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Thailand is a diverse destination that appeals to everyone. It's fortunate to have many exciting beach activities, and this 513-kilometer-long country also boasts pristine forests, picturesque mountains, bustling yet vibrant markets, and cities with unique cultural and historical characteristics.
BANGKOK - A CITY FAMOUS FOR ITS RICH CUISINE AND VIBRANT NIGHTCULTURE
Many tourists visiting Thailand often view Bangkok merely as a transit point to other destinations, overlooking the city's own "quiet charm." However, Bangkok is actually an ideal destination to stay at least a few days before exploring other parts of Thailand.
Bangkok is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Thailand, attracting a large number of visitors.
Bangkok is the capital city with the longest name in the world, at 168 characters, and has been recognized by the Guinness Book of Records as the longest capital city name in the world, ranking among the top 5 longest capital city names in the world.
In Vietnamese, it means "City of the angels, great city of the immortals, magnificent city of nine precious jewels, the king's residence, city of royal palaces, homeland of the gods, built by Vishvakarman at the command of Indra".
With over 10 million inhabitants, Bangkok is a vast metropolis. It preserves many of Thailand's long-standing cultural and historical values. Visitors can explore famous landmarks such as the Royal Palace, Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn), Wat Pho, etc., to admire unique architecture and learn about traditional Thai culture. Due to its Buddhist influence, the city is also home to many famous temples, whose gilded statues add to its sacred atmosphere.
"The Venice of the East," with the Chao Praya River winding through modern buildings, and beneath it, people still navigate the waterways in a timeless way. Despite its development, Bangkok retains a beauty rarely found elsewhere.
Traveling to Bangkok is likened to a piece of music, encompassing a full range of emotions, from bustling streets and vibrant entertainment districts to ancient, tranquil palaces and temples.
Bangkok is known as the Venice of the East, with the Chao Praya River winding through modern buildings while people still walk along the river below, a timeless tradition. Despite its development, Bangkok has retained a beauty rarely found elsewhere.
Visiting Bangkok is not only about admiring the natural beauty, culture, and people, but also about experiencing the distinctive flavors of this magnificent capital city. Thai cuisine is a sophisticated blend of many different ingredients, herbs, spices, and fresh foods, combined with a unique cooking style to create a truly unique Thai flavor. The city's more than 320,000 restaurants serve a variety of dishes from Thailand, Ethiopia, and Latvia, and over 500,000 street food vendors ensure that food is available everywhere in Bangkok 24 hours a day.
Many tourists describe Bangkok as a "feast" for the senses.
CHIANG MAI - A PARADISE FOR HISTORIANS
Chiang Mai is a great base for exploring the surrounding mountains, caves, and waterfalls, all of which can take at least three days of your trip. As the former capital of the Northern Lanna Empire, the Chiang Mai area also boasts over 300 temples. Some, like Doi Suthep, are renowned for their stunning scenery; others, like Wat Suan Dok, are the burial place of the ashes of former Chiang Mai royalty. Wat Chedi Luang, charming in the weather, founded in 1385, is conveniently located right in the middle of the Old Town, while Wat Phra Singh, home to the Lion Buddha statue, gleams in the sun with its golden stupas.
Chiang Mai was once the capital of the Lanna Kingdom (1296–1768), so many temples, old buildings, and ruins still remain here.
Chiang Mai is a fantastic place to explore the surrounding mountains, caves, and waterfalls. The former capital of the Northern Lanna Empire, Chiang Mai boasts a magnificent tapestry of culture and architecture. Known as the 'new city,' Chiang Mai defies its name with countless ancient structures and over 300 Buddhist temples, making it a haven for historians. This city, rich in Lanna heritage, is a vibrant blend of past and present, where traditional Thai houses whisper stories of a bygone era. Visitors are invited to immerse themselves in the city's cultural landmarks, each reflecting the artistic and spiritual heritage of the Lanna kingdom.
