My Trip to Thailand

Thailand is known for its astounding tropical beaches with crystal turquoise waters, fiery food, lavish royal palaces, temples and ancient ruins. It has been a magnet for tourists for decades and I am so glad that I got an opportunity to take a trip to Thailand this year. This country in the southeast of Asia will take you aback with the abundance of opportunities to explore.

I went on a trip to Thailand for 9 days in mid September and today’s post is highlighting some of the things that I saw and did. For this trip, the focus was food and culture and I have so much to share!

Bangkok

Bangkok is Thailand’s capital. For a majority of tourists, Bangkok is the first stop on their journey to this fascinating country. The city is known for its historical monuments and vibrant nightlife.

I really enjoyed Bangkok! It is full of amazing food,and very sweet people. I loved walking the streets and exploring the area.  I flew in and out of Bangkok, so I spend my first and last days there.

Bangkok Chinatown

Among many noteworthy sights in Bangkok, Chinatown is a definite must-see. If you are a keen foodie, you’ll find yourself in a gourmand paradise here in Bangkok’s Chinatown. The district is very popular for its street-side cuisine packed with street-side restaurants, market stalls, and a great number of shops this district attracts thousands of visitors each day. And if you plan your trip to Thailand during Chinese New Year, you will definitely see Bangkok Chinatown in its full glory.

You should also go shopping in Chinatown at MBK. I found a lot of great items. I got two pairs of pants for $5!!  What a  STEAL! Make a stop here if you take a trip to Thailand and stop in Bangkok.

Klong Canal Tour

While in Bangkok, don’t miss a trip to its canals. You can see a whole unique way of life on the Klongs. This is a must do if you take a trip to Thailand. It was really fun and refreshing. I saw so many cat fish in the water on our tour.

Wat Suthat                 

Another must-see, Wat Suthat Thepphawararam Buddhist temple is a royal temple of the first grade, and it is one of ten such temples in Bangkok.

The temple was stunning and full of colour and intricate detail…making it a perfect place for photos. I really enjoyed this temple and learning the history behind it. Remember if you are visiting temples, you should have your knees covered (no shorts or short dresses) and also cover your shoulders.

Tuk Tuk Food Tour

To eat the best food at Bangkok, hop on a Tuk Tuk, a three-wheeled colorful taxi that originates from traditional rickshaws. This is a favorite way of getting around Bangkok for both locals and visitors. Bangkok is famous for its food. So, a great way to explore the city and its local eateries is via an exciting Tuk Tuk ride. You didn’t visit Bangkok if you didn’t ride in a tuk tuk on your trip to Thailand.

Bangkok Eats

While you are there I suggest you check out:

• Harmonique, a local restaurant with a very unique ambiance and excellent Thai food.
• Mezzaluna, a Michelin-star restaurant,  and savor excellent food while enjoying breathtaking views of the city.

Where I Stayed in Bangkok

I stayed a two different hotels, one on each leg of my trip.

The five-star Hotel Muse Bangkok Langsuan offers large and comfortable rooms that are luxuriously decorated with great attention to detail. My room had an old fashioned claw foot tub and they had my pillow case monogrammed with my name. Check out my vlog!

The Lebua Hotel in Bangkok happens to be the hotel where Hangover 2 was filmed. The views are AMAZING and don’t forget to check out the rooftop bar.

Sukhothai

About a one hour flight away from Bangkok is the charismatic province of Sukhothai. We flew with Bangkok Airways for this quick trip. Sukhothai will call you to discover its fascinating historical UNESCO World Heritage Site, exceptional Thai culture, warm hospitality of its local people, and some of the best food you’ll ever taste.

You can check out my Trip to Thailand vlog below or on YouTube for better quality!

Sukhothai’s Organic Farm

A must-do in Sukhothai includes visiting the Organic Farm where you can take part in traditional Thai farm activities. After some farming, indulge in a tasty lunch at the farm’s restaurant. The dishes are made from the farm’s organic ingredients. The farm, Sukhothai Airport and hotel are all owned by Bangkok Airways.

