Curator’s statement
Thailand is a country that has everything you can dream of and will be shown to you with smiles and bows. Emerald beaches? Phi Phi Islands. Markets and themed cafes? Bangkok. The most gorgeous temples in the world? Chiang Rai. Spas? Phuket. Retreats and wellness? Any of the Kohs (islands). It’s just a place that welcomes anyone and everything!
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Things to do in Thailand

Bangkok Riverside night market: So large and fun! Has any souvenir you could ever want, the best mango sticky rice, and a nice ferris wheel!
The Grand Palace: Just WOW!! You simply cannot duplicate this architecture, attention to detail, and ornaments anywhere in this world. If you go during the summer, have multiple bottles of water with you because this will take 2–4 hours, mostly outside and walking, and there’s only one cafe that’s always crowded.
The Erawan Museum: If you are concerned with ethics for most of the sanctuaries with elephants in Thailand but still want to experience elephants in a different way, they have a giant statue of an elephant and an emerald buddha here! Such a quirky little gem.
Wat Rong Khun (White Temple): My favorite temple in the world. You can spend hours here, and either way, you have to! According to local legend, once you cross the bridge you can’t go back to desire, suffering, and more so, you have to keep going to reach enlightenment!
Spa at The Westin in Phuket: Quite literally the most amazing Thai massage you could sign up for. Intense, but so worth it!
Maya Bay: A very famous bay, typically part of the tour if you do a day trip from Phuket to Phi Phi Island and is truly tranquil. I highly suggest it so you can have an opportunity to try out the long boats. The tours typically consist of Monkey Bay (you cannot approach monkeys, but you can see them), different bays, and time to swim in islands, like Bamboo Island, that feel like you are at the edge of the world. Be aware of timing if you do take a tour to Maya Bay and listen to the meeting point from your guides, Maya Bay is one of the most crowded spots globally.
Sanctuary of Truth: An ongoing construction project for years to this temple gives you a clue as to the work needed to construct such a gorgeous temple and gives you a chance to spot elephants and horses. It’s also not that far from the floating market, another cultural gem!
Places to eat & drink in Thailand

Maidreamin, MBK เมดดรีมมิน เอ็มบีเค: Located in Bangkok’s mall, this is a 21+ only venue. Diner-like with the waitresses dressed up as maids. This a cute and safe version of the exploratory side of Thailand.
Lalitta Cafe: A world like no other. This cafe is purely a fairytale, with their own jungle and waterfall! So celestial!
Cabbages and Condoms Cafe: A very quirky but educational 21+ only venue with some of the best food in Thailand and a cute gift shop.
Ma Doo Bua Cafe: A cafe that offers a beautiful photoshoot with giant lily pads.
Mars Cafe: A space-themed cafe with very interesting drinks, one including butterfly tea, which is a staple in Asia, especially for women, and is my favorite tea now!
Wyndham Hotel buffet: Just wow. One of the largest and tastiest buffets in Asia with optional seating outside so you can get a view of the river and boats!
Need to know
Thailand is very populated like most of the countries in Asia, so when crossing the streets, be careful! And if anything is planned time-wise, please factor in extra time for chaotic traffic.
For mosquitos and rainy weather, please refer to my Costa Rica guide.
US citizens need a pre arrival E-Form before entering Thailand.
Drink bottled water only.
Check the ethics as best as possible before visiting any sanctuaries.

Travel Advisor
Leanna Vinokur

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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Thailand page.