#Top 20 Islands In Thailand You Need To Visit In 2020
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touristhai · 5 years ago
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Top 20 Islands In Thailand You Need To Visit In 2020
A visit to Thailand’s top islands can be the highlight of your trip to the Kingdom of Smiles. It is the perfect way to unwind and relax on the stunning beaches with a soothing climate. Thailand island with more than 100 islands and every island has something to take away from. Every island has its own charm and choosing one can be subjective. We have curated a list of islands for you so that you can choose one for your visit to Thailand.
1. Koh Lanta:
Closely situated to Krabi, Koh Lanta has its 9 beaches of its own. Being just 2 hours away from Krabi Airport, you can reach here by a combination of a speed boat and a minivan. It is a perfect example of convenience and seclusion.
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2. Similan Islands:
Not highly commercialized, the Similan Islands in the south are beautiful, clean and peaceful. You would be surprised to know that these islands are declared and protected as a national marine park and thus can be visited only between October – May. Ban on hotels and commercial fishing he slept its marine life pristine. These islands are one of a kind and a must-visit.
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3.Phuket: 
For an all-around vacation destination, Phuket should be your choice. Picturesque beaches and with high connectivity in transportation, it becomes convenient for a family vacation.  With loads of activities and luxury stays, Phuket has its own charm and is loved by travelers.
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4.Koh Chang:
Can be a challenge to reach, but it is totally worth it. Rugged mountainous terrain may not be liked by all and that’s the reason that this island is not very popular. Taking it positively this has helped the island retain its natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere.
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5.Koh Lipe:
Belonging on the outskirts of Tarutao National Park, this island is famous for its tropical adversity. Another thing famous here is the seafood which is freshly obtained from the crystal clear waters that surround the island. So if you are a nature lover and fond of seafood, Koh Lipe is the island for you.
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6.Samui:
Koh Samui is an island with a combination of stunning beaches and large shopping malls. Convenience at its best, Koh Samui has serene beaches, romantic restaurants, beach bars and some incredible 5-star hotels.
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7. Ko Kradan:
One of the most beautiful islands of Trang is Ko Kradan. Unlike any other island, this island doesn’t have roads or a proper village. It’s just a resort after resort and beach after beach here. You will find immense greenery too as you find the Hat Chao National Park at the heart of this island.
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These beautiful islands are indeed a highlight of your vacation in Thailand. Be a city person, mountain person or a beach person, we have covered it all for you in this article. All you have to do is select your type and pack your bags to your favorite island.
For reading More visit : TOP 20 ISLANDS IN THAILAND YOU NEED TO VISIT IN 2020
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travelhap · 4 years ago
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Want to be a Responsible Traveler? Here are the Top 12 Tips for being a Responsible Traveler in 2021!
Want to be a Responsible Traveler? Here are the Top 12 Tips for being a Responsible Traveler in 2021!
As perhaps the biggest business on the planet, the travel industry is just becoming greater and will keep on blasting as we enter the new decade. Many continuous voyagers rush to share the advantages travel has on the whole self, however through all the expanding of perspectives; encountering new societies; and energy, restoration, or unwinding we acquire from voyaging, do we stop to consider moral the travel industry, supportability, and the impacts travel has on the very planet that is favoring us with all its excellence and openings for investigation?
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Many neglects to understand that whether via vehicle, boat, train or plane particularly, voyaging is adversely affecting our planet as probably the greatest generator of fossil fuel byproducts. Yet, the harm doesn't end there–being a capable explorer isn't just about ecological awareness. Nearby people group are additionally feeling the impacts of the over-the travel industry which is prompting the obliteration and relocation of native individuals and creatures.
So how can we as voyagers deal with both diminish our ecological impression while emphatically affecting neighborhood culture? These 20 hints will assist you with being a more cognizant, mindful, and practical explorer in the year 2020. Simply recollect: it's not tied in with being great, however about settling on better decisions, being socially touchy, and putting forth a valiant effort to limit the negative monetary, natural, and social effects travel has on the earth and nearby networks.
Now, here are the Top 12 Tips for being a Responsible Traveler in 2021!
1. Pick eco-accommodating and socially dependable visit organizations.
Our seas are the absolute most common habitat that is enduring the hardest shot from the assimilation of warmth made via fossil fuel byproducts and human disregard. Ocean levels are rising, ice sheets are liquefying, ocean animals are being slaughtered by little plastic particles, and strict rubbish islands are accumulating out in the water. Tragically, our wonderful coral reefs are additionally enduring the most.
