Thailand is such a popular travel destination that it attracts millions of visitors from across the globe. In 2019, Thailand was the second most visited country in Asia, after China, receiving nearly 40 million visitors. This captivating country ensures every traveler is guaranteed to depart with cherished memories.
Visiting Thailand is an amazing experience. This Southeast Asian country has something for everyone whether you're traveling solo, as a couple, or with the family. Thailand is incredibly popular that many people visit the country again and some make frequent visits like it's almost a second home.
What makes Thailand an incredibly popular travel destination? Why should Thailand be on your bucket list of countries to visit? To tell the truth, there are plenty of compelling reasons. So without further ado, here are nine awesome reasons why you should visit Thailand at least once in your lifetime.
Table of Contents
- An Affordable Destination
- Year-Round Sunshine
- Friendly and Welcoming
- Rich in Culture and Traditions
- Mesmerizing Cities to Explore
- Beautiful Natural Scenery
- Paradise for Adventure Travel
- Delicious Thai Cuisine
- Wellness Centers and Retreats
An Affordable Destination
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Thailand is an affordable destination, even for the most budget-conscious traveler including backpackers traveling on a shoestring. For travelers from the developed countries, Thailand is super affordable. And if you have extra cash to spare, you'll find your money can go a long way without breaking the bank.
For a similar type of accommodation, you'd be paying a third of the price in Thailand than in America or Western Europe. It's certainly lighter on the wallet whether you're in a hostel, a guesthouse, a boutique hotel, a vacation rental, or even a luxury resort. The money saved goes a long way to pay for your other travel expenses.
In addition, transportation costs like flights, trains, and long-distance buses to travel from city to city are just as affordable. And get this, you can grab a delicious meal from a street food stall for 1-2 USD and a cheap restaurant for 2-3 USD. A combo meal at a fast food outlet costs 4-6 USD.
Whether you're on a small budget or luxury traveler, Thailand offers a wide range of activities and experiences that fit every budget. You can explore ancient temples and historical sites, chill out on beautiful islands, or treat yourself to a luxurious spa day. Seriously, there's something for everyone that's affordable.
Year-Round Sunshine
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Thailand is a year-round destination. The country's tropical climate brings lots of sunshine throughout the year. Whether you decide to visit during the hot and dry season or the rainy season, you can expect warm temperatures and plenty of daylight hours. So, feel free to plan your trip to Thailand anytime you want.
The dry season, typically from November to April, is the most popular time to visit Thailand. The days are warm, there's minimal rainfall, and the air is less humid. The season is ideal for exploring the cities, beaches, and outdoor attractions without the interruption of heavy rains.
May to August are the hottest months of the year, with the occasional short downpours. The period is the shoulder season for travel. If you can handle the heat, it isn't a bad time to visit Thailand with the smaller crowd of tourists. Besides, accommodation starts to get cheaper.
September to October is the wettest period, but the showers are often short spells. This is the low season for travel when you can score great deals, especially on accommodation. If you don't mind the occasional rain, this can be an excellent time to explore the country on a budget.
Friendly and Welcoming
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Hospitality is second nature to the Thai people. The locals are known for their friendly nature and welcoming attitude towards visitors. The hospitality is genuine, whether chatting with a street vendor or staying at a luxury hotel. Hospitality is ingrained in the local culture and extends to all, from fellow Thais to international visitors.
Thai hospitality knows no bounds. You'll experience it from the bustling streets of Bangkok to the tranquil villages in the northern hills. It's not uncommon to encounter acts of kindness, such as locals going out of their way to provide directions or offer assistance. Visitors are not seen as outsiders but as honored guests.
Rich in Culture and Traditions
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One of the main reasons to visit Thailand is its rich and diverse culture, which is deeply rooted in Thai society. And there's no shortage of cultural experiences for visitors to immerse in, from the ornate temples and palaces to colorful festivals. It's truly awe-inspiring and fascinating.
The ancient city of Ayutthaya is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's a testament to Thailand's former grandeur and a glimpse into its majestic past. The temples of Wat Arun and Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok feature intricate architectural designs and ornate decorations, offering a deep appreciation for Thai art and spirituality.
