My thoughts on my first trip to Thailand

As a first-time tourist to Thailand, my first impression of this country was profound and unforgettable. The rich and colorful cultural atmosphere in Thailand immediately attracted me. Both ancient temples and modern urban landscapes showcase Thailand’s unique charm. The warm hospitality of the Thai people makes me feel at home. Whether on busy streets or in peaceful rural areas, Thailand always wears a friendly smile on its face. They are helpful and very willing to share their culture and traditions.

Thai cuisine is also a major highlight. Whether at roadside stalls or upscale restaurants, you can taste the delicious food that is coveted. From the spicy Dongyin Gong soup to the sweet mango glutinous rice, every bite is full of surprises. The street food culture in Thailand is particularly impressive, with a wide variety of snacks in the night market, full of color, aroma, and fragrance, making people linger and forget to leave.

In addition to food and culture, Thailand’s natural scenery is also impressive. Whether it’s the peaceful beach or the magnificent mountains and rivers, people feel the beauty of nature. When I first set foot on this land, I was deeply attracted by the diversity of Thailand. Here, there are both modern cities and simple countryside; There are both bustling commercial areas and peaceful temples, giving people a sense of harmonious beauty.

Overall, Thailand has left a deep impression on me, and everything here is full of charm and surprises. The first time I came to Thailand, I not only experienced the beautiful scenery and rich culture of the country, but also felt the enthusiasm and friendliness of the Thai people. This trip not only gave me a new understanding of Thailand, but also made me look forward to setting foot on this beautiful land again and continuing to explore more hidden attractions.

One of the hidden attractions: Qinglai Bai Temple

The White Temple of Chiang Rai, also known as Wat Rong Khun, is a famous Buddhist temple located in Chiang Rai Province, northern Thailand. Designed and constructed by Thai contemporary artist Charlermchai Kositpipat in 1997, it is still being continuously improved to this day. The uniqueness of the White Temple lies in its pure white appearance, symbolizing the purity and wisdom of the Buddha.

The architectural style of Bai Temple combines traditional Thai architecture with modern artistic elements, which is breathtaking. The main buildings of the temple are decorated with white plaster and glass fragments, shining brightly in the sunlight. The inner and outer walls of the temple are adorned with a large number of exquisite murals, combining Buddhist stories and contemporary cultural elements, such as superheroes and popular movie characters. This unique artistic style has attracted countless tourists to come and watch.

The design concept of Charlermchai Kositpipat is not only to create a religious building, but also to convey Buddhist teachings and the purification of human spirit through the White Temple. He believes that art is the best way to express the inner world and thoughts, and therefore incorporates a large number of personal aesthetic and philosophical concepts into the design of the Bai Temple.

Tourists generally have a high evaluation of the Chiang Rai Bai Temple, which many refer to as one of the “most beautiful temples in Thailand.”. The best time for taking photos is recommended in the morning or evening, when the light is soft and can better capture the magnificent scenery of the White Temple. In addition, tourists should also pay attention to the opening hours and dress requirements of the temple, ensuring respect for local religious customs.

Whether it’s architecture enthusiasts or cultural explorers, the Qinglai White Temple is a hidden attraction that cannot be missed. It not only showcases Thailand’s rich cultural heritage, but also embodies the infinite possibilities of modern art.

Hidden attraction 2: Baixian

Baixian, a small town hidden in the mountains, is like a pearl set in northern Thailand, attracting tourists with its unique natural scenery and cultural atmosphere. Surrounded by continuous mountains and dense forests, Baixian feels as if one is in a paradise. The air here is fresh and the climate is pleasant, making it an ideal vacation destination far from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Baixian not only boasts unique natural landscapes, but also rich cultural attractions. Pai Canyon is one of them. This Grand Canyon is famous for its unique geological structure and spectacular scenery. Standing at the top of the canyon, overlooking the entire canyon, it is breathtaking. Whether it’s hiking or photography enthusiasts, the Baixian Grand Canyon is a must see place.

In addition, The Land Split is also a major highlight of Bai County. This scenic spot is not only famous for its unique pink architecture, but also loved by tourists for its stories and friendly hosts behind it. Here, you can taste locally grown fruits and homemade jam, and feel the warm hospitality of the people of Baixian.

The charm of Baixian is not limited to the scenic spots on the ground, but also allows you to overlook the entire town from the air. The Hot Air Balloon Ride is an excellent choice. In the early morning, when the first ray of sunshine falls on the earth, riding in a hot air balloon, slowly taking off, overlooking the beautiful scenery of Baixian, it feels like being in a dream. This unique experience not only allows for a panoramic view of Baixian, but also leaves unforgettable memories.

In short, Baixian, a hidden mountain town, has become a pure land in the hearts of tourists with its charming natural scenery and rich cultural attractions. Whether it’s the magnificent scenery of Baixian Grand Canyon, the warm atmosphere of pink houses, or the unique experience of hot air balloon tours, Baixian has its unique charm, waiting for every tourist to explore and discover.