Carbon retention has expanded the sharpness of our seas hindering coral's capacity to flourish and endure. In addition to the fact that this is unpropitious for the eventual fate of marine variety (that we will appreciate using swimming and jumping) yet without sound reefs to go about as a cushion among shorelines and tempests, as the environment emergency proceeds, the coral can presently don't shield waterfront networks from continuous and all the more remarkable tempests.
The most ideal approach to appreciate the delightful submerged biological system while voyaging is by ensuring the swimming, plunging, or boat visits you take to have great marine protection rehearses, particularly around coral reef conservation. On a sea visit of any sort, be careful not to contact or take care of anything, and don't remove anything regular from the water like coral, shells, or starfish for a photograph, keepsake, or something else.
Be particularly mindful of visit organizations that feed mate to sharks on swimming with shark visits, or visits where you can "pet" stingrays. For a visit including the sea or not–read surveys and do your own exploration on visit organizations to guarantee the one you are reserving with is mindful.
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2. Make the "green decision" at Hotels.
Numerous inns offer green decision programs where guests can quit having their sheets and towels supplanted every day. Supplanting towels and bedding just when important is an extraordinary method to assist lodgings with their protection endeavors. Alternate approaches to settle on green decisions at lodgings incorporate killing the lights and unplugging hardware when not being used, not leaving the water running, cleaning up, and closing the a/c off when you leave your room.
Want to be a Responsible Traveler? Here are the Top 12 Tips for being a Responsible Traveler in 2021!
3. Stay in eco-accommodating facilities.
If you need to make it one stride further, consider remaining at confirmed eco-accommodating lodgings resorts, and eco-lodges that are green-affirmed by associations like Green Seal, Green Globe, Green Key, Earth Check, LEEDS, and STEP.
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Expedia.com's "Green Hotel Program" offers a great many green properties all throughout the planet, making it simple to look for eco-accommodating facilities in any objective. As one of the biggest travel brands on the planet, Expedia makes it so natural to track down the top-of-the-line green lodgings in any objective.
The main 3 most eco-accommodating travel objections as far as I can tell have been Bali, Costa Rica, and Tulum, Mexico. There are no deficiencies of eco-accommodating inns in these spots going from truly reasonable to super sumptuous.
Want to be a Responsible Traveler? Here are the Top 12 Tips for being a Responsible Traveler in 2021!
4. Shop Locally.
Skirt the shopping centers and megastores and shop locally from towns, road markets, and ranchers' business sectors to more readily uphold the nearby economy. Rather than buying mass-delivered trinkets, for example, magnets and shot glasses that were not made in the country that is selling them, purchase hand-made artworks, garments, and gems to bring home as endowments and gifts all things considered.
5. Scale back movement size plastic holders.
Carry your own refillable toiletry items to limit the utilization of the little one-time-use washroom items given by inns. You can even think about going with your own strong cleanser, conditioner, and cream bars to kill the utilization of plastic toiletries altogether.
To additional your endeavors, you can likewise gather any unused small cleanser and cleanser jugs to carry back home with you and give them to neighborhood covers who are consistently needing cleanliness item gifts.
6. Give to neighborhood networks out of luck.
Partake in projects like Pack With a Purpose, a non-benefit that accomplices with lodgings and visit organizations to assist voyagers with giving school and clinical supplies carried with them on trips. Use unused bag space to pack things like pencils, collapsed soccer balls, bandaids, and pet supplies which would then be able to be dropped off at a collaborating in or visit organization.
Another approach to offer back is by pressing and wearing garments that you will give to networks and individuals who need them toward the finish of your outing. Not exclusively will your pack be lighter, however you'll have more space to purchase new garments and trinkets from local people to bring home with you, as well.
7. Add to carbon counterbalance programs.
Each time you fly, consider making a gift to a carbon balance program, for example, one that plants trees, sets up wind turbines, or makes cleaner cooking ovens in nations that need them. Numerous associations are focused on carbon counterbalance, and tracking down the one that impacts you more than anything is pretty much as basic as a Google search.
Expedia.com's carbon balance program in organization with TerraPass offers groups dependent on distance traveled to give to clean energy and carbon counterbalance programs. You can add TerraPass to your trip by utilizing the "Travel Accessories" segment on the outing customization page.
