Top 5 reasons to visit Thailand

It’s no secret that Thailand is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the world. And why shouldn’t it be, with miles of powder-soft, sandy beaches, warm, turquoise waters, delicious cuisine, abundant wildlife, verdant jungles, cities that never sleep, and an intoxicating culture? It’s been tough to narrow it down to only 5 reasons to visit Thailand, but Mundo Asia is up to the challenge!

1. Ancient History and Culture 

Novice monk in Ayutthaya

The Kingdom of Thailand has a long and exciting history in the region of Southeast Asia. The ruins of ancient capitals like Sukhothai, Lopburi, and Ayutthaya  boast the incredible heritage and power of the former Kingdom of Siam.  Additionally, holy temples and gleaming royal palaces found in places like Chiang Mai and Bangkok pay tribute to the country’s collective spirituality and love of the royal family.

As the only Southeast Asian country to escape Western imperialism and colonialization, Thailand has retained much of its original culture and local ways of doing things with a distinctly “Thai” flavor. Wandering around the streets of Bangkok and seeing the wonderful mix of modern and ancient buildings coexisting side by side is a tribute to the Thais and their unique way of preserving their history and culture.

2. Exquisite Beaches and Pristine Islands

Find your own slice of paradise on the beaches of the Similan Islands

Have you ever wondered why Thailand is nicknamed the land of smiles? Well wouldn’t you smile too if your country had more than 1430 islands and miles of untouched beaches, coral reefs, and clean oceans to explore?

The Andaman Sea, Gulf of Thailand, and Phangan Bay showcase beautiful coastlines, uninhabited islands, and accommodation ranging from barebones beach huts to luxurious resorts and boutique hideaways. Water sports,scuba diving and snorkeling opportunities in premiere underwater locations, like the Similan and Surin Islands are plentiful. No matter what type of traveller you are, there is an island for every type of interest and activity waiting for you.

3. World-class Cuisine

The national dish of Thailand, Tom Yum Soup

Of all the cuisines in the world, Thai food always ranks high on the list of best dishes. In 2017 alone, seven out of fifty dishes on “The World’s 50 Best Foods” were Thai—interestingly enough, no other country came close to having seven of their meals on the list.

Lightly prepared ingredients with a perfect blend of spices and aromatic features are the key to why Thai cuisine is so simple yet effective. Fill up on the spicy shrimp soup of Tom Yum Goong and the rice noodles of Pad Thai but don’t forget to try crowd-pleasers like green curry, massaman curry, and sweet and sour chicken. 

4. Relaxation and Wellness

Unwind with a world-class spa treatment

Renowned for its spiritual healing, thousands of people every year travel to Thailand to participate in holistic wellness retreats. Ranging from yoga and Pilates to spa getaways and holistic medicinal therapies, there are a number of spa retreats throughout the country depending on guests’ preferences for beach or jungle landscapes. The fresh air, healthy food, regular exercise and five-star spa treatments all work together to create an indulgent relaxation package for the most stressed out practitioner.

For those on a tighter budget, don’t fret! You can still get a great massage without the luxurious surroundings. Outdoor foot massages in Chiang Mai or Bangkok can cost as little as USD 2 while a standard Thai massage in a local spa will be between USD 8 – 12.

5. Shop ‘till You Drop

Browse the stalls of Chatuchak Weekend Market

A mecca for shopaholics, Thailand truly has anything and everything one might need when it comes to spending money. Modern high-rises filled with luxury brands, boutiques, and haute couture fashion from up and coming local designers as well as acclaimed international houses fill Bangkok, while local markets can be found scattered throughout the city, each one attracting a different crowd and selling different things.

In particular, Chatuchak Weekend Market, popular with foreigners and locals alike, stretches over 35-acres with 8000 stalls filled with furniture, knick knacks, plants, art, handicrafts, clothes, antiques, and street food. Check it out when in town–you’re sure to be in for a treat.

What are you waiting for? Start browsing some of our suggested Thai experiences to get your travel inspiration flowing!