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The magic of Thailand

Movie-perfect beaches, top-tier temples, heavenly food, enchanting rainforests and glittering cities to boot. Whatever you want from an adventure, Thailand has it. Here’s everything you need to know.

Author: Aimee White - Travel Copywriter at Explore Worldwide
Published: 20 December 2024

Read the full-length article in issue five of The Explorer magazine.

Bordered by Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia and Malaysia, Thailand is located at the heart of Southeast Asia. Visitors typically arrive in Bangkok before heading north or south (or both!). Northern Thailand is packed with rugged mountains, honey-hued canyons and sprawling countryside, but remains lesser visited than southern Thailand.
 

Splintering into a strip of land between the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea, southern Thailand’s beaches and islands are synonymous with laidback beach life, bustling nightlife and some of the world’s best snorkeling and diving spots.

History and culture

Known historically as Siam, Thailand literally means ‘land of the free’. Its 13th-century Sukhothai Kingdom was the cradle of Thai civilization as it heavily influenced Thai culture – King Ramkamhaeng created the Thai script – while the 14th-century Ayutthaya Kingdom thrived as a major power across southeast Asia.

In 1782, King Rama I founded the Chakri Dynasty which still reigns to this day, and established Bangkok as Thailand’s capital city.

Spanning several millennia of rich (and sometimes turbulent) history, Thailand’s fascinating heritage is best explored at ancient sites like Ayutthaya – an easy day trip from Bangkok – and Sukhothai. Local communities continue to practice centuries-old crafts; in Na Ton Chan, villagers use bamboo-made instruments to create intricate textiles and items.
 

Today, Thailand continues to build on its unique, vibrant identity with an exciting modernity that ripples across major cities, from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. Gain a deeper understanding of Thai history and culture on our Best of Northern Thailand tour.

Sights

It’s clear to see why Thailand is ‘the land of temples’ – there’s over 35,000 spread across the country! From Bangkok’s golden-topped Grand Palace to Chiang Rai’s sparkling-white Wat Rong Khun, there are countless opportunities to connect with Thai Buddhist culture with a temple visit – just remember to cover your knees and shoulders at religious sites.

Join our Simply Thailand tour

Thailand is also home to an abundance of nature and wildlife. Khao Sok National Park is one of the oldest jungles in southeast Asia; learn about the elephants, tigers and birds that call this lush rainforest home with the help of a local guide as you traverse its jungle trails.

When it comes to wildlife, research is key. The sprawling Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai is one of the most ethical places to see these giant creatures. As for Thailand’s natural attractions, there are plenty of cascading waterfalls, rewarding viewpoint hikes and longtail canal trips that highlight the country’s natural wonders.


Tap into Thailand’s more recent history in Kanchanaburi, located 128km west of Bangkok. As you cross over the Bridge over the River Kwai, visit the Allied War Cemetery and ride on the train along the Death Railway, you’ll gain a fascinating, albeit harrowing, insight into one of the most infamous episodes of the Second World War.

"There are plenty of cascading waterfalls, rewarding viewpoint hikes and longtail canal trips that highlight the country's natural wonders."


 

Food and drink

Thai cuisine is deeply rooted in the country’s history and culture, with influences from China, Malaysia and other neighboring countries. Thai ingredients typically include fresh herbs like lemongrass and basil, creamy coconut milk, and rice and noodles to create some of its most traditional aromatic dishes.
 

You’ll find that chopsticks aren’t really used in Thailand – it’s more of a fork and spoon affair. While Thai cuisine has reached worldwide popularity, there’s nothing like tasting your way through Thailand for the real deal. In fact, Thailand’s food scene is a rite of passage: try local specialties, world-renowned street food and soul-warming staples from north to south, and everywhere in between.

Street food: Street food is a vital part of Thai culture. Locals and tourists alike throng the night markets and street vendors for grilled pork skewers, som tum (papaya salad), mango sticky rice and more. It’s one of the most immersive ways to taste the flavours of Thailand, one bite at a time. Throw yourself into the heart of the action at the likes of Bangkok’s Chinatown or Phuket’s Chillva Market.
 

Cooking classes: Booking onto a cooking class is a hands-on way to get a genuine taste of Thai cuisine – and a delicious way to learn. Cooking classes usually coincide with visits to local markets where you can see and buy fresh ingredients. With the help of local chefs, you’ll leave armed with the skills to recreate your favourite Pad Thai or green curry back home – talk about an epic dinner party!

Beaches and islands

There’s no denying that Thailand is loved for its beaches and islands. Crystal-clear waters lap golden-sand beaches, fringed by thick forest or tranquil tree-lined roads... nowhere does it quite like Thailand.

There are over 1,400 islands scattered across the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea, and one of the best ways of getting around is by traditional longtail boat. As you glide across the waves, you’ll gain a true sense of Thailand’s incredible landscapes.

Join our Thai island hopping tour

Or get beneath the surface – quite literally – by scuba diving or snorkeling, where you might spot dolphins, turtles and colorful fish. Thailand continues to show off with its karst-studded waters – take your pick of the best views from the beaches of Koh Lanta, Railay and Koh Ngai. There are popular places like Maya Bay on Koh Phi Phi, but seek out more secluded spots for the ultimate rest and relaxation. Come evening, some beaches up the ante with jaw-dropping fire performances.

5 fast facts about Thailand:

1. Thailand is the only country in Southeast Asia that has avoided European colonization.

2. Bangkok's full ceremonial name is the longest city name in the world: Krung Thep Mahanakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Yuthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udomratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Piman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukam Prasit!

3. The Siamese cat breed originates from Thailand; these elegant felines were much-loved royal pets during the Kingdom of Siam.

4. Thailand is home to the world's smallest mammal, the Bumblebee Bat, which is about the same size as an average bumblebee.

5. The energy drink Red Bull hails from Thailand. Thai businessman Chaleo Yoovidhya created Krating Daeng ('red guar') in 1976, before co-founding Red Bull in 1984.
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