8. Try not to draw in with dishonest creatures in the travel industry.
Riding an elephant or snapping a picture with a Tiger in Thailand may appear to be a smart thought on account of how regular these attractions are, be that as it may, the misuse of creatures for the travel industry is fiercely untrustworthy. Elephants, who have fragile spines are beaten into accommodation to be trained enough for individuals to ride them; and tigers are medicated and quieted for travelers to have the option to pet and play with them.
On the off chance that you'd truly prefer to invest energy with creatures on your outing, track down a real creature safe-haven or recovery focus. Simply try to do a lot of examination on the association as numerous focuses will act like moral recoveries just to tie up and abuse the creatures in private. In Thailand particularly, if the elephant asylum permits riding, even without a seat, it is dishonest.
Other basic dishonest creatures the travel industry traps to know about are zoos, swimming with dolphins, and creature exhibitions to give some examples. Keep in mind: wild creatures have a place in nature.
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9. Engage in "voluntourism."
There are a lot of freedoms to chip in while heading out whether you need to put in two or three hours, a day, or even go on an all-out volunteer excursion. There are trips committed to serving neighborhood networks, building schools or houses, or chipping in with creatures, for example, at Elephant Nature Park in Thailand. Simply make a point to investigate before settling on an association you wish to chip in with to ensure it is moral. (Indeed, even "non-benefits" can be very untrustworthy.)
Voluntourism ought not to be about white heroes coming in and "fixing" a spot, but instead, the best chipping in associations are ones that enable nearby networks to develop and flourish from the inside and keep up their respect while using volunteer ranges of abilities to help accomplish their objective. Having the correct aims and offering in return while voyaging regardless of how much or how little won't just assistance the spots you visit, yet will give a more noteworthy reason to your movements.
Want to be a Responsible Traveler? Here are the Top 12 Tips for being a Responsible Traveler in 2021!
10. Walk, bicycle, and take public transportation.
Wandering by foot is the most ideal approach to investigate another spot and the additional advantage of activity will add to your general wellbeing and prosperity on the outing. Strolling or trekking at whatever point you can while voyaging will help lessen fossil fuel byproducts from vehicles. Numerous lodgings offer bicycle rentals and more urban areas are carrying out bicycle share programs in the city.
When strolling or trekking isn't a choice, utilizing public transportation will help lessen the number of vehicles out and about in this way diminishing fossil fuel byproduct, and will likewise help you set aside cash. On the off chance that you would like to lease a vehicle, consider an electric vehicle at whatever point accessible. Numerous lodgings all throughout the planet presently offer electric vehicle charging.
11. Try not to offer cash to bums, kids, or creature controllers.
It might feel like you are helping somebody in need when giving off cash to a transient and his pet monkey/elephant in Thailand; the snake charmer in Morocco; a little youngster, lady, or any other person requesting cash in the city, however, you should recall the component of abuse that is frequently associated with putting kids, creatures, and ladies in the city to ask. Giving cash thusly urges guardians to keep their youngsters out of school, sustains misuse and disregard of creatures, and supports a greater amount of this conduct.
On the off chance that you'd prefer to be beneficent toward the country you are visiting, the most supportive thing to do is look for a respectable nearby association on the web or visit a neighborhood school, strict webpage, or not-for-profit to make your commitment.
12. Use harmless to the ecosystem sunscreen and big splash.
Sunscreen and bug showers are the two items that vacationers use that cause the best harm to our environments. Reef-safe sunscreen while swimming in the sea is an unquestionable requirement to shield the common habitat from ceasing to exist. Certain sunscreens contain unsafe synthetic substances like oxybenzone and octinoxate which cause harm to coral reefs. Peruse the name to ensure your sunscreen doesn't contain those two destructive fixings.
In hot and muggy places particularly, mosquitos which frequently convey illnesses are a major issue. When visiting ensured wildernesses and timberlands, for example, on account of Manuel Antonio National Park in Costa Rica, utilizing a non-poisonous bug shower is basic to the prosperity of the creatures.
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yeskraim · 5 years ago
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China coronavirus death toll surges: All the latest updates
The death toll from China’s coronavirus outbreak has surpassed 250, the government said on Saturday, as foreign nations tightened restrictions on travellers from China in response to the rapid spread of the illness.
At least 259 people have died and 11,791 people have been infected in China by the new coronavirus, according to new figures from China’s health officials.