Orchid Farm

The orchid farm contains more than 100,000 exotic species that will welcome you with the fireworks of colors. In addition, you will have a unique opportunity to cycle around the farm and rice paddies. Now if only I could get orchids to grow like this at home. 🙂

Sukhothai Historical Park

If you are here you must visit the Sukhothai Historical Park to discover more about these remarkable historical ruins. Explore the site cycling – it is a unique experience. This famous tourist attraction covers the ruins of Sukhothai – Dawn of Happiness – translated into English. The site was the capital of Sukhothai Kingdom (Northern Thailand) in the 13^th and 14^th centuries. The historic monuments and ruins are still well-preserved and offer an incredible setting for Instagram shots. 

This was my favorite part of the trip. I loved it all! We rode bikes through the park and made a good choice to go right in the morning so there so hardly any people there.

Where I Stayed in Sukhothai

During my stay I checked into the Sukhothai Heritage Resort. This luxurious hotel offers guest rooms and suites designed in traditional Thai style. You can enjoy dipping into hotel’s two swimming pools and relax with a traditional Thai massage. There is also a bike rental at the hotel, as well as the library, the Lotus Restaurant and Vanda Bar.

I loved the pool here and I wish I just had a whole day to relax by it! This hotel has a great location….close to the airport, the farm and really just central to the whole area!

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is approximately a 4 hours drive away from Sukhothai. On your way to Chiang Mai, make a stop in Lampang ‘The City of the Rooster’ to visit Wat Phra That Lampang Luang, the 13^thcentury Buddhist Temple  and one of the best examples of Lanna style architecture in Thailand.

From Lampang, you’ll have another hour and a half ride to Chiang Mai. The largest city in the Northern Thailand, Chiang Mai lays on both sides of the Ping River. The city is located 700 km (435 miles) north of Bangkok. With the highest mountains in the country nearby, it offers plenty of perfect picture spots all year round. Chiang Mai (the New City in English) has more than 300 ornate Buddhist temples, so don’t miss visiting at least some of them. Also, visit the local food market and try a Thai cooking class.

Patara Elephant Farm

Another must-do in Thailand includes a visit to the Patara Elephant Farm. The facility offers a range of interactive experiences and educational sessions. You will simply love these huge amiable animals. A friendly advice: bring a few zip-lock plastic bags with you to put your phone and wallet as you may get wet during elephant experience!

You might also like Thailand Eats, Thailand – Where to Stay, Let’s Visit Mexico – Puebla and Mazatlan or My Trip to the Islands of Tahiti.

Where I Stayed in Chiang Mai

In stayed at the Dusit D2 Resort in Chiang Mai. This hotel was awesome! It was in walking distance to all the shops and the hotel gym on the top floor was amazing. I used it both days we were staying there. Working out is a great way to beat jet lag…which I had BAD on this trip.

Wat Phra Thai Doi Suthep

Give alms to this sacred temple and explore its astonishing surroundings. This is the most important temple in Chiang Mai and definitely an experience worth checking out. Additionally, don’t miss visiting a home of a local Thai family to learn about their long-standing traditions and participate in a local cooking class.

Keep in mind that, when visiting temples in Thailand, you will be required to cover your shoulders and legs. Also, you will be required to remove your shoes before entering a temple, but you may wear socks if you don’t want to walk barefoot.

Thai for a Day

One of the highlights of the trip to Thailand for me was the Thai for a Day experience which was hosted by a traditional Lanna family. We had a garden tour and cooking class to learn their way of life.

Thailand Travel Tips

The Thai currency is “baht”. All main banks, hotels, restaurants, and shops accept major credit cards. However, when visiting local markets and side-street shops, it is recommended that you use cash only. Also, prices are negotiable so you can get some awesome souvenirs at a discounted price.

If you travel with cash on your trip to Thailand, one of the most convenient places for currency exchange is at Bangkok or Chiang Mai Airports.

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This Trip to Thailand post has been sponsored by the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Canada. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting the brands that support me.