The Kingdom of Thailand is full of natural beauty; you can explore lush jungles and stunning waterfalls. It is also known for its delicious food. From incredible street food to fine dining, you'll find a variety of flavors and dishes to enjoy.
If you're looking for a destination rich in culture and history, Thailand is a great choice. You can explore ancient temples or vibrant cities. If you are looking for more of a relaxing vacation, Thailand also has incredible beaches and picturesque islands.
This dynamic country is the perfect place to visit if you are looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventure-filled vacation.
Once you visit, you are bound to come back.
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1. Buses/Mini-Bus/Van: Buses are a popular and affordable mode of transport in Thailand, with various types of buses available to suit different budgets.
2. Trains: Travelling by train is a great way to get around Thailand, with various routes and classes available.
3. Taxis: Taxis are widely available in Thailand, with various kinds of vehicles to choose from.
4. Motorcycles: Motorcycles are a common mode of transport in Thailand, with both private and public options available.
5. Tuk-Tuks: Tuk-tuks are a popular way to get around in Thailand, with many different sizes and designs available.
6. Boats: Boats are a great way to explore Thailand's many stunning islands, with various boat tours and ferry services available. In Bangkok, the riverboats are a great way to see the city as you cruise along the Chao Phraya River.
7. Planes: Flying is the quickest way to get around Thailand, with domestic flights available to a number of airports.
- Population: 69.8 million (2020)
- Per Capita GDP: 7,189.04 USD (2020)
- Currency: Thai Baht - USD 1.00 = 35.75 Baht
- 27% of the population speaks English
- Thailand is a constitutional monarchy
- Only country in Southeast Asia that wasn't colonized
- Number of 7/11s: 11,983 stores
If you're planning a trip to Thailand, it's crucial to be mindful of the cultural norms and etiquette to show respect for the Thai people and their traditions. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind:
The traditional Thai greeting is the "wai," where you put your palms together and slightly bow your head. Use it when greeting someone, saying thank you, or apologizing. If you're meeting someone older or of higher social status, initiate the wai.
Thai culture values modesty, especially when visiting religious sites or temples. Avoid wearing revealing or inappropriate clothing in these places and make sure to cover your knees and shoulders.
When entering temples, homes, or specific shops, it is customary to remove your shoes. Look for signs or observe if others are removing their shoes before entering an establishment.
When entering temples, homes, or specific shops, it is customary to remove your shoes. Look for signs or observe if others are removing their shoes before entering an establishment.
When entering temples, homes, or specific shops, it is customary to remove your shoes. Look for signs or observe if others are removing their shoes before entering an establishment.
The head is considered sacred in Thai culture, so touching someone's head is impolite, even playfully. Meanwhile, the feet are seen as the lowest part of the body, so avoid pointing your feet at someone or using them inappropriately.
Avoid pointing with your finger, as it's considered impolite. Instead, use an open hand or gesture with your entire hand. Avoid aggressive or confrontational gestures as they can be seen as rude.
By following these cultural etiquette tips, you'll show respect for Thai customs and make a positive impression on the locals during your visit to Thailand.
This map is an example of a backpacking route through the Northern region of Southeast Asia. My path is very close to the "Banana Pancake Trail," which refers to the delicious breakfast found throughout Southeast Asia. The map I put together above is a close example of the route I took the first time I traveled through Southeast Asia.
The first leg of my trip through Thailand started in Bangkok, where most Southeast Asia backing trips start. After spending three days in Bangkok, I took a train north to Chiang Mai, where I ended up staying for over a week (I enjoyed the laidback atmosphere after the hustle and bustle of Bangkok. I took a minibus from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai, where I stayed for around three days. After enjoying Chiang Rai, I made my way to the Lao border.
Things to consider when thinking about your route include:
Full disclosure, your initial plans will likely go out the window once you get a few weeks into your trip. Still, planning gives you at least a base knowledge of the geography, costs, culture, and other relevant factors that may help you avoid a mistake or two. It also helps keep you motivated as you save and wait for your trip to begin.