Most of the latest fatalities are from Hubei province. The city of Wuhan, the epicentre of the outbreak is located in Hubei. 
Another 17,888 people are suspected of being infected, while 243 have been discharged, according to a separate report by China’s state-owned international channel, CGTN.
On Friday, it was reported that there were over 102,000 people under medical observation.
More:
Coronavirus: All you need to know about the symptoms and risks
How does coronavirus spread and how can you protect yourself?
Coronavirus: Which countries have confirmed new cases?
Fresh cases have been detected abroad, with more than 20 countries now affected, including Spain and the UK.
The top Communist Party official in Wuhan, the central city of 11 million people where the virus first emerged in December, on Friday expressed “remorse” because local authorities acted too slowly.
Here are the latest updates:
Saturday, February 1
Indonesia to quarantine evacuees in military base
Indonesian officials said that around 250 of its nationals being evacuated from China’s Hubei province, the centre of the coronavirus epidemic, will be quarantined in its Natuna Islands military base.
Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi said all the evacuees, along with five officials arranging their return on the Batik Air flight, were healthy and that further medical checks would be conducted on board the plane and at their arrival in Indonesia.
China flies citizens home to virus-hit Wuhan
China has flown two planeloads of its citizens back home to the locked-down province of Hubei, where they were greeted by authorities in full-body protective suits.
A Xiamen Airlines charter flight from Thailand’s capital, Bangkok, touched down in the provincial capital Wuhan. 
A second Xiamen flight landed soon afterwards carrying Hubei residents from Kota Kinabalu, a popular coastal tourist destination in Malaysia.
Passengers wearing face masks are seen on a Xiamen Airlines airplane before getting off the charter flight sent by the Chinese government to bring home Hubei residents from Thailand’s Bangkok [Reuters]
Australia to refuse entry to non-citizens coming from China
The Australian government said it would bar non-citizens arriving from China from entering the country under new measures to combat the spread of the coronavirus epidemic.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison said only “Australian citizens, Australian residents, dependents, legal guardians or spouses” would be permitted into the country from China from Saturday.
“The arrangements are being put in place through our border authorities to ensure that that can be actioned,” he added. “Those that do return will be required to go into self isolation for 14 days.”
Turkey evacuates citizens from Wuhan
A cargo plane with 42 passengers left for Turkey after evacuating Turkish citizens from the Chinese city of Wuhan, state-run Anadolu news agency reported. 
The evacuees were screened by Turkish health experts using a team of six experts assigned to run blood tests and scan the health conditions to eliminate the potential risk in Turkey.
UK withdraws some staff from China embassy
Britain is withdrawing some staff from its embassy and consulates in China due to the coronavirus, the UK government said in a statement. 
“Essential staff needed to continue critical work will remain,” it said.
“In the event that the situation deteriorates further, the ability of the British Embassy and Consulates to provide assistance to British nationals from within China may be limited.”
China criticises latest US response to coronavirus outbreak
Beijing criticised Washington’s order barring entry to most foreigners who visited China in the past two weeks, and “unfriendly comments” that its government is failing to cooperate in the crisis.
The Chinese government said the decision contradicted the WHO’s appeal to avoid travel bans. 
US imposes travel restrictions as coronavirus cases rise
The United States took drastic steps that will temporarily bar foreign nationals who have traveled in China within the last 14 days. 
Americans returning from China will be allowed into the country, but will face screening at select ports of entry and required to undertake 14 days of self-screening to ensure they do not pose a health risk.
WHO: Coronavirus a ‘global health emergency’
Those returning from Hubei province, the epicentre of the outbreak, will be subject to up to 14 days of mandatory quarantine.
Beginning on Sunday, the US will also begin funneling all flights to the US from China to seven major airports where passengers can be screened for illness.
More airlines suspend China flights
Qantas Airways said it will suspend its two direct flight routes from Australia to mainland China from February 9 in response to travel restrictions imposed by some countries due to the coronavirus crisis.
The Australian national carrier’s direct flights from Sydney to Beijing and Sydney to Shanghai will be halted until March 29, it said in a statement published on Saturday.
The Philippine airline company, Cebu Pacific, also said on Saturday that it has canceled flight to and from mainland China, Macau and Hong Kong from Sunday, February 2 to March 29.
A man wearing a face mask registers at a registration point set up by community members for people returning or leaving Beijing, as the country is hit by the coronavirus outbreak [Carlos Garcia Rawlins/Reuters]
Earlier, three US airlines, American, Delta and United said they would soon suspend all flights to China.
