If culture is what you’re looking for, you’ll find heaps of it in Thailand’s ever-surprising capital city. During your stay in Bangkok, don’t miss a visit to the Buddhist temple of Wat Arun, otherwise known as The Temple of Dawn. Situated on the banks of the famous Chaophraya river, it’s one of Thailand’s best-known sites (and for good reason). Steeped in Buddhist history and names after the Indian God of dawn, it marks the exact location King Taskin discovered a small local shrine and decreed it as the site of the new capital of Siam.
A favourite for adventure-seekers is jungle trekking in Northern Thailand, near the city of Chiang Mai. Lose yourself in its pristine rainforests and towering, mist-covered mountains, gain an insight into rural village life and get up close and enjoy ethical encounters with Thailand’s national animal, the elephant. Bathe and play with these wonderful creatures, all while enjoying the surprising sounds and sights of a tropical jungle. There is a wealth of cultural treasures to discover here, too, including Wat Phra That Doi Suthep (one of northern Thailand’s most sacred temples), Wat Chedi Luang (a towering Lanna-style chedi) and Talat Warorot (Chiang Mai’s oldest public market).
Now… time to relax. Discover a little slice of paradise in the likes of Koh Samui, Krabi, Koh Phi Phi and Phuket where you can laze your day away in a spa resort (make sure to book a traditional Thai massage) and sunbathe by an infinity pool overlooking Thailand’s majestic Andaman Sea.