Thailand offers a variety of incredible landscapes and cultural festivities, as well as lots of activities you can do in your leisure time. From soaking up the sun on an island to trekking through the jungle to hill tribe villages, there are plenty of ways to spend a weekend. During the week, you can unwind after work in countless restaurants or bars or learn a new skill, such as Muay Thai or Thai massage. There are indeed so many possibilities.
Water-based activities in Thailand
Thailand is known for its beautiful beaches, and the sandy stretches in the south are the perfect place to take a break from city life. Popular islands in the east are Koh Tao, Koh Samui, and Koh Phang Ngan, while the west boasts gems such as Krabi, Koh Lanta, and Koh Phi Phi. If you enjoy scuba diving, swimming, free diving, and snorkeling, head down to the islands and marvel at the marine life. The colorful coral and visibility will blow you away. Water skiing, white water rafting, and sailing are other aquatic favorites that you may also wish to try while you are in your swimsuit.
Land-based activities in Thailand
From rock climbing in Railay Beach in Krabi to practicing Muay Thai in Phuket, there are countless land-based activities that will keep you fit (and dry). If you like hiking, then the north of Thailand is a paradise with treks through the jungle that will take you to hill tribe villages where you can spend the night.
If you are more of a night owl, then there is no shortage of things to do after the sun goes down in Thailand. From full moon, black moon, and half-moon parties on the islands to the raunchier clubs in Pattaya or the sophisticated rooftop bars and fine dining restaurants in Bangkok, there is something that will appeal to everyone.
Culture and heritage in Thailand
Thailand boasts seven UNESCO World Heritage sites:
- Historic Town of Sukhothai and Associated Historic Towns;
- Historic City of Ayutthaya;
- Thungyai–Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuaries;
- Ban Chiang Archaeological Site;
- Dong Phayayen–Khao Yai Forest Complex;
- Kaeng Krachan Forest Complex;
- The Ancient Town of Si Thep and its Associated Dvaravati Monuments.
The country also has countless remarkable temples, statues, and buildings. Its historical and cultural legacy can be admired at almost every turn, and you don't have to travel far to stumble upon a sacred artifact or ancient archaeological remains.
Festivals in Thailand
Certain events in Thailand are an experience in themselves. Songkran, which is the Thai New Year, is particularly exuberant, and the celebrations take place for around 3 days to a week every April. As a way of welcoming the start of a new astrological passage, locals and expats douse each other in water almost continually for a period. If you venture out onto the streets, you can expect to be sprayed endlessly with water guns or to have buckets of water thrown over you – the only way to avoid being permanently wet during this time is to stay at home. Otherwise, embrace the festivities and have fun!
The Loi Krathong festival is another breathtaking affair that usually takes place in November. Candles are floated downriver on baskets made of banana leaves and wood. In Chiang Mai, the locals add their own twist to the celebrations by hosting a traditional parade with dance and music that goes through the center of the city.
Thai cuisine
Thailand's food doesn't need much introduction. It is popular anywhere in the world and has a profusion of exotic flavors and fragrances that make it seemingly irresistible. Most dishes include freshwater seafood such as fish, river prawns, shrimp, and crabs. Regarding the ingredients, coconut milk, and palm sugar are the most popular. Some of the most iconic and must-try Thai foods are pad thai, tom yum, som tam, ba mee nam, and pork satay.
Shopping in Thailand
Shopping in Thailand is one of the best leisure activities. From trinkets to shoes to dresses to pets, the country has it all. The street markets, night markets, train markets, and malls have a lot to offer, making your shopping experience worthwhile. The best places to go shopping include MBK, Central World, Terminal 21, Siam Paragon, Pratunam, Platinum Mall, Chatuchak Market, Seacon Square, and Mega Bangna.
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