China’s Tianjin says all schools, non-essential companies to remain close
China’s city of Tianjin announced on Saturday that all schools and non-essential companies will remain close until further notice to help curb the spread of coronavirus, according to the state media.
Tianjin, which has a population of around 15 million and borders capital Beijing, had 32 confirmed cases of coronavirus as of 10 pm local time on January 31. 
Spain confirms case of coronavirus – health ministry
Spain’s National Centre for Microbiology has confirmed the country’s first case of coronavirus after a man was diagnosed with the virus on the remote island of La Gomera in the Canaries, the Health Ministry said.
The patient is part of a group of five people taken into observation on the island and isolated after it was found they had come into contact with a German man diagnosed with the virus.
— CGTN (@CGTNOfficial) February 1, 2020
UN biodiversity talks moved out of China on virus fears
The next round of talks on a global biodiversity treaty due to be held in the Chinese city of Kunming on Feburary 24 will be moved to Rome as a result of a coronavirus outbreak, the United Nations announced.
The UN’s Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity said it had reached the decision after consultations with the Chinese government.
Kunming is still set to host the main round of global biodiversity talks in October this year.
Pasteur Institute eyes coronavirus vaccine in 2021
France’s Pasteur Institute Foundation said it had set up a taskforce aimed at developing a vaccine against the coronavirus in 20 months.
Christophe D’Enfert, a scientific director with the Pasteur Institute, told reporters in Paris the vaccine could be made available in 20 months if “all goes well”.
“At the end of August, we could enter clinical trials and, provided all goes well, obtain a vaccine candidate within 20 months.”
Tokyo 2020 Olympics dismiss cancellation fears
Tokyo 2020 Olympics organisers dismissed rumours that the Games were endangered by the spread of the coronavirus.
“We have never discussed cancelling the Games. Tokyo 2020 will continue to collaborate with the (International Olympic Committee) IOC and relevant organisations and will review any countermeasures that may be necessary,” organisers said in a statement to the German news agency DPA.
The IOC also said that preparations for the July 24-August 9 Games were continuing as planned.
Diary of a Wuhan native: A week under quarantine
A teacher living in the epicentre of the deadly outbreak shares her experiences of isolation with Al Jazeera as the quarantine in Wuhan continues.
Read the full story here.
An elderly man collapsed and died in the street in Wuhan on Thursday [Hector Retamal/AFP]
Japan to enforce special measures for coronavirus from Saturday: NHK
Japan plans to bring forward the date that the coronavirus will become a “designated infectious disease” to Saturday from February 7, public broadcaster NHK said.
Japanese Minister of Health Katsunobu Kato said that the government was considering moving up the date, without elaborating.
The government classified the virus as a designated infectious disease on Tuesday, a move that allows compulsory hospitalisation, stricter screening of people entering the country, and the use of public funds for treatment, among other measures.
In line with regulations, the designation was only set to take effect on February 7 after ordinances are issued.
Read updates from Friday, January 31 here.
Read More
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indochinavoyages · 5 years ago
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Top 8 pristine beaches in Vietnam
Top 8 pristine beaches in Vietnam https://www.indochinavoyages.com/travel-blog/beautiful-beaches-vietnam
Besides fascinating culture, tasty cuisines and amazing mountainous landscape, Vietnam beaches are also brilliant. With a long coastline of 3400km, the beaches extend from the north (Tonkin Gulf) to the south (Thailand Gulf). However, due to over-tourism and lack of sustainable travel planning, some beaches in Vietnam are touristy and littered with trash. Needless to say, there are still many beautiful beaches in Vietnam. These beaches are either local beaches not popular with tourists, or decent travel sites that the authorities put much effort to keep it clean.
  [caption id="attachment_16347" align="alignnone" width="960"] The local beaches are clean, blue and not very touristy.[/caption]
  What you need to know about the beaches in Vietnam?
Is it safe to swim in Vietnam?
Yes, it is.
Beaches in Vietnam are fairly safe to swim. If there are any problems, the authority will make sure to alert everybody. But be wary about of undertow. These strong currents can unexpectedly occur sometimes.
