Unspoiled Beaches and Islands in Amazing Thailand
The kingdom of Thailand lies in the heart of Southeast Asia, making it a natural gateway to Indochina, Myanmar and Southern China. Northern Thailand is renowned for its stunning mountain scenery, home to all manner of wild orchids, not to mention temperate fruits such as strawberries and peaches. Central Thailand is one of the world’s most fertile rice and fruit growing areas, home to sandy beaches on the east coast and vibrant, cosmopolitan Bangkok. Further south along the peninsula, unspoiled beaches and idyllic islands dot the landscape, offering some of the best diving and marine exploration in the region. Whatever your fancy, there’s never a dull moment in amazing Thailand.
Perhaps one of the most pervasive images of Thailand is that of glistening azure waters lapping onto pristine stretches of sand and not a soul in sight. Fortunately, this idyllic scene can be had quite easily. The western coast of the southern peninsula lies on the Andaman Sea, where longtime holiday favorites such as Phuket, Krabi, and Trang offer luxury accommodations alongside powdery beaches, scenic views over surrounding islands, and a horizon peppered with awesome limestone karsts jutting from the blue. Cruise the islands such as Kofi Phi Phi and Koh Lanta during the day and find a secluded cove in which to have a picnic or swim in the crystal-clear sea and snorkel the day away. To top it all off, enjoy a cocktail while taking in the sunset from one of the many luxurious beach-side accommodations. To the east of the peninsula is Koh Samui in the Gulf of Thailand. Best explored by kayak, Samui, along with the many islets that surround it, is home to Mu Ko Ang Thong Marine National Park. In the northeast part of the Gulf, and just a short drive from Bangkok, are the resort islands of Koh Samet and Koh Chang. Popular among the young, bohemian set, these islands offer up a lively assortment of water-based activities during the day. For a different speed, the royal seaside retreat of Hua Hin is a quiet getaway where you can lazily stroll among traditional fishing villages and visit King Rama VI’s peaceful summer palace.
Thailand may not be traditionally seen as an adventure destination, and this is likely the reason that its myriad natural attractions are such a well-kept secret. However, with a growing concern for the environment, travelers are opting for more “green” ways to explore a chosen destination. There has never been a better time to discover the wealth of eco-tourism options that are on offer. Everything from soft adventure trips such as yachting and trekking to hardier pursuits such as diving, camping, and sea canoeing can be had. Delight in the tropical south where craggy limestone karsts thrust up from the azure waters of the Andaman sea and make for excellent canoeing excursions, or dive with the sea turtles around the Surin islands or Similan islands in the Andaman sea. In the north, the landscape changes as it gives way to pastoral views of rolling green hillsides, mist enveloped temples, and picturesque rice terraces. Trekking around Thailand’s northern province of Mae Hong Son promises a unique treat, a rare look into the lives of the region’s hill tribes such as the Karen, Hmong, and Arka. If you go in October or November, you will be richly rewarded by the undulating forested hills and valleys as they give way to a vibrant blanket of sunflowers. Wildlife lovers should head up to Chiang Mai’s Doi Inthanon, Thailand’s highest peak. Amid three massive waterfalls, this lush habitat contains some of the world’s most prized tropical species such as the Asiatic black bear, the Assamese macaque, Indian civet, and more than 400 types of birds. With an annual calendar chockfull of special occasions with which to celebrate the unique cultural, sporting, and musical offerings of Thailand, you are never very far from an unforgettable event. Prime festival destinations such as Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Pattaya, and Hua Hin will offer so many enriching additions to your stay should you time it just so.
Sightseeing is an utterly rewarding experience in Thailand. Nowhere else is there such a dense network of masterfully preserved temples, palaces, and traditional homes. Even in the capital, prime examples of the kingdom’s illustrious architectural heritage stand proud. When King Rama I moved the new capital to Bangkok in 1782, he began a new era in Thai architecture, named the Ratanakosin style, with the construction of his awe-inspiring Grand Palace complex and the temple of the Emerald Buddha within. A blend of Ayutthaya styles, Chinese style murals, and subtle Western design influences, the complex is considered the crowning glory of Thai architecture. Two more temples of note in Bangkok are Wat Po, home of the world’s largest reclining Buddha that dates back to the 16th century, and Wat Arun, or the “Temple of Dawn,” which bears Khmer and Chinese architectural influences. Further north in the fertile central plains, the ancient capitals of Sukhothai and Ayutthaya can be found. The two beautiful regions offer a wealth of gorgeous ruins to explore. Note the Khmer style towers or prang that pervade in these areas. In the far north, ancient temples form a large part of the landscape, particularly in Chiang Mai, where the mountainside temple of Wat Phra That Doi Suthep dominates the horizon. First established in 1383, the temple has become the town’s icon with its Naga staircase of 300 steps, copper chedi or stupa, and five-tier gold umbrella, all of which are considered to be very auspicious.
It is not surprising that Thailand has earned itself the moniker of the “Land of Smiles,” as visitors are always welcomed and treated with generous hospitality. A strong sense of spirituality is undoubtedly at the root of the national consciousness. In Buddhism, emphasis is placed on merit making, which gives rise to the importance of serving others and fostering good faith. But in the day-to-day world, the heart of Thai culture is food. Its cuisine has garnered worldwide acclaim for its variety, flavor, and emphasis on fresh ingredients. From humble country fare to grand royal feasts, you will delight in the sheer abundance of choice and will definitely not go hungry.
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Posted by kalista
on Aug 18 2009. Filed under Travel Destination.
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