Songkran celebrates the Thai New Year. This colorful festival is celebrated with water fights, where people take to the streets with water guns or buckets and drench each other. Loy Krathong is the Festival of Light. The event occurs in the evening, where people float thousands of small decorated rafts on rivers, canals, and lakes.
Mesmerizing Cities to Explore
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Thailand's most visited cities are more than mere destinations. They are experienced in their own right. Each city is a unique journey, offering a distinct blend of modernness, historical heritage, vibrant culture, and tantalizing cuisine. They are not just cities to visit but a tapestry of experiences.
Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, is a city that never sleeps. Skyscrapers stand tall amidst ancient temples, bustling markets, and serene canals. Be sure to explore Khao San Road, known for its lively nightlife and budget hotels. The Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha are important historical landmarks in the city.
Heading to the northern region of Thailand, we arrive in Chiang Mai. It's the second-largest city and a blend of traditional and modern influences. The Old City is the cultural heart and is surrounded by ancient walls and moats. Within are countless centuries-old temples including Wat Phra Singh, known for its Lion Buddha statue.
Chiang Rai is another city in the northern region, nestled near the borders of Myanmar and Laos. The city goes back to the 13th century and is renowned for its exquisite temples and religious sites, including the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) and the Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten).
Ayutthaya is a historical city on an island. Founded in the 14th century, this ancient city offers a glimpse into Thailand's illustrious past, including numerous temples, palaces, and statues. Beyond history and culture, Ayutthaya Night Market is a vibrant market that comes to life from Friday to Sunday.
Beautiful Natural Scenery
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Another reason to visit Thailand is the breathtaking natural beauty. The country boasts some of the most scenic landscapes in the world, including pristine beaches, lush jungles, and majestic mountains. Whether you're a beach lover, a nature enthusiast, or an adventure seeker, Thailand has something for everyone.
Chiang Mai Province is a captivating region of lush jungles. The serenity of this northern paradise is a stark contrast to the bustling streets of Bangkok. Visit Doi Inthanon National Park, famous for its waterfalls, scenic trails, and viewpoints. Within the park is Doi Inthanon Mountain, Thailand's highest peak.
Down in the south are the enchanting islands in the Andaman Sea. Phuket and Koh Samui are perfect for sun, sea, and sand. Beyond the beaches, you can explore the surreal caves and hidden lagoons of Phang Nga Bay. Or take a boat trip to other nearby islands, or go snorkeling or scuba diving in the crystal clear waters.
Paradise for Adventure Travel
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Thailand is a paradise for adventure travel. The country's diverse landscape offers a wide range of activities and experiences. From the rugged peaks of the northern mountains to the tranquil, sun-drenched beaches of the south, the landscape offers a wide range of activities for travelers seeking adventure.
Chiang Mai offers trekking through the lush jungles and visiting remote hill tribe villages. Chiang Rai offers rafting on the Pai River and thrilling hot air balloon rides over the stunning landscapes. Pai is a small town in the mountains, famous for its scenic beauty, and offers activities like hiking and exploring waterfalls.
The island of Koh Samui in the Gulf of Thailand is renowned for snorkeling and diving. You can also explore the nearby Ang Thong Marine Park for hiking and kayaking adventures. Pattaya, located by the coast, offers para-sailing, scuba diving, snorkeling, zip-lining, bungee jumping, dirt biking, and more.
Wellness Centers and Retreats
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Thailand is renowned for wellness centers, including retreats, spas, and even standalone massage parlors. It is an integral part of Thai culture and widely available to locals and tourists. Compared to similar programs in Western countries, Thailand is very affordable.
There's a diverse range of wellness centers, from luxurious spa resorts to retreats in their natural setting, taking advantage of the country's natural beauty. Many incorporate traditional healing techniques, such as Thai massages, herbal remedies, and holistic therapies. The experience often comes with luxurious amenities.
You can also find standalone massage parlors, especially in tourist areas and cities. These establishments specialize in various types of massages, including traditional Thai massage. Thailand's beach destinations often have massage services available right on the beach.