Scams can occur in many places around the world, including Thailand. While most people in Thailand are honest and welcoming, it's essential to be aware of common scams that tourists may encounter to protect yourself from potential fraud or financial loss. Here are some common scams in Thailand:
To avoid falling victim to scams in Thailand, it's essential to exercise caution, do your research, and use common sense. Stick to reputable businesses and services, and be skeptical of unsolicited offers that seem too good to be true. It's also a good idea to familiarize yourself with the local culture and customs to better navigate potential scams.
Scams can occur in many places around the world, including Thailand. By excercising caution, you can
When you go to Northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is the place to be. To be honest, this is where it felt like my trip really got started. It was a nice breather from the hustle and bustle of Bangkok. I took the train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, which isn't a short transit by any standard. I was looking forward to it as I was planning my trip.
I found Chiang Mai to be an all-around pleasant stay compared to Bangkok. In fact, I learned a valuable lesson here. During a long-term trip, you can travel at your own pace. If you find a place you like during long-term travel, nothing stops you from staying longer.
Taking the train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is an entertaining experience. Many people take a sleeper train to make the long train ride go faster, but I took a day train so that I could see the countryside. I feel that train travel throughout Southeast Asia is easy, comfortable, and part of the adventure.
Multi-day jungle treks in Chiang Mai are affordable experiences you will never forget. One of the biggest things to remember as you choose a trekking company in Chiang Mai is making sure that you choose an eco-friendly and elephant-friendly company. Many of the companies offering treks in Chiang Mai mistreat the elephants, so make sure to do your research and choose accordingly. Also, I do not feel it is ethical to ride elephants, so please refrain from paying companies offering this experience. Remember, elephants are intelligent creatures and are not meant for riding.
The company that I chose for a two-day and one-night trek was Chiang Mai Trekking with Piroon. For this multi-day excursion, I paid 3,000 Baht, or around USD 83.00. They also offer day trips and three-day and two-night excursions. This company goes out of its way to create an exceptional customer experience. My tour included transportation, meals, bamboo rafting, national park entry fees, accommodation at the hill tribe villages, and meeting/hanging out with Asian elephants. From my research and first-hand experience, I believe that they treat their elephants very well. Most of the time, the elephants roam free in the dense Thai jungle.
Chiang Mai Trekking with Piroon has been a Trip Advisor Traveler's Choice award winner for the last three years. They are also SHA Plus certified for offering guests strict safety and sanitary conditions.
For complete rates and additional information on Chiang Mai Trekking, with Piroon visit: www.chiangmai-trekking.com
Doi Suthep is the most important and holy temple complex in Chiang Mai. It is also one of the most sacred sites in all Thailand. Most people refer to the most famous temple in Chiang Mai as Doi Suthep, even though that is the name of the mountain where the temple is located. For adventurous people, you can hike up the hill following the "Monk's Trail." Although, with the curvy ascent to the top, you may realize how adventurous taking a taxi is when you witness the fearlessness of drivers in Southeast Asia. I took a cab to the temple's base and walked up the 309 steps to the actual complex. You can take a tram for those unable to walk up so many steps.
At an elevation of 1,050 m (3,445 ft), you will have a great view of Chiang Mai from the viewing point of the complex. Once inside the temple grounds, you will see Budhha statues, gold shrines, pagodas, and a model of the Emerald Budhha. You must pay attention to dress appropriately in this area, and, as with other holy places in Thailand, you must take off your shoes. Seeing all the bright gold in this area was impressive and unique. Chiang Mai was a destination I visited early during my backpacking trip, so that made this visit even more special. Even though you will see many temples in Southeast Asia, the important and unique ones are hard to forget.
Hours: 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM daily
Cost: Free to enter the temple
Transportation "red car" from the Old Town area: 40-60 baht or USD 1.10-1.65 (one-way)
Doi Suthep-Pui National Park runs adjacent to Chiang Mai, and here you will find an area full of protected plants and wildlife. This protected area of 261 square kilometers officially became a national park in Thailand on April 14, 1981. Several features of Doi Suthep-Pui National Park attract visitors, including cave tours, waterfalls, hiking, cycling, and, of course, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep.
