They always teach you that a smile can go a long way, but in Thailand, a smile means so much more. This country is literally referred to as “the Land of Smiles.” This slogan was created by friendly Thai people who welcome tourism. Thailand is known for its rich culture, gorgeous beaches, elephants, martial arts, and it’s many glorious temples! This is a lovely country that is inexpensive, adventurous, and is exquisitely unique. Here are the top ten places to go in Thailand that you can’t miss when going on a vacation there! 

1. The Grand Palace- Bangkok

Right in the middle of the heart of Thailand's capital Bangkok is the complex yet stunning Grand Palace. The Grand Palace is a series of buildings that were established for royalty back in 1782. This is the number one sightseeing attraction in the city, and it's staggering in both historical significance and craftsmanship. Inside you will find a maze of temples, ancient relics, Thai war ministry, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, and all administrative offices. This is the most famous landmark in all of Bangkok and known for the spiritual heart of the entire Thai kingdom. These are sacred grounds to the Thai people and it is strict you wear appropriate, modest, and professional clothing. It’s a beautiful place to marvel at the exquisite detail and learn of the royal lineage. 

2. Phuket Thailand

Phuket is famous for its serene beaches, nightlife, gourmet seafood, scuba diving and more. This is one of the most popular tourist locations in Thailand. A large statue of Big Buddha sits on top of a hill. That over looks Thai villages, jungles, and secluded beaches. Phuket is also one of the very few places in the entire world that have Elephant trekking where you are allowed to ride elephants! There are no permits or regulations required. You get there and can take a nice scenic ride on the elephant.

3. Railay Beach- Krabi

When you look at a postcard from Thailand, Railay beach is one of the famous pictures representing the country. Railay beach is a peninsula that is actually four beaches combined. This beach is surrounded by high limestone cliffs and is only accessible by boat. It’s blue warm water and quiet atmosphere are some of the calming qualities of why it is the most sought-after beach in Thailand. This beach isn’t just for a relaxing time but also gives access to Phra Nang caves, local bars, restaurants, blue lagoons, and more. 

4. Khao Yai National Park-Hin Tung

This place is a national park full of wildlife! You can see wild elephants, monkeys, deer, gibbons, and on occasion, you may even see a tiger. You can catch a sunset with bats flitter across the vibrant sky. Or hike to Haeow Narok, the largest waterfall in Khao Yai. There are several waterfalls available to hike to all around the park. If you’re lucky, you may see a Siamese Crocodiles basking in the sun. This is a fun-filled jungle location where you get to see animals in their natural habitat.

5.  Phi Phi Viewpoint- Krabi

If you’re looking for a gorgeous view but an easy hike, Phi Phi Viewpoint is the adventure trail for you. There are three viewpoints on the island overall but out of all of the viewpoints, Phi Phi Viewpoint is the best by far. The elevation of this hike is only 186m which is not very difficult. This a brisk 20-minute walk with plenty of stop areas available. There are shops and locals selling souvenirs and fruit smoothies. There are even a few restaurants where you can take a break and enjoy the views. Once you get to the top you are able to see a gorgeous view of the sand bar beach that connects to the two rock formations which make up Koh Phi Phi. It is such a wide vantage point and a view you’ll thoroughly enjoy.

6. Maya Bay- Ko Phi Phi Le Island

Maya Bay was featured in Danny Boyle The Beach, a movie with famous actor Leonardo Dicaprio. It’s become a popular tourist location for travelers and film lovers. It has the clearest blue waters, soft white sand, and colorful coral reef. This area is surrounded by a large cliff where visitors can go cliff jumping into the spectacular view of the ocean water. You can enjoy watersports, snorkeling, see Viking caves, or eat some delicious Thai food.  This place is so popular to the point where they are having limited amounts of visitors to make sure this place isn’t overused or damaged. 

7. Koh Nang Yuan Island- Koh Nang Yuan

Koh Nang Yuan is a small island situated in the Gulf of Thailand. The only place in the world where three islands are connected by one sandbar, which makes for an unreal picture. It’s easy to take your picture-perfect Instagram picture by going taking a picture from any of the three rock formations. Koh Tao can be easily reached by a long tail boat. This is a nice private area and is famous for diving schools due to its crystal clear turquoise waters. Koh Nang Yuan is a tangible paradise and should be on your list of Thailand island hopping destinations.

8. Airplane Graveyard-Bangkok

Thailand is much more than just gorgeous scenery. If you want to do something unique and cool, it doesn’t get better than going to the Airplane Graveyard. The origins of how the remains of this Boeing 747 airplane are unknown. What makes it even more puzzling is the location of where the parts are, it’s nowhere near any airports.  The Boeing 747 has been completely ripped apart and is now covered in graffiti. This creates a surreal experience and a rare photo opportunity. If you are going to be in Bangkok Thailand, this is a destination that should be on your list. 

9. Historic City of Ayutthaya-Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya used to be the capital of Thailand. This was a magnificent and important city. Although this city is over 400 years old, the ruins are still very put together. The impressive ruins of temples and palaces show the rhymes of this once glorious city ravaged by war. You can find prangs, wats, chides, and thousands of Buddha statues spread throughout this area. Some sections of the palace have been beautifully restored and many new buildings were constructed between 1872 and 1889. It’s a great place to learn about Thailand’s marvelous history, religion, and commercial activity initially with traders from several other countries. 

10. Floating bungalows- Khao Sok 

It’s not very often you get to fall asleep while floating on water. You can experience by visiting and staying in the floating bungalows located in Khao Sok national park. After visiting the temples in Bangkok, enjoying the warm and sunny beaches, this area is a great change of scenery. This gives you an authentic Thai experience where you can wake up, take a dip in the lake, swim, and kayak. This is a great place for a group of friends and hanging out with family. You still will receive electricity for a few hours at night from a generator. You can eat your dinner with a lovely bungalow light glow. The Floating bungalows are not only a great spot for pictures but a great place to provide a unique experience night of sleeping.

Thailand is a wonderful picture-perfect country that warmly welcomes tourists. Take the adventure of a lifetime and travel to Thailand with Acanela!

Article written by Aryn Espiritu