Thailand is a dreamy land. In one word
(or two), it is a tropical paradise! Thailand is at the South East
of Asia, on a peninsula South of China, together with Myanmar, Laos
and Cambodia, and also shares a border with Malaysia on the south.
Thailand is open to Gulf of Thailand and the Indian Ocean. There are
many tiny and mid-sized islands which are developing to be
astonishing touristic spots.
The climate is mainly tropical, hot and
humid all year round around 30ish degrees Celsius. The miles long
white sand beaches, along with calm, turquoise sea create spectacular
views. Especially on the islands where the reefs and lush green pine
trees, together with the spectacular beaches provide some of the best
scenery you would ever witness. The sight is really beyond words and
must be experienced first hand. There are many well developed resorts
and facilities too. No wonder this land is the most popular
destination for tourists in this side of the world. Islands as well
as main land beaches provide for the sea sports lovers. Krabi region
is like a beach and watersport capital. Ko Pha Ngan island's Full
Moon Parties are something else. Phuket island is another must-see
location. In the mainland, there are thick jungles and some mountains
if you are willing to take hiking, you can stay in a jungle tree
house or hill tribe village. Inlands provide as good a view as the
coasts do. Another and probably the most important thing to do here
is enjoying spas and Thai massages. Contrary to what you might think,
spas have been introduced to this land rather late, in '90ies yet
really caught on. The industry had a great development and today,
Thai spas are probably the most famous of the world. Perfection of
Thai massage doesn't need explanation, it is an other-worldly
experience. Golfers too will be pleased with the top notch golf
courses of Thailand.
The culture and traditions are
authentic. Most of the population is of Thai origin. Buddhism is the
dominant religion. However the school of Buddhism here, is closer to
the Indian origin. If we ask about the history of this land, first
comment we hear is that this land has never been occupied by
Europeans! That fact is the pride of Thais. There is no colonial or
medieval architecture here. That is a good thing if you ask me, the
land stayed unspoiled and closer to its roots. Buddhist temples
(called wats) with their unique architecture of pointy tops and gold
colors scattered around well developed and modern cities like
Bangkok, create an immense mystical and authentic atmosphere. At
certain times, monks in their unique orange robes come out of the
temples in order to accept alms from the people. The atmosphere is
just mind blowing. The heritage of their ancestors live well among
the society, from traditions and customs to religious oriented music
and dances. The cuisine is another hot spot.
This being the South-East Asia, the
country should be called "technology heaven" for shoppers.
Not only electronics, but also every aspect of the life is indeed
much cheaper compared to Western world. Shiny malls, chic boutiques
and small local shops provide excellent shopping opportunities. When
you are planning your visit, make sure you leave enough room in your
schedule and in your luggage for shopping. Bangkok (funny name) is
the most developed city and offers good urban tourism with many
shopping centers, and a lively daily routine. Traffic, as should be
expected, is a melting pot of vehicles. Here rules don't exist for a
reason, no one likes them. We don't recommend driving. Instead hop on
a tuk-tuk; small mostly motorcycle oriented vehicles and watch the
driver zig-zag you through. Thailand also accepts an intense number
of medical tourism lately, standards of hospitals and clinics are
equal to or exceed those of North America and prices are unbelievably
affordable.
Thai cuisine is very rich and famous
and very spicy of course. Rice from the central plains of the country
is the main ingredient. So many different dishes of curries, fresh
produce and fish prepared with traditional styles and spices are
offered that you will have very hard time choosing. Most westerners
are not used to the levels of spiciness Thai cuisine offers, so one
should be a bit cautious when ordering. Table manners are a bit
different too. Most of the time, a big bowl will be placed in the
middle of the table and everyone will eat from it. Local selection of
teas are worth trying.
The people of Thailand is very friendly
and welcoming to the tourists as long as the customs and traditions
are respected. All in all, exotic locales, rich culture, unique food
as well as a safe and affordable vacation opportunity make Thailand a
tourists heaven.