One's destination is never a place , but a new way of seeing things. I have spent so many weeks in Thailand and it is by far one of my favourite countries. From my experience , I have chosen some of the incredible places to travel in this beautiful country, lets go :
1. Koh Tao
Number one on the list is Koh Tao. It has everything you are looking for, from beautiful resorts ,to nightlife , to the worlds most beautiful beaches. It is one of the smallest Island on this country and my favourite.
The john-suwan lookout point is incredible view point for this paradise. And it wouldn't be a trip to Koh Tao without the stereotypical fire dancers on the Sairee beach. Also a really big thing in Koh Tao is the pub crawl. It happens 3 -4 times a week, so you cant miss it. Its a great way to meet other people , and there is no better souvenir than a second degree burn , so try all the different fire activities.
If you're thinking about getting your diving license , Koh Tao is the place. It is the second cheapest place in the world to get your PADI and its definitely not a bad place to try scuba diving for the first time.
2. Koh Lanta
My second highest recommendation is going to Koh Lanta. Its a bit of a couple's island, it's a little bit sleepy , but it's extremely beautiful. And there's one activity in particular that you must do and that is the 'Four Island Tour' in Koh Lanta.
During that day-trip I saw some of the most beautiful islands and beautiful water that I've ever seen on my entire life. If you don't believe, check one of the videos on YouTube. At one point on the tour , they even take you through those massive tunnels , where on the other side you get to a lagoon where the pirates are said to have hidden their treasures.
3. Chiang Mai
My third recommendation is go up north of the Thailand and see the elephants. They are some of the most beautiful animals in the entire world. And there is truly nothing more incredible than standing next to one of these creatures. Intelligent , affectionate and incredibly powerful.
Chiang Mai is also known as the' land of misty mountains and colourful hill tribes ' . Participate in a vast array of activities on offer, or just stroll around the backstreets, and discover a city that is still firmly Thai in its atmosphere, and attitude.
It also has amazing cafes , night markets and still a shopper's paradise.
4.Full Moon Party - Koh Phangan
If you go to Thailand and don't go to a full moon party. Did you ever really go?
You can definitely experience Thailand without the full moon , but it is one of those experiences you shouldn't miss out on. Plastic buckets infused with questionable alcohol, florescent clothes and paintings all on your body and night full of incredible party with crazy people from all around the world. What more to be asked for ?
Even If not on a full moon night, there are always incredible parties going on this island.Some of the famous ones are Jungle Party , Half moon party and Waterfall party. Except for parties, the island of Koh Phangan is also very beautiful , so you can stay and explore for a few days. Watching the sunset from the Amsterdam bar is a pure bliss.
5.Day Trip to Koh Nang Yuan
Surprise! Back to No 1 on the list. Right across Koh Tao is a tiny little island by the name of Koh Nang Yuan. A day trip from Koh Tao to this island is my no 5 recommendation because that is simply one of the most beautiful things I have ever seen in my entire life.
It is made up of three little teardrops of land on crystal blue water connected by a massive sandbar. A place where post card dreams are made. There's a lookout point on the top of the hill which is absolutely stunning view for photographs. People can also reach here from the nearest airport (Chumpon) and Koh Samui for a day trip. It is pretty much something you would see in your dreams.
6.Mae Hong Son Loop ( Bike Ride from Chiang Mai to Pai)
It is something definitely not for the faint hearted. It's taking your scooter from Chiang Mai to Pai. Also known as riding route 1095.
Not as catchy as the name of its hope, but it is some incredible ride. From 2.5 hrs - 4 hrs , depending on the speed , you're going zig zagging back and forth. There's at least 300 bends at a relatively small distance making an amazing ride for those who are comfortable enough to do it. I strongly recommend you have some biking experience before you tackle this yourself.
And if you're going to Pai , stay there for at least 2 days. It is another incredible place for the peaceful mountain lovers.
7.Railay
The land of Avatar is my no 7. It is not actually an island , just a split of land connected to the mainland but accessible only by a boat. But it is so isolated between its cliffs. Beautiful clear blue water surrounded by exaggerated mountains. You really can't beat it. It is also a heaven for rock climbers.
There's an east beach and a west beach, separated by cliffs. It has high end resorts to backpacker hostels. But expect things to be a little expensive here as it is only accessible by water.
If Railay was'nt so busy, it would be my favourite island I've ever been to. The west beach is simply unparalleled. It can also be done as a day trip from Krabi.
8.Bangkok
It is actually a place which many people discount. Bangkok is one of my favourite places in the entire world. And it's one of those places where I have had maximum layovers for all my south east Asia trips.
It's an amazing place to get delicious street foods, cheap electronics , incredible temple and culture. And surprisingly , beautiful sunsets.
Bangkok has definitely an amazing nightlife, a cocktail in one of the many Sky bars is a must recommendation. And for a nightout , make sure to check out Kao San Road. It is basically the stereotypical backpacker's area. Buckets , street food and scorpions on a stick. You have to try the scorpion, it taste horrible.
9. Koh Phi Phi.
If the full moon party wasn't enough for you , come to Koh phi phi. This is the party island central. During busy season , the beaches are never be empty, it's constantly full of young backpackers looking to party. Beer pong , cheap alcohol and clubs by the beach , that's basically all Koh Phi Phi has to offer. But it's an amazing place if you're looking for that.
There are amazing beach side resorts and stunning lookout points all through the island. And if you're looking for island tours , it's definitely your best bet.
Koh Phi Phi does have one other thing , The Maya bay . It is basically the face of the Leonardo di Caprio movie the 'BEACH'. When you think of Thailand, this is the place you're thinking of. Maya bay is absolutely stunning. Despite of it's magnificent beauty , it is very over crowded , but if you're looking for Instagram likes , Check it out.
10.Koh Samui
Its an island that I originally discounted. But after being on this rather touristy island for few days, I had a absolute good feeling. I thought it is really expensive as it is the only island which has an airport and many high end resorts. But to my surprise , it is even affordable for a mid-budget traveller.
Koh Samui is one of the bigger islands , so rent a scooter , go take take a look around the entire island and find incredible places along the way, like the 'Penis and the vagina rock'.
If you're looking to enjoy the finer things in Samui , set aside a little bit of money and go for at least a cocktail to one of the beautiful beach resort. This here is known as the 'Samui Sunset' , arguably known as one of the best sunsets in the entire world. So beautiful , they named a cocktail after it.
If you want to look one of the better vistas on the whole Koh Samui , definitely check out The Jungle Club. Not popular for its good food or service , but the view makes it all worth it.
This places have been rated according to my personal choices. I have no intention to disregard someone's liking. If you need further information about these places , you can google it or reach me without any hesitation
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