Best time to do beach hop in Vietnam
As the weather in Vietnam varies from north to south, it is hard to tell one best time to visit the beach. However, it would depend on these following factors:
Holiday seasons
This is when the crowd is the most terrific. Also, prices for hotels and transportation will increase significantly. Travelers in Vietnam should avoid the summer months from June to August, Lunar New Year holiday, Reunification Day (30/4), World Labour Day (01/05) and Independence Day (02/09).
As the lunar new year period is different per year, it’s better to check the lunar calendar to see if your designated traveling time coincides with the Asian new year celebrations. Normally, the holiday takes place from the 29th to the 5th of the new year in the lunar calendar. This year, 2020, it is from January 23 to January 29.
The weather
There are two types of weather in Vietnam. In the north, there are four seasons: spring, summer, fall, and winter. In the South, there are two seasons: dry and rainy.
Winter in a tropical country like Vietnam turns out to be lovely for western visitors with the temperature falls between 15 Celcius degrees to 25 Celcius degrees. Thus, you can swim in Vietnam beaches all year round.
The only thing to worry about is the rainy season. In the south, the season starts from April to October with rains and storms. You should check the weather carefully if you travel in Vietnam during this time of the year.
  [caption id="attachment_16348" align="alignnone" width="960"] You can swim in Vietnam beaches all year round[/caption]
Best beaches in Vietnam
Beach areas in the south towards Thailand gulf tend to be more beautiful than in the north. Vietnam southern beaches are beautifully emerald while most northern beaches are rather dull.
Coto (Quang Ninh)
Coto is a beautiful seascape located in the Gulf of Tonkin, where the world wonder - Halong Bay is. It has three beaches: Hong Van, Van Chay, Love beach. Hong Van beach is the most beautiful with the emerald water, unlike many northern beaches. Both Van Chay and Love beach is huge. Thus, even though it may get frenzy at the weekend, you can still find a cozy space for yourself. All three are clean, pretty with more presence of locals than travelers.
It is best to visit Coto in April and May, or October and September. Because at this time, there is little chance of rain and storms.
  [caption id="attachment_16349" align="alignnone" width="960"] All three beaches in Coto are clean, pretty with more presence of locals.[/caption]
An Bang (Hoi An)
An Bang beach is only 20 minutes drive from Hoi An town, which makes it a good fix for who wants to escape the hustling and spend all day chill in nature. In 2017, It’s ranked top 25 most beautiful beaches on the continent by TripAdvisor.
The best time to visit An Bang beach is February and March, or from June to August. Since this time, it’s sunny and does not rain much.
There are lots of food and drinks available on the beach. In fact, many travelers think the beach has many good bars. Besides, there are several beach games for active beach lovers: from paragliding to jetskiing.
You can also laze about in a beautiful shack watching the blue sky and listening to the breezing sound of the sea.
  [caption id="attachment_16350" align="alignnone" width="960"] An Bang beach is also a family-friendly beach.[/caption]
Non Nuoc beach (Da Nang)
Non Nuoc beach is in Da Nang. The charming city is well-loved for its friendly people and lively neighbors. The place is not so far from two world heritage sites: Hoi An ancient town and My Son Sanctuary. Thus, it can be a great choice to include in your central Vietnam trip.
Non Nuoc beach lies at the foot of Marble Mountains, which makes it even more poetic. The sand is white and smooth, and the wave is not so intense. This is also an ideal location for family travelers as you can easily participate in fun activities such as beach volleyball or fishing. There are local restaurants nearby where fresh seafood is aplenty and cheap.
The best time to beach hop in Non Nuoc beach is from February to August.
  [caption id="attachment_16351" align="alignnone" width="960"] The Non Nuoc beach sand is white and smooth[/caption]
>> Suggested Da Nang beach tour: Da Nang Luxury Beach Vacation 4 Days
Ky Co beach (Quy Nhon)
Quy Nhon tourism has just been developed for a couple of years, so many parts of it are still unspoiled. The city has a sublime shoreline that can offer pristine beach experiences. Ky Co beach is one of the many amazing beaches in this coastal city.
Ky Co beach has unique oval shoreline which is surrounded by craggy cliffs and various rocks in peculiar shapes. The water is transparently turquoise. Blending with the stretching white sand, it creates an inherently beautiful ombre color.
Besides doing a classic beach chill, travelers can also find oysters and sea cucumbers in the rocks to have freshly grilled seafood afterward.
The only minus of the beach is that it costs about 11 US dollars for the entrance fees.
It’s best to travel from March to May to avoid the rainy season and the high seasons of domestic travels.