Despite its tranquil and unspoiled atmosphere, Chiang Mai is not as peaceful as many other places; it possesses a mysterious and captivating charm.
Walking through the streets of Chiang Mai, one cannot help but be captivated by the unique Lanna architectural style. From exquisite wood carvings to the sloping roofs of traditional Thai buildings, the city is a living museum showcasing history and design spanning centuries. For architecture enthusiasts as well as the average traveler, Chiang Mai offers a rare opportunity to explore the architectural evolution of Northern Thailand, from ancient wooden houses to grand temples.
Bhubing Palace: A royal blend of culture and nature.
Bhubing Palace, built in 1961, is a spectacular architectural masterpiece in northern Thailand known as 'Reun Mu' (Group House). This royal residence boasts stunning, sturdy columns, nestled within the natural beauty of the Chiang Mai hills. The tranquility of Bhubing Palace, with its rose gardens and breathtaking scenery, offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city.
The charm of Tha Pae Gate
Tha Pae Gate, a remnant of Chiang Mai's ancient city wall, is a testament to the city's rich history. Once a fortress of the "Old City," the gate now serves as a gateway for explorers to delve into Chiang Mai's cultural heart. As a tourist center, Tha Pae Gate is not only an architectural masterpiece but also a bustling hub where the past meets the present.
CHIANG RAI, THE "GOLDEN TRIANGLE" - A GLIMPSE OF NORTHERN THAILAND
Known as the Golden Triangle, the northernmost region of Thailand – where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet – has been a destination for avid nature lovers for decades. Formerly a major opium producing area, the Golden Triangle is now a popular destination for scenic river cruises along the Mekong River, offering breathtaking views and camping opportunities in mild weather. Both relatively remote and steeped in a notorious past that struck fear into the world, this area is sure to captivate visitors.
Chiang Rai province is located in the far north of Thailand, with its capital city being Chiang Rai, about 200km slightly northeast of Chiang Mai.
A glimpse of Chiang Rai city
Our first stop is Wat Rong Khun, a famous temple located on the southern outskirts of Chiang Rai, about 20km from the city center, right on Highway 1 (Phaholyothin Boulevard). Although built in the early 21st century, the temple is very popular with tourists visiting Chiang Rai due to its intricate and sophisticated decorations, and especially because the entire temple is painted a pristine white.
This province has a rather famous area: the Golden Triangle, the border junction between Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar.
Visit the "heart" of the Golden Triangle - Sop Ruak
Sop Ruak village is located in the heart of the Golden Triangle, the natural border of Myanmar, Thailand, and Laos. In the past, Sop Ruak was an integral part of the illicit trade, and you can learn about this history at the Opium House and Opium Museum within the Golden Triangle Park.
A once-famous area
The Opium Museum is located just 2 km from the Golden Triangle. It showcases the history of opium trafficking and consumption, with a main highlight being a model of the drug trade route from southern China to Thailand, as well as discussing the dangers of drugs and the lives of cannabis growers along the Mekong River. Open daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Entrance fee is 50 baht (approximately 34,000 VND).
Therd Thai village - one of the headquarters of drug lord Khun Sa
Visiting Chiang Rai without stopping by Therd Thai village isn't truly experiencing the Golden Triangle. In the past, this area was impoverished but its treacherous mountain roads made it difficult to attack, allowing the notorious drug lord Khun Sa to establish his base. Of course, all that remains now is a dilapidated encampment with rusty corrugated iron roofs. However, this village is the number one destination for tourists who truly want to uncover the secrets of the Golden Triangle.
PHUKET - AN ISLAND OF MIXED CULTURES
Located in the fertile southern region of Thailand, Phuket Island has a fascinating history. Its strategic location has contributed significantly to the influx of Western culture from European settlers in the 16th century, most evident in the blend of local architecture and cuisine. Despite being the largest island in Thailand, Phuket boasts a distinct culture from the rest of the country: a blend of Hokkien Chinese, Thai, and Malaysian influences.