Hidden attraction three: Elephant Island

Elephant Island is located in Trat Province in eastern Thailand and is the second largest island in Thailand. Its name comes from the shape of an island resembling an elephant. Elephant Island is renowned for its charming natural scenery and diverse activities, making it an ideal vacation destination that is far from the hustle and bustle and close to nature. The island boasts abundant tropical rainforests, spectacular waterfalls, and beautiful coral reefs, attracting numerous nature enthusiasts and explorers.

Diving and snorkeling are one of the most popular water sports on Elephant Island. The clear and bottomless seawater and colorful marine life make snorkeling and diving experiences very unique. In the waters around Elephant Island, tourists can see various tropical fish, sea turtles, and colorful coral reefs. If you are a diving enthusiast, you can consider taking diving courses on the island to experience a deeper underwater world.

In addition to water sports, Elephant Island also provides abundant land activities. Tropical rainforest hiking is a great way to understand the ecosystem of Elephant Island. Tourists can stroll through the dense forest and admire various rare animals and plants. In addition, Elephant Island also has multiple waterfalls, the most famous of which is Klong Plus Waterfall, which is a great place for swimming, picnics, and photography.

The delicacies of Elephant Island are also not to be missed. There are many restaurants on the island that offer fresh seafood and authentic Thai cuisine. The recommended restaurants include Banana Sunset Bar&Restaurant, which not only offers delicious food but also excellent sunset views. Another place worth trying is Chai Chet Resort Restaurant, known for its delicious Thai cuisine and beautiful dining environment.

Overall, Elephant Island has become a gem among Thailand’s hidden attractions due to its unique natural landscape and diverse activities. Whether you are an adventurous explorer or a vacationer seeking tranquility, Elephant Island can meet your needs.

Hidden attraction four: Suketai Historical Park

Sukhothai Historical Park is located in northern Thailand and is one of the most important historical sites in Thailand. As the capital of Thailand’s first independent kingdom, Sukhothai was the cultural and political center of Thailand from the 13th to the 14th century. The park preserves many stunning ancient relics and sculptures, showcasing the glory of early Thai art and architecture.

The Sukhothai Buddha in the park is one of the most famous attractions. This huge Buddha statue sits on a high lotus throne, with a kind smile on its face, symbolizing peace and wisdom. Tourists often stop here to feel the weight of history and the solemnity of religion. In addition, there are many well preserved temple and palace ruins in the Sukhothai Historical Park, such as Mahatai Temple, Shilishawa Temple, etc. These buildings are famous for their unique style and complex carving art.

At the Sukhothai Historical Park, visitors can not only appreciate magnificent ancient architecture, but also gain a deeper understanding of the history and culture of the Sukhothai dynasty by reading information signs and visiting museums. When some tourists shared their visiting experiences, they mentioned that the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful natural scenery in the park made them feel relaxed and happy, as if they had traveled through time and space back to Thailand hundreds of years ago.

The unique charm of Suketai Historical Park lies not only in its rich historical relics, but also in the experience it provides that is completely different from modern life. Tourists can ride bicycles or walk through the park, enjoying a slow paced travel experience and experiencing the charm of ancient civilization. For tourists who love history and culture, Suketai Historical Park is undoubtedly a hidden attraction that cannot be missed.

Travel Tip: Best Travel Time

As a tropical country, Thailand’s climate is deeply influenced by monsoons, mainly divided into dry season and rainy season. Understanding the characteristics of these seasons can help travelers choose the best travel time and gain a better travel experience.

The dry season in Thailand usually lasts from November to April of the following year, which is the golden season for tourism in Thailand. At this time, the temperature is moderate and the air humidity is low, making it particularly suitable for outdoor activities and beach vacations. Many festivals in Thailand are also concentrated during this season, such as the famous Songkran Festival held in April, which attracts a large number of tourists to come and experience.

The rainy season lasts from May to October, during which rainfall is frequent, especially between June and September, and there may be several consecutive days of rainfall. However, the rainfall during the rainy season is mostly short-term showers, which often do not affect the entire day’s itinerary. Tourists who choose to travel to Thailand during the rainy season can enjoy a more peaceful travel experience, as there are relatively fewer tourists and the cost of attractions and accommodation has also been reduced.

In addition, the peak tourist season is often concentrated in the Christmas, New Year and Chinese Spring Festival holidays. If you want to avoid crowds, you can choose to go outside of these holidays. For example, November and February are relatively off-season months, with a pleasant climate and fewer tourists, making it a good choice.

Overall, choosing travel times based on the climate characteristics of different seasons can make your trip to Thailand more comfortable and enjoyable. Whether it’s the sunny beaches during the dry season or the tranquil scenery during the rainy season, Thailand can provide you with a unique travel experience.

Travel Tip: Mode of Transportation

Choosing the appropriate mode of transportation is crucial when exploring hidden attractions in Thailand. Thailand’s transportation system is relatively developed, providing multiple options to meet different tourism needs.

Firstly, domestic flights are a fast and convenient way to travel to major cities and remote areas. Domestic airlines in Thailand, such as Thai Airways and Air Asia, offer frequent flights covering major cities such as Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and some more remote destinations.