Entrance Fee:
Children 4-14: 50 Baht
Adults: 100 Baht
Hours: 8:30 AM 4:15 PM
For more information click here
You will find the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar between the Ping River and the moat surrounding the Old City area. The Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, referred to as "The Night Bazaar" in Chiang Mai, is a staple for nighttime entertainment in Chiang Mai. When you visit this bustling market, you will find artwork, jewelry, knick-knacks, and much more. You will also find some of the most delicious street food in all Thailand.
I loved to walk around the night bazaar during my time in Chiang Mai, but I limited my purchases to a few small items and, of course, the food. You will find all of the traditional street foods you might find in other markets in Thailand, such as coconut ice cream, pad Thai, meat skewers, and fried rice, but you will also find foods from around the world, such as Indian, American, and Mexican.
I even discovered one of my favorite street foods at the Bazaar, the roti (basically a crepe). I would come to love this treat, and I had more of these during my backpacking trip than I care to admit.
For a fun and festive atmosphere, visit the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar!
Hours:
Daily 5 PM - 12 PM
You hear the word "temple fatigue" used in the backpacking world a lot while you are traveling. I personally am not a fan of that phrase. It is difficult for me to get tired of seeing these structures that are so different from those that I have been around my whole life. Each temple also has a certain uniqueness to them.
With so much to see and do in Chiang Mai, it can become easy to overlook some really interesting things. Sometimes it is just hard to see everything that a place like Chiang Mai has to offer. If you stay in Chiang Mai for a decent amount of time, you might have time to stop by Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan.
As your exploration of Chiang Mai continues, stop at Wat Lok Molee. The completion date of the temple is unknown, but the first record of the temple dates back to 1367 CE. It has a storied history which includes being the home of the ashes of several members of the Mengrai dynasty, who maintained the temple until the end of the dynasty.
I was lucky enough to be in Chiang Mai during the yearly Lantern Festival, so there were a lot of decorations throughout Chiang Mai, especially around temples. Temple hopping is easy to do in Chiang Mai with the vast amount of Temples to explore, and I never got tired of it.
Chiang Mai is a chill place to travel, so make sure to soak it up while you are there. Travel slow.
Chedi Luang Temple is a 14th-century temple in the historic city center of Chiang Mai. It is also home to Chiang Mai's most prominent Buddhist, Chedi, a Buddhist shrine similar to a stupa. The decrepit temple's ancient feel is unique compared to most other temples in Chiang Mai, and it is much less ornate than traditional Thai Temples.
Although it isn't the oldest temple in the ancient city by over one hundred years, it certainly looks like it could be the oldest, and UNESCO worked to restore and stabilize the temple in the 1990s. Since it is located within the confines of the old city, make sure to add it to your day of temple exploration in this fantastic city.
Hours: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Entrance Fee: 40 Baht or USD 1.07 (Sept 2022)
Founded in 1497 by King Mueang Kaeo, the most current temple dates back to the late 1800s. One of the more notable features of the complex is a Burmese-style chedi which was rebuilt in 1958. At this wat, you will also find the museum of Luang Pu Dun, a famous monk who was the Dhammayuth sect's chief for the Surin's first mayor, Phaya Surin Phakdi Si Narong Changwang.
Wat Buppharam is one of the more overlooked wats I've mentioned. I enjoyed this one because of the unique high entryway and the Buddha that stands in front of the temple, which is relatively uncommon. I visited Buppharam on a perfect evening, and the sunset made for a pleasant visit. It is a bit far away from more well-known temples like Wat Chedi Luang, but it is conveniently on the way to the Chiang Mai night bazaar if you walk there along Tha Phae Road. Both are directly east of the Old City of Chiang Mai.
Hours: Daily 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Entrance Fee: Free
While in Southeast Asia, it is easy to fall in love with the delicious food everywhere. The welcoming smell of food in the night markets, local restaurants, and streets throughout Thailand grabs ahold of all of your senses and always leaves you wanting more. Why not learn how to take some of your favorites home? Learning about the methods, ingredients, and skills required to cook local dishes provides a richer cultural experience during your trip. It doesn't hurt that you will be able to go home and impress your friends with a delicious meal of Khao Soi or maybe Sai Oua. Whatever you decide, they are sure to enjoy it.
