha image that was brought from Sukhothai and containing the ashes of King Rama VIII. It is also known for its exquisite wall paintings, done during the reign of Rama III. The enormous arch made of teak outside the wat is all that remains of an original swing which was used to celebrate and thank Shiva for a bountiful rice harvest. Teams of men would ride the swing on arcs as high as 82 feet (25m) into the air, grabbing at bags of silver coins with their teeth. The swing ceremony was discontinued in 1932 due to countless injuries and deaths, but the thanksgiving festival is still celebrated in mid-December after the rice harvest.

 

Chatuchak Market

The Chatuchak Market (also known as the JJ Market) is said to be the largest flea market in the world. 'Organised' along narrow grid lines under tin roofs, this enormous market is packed tight with all of Thailand's wares. Around 15,000 stalls are loosely categorised into clothing, crafts, food, and animal sections and it is easy to become disoriented quickly. Some of Thailand's illegally traded animals are sold here and vendors are quick to spot signs of oncoming raids. However, a host of legal but bizarre goods are also traded; cock-fighting roosters, monkeys, fake designer gear and antiques are just the tip of the iceberg. The market is only open on the weekends from 8am to 6pm and on Fridays for wholesalers. It is easily reached by the Skytrain from the Mo Chit station and by subway. Visitors should keep the import restrictions of their home countries in mind when shopping at Chatuchak Market, and buy accordingly.

 

Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya is the former capital of Siam, from 1350 until mid-18th century, and at one time was one of the largest cities in the world. The capital was relocated to Bangkok in 1768 when the Burmese army destroyed much of Ayutthaya. Today, tourists needn't imagine too much to experience the splendour of the old capital, as many of the enormous structures are still there, and the ruins of Ayutthaya have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Multiple buses (a trip that takes a bit over an hour) and trains arrive daily from Bangkok and a boat up the Chao Phraya River to Ayutthaya can be organised through travel agencies. Although many organised tours in Thailand can be a frustrating experience, a tour guide here can give some fascinating history to the already impressive wats. This is an easy way to experience some of the ancient history of Siam as Bangkok is relatively new.

 

Siam Ocean World Opening

The Bangkok Sea Life Ocean World is one of the largest aquariums in Southeast Asia and features seven different zones; from weird and wonderful and deep reef, to living ocean and rocky shore. The aquarium features 30,000 marine animals, including Oriental Small-Clawed otters, ragged-tooth sharks, stingrays and giant groupers. Children will simply love Siam Ocean World, where they can watch live shows, have a shark encounter, ride in a glass-bottom boat, or enjoy a 4D cinema experience.

 

Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium

Located between the Queen Sirikit Gardens and the Children's Discovery Museum, this massive enclosure with rockeries, plants, ferns and a waterfall features some of the most dazzlingly beautiful butterflies in Thailand. Boasting dozens of species, including rare butterflies, looking up at the dome at any given moment, visitors to the Bangkok Butterfly Garden and Insectarium can see more than 500 types of butterflies, such as the Golden Birdwing or Siam Tree Nymph. The Queen Sirikit Gardens are a wonderful place to take a walk and feature magnificently coloured flowers, mazes, ponds and shady trees. Visitors who come here can enjoy a wonderful day of stunning gardens and scenery, butterfly spotting and even picnicking