Europeans first arrived here in the 16th century, but the largest number of foreign residents were from China when they flocked here to mine aluminum in the late 19th century.
Furthermore, Chinese culture has also influenced Phuket, just like many other areas in Thailand. Locals refer to this unique culture as "Baba" or "Peranakan".
Phuket's architecture is also unique, evidenced by its past Portuguese rule. The Sino-Portuguese-style townhouses, with their distinctive colors, tiles, and blend of Western and Eastern styles, lining the streets of the Old Town, are reminiscent of the townhouses in Penang and Singapore.
As Thailand's premier tourist destination, Phuket boasts towering mountains and lush forests, stunning beaches, and turquoise waters.
Phuket is heavily influenced by Chinese culture, even holding festivals to celebrate Chinese holidays. Therefore, Phuket Town is not lacking in ancient Chinese temples. Among them, the most noteworthy is the Taoist temple built in the 1890s, currently located on Phang-Nga Road.
THAILAND FLOATING MARKET
Visiting a floating market in Thailand is considered a highlight of any trip to the Land of Smiles. Each market has its own unique characteristics, from the way goods are sold and the items on display to the culinary experience. In particular, floating markets are also places that preserve the typical cultural aspects of the Thai people, where people live and make a living in harmony with the natural environment of the river and water.
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market - A Unique Cultural Feature of Thailand
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is an ancient floating market located in Damnoen Saduak district, Ratchaburi province, 105km from the center of Bangkok. Unlike typical floating markets, Damnoen Saduak does not operate on a river but rather on the intricate network of canals in Ratchaburi province. It is a famous and bustling market with a wide variety of goods.
The floating markets of Thailand are one of the must-see attractions for tourists visiting the Land of Smiles.
The Damnoen Saduak floating market is located along canals about 10 meters wide that flow into the main river. The boats, always laden with goods such as fruits, vegetables, and spices, are skillfully maneuvered by vendors on these canals, reflecting the ancient culture of Thailand and serving as a distinctive feature of the Damnoen Saduak floating market.
With its long history and its appearance in a James Bond chase over 30 years ago, the Damnoen Saduak floating market has become one of the famous old markets that tourists must visit when traveling to Thailand.
The floating market is held on a canal, so there are walkways for tourists along both banks. However, if you want to enjoy the feeling of sitting on a boat and floating on the water, you can rent a boat to tour the market. The rental price for a boat will range from around 2000 baht (approximately 1.4 million VND).
With skillful rowing, they will take you through the boats overflowing with goods from the vendors. You can buy anything you like right there. Or they will take you on a stroll around the floating market, where you can immerse yourself in the lively yet ancient atmosphere of Thai culture.
The market doesn't just take place on one stretch of river, but is spread across all the small canals and waterways.
When you visit Damnoen Saduak floating market, you'll be surprised by the vibrant beauty of the boats laden with a diverse range of goods. They sell everything from juicy fruits to typical Thai dishes like grilled meat, Thai tea, and mango sticky rice.
One particularly striking sight is the market vendors wearing hats woven from palm leaves, enthusiastically hawking their wares. These colorful images, combined with the bustling atmosphere, will undoubtedly make your stomach rumble with hunger, so be sure to arrive early and bring an empty stomach to fully enjoy the flavors of the food.
KHAO YAI NATIONAL PARK - THE GREEN LUNG OF THAILAND
Thailand is renowned for its unique "green spaces" amidst the Land of Smiles, namely its ecotourism areas, and one cannot fail to mention Khao Yai National Park.
Often described as a miniature Europe in the heart of Thailand, this beautiful and peaceful region is a stark contrast to the bustling and vibrant cities.
Khao Yai National Park covers an area of 2,168 km2, making it the second largest national park in Thailand. It spans several provinces including Nakhon Ratchasima, Saraburi, Prachinburi, and Nakhon Nayok, with altitudes ranging from 400m to 1000m above sea level. Khao Yai National Park is currently home to 300 plant species, 320 bird species, and 67 rare mammal species.
