Thailand
Thailand is a family-friendly beach destination just under ten hours flight from Bangladesh Airport. Favored by honeymooners, couples, families and solo travellers alike, Thailand is a mix of water, jungle, mountains, and villages. Luxurious resorts, boutique hotels and backpacker hostels are all scattered across the country’s various regions. Renowned for sensational food, welcoming locals and outdoor activities, Thailand is a place you’ll want to return to time and time again.
Bangkok is the thriving capital city of Thailand and where most tourists begin their Thailand adventure. Known for its great street food, entertainment, markets and temples, Bangkok is an eclectic mix of activity. With definitely more than meets the eye, Bangkok’s attractions include parks, museums, theatres, shrines, and zoos.
FLOATING MARKETS
The Damnoen Saduak floating market is one of the most popular markets of its kind. Opened to the public in 1868, the market is packed with vendors and customers floating in their rowing boats, selling and buying produce. Observe traditional Thai culture and sample local produce through a guided tour of the markets.
PRATANAM RESTAURANTS
Pratanam is an area of Bangkok known for its good value hotels, markets and produce. In this area you can sample food from all around the globe. To sample excellent Thai food suitable for the Western palate the Once Upon a Time restaurant is favoured by tourists. The Tae Chew restaurant inside the Grand Diamond Suites Hotel is a Chinese food haven, known for its dim sum, roast duck and hot and sour soup. Platinum Mall shopping centre also hosts a diverse range of food outlets.
TEMPLE OF DAWN
Sitting on the Chao Phraya River, the Temple of Dawn is one of many Bangkok temples scattered across the city. The Temple of Dawn is named after the Indian God of Dawn, ‘Aruna’ and was constructed in the 17th century. Tourists can climb up the temple to view the river and surrounds. The east side of the river is regarded as the best view of the temple at sunset, when the temple’s silhouette is displayed across the skyline.
THE GRAND PALACE & WAT PRAKEAW
The Grand Palace is one of the most famous sites in Bangkok and was home to the Thai King for 150 years. Today, the site is a beautiful, dazzling tribute to the Thai Kingdom. Several different buildings make up the Grand Palace complex and the Reception Halls are still frequently used for ceremonies and rituals. The detail and unique architecture of the buildings are impressive and astounding, transporting you right inside the Royal Family style of living.
CHIANG MAI NIGHT SAFARI
At the base of Doi Suithep National Park, this new and exciting tourist attraction offers 120 acres of animal exploration. Take a tram ride at night through the Asian, African and South American predator enclosures. Considered by many to be the most beautiful night safari in the world, it also features a musical fountain and laser light show.
NIGHT BAZAAR
The Chiang Mai night bazaar is a bargain hunter’s delight. Designer goods, souvenirs, tribal crafts, and jewellery are just some of the treasures to be found.
PHUPING PALACE & NATIONAL PARK
The Phuping Palace grounds are spectacularly decorated with colourful and exotic flowers, while at the top of the mountain you’ll discover the village of Bann Doi Pui. This palace is home to the Royal Family during the winter months, so it is best to visit in the summer months while the grounds are open to the public
TWEECHOL BOTANICAL GARDEN
A journey to the Tweechol Botanical Garden, located well out of the city, will reward you with beautiful private gardens and a nature park. An accommodation resort, petting zoo and various greenhouses are all located on these expansive grounds.
KOH SAMUI DINING
It’s not surprising that such a magnificent destination offers so many quality restaurants. But what is surprising is that you can experience many different cuisines in different settings. If you’re after a lavish affair, Zazen Restaurant in Bophut is a treat. Traditional Thai food presented in a fine dining atmosphere and prepared by a French chef is definitely something to be savoured if you’re in town. Otherwise, Red Snapper is a more laid back option on Chaweng Beach boasting Mediterraneaninfluenced meals.
LAMAI BEACH
The second busiest resort beach of Koh Samui is Lamai Beach, a beach lover’s paradise. Numerous resorts call Lamai Beach home and the beach itself is a relaxing and tranquil stretch of sand. While you’re lying on the sand, why not enjoy some grilled sweet corn and Thai papaya salad from the numerous beachside vendors. Plenty of temples and natural attractions are waiting to be explored if you can manage to leave the beach!
NU MUANG WATERFALLS
An inland wonderland, the Nu Muang Waterfalls are two separate waterfalls reached by walking uphill through the park. Both are easily accessible by vehicle, but the second waterfall is only reached by walking 30 minutes up a steep hill. The surrounding forest and walking trails are popular with tourists who describe this region as one of Koh Samui’s best kept secrets.
THE BIG BUDDHA
One of Samui’s most famous landmarks, the Big Buddha statue was built in 1972 and is at the north of the island. The 12-metre tall, gold structure is visible kilometres away and attracts many sightseers
PRANANG CAVE BEACH
Accessible only by boat, Pranang Cave Beach is a dreamy, secluded beach escape. Explore the Phra Nang Caves and Phra Nang Lagoon for a touch of unspoilt nature. If you feel energetic, take on the hiking trails or go diving in the pristine waters.
RAILAY
Railay is an adventure playground for avid rock climbers with nearly 500 different routes to explore. Even if you’re a beginner, various commercial schools offer classes and beginner trails. Try ‘deep water soloing’, which is a free-climb above deep water
THAN BOK KHORANI NATIONAL PARK
A lush rainforest in the midst of the mountains, this national park is a breathtaking eco-tourism extravaganza. Enjoy snorkelling and canoeing or take a trek through one of the many natural trails. Visit Chao le Cave on Western Laem Sak and view archaeological, pre-historic paintings and markings. Dang Island is also a favourite diving spot.