Highlights of Thailand

Over the last few years, Thailand has emerged as one of the world’s most renowned tourist destinations - and it is easy to see why. Mesmerising temples, a tropical climate, delicious food, golden beaches, fascinating wildlife and an intriguing culture are just some of the reasons to take a trip to this wonderful Far East Asian nation.

With so much to see and explore, a designated plan is a good option and Fred.\ Discover can offer a range of tours that can take you to the highlights of Thailand. This week, we take a look at some of the destinations, landmarks, and much more that you can experience on one of our many tours.

Bangkok

Bangkok is an experience in itself. This sprawling metropolis of high-rise buildings makes its mark as the economic and industrial centre of Thailand. But it doesn’t take long to find examples of the Buddhist culture that dominates this vibrant nation. The Grand Palace is a vast complex and is one of the most iconic structures of Bangkok and has been a royal residence since 1782. Within this complex, you will also find Wat Phra Kaew, which is considered to be the most sacred Buddhist temple in Thailand.

No journey to Bangkok would be complete without trying some of the delicious food offerings available. There are a whopping 50,000 places to eat including restaurants serving Thai and international food, but it is the street vendors where you will find arguably the best dishes that Thailand has to offer. It is impossible to summarise Bangkok in a number of paragraphs, so the best way to truly understand is to see it for yourself.

Floating Markets

The street markets of Thailand may be impressive, but the markets you see floating on the threading waterways throughout the nation will amaze you. Damneon Saduak in Bangkok is perhaps Thailand’s most famous floating market and represents the vibrant colours of this exotic nation. Many vendors come here every day to sell fresh produce, authentic souvenirs, and sumptuous Thai delicacies.

Bridge over River Kwai

Selected tours through Thailand will enable you to embark on a journey via the Death Railway which was in from 1943 to 1947 and was built under the conditions of forced labour. Although it was closed in 1947, the section to Nam Tok was reopened in 1957. Travelling from Wang Po, you will be able to ride through Kwai Gorge on-route to Kanchanaburi, where you will be able to admire the magnificent River Kwai Bridge. This iconic structure symbolises the awful conditions endured by Japanese prisoners of war during World War II and was immortalised in 1957 film.

Beaches

Thailand offers long and expansive stretches of beach - forming arguably one of the best places in which to soak up the Far East sun. The island of Phuket, which is connected to the mainland by a single road, is perhaps one of the most renowned of these. The western side of the island faces out towards the Andaman Sea and is home to many beautiful beaches with pure white sands and crystal clear waters.

While Phuket offers plenty of opportunities to soak up the sun, you may prefer the untouched destination of Koh Samet. Designated as a National Marine Park, this tropical area has remained untouched by developers since 1981. The coral reefs that surround the area are a testament to the enforced environmental protection. If you get the chance, be sure to participate in snorkelling, which will offer unparalleled views of the marine wildlife.

Chiang Dao Elephant Camp

Chiang Mai is known as ‘The Rose of the North’ and is highly regarded for its glittering temples, vibrant markets, and colourful hill tribes that live in the area. One of the highlights of this area, however, is the Chiang Dao Elephant Camp, where you can experience an elephant ride and gentle bamboo river rafting along the Mae Ping River. This area is home to a unique training centre – where a vigorous breeding programme is implemented.

Thailand is one of the many fascinating nations you can explore in Far East Asia. If you are inspired to embark on a tour of Thailand, you may also be interested in tours around Vietnam, Cambodia, China, and India. For more information, contact TravelQuest via the freephone number above or complete the online enquiry form.