Regarding bird species, Khao Yai National Park currently has about 320 species, notably boasting the largest population of hornbills in Thailand. Here, you can observe large hornbills and Oriental hornbills in the central area, and if you're lucky, you might even spot the rare rufous-tailed robin. Many other rare bird species can also be found here, such as the white-browed dove, the wild bird, and the Austen brown hornbill.
Upon arriving in Khao Yai, the scenery contrasts sharply with the hustle and bustle of the cities, presenting a tranquil and verdant landscape.
The Khao Yai National Park area is surrounded by a vast river basin, with more than 12 forest trails ranging in length from 1.5 to 8 km, typically taking 1 to 6 hours to complete. For those wishing to see beautiful waterfalls, the Krong Kaew trail offers numerous falls, including Heo Suwat (25m high), Pa Kuay, and Heo Narok (150m high with three tiers).
KOH SAMUI, ONE OF THAILAND'S MOST PRISTINE ISLANDS
Koh Samui, Thailand's third largest island, is located in Surat Thani province, east of the Malay Peninsula, south of Bangkok. Like a hidden emerald gem in the ocean, Koh Samui captivates visitors with its enchanting beauty.
Maenam Beach welcomes visitors with its long stretch of fine white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters, offering a sense of peace and tranquility from the moment you arrive. It's an ideal destination for those wishing to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse themselves in pristine nature.
The beach's unspoiled beauty captivates many.
Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls along the soft sandy beaches, admire the small fishing boats bobbing on the sea, or participate in fun activities such as surfing and kayaking. They can also relax at the beachfront cafes and restaurants.
Wat Phra Yai, situated atop Pratumnak Hill between the vibrant Pattaya and Jomtien beaches, is one of Thailand's most famous spiritual destinations on Koh Samui island. The temple was built in the 1940s and was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991.
The island boasts crystal-clear waters and fine golden sand.
Wat Khunaram, a famous temple located on Koh Samui island, attracts visitors because of the presence of the mummy of Luong Pordaeng – a monk who peacefully passed away in a meditative posture. The monk's mummy is preserved here as a testament to enlightenment and the enduring nature of spirituality.
AYUTTHAYA - A DESTINATION FOR HISTORY LOVERS
The historic city of Ayutthaya was the capital of Siam from the 14th to the 18th centuries before being conquered by the Burmese. The remaining ruins of that city have since been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it a perfect place to explore.
Built in the 14th century, Ayutthaya became one of the largest cities in the world at that time, renowned for its beauty and prosperity.
Ayutthaya is located in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya district (Ayutthaya province) with a total area of 289 hectares. Ayutthaya was chosen as the capital of the Ayutthaya kingdom by King Uthong in the 14th century. For 400 years, Ayutthaya was one of the world's largest trading centers, flourishing thanks to its strategic location on the trade route between China and India.
The city is named after Ayodhya, the homeland of the Hindu hero Rama. In 1767, Ayutthaya was attacked and burned by the Burmese army. After the fall of the Ayutthaya kingdom, King Rama I (1737-1809) established the Chakri dynasty and moved the capital to Bangkok.
In the 18th century, Ayutthaya was almost completely destroyed in the Siamese-Burmese War, and today we can only see a few remaining ruins, yet these cannot diminish the beauty of its golden age.
Strategically situated on an island surrounded by three rivers, Ayutthaya boasts an advanced hydraulic system for water management. Once a vital diplomatic and commercial center of Asia, Ayutthaya today offers a harmonious blend of modernity and antiquity. Its distinctive architecture features towering pagodas and magnificent Buddhist monasteries. Ayutthaya's architecture is laid out in a well-planned and organized network, encompassing roads, canals, and moats surrounding the central power centers.
The atmosphere in Ayutthaya is quite peaceful; the statues are surrounded by rows of banyan trees, creating a serene and tranquil setting.