Secondly, trains are another comfortable and sightseeing mode of transportation. Thailand’s train system connects major cities and many tourist attractions, especially Chiang Mai in the north and Huaxin in the southeast. Taking the train not only allows you to enjoy the scenery along the way, but also experience the daily life of the locals. It should be noted that train tickets in Thailand are divided into different levels, and it is recommended to book in advance to ensure seating.

Buses are also an economical choice, especially suitable for long-distance travel. The long-distance bus service in Thailand is spread throughout the country and the prices are relatively cheap. Usually, luxury buses provide comfortable facilities such as air conditioning and seat adjustment, but it should be noted that long-distance buses have a longer travel time, so it is recommended to prepare some snacks and entertainment supplies.

In terms of local transportation, taxis and motorcycles are the most common choices. Taxis are more common in major cities such as Bangkok and Chiang Mai, and can be paid by using a meter or negotiating prices in advance. Motorcycle rental is suitable for short distance travel and exploring alleys, and the price is usually calculated on a daily basis, but requires certain driving skills and safety awareness.

Overall, choosing the appropriate mode of transportation will greatly enhance the travel experience, whether it is arriving quickly by domestic flights or leisurely enjoying the scenery along the way by train and bus. Thailand’s diverse modes of transportation can meet your exploration needs.

Travel Tip: Accommodation Recommendations

Choosing suitable accommodation is an important part of ensuring a smooth journey when exploring hidden attractions in Thailand. Regardless of your budget, the following recommended accommodation options can meet your needs.

For travelers pursuing high-end experiences, the Mandarin Oriental Bangkok hotel located in Bangkok is undoubtedly an excellent choice. This five-star hotel not only has a superior geographical location and is close to many major attractions, but also offers luxurious rooms and suites, equipped with modern facilities and high-quality service. The restaurant in the hotel offers a variety of international cuisines, allowing you to enjoy a culinary journey to the fullest.

If you want to experience local culture, you may choose the BaanBooLoo homestay in Chiang Mai. This homestay is famous for its traditional Thai architectural style and the warm atmosphere of a home. BaanBooLoo is located in a peaceful community, just a few steps away from Chiang Mai Old Town and the night market. The room decoration here is simple yet elegant, offering free breakfast and friendly service.

For backpackers with limited budgets, the Kimi Pak Up Hostel is an ideal choice. This youth hostel not only offers affordable prices, but also has clean and comfortable dormitories and private rooms. The hotel has a public kitchen and rest area, making it convenient for you to meet travelers from all over the world. Pak Up Hostel is very close to the center and major attractions of Jiami Town, and its location is very convenient.

If you want to enjoy a seaside vacation, The Memory at On On Hotel in Phuket is worth a try. This historic hotel is located in the center of the old city of Phuket and features unique colonial style architecture. The hotel offers a variety of room types, ranging from economy rooms to luxury suites. Guests can enjoy a delicious breakfast in the hotel’s coffee shop or stroll along the nearby ancient streets.

Thailand offers a wide range of accommodation options, whether you want to experience luxury, experience local culture, or save money, you can find the right options. These recommended accommodations can add more comfort and convenience to your Thailand exploration journey, leaving beautiful memories for your journey.

Budget recommendations

Planning a trip to Thailand requires careful consideration of the budget. The cost range of the entire itinerary may vary depending on individual needs and preferences, but we can provide a rough budget range to help you estimate.

Firstly, transportation costs are an important part of the travel budget. The price of a flight from China to Thailand is generally between 1500 yuan and 3000 yuan, depending on the flight time and the length of advance booking. The transportation costs within Thailand are relatively low, with domestic flight costs ranging from 300 to 800 RMB, while long-distance bus and train costs are more economical, ranging from 100 to 300 RMB per trip.

Secondly, accommodation costs vary depending on the city and type of accommodation. In popular tourist cities such as Bangkok and Phuket, the price of a three-star hotel is approximately 200 to 400 RMB per night, while the price of an economy hotel or youth hostel ranges from 50 to 150 RMB per night. If you choose a more upscale five-star hotel, the cost per night may exceed 1000 RMB.

In terms of dining, Thai cuisine is not only delicious but also affordable. At street stalls, a authentic Thai meal usually costs only 20 to 50 yuan, while the cost of dining in a regular restaurant is approximately 50 to 150 yuan. The cost of high-end restaurants may be relatively high, with each meal costing around 200 to 500 RMB.

Ticket and attraction fees are also part of the budget. The ticket prices for most attractions in Thailand are relatively affordable, such as the Grand Palace, which costs about 100 yuan, and the Chiang Mai Night Zoo, which costs about 150 yuan. Some temples or natural attractions are even open for free.

To save travel costs, you can consider the following tips: book your flight and accommodation in advance to get more favorable prices; Using public transportation or renting motorcycles to reduce transportation costs; Choose local snack stalls and markets to reduce dining expenses; Make full use of free or low-priced attractions and activities.

Overall, the budget for traveling to Thailand is around 5000 to 10000 RMB, depending on the individual’s travel style and consumption habits. Reasonable planning and budget control can make your trip to Thailand more enjoyable and economical.