If you have extra time waiting for clean laundry or a bus to take you elsewhere, why not try a fish spa? It sounds bizarre initially, but I think it is a unique experience to try while you are in Chaing Mai. Some purported health benefits include removing dead skin cells, increasing blood circulation, stimulating nerves, and creating relaxation. I don't find anything relaxing about hundreds of tiny fish taking turns eating my dead skin cells, but I think that the fish spa is a fun experience worth trying, even once.
Reference:
$ Usually under USD 5.00
$$ Usually USD 5-10.00
$$$ Usually over USD 10.00
$ Neathepark Backpack Hostel - This simple hostel scores 9/10 on booking.com. Amenities include air-conditioned rooms, a shared lounge, and a garden.
Extra Perks: shower slippers, complimentary breakfast
Located Near: Wat Sri Suphan, Wat Phra Singh, and Chedi Luang Temple.
$$ Baan Ploy In - With a great location, air-conditioned rooms, a shared lounge, free wifi, and a garden, you are getting a lot of value for a small amount of money.
Extra Perks: clean towels provided, tea/coffee maker in all of the rooms, and complimentary breakfast
Located Near: Hang Puak Market, Three Kings Monument, and Chedi Luang Temple.
$$$ The Entaneer Poshtel - With an exceptional 9.5/10 on booking.com, it is hard to go wrong with this hostel. This beautiful facility has small dorm room sizes, meaning fewer people share the room. The large beds are separated by walls on both sides and a curtain at the front of the bed, providing all the privacy you need. This hostel has a lot to offer.
Extra Perks: shared kitchen, western-style buffet breakfast
Located Near: Chiang Mai Gate
With all the attention on Chiang Mai, I feel that Chiang Rai is a somewhat underrated destination in Northern Thailand. As you will see in the "Things to Do" section of this travel guide, there are some sites that you simply don't want to miss by skipping this destination. In addition, Chiang Rai is the launching point if you are heading to Laos to continue your journey through Southeast Asia.
Throughout your time in Southeast Asia, you will see a lot of impressive temples, but few, if any, can top the uniqueness of the White Temple. Chalermchai Kositpipat, a local artist from Chiang Rai, turned Wat Rong Khun from a run-down Buddhist temple into the beautiful piece of art it is today.
The temple's location is a bit outside of Chiang Rai, so there are plenty of tour companies willing to take you on a tour of the temple for a higher fee than it takes to get there on your own. I recommend going to the Chiang Rai bus terminal, where you can grab a ticket to the temple for 20 Baht, and it is just as cheap and easy to come back.
The White Temple is a huge point of interest for many travelers. It is worth making the trip from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai to stop and see it. This temple is impressive!
Entrance Fee: 50 Baht or roughly USD 1.42 as of 2022
Hours: Daily 8 AM - 5 PM
Another unique temple, one of my favorites, is the blue temple. While this temple might not be as visually appealing as the White Temple, it was still one of the more unique temples I saw during my time in Southeast Asia. With giant dragons on either side of the stairs leading to the temple entrance, you will quickly see that this temple doesn't hold back from its boldness. Its stunning blue facade and overall design make this a temple you might not see anywhere else in Southeast Asia.
Almost equally as appealing as the outside of the temple is its interior. The glimmering Buddha looks blue as you enter the temple, but it appears white as you get closer to the statue. Murals throughout the temple help to complete the one-of-a-kind interior. Overall, this temple stands out, so I would recommend visiting it during your time in Chiang Rai.
Another unique destination in Chiang Rai is the Baan Dam Museum, or Black House Museum. Standing in stark contrast to the White Temple, the Black House is like an evil sibling. The museum is dark in both a literal and a figurative sense. In addition to the darkness of the over 40 exterior structures that make up the museum, you feel a sense of death, absurdity, and eccentricity while touring the museum.
Thawan Duchanee, the eccentric artist who worked on the Black House from 1975 until he died in 2014, has filled the 160,000 square meters of land used for the museum to display his life work. The museum gives us a deep insight into the artists' dark sense of humor with the multiple statues resembling penises in different absurd contexts. All of it makes for a unique experience and a wildly entertaining museum.
