The way that Thailand has evolved over the past 15 years is nothing short of staggering. It was one of those destinations where hardy travelers went with their backpacks, but now is the perfect destination for a family package holiday. The world is a whole lot smaller thanks to the air links that are now available, and we have these to thank for making countries such as Thailand more accessible, especially for families.
It is fast becoming a firm favourite of the elderly, and the number of people choosing to retire there is growing rapidly. The inexperienced traveler on their gap year can now also visit Thailand safely, and on a very small budget. Despite the surge in Tourism, what remains so charming about Thailand is that, so far, it is still largely undiscovered, and there are some real gems if you know where to look.
Most international flights land in Bangkok, and while this is a city everyone should experience, once you have visited the Buddhist temples known as Wats, the floating markets and the Golden temples there is little left to excite. Head a little out of the city in a North Easterly direction and you will come across a street called Sukhumvit Soi 1.
This was once a dirty little street with the permanent aroma of open sewers but it was completely rejuvenated in 2007 and now serves the most amazing food to the locals and the few lucky travelers who manage to find it. Okay, some of the menus contain entrails and intestines but hey, you’re in Thailand, give them a try!
For those with a weaker disposition, there is also a choice of fabulous curries, sticky rice and pad thai. The cost of eating here is ridiculously cheap with it being off the tourist trail, and you also get a chance to experience what Bangkok was like before the western invasion.
There is a travel agent on every corner of Bangkok, offering you everything from jungles treks to trips River Kwai. Their sales patter can be seductive and you can easily find yourself signed up for something you don’t really want to do. Ignore these patter merchants and hop on a bus to Sida, which is 3 hours North East of Bangkok, where the journey there takes you through the amazing Koh Yai jungle.
Once you arrive in Sida village book yourself into one of the little guest houses for the night. From here, the owners will help to organise you a home stay with a family in the area-a truly unforgettable part of any trip to Thailand. You get to live as a true Thai for as long as you stay and can visit schools, celebrate any festivals, and even help with the crops if you time your visit right.
The dense jungles in Northern Thailand are also a must see, but instead of stopping at Chiang Mai, go further to the North West by bus to experience some of the most breathtaking scenery you will see anywhere. These are just a few little tips for your next trip to Thailand, it would be a travesty to give away all of this magnificent country’s secrets!
