Emerging destinations
A voyage of discovery awaits in amazing Thailand
Emerging destinations
Vast parts of Thailand remain ‘off the beaten path’ in Thailand, with travelers often opting for its more infamous destinations. But there’s so much more; not to mention a whole other side – quite literally – waiting to be discovered. But there’s no need to be an adventurous traveler; Thailand’s lesser-known spots are more accessible than ever before.
For those starting to dip their toe in more unfamiliar waters; drive North of enormous Phang Nga into Surat Thani and you’ll find the Khao Sok National Park, home to the breathtaking Elephant Hills. Surat Thani also fronts the Gulf of Thailand, a different coast (and Monsoon season) to beachfront escapes facing the Andaman Sea, where if you squint you’ll see Koh Samui. Further Northwest, you’ll find Ranong with its untouched, beautiful beaches and beach life – what locals consider too far from Bangkok, and also out of reach of usual Southern sun worshippers.
Thailand’s Southernmost destinations are opening up after being in the dark – Trang is an unspoilt paradise with 70 miles of pristine costs; where barefoot beach-hutting is the order of the holiday. Don’t expect beachclubs down here, it’s really about getting away from it all. Koh Lipe is also rising in notoriety; as well as its neighbouring islands, geographically closer to Malaysia than they are Thailand. Koh Libong for example, is a snorkelling and diver’s paradise.
On the East Coast, Nakhon Si Thammarat is a time-capsule of a place that adventurous foodies and culture vultures alike will love; a real glimpse into Muslim-Thailand and the influences that has on Thai culture. It’s also the heartland of Thailand’s latest foray into community-based and eco-tourism.
Further North, Kanchanaburi, Chantaburi and Khampeang Phet is historically fascinating; and Khao Yai holds nature’s secrets. The final frontier is the North Eastern province of Isan; whose spicy and unique food has become internationally renowned of late.
Inspiration
Inspiration
Country roads: four reasons to go trekking in Thailand
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In the footsteps of the Khmer – visit the Thai-based strongholds of a lost empire
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Pink paradise – Thai attractions in our favourite colour
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Soul searching – Thailand’s most meaningful experiences for solo-travellers
To travellers around the world, Thailand is a dream escape: its sandy beaches and glistening pagodas lure families, friends and couples alike. But one group…
Came to sustain: eco-friendly ideas for a greener Thai holiday
Thailand is often said to have it all. More than anything else, however, the country’s natural wonders are the stuff traveller’s dreams are made of:…
Lights, camera, action: visiting Thai places you’ve seen in the movies
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Bangkok breaks: quick escapes from Thailand’s bustling capital
Some destinations elude being described in a few words and Bangkok is certainly one of them. The Thai capital is shrill, beautiful, progressive and…
Stranger Things – weird and wonderful places to see in Thailand
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5 ways to celebrate Songkran in Thailand
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Five Thai festivals and rituals to be part of
Songkran Probably Thailand’s most well know festival, this three-day celebration marks the Thai New Year. You’ve probably seen scenes of revelry as whole streets are…
Bangkok’s hidden jungle: Bang Krachao
One of the hardest parts of planning a trip to Thailand isn’t finding the flight or hotel, it’s actually deciding where to visit in the…
10 LGBT+ friendly destinations to visit
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Thai cuisine is good for you
Yeah. It’s a bummer. You’ve booked your Thailand trip, but it’s the middle of winter and you’re not summer body ready. The beaches are calling your…
Loving Lipe: Koh Lipe escape
A trip to Thailand isn’t complete without an island getaway. Most tourists head south-east to Koh Samui and Koh PhaNgan (of full moon party fame)…
Date ideas for adventurer couples in Thailand
Thailand is full of beautiful forests, bodies of water, skies, and people – so what better way to experience it all than to head out…
Getting festive Thai style
April brings one of the most important (and fun) Thai festivals of the year, Songkran, or Thai New Year. The entire country shuts down for…
Ayutthaya: Ruins, rapids and roars
Bangkok is amazing, but even the most ardent city-slickers will find it nice to get out of the city sometimes. You can choose to travel…
Escape to Koh Kret
The craft beer trend has only just reached Thailand. So when my friend mentioned he’d like to take a trip on the Chao Praya River…
For lovers (of nature): Khao Yai National Park
A favorite of Bangkok residents, Khao Yai National Park is one of Thailand’s most beautiful national parks. Not only does it have thick, luscious rainforest,…
Alternative routes: Sukhothai
If you’re visiting Thailand then there’s a good chance you may head up north to Chiang Mai. If you have the time (or you are…
Paradise is a place called Khao Sok
I’m going to let you in on a little secret. I’ve found the most beautiful untouched paradise. So for those who swam with elephants, lazed…
Street walking for Isaan food
I’m willing to bet my lucky left testicle that you’re already a fan of Thai food. Tom yum soup, Thai green curry, sticky rice with…
Mae Hong Son: The end of the road
For those of you who need to see it all – what’s behind that last mountain, past that final valley, under that cotton shirt –…
Koh Samet getaway
A nice option for a weekend away from Bangkok, especially if you’re on a budget or want to reduce your carbon footprint (no air travel),…
Pranburi: Thailand’s hidden treasure
We’d been in Bangkok for a few days when my partner Nikki and I decided on a quick adventure before we caught our plane home…
Thai massage: Ultimate healing power
After far too much complaining about our sore necks and back muscles after a grueling workout, my American friend and I knew it was time…
LGBT+ welcoming hotels & resorts
LGBT+ welcoming hotels and resorts
Events & offers
Events and offers
October: Chonburi Festival
Every province in Thailand has a festival at some point during the year. These are frequently off the main tourist circuit, and these celebrations offer…
November: Loi Krathong
Well, you little devil, if you’re planning to vacation in Thailand at the end of November, you’re in luck literally and figuratively. Not only will…
May: Bun Bang Fai Skyrocket Festival
Bun Bang Fai Festival is an ancient local festival, held in the lesser known Yasothon Province. It is associated with Thai traditional beliefs in the supernatural…
May: Surin Elephant Festival
Witness an ordination parade with over a hundred of elephants from Chang Swang Temple in Surin. Attend the ritual to make an apology to sacred…
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