Hours: Daily 9 AM - 5 PM
Entrance Fee: 80 Baht or 2.27 USD (as of 2022)
The Clock Tower of Chiang Rai is an excellent example of Chiang Rai's love for over-the-top iconic architecture. The clock tower is an icon of Chiang Rai almost as much as the White Temple exemplifies the city. They even have noticeable architectural similarities. These similarities make sense, though, because Halermchai Khositpipat created both.
Located at the busy intersection of Jetyod Road and Thanon Baanpa Pragarn Road on an island of a roundabout, this elaborate golden clocktower is a definite attention grabber. The clock tower was completed in 2008 to honor the King of Thailand. The Clock Tower is so intricate that it almost looks out of place next to its ordinary surroundings.
It is worth a few minutes to stop by and see this celebrated piece of Chiang Rai. If you visit at night during the 7, 8, and 9 PM hours, you will see light and sound shows at the start of each hour as the tower lights up with golden, green, and pink colored lights.
Light Show: 7, 8, and 9 PM
There is a lot to see in Chiang Rai. The Blue Temple and the White Temple are a couple of the top attractions here, but there are still some fascinating temples and Buddhas within Chiang Rai. Grab a bike, rent a scooter, or take a nice walk around Chiang Rai to do some exploring.
Northwest of the city center in Chiang Rai, you will find Wat Huay Pla Kang, or the Temple of Mercy, one of the most spectacular and underrated destinations in Chiang Rai. Here you will discover what draws the most attention at this Wat is what some might initially assume is a giant seated Buddha statue on a hilltop, but it is a 79-meter (259 ft) statue of Guan Yin, the Goddess of Mercy.
To reach this statue of the Bodhisattva, you must ascend steps with long white dragons on both sides, reminiscent of the White Temple in Chiang Rai. Looking at her gentle smile and seeing her in a seated position brings peace to all who visit. While you are at this Wat, several other structures are worth visiting. Check out the prayer hall, which looks like a less intricate White Temple. Also, make sure to stop by the 9-story pagoda.
Entrance Fee: Free
Lift to the 25th floor of the Guanyin Statue: 40 baht or USD 1.06 (10/2022)
Hours: everyday 7:00 AM - 9:30 PM
There is just something special about night markets in Southeast Asia. The energy, the relief from the sun, the delicious food. Everything comes together to make an all-around pleasant experience. For these reasons, going to night markets in Southeast Asia was one of my absolute favorite activities. I love the smell of the food and the celebratory feel these markets offer on a nightly basis.
The Chiang Rai night market was one of my favorites in Southeast Asia. This market is where I fell in love with Mango and sticky rice, one of my favorite deserts in Southeast Asia. There was a food court-type area where all the stalls were side by side, making a square with lots of seating in the middle.
In addition to the delicious food, there is a good variety of items, including purses, clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs. You will also find live entertainment, including music and traditional Thai dancing. Oh, and don't forget to get a Thai massage at least once in Thailand. They are always available at night markets.
Hours: Daily 6 PM - 11 PM
It is an interesting concept, but the Cat Cafe is not my cup of tea. Suppose you want to spend some time sipping on coffee in the comfort of cats, head over to the CAT 'n' A CUP Cat Cafe. After being on the road for an extended period, spending time with fuzzy friends is probably a comfort to some backpackers. I might even enjoy visiting the Cat Cafe if I weren't allergic to cats.
Hours: Daily 11:30 AM - 8:00 PM
Reference:
$ Usually under USD 5.00
$$ Usually USD 5-10.00
$$$ Usually over USD 10.00
$ Adchara Mansion - You can get a private room with a full-size bed for less than most hostels at Adchara Mansion.
Extra Perks: towels and toiletries provided.
We are located Near: 1.1 miles from the Statue of King Mengrai and 1.1 miles from the Old Bus Station.
$$ Winter House Chiang Rai - This comfy guesthouse offers a private room for minimal cost.
Extra Perks: free private parking, garden with barbeque facilities
Located Near: Old bus station 1.1 miles, Chiang Rai Clock Tower 1.6 miles
$$$ Backpack Hostel - This exceptional hostel offers a queen room with a shared bathroom.
Extra Perks: A very nice shared patio area, tea/coffee makers in all rooms
Located Near: Very short walk to the Old Bus Station and the Chiang Rai Clock Tower.
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