There are many routes around Thailand, as is to be expected of a country where backpacker and trekker tourism forms a major part of the economy. If you want to see a few of the country’s most spectacular highlights, here’s what many people have recommended as their personal favourites:
Chiang Mai is Thailand’s top culture hotspot. Here you can meander your way round the old city streets, soaking up the atmosphere and breathing in some of the purest examples of Thai culture, so far unadulterated by the tourist industry, despite the city’s popularity. Quaint and friendly guesthouses line the streets, interspersed with local cafés and artisan boutiques. Chiang Mai is also a great place to find English classes in Thai language, traditional cookery, meditation and the art of Thai massage.
To experience something a little of the very well beaten tourist track through Thailand, head to Mae Sot and travel your way down to Mae Sariang along the Myanmar (Burma) border. You will find an eclectic mix of residents – Thai, Chinese, Karen, Hmong and Indo-Burmese – adding to the border town atmosphere of this unique location. Head to the day and night markets for the best of the towns’ tucker.
The southern islands on the Andaman coast boast some of the most unspoiled and spectacular diving sites in the world. For a truly unforgettable diving or snorkelling experience, head to the National Marine Park around Ko Tarutao.
Don’t be fooled into thinking that your Thai adventures need cost the earth, either. There are certainly many ways to economise, if needs be. Check out DialAFlight for Thailand flights and air travel needs. Their flights are offered at highly competitive internet rates. Ditch the fancy hotels and get the real local experience by staying in home-stays instead – this way you will meet local people, get great advice about your local area and get far closer to the true culture of Thailand than you ever could in a hotel. Try sampling the food at the local hawker centres too. You might be surprised to find the quality and the flavours are not too different from the top-end Thai restaurants as you may have previously thought. And, finally, steer clear of Western fare if you can manage without it – it is likely to be twice the price of everything else on offer.
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