Unpack Thailand

Highlights of Thailand

Bustling Bangkok

Bangkok is a true metropolis with a skyline so massive that it nearly feels endless. After several decades of unprecedented growth the capital city is a captivating mix of modernity and tradition, as skyscrapers provide shade to Buddhist temples and local markets. Bangkok is best explored on foot or by boat along the Chao Phraya River and its channels.

Northern Thailand: Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai

Thailand’s northern region is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts with majestic landscapes ideal for activities such as hiking or cycling. The lush environment lends itself to an elephant population mostly divided between national parks and elephant sanctuaries. Northern destinations like Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai offer opportunities to visit the sanctuaries and participate in their rehabilitation and care in a responsible and ethical manner. Both cities are also wonderful for experiencing the country’s rich cultural legacies.

Thailand’s Islands and Beaches

Thailand is perhaps most famous for its beaches, the best known of which are islands located on either side of the Malay Peninsula. Phuket is situated just off Thailand’s western coast in the  Andaman Sea. While parts of the island can be overrun by tourists, other parts are largely untouched and offer unparalleled beauty. Small islands just off Phuket such as Koh Yao Noi offer further exclusivity for those looking to get away from the crowds. Phuket also provides easy access to Krabi and the Phi Phi Islands.

Off the country’s eastern coast in the Gulf of Thailand are other iconic islands like Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao. Koh Samui provides the similar logistical ease as Phuket, with countless nonstop flights to both Bangkok and other international cities. Koh Tao is renowned for its scuba diving. 

Regardless of which Thai island you visit, all provide the perfect finale for a longer trip and are each widely viewed as perennial honeymoon favorites.

Travel Guide

Thailand’s landscapes are so diverse that several weeks are required to fully explore the country, particularly if you are hoping to spend a bit more time exploring several different islands and beaches. With that said, most of the highlights can be covered within two weeks, still allowing for at least 4-5 nights on the beach for a grand finale. Thailand is often combined with its Southeast Asian countries such as Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos. It can also easily be combined with its Malay Peninsula neighbors, Singapore and Malaysia.

Bangkok is one of Asia’s biggest airport hubs, making for easy access for those traveling from North America or Europe. Nonstop flights are widely available from California, and those coming from the East Coast can make quick stops along the way in either Europe, the Middle East or nearby Asian hubs like Singapore or Hong Kong. Many Asian and Middle Eastern airlines offer flights out of island destinations like Phuket and Koh Samui, meaning no need to backtrack via Bangkok.