  [caption id="attachment_16352" align="alignnone" width="960"] Ky Co beach is one of the many amazing beaches in Quy Nhon[/caption]
Bai Xep (Quy Nhon)
Bai Xep is another gorgeous beach in Quy Nhon that can awe any beach lovers. The beach is located in a tranquil, remote fishing village, which makes it an ideal escape from the crowd and an authentic local experience in Vietnam. You can wander in the jungle, go fishing, or simply watch the daily life of local fishermen on the boat.
The beach overlooks some small islands. You can easily discover a carpet of white sands for yourself, watch the stunning islands view in the sunset for a calming solitary moment on the beach.
Bai Nhat Beach (Con Dao)
Bai Nhat beach is located on Con Son island, Con Dao archipelago. The island is widely known for the notorious Con Dao prison - where Vietnamese war criminals were kept during the war. It is fairly remote with a humble number of inhabitants and litter-free streets.
Bai Nhat beach is only 6km from the town center. The beach is one of the most primitive beaches in Vietnam, and probably in Southeast Asia too. A sunny day in Bai Nhat beach under towering palm tree stretching on the clean white sand sounds perfect already.
As the islands are protected from several passes in central Vietnam, it is barely affected by storms. Therefore, you can swim in Bai Nhat beach all year round.
  [caption id="attachment_16353" align="alignnone" width="960"] Bai Nhat beach is one of the most primitive beaches in Vietnam[/caption]
Son Dung (Nha Trang)
Nha Trang is by far the most famous beach city of Vietnam. And while such a place often gives you the worry of over-tourism, some beaches have little tourists’ traits.
Son Dung beach is a two-hour drive from Nha Trang city. Though it’s not so far from the lively city, Son Dung beach is slow-paced and very local. People here do shrimp farming for livings. Therefore, you can spot their rustic farming houses in the beach area. Travelers can also watch the daily life activities of local fishermen, especially in the early morning when they come back from a fishing night. Sunrise in such an isolated area can also give a refreshing and relaxing feeling.
Dai Lanh (Nha Trang)
80km from Nha Trang city center, Dai Lanh is another good beach destination in Nha Trang. Resting under the row of beefwood tree, you can ease yourself into the calming sound of the sea, and watch the emerald water stretching to the horizon.
Unlike other beaches, Dai Lanh beach has a significant low water level. Even when you are dozens of meters far from the shore, the water is still about waist level.
Same as Con Dao, it is possible to swim in the beach throughout the year.
  [caption id="attachment_16354" align="alignnone" width="960"] Dai Lanh is another good beach destination in Nha Trang[/caption]
Suggested beach resorts in Vietnam
Spending half a day on the beach is an enjoyable experience enough. But if you wish for more leisure, beach resorts are a good choice. There are more and more stunning beach resorts in Vietnam in recent years. Some of them even won awards for the best resorts of the continents in the World Travel Award 2019.
If you opt for a leisure Vietnam beach holiday and are savvy about where to stay, this list of best resorts in Vietnam may worth a look:
InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort, Vietnam - World Leading Luxury Beach Resort 2019 & World’s Leading Resort Architecture Design 2019
JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay - World’s Leading Luxury Wedding Resort 2019 & World’s Leading Resort & Spa 2019
Mia Resort Garden View Condo
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  To sum up, you can consider our above recommendations for the best beaches in Vietnam. Plan your Vietnam tours now, then kick off your flip-flops and get ready to sunbathe on these amazing beaches!
  Chi Tran - Travel Specialist
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charllieeldridge · 5 years ago
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Top 41 Places To Visit in Thailand in 2020
Thailand has been a popular tourist destination for many years and although things have changed since the hippie days and $1 beach huts, Thailand still has lots to offer every type of traveller. There are endless places to visit in Thailand, from islands and beaches to cities and villages, this is a country you could return to again and again.
In this post, I’m going to list the top places to visit in Thailand this year. Read on and start planning your trip to the Land of Smiles!
1. Bangkok (The City of Angels)
The capital city of Thailand is a must-see for sure. If you’re arriving by air, chances are you’ll be landing in Bangkok, but if you come to Thailand by boat, train or bus from a neighbouring country, make sure you make your way to the big city.
Bangkok is unlike any place I’ve ever been to — it’s a city that never sleeps. The streets are bustling with people going to work, vendors selling their goods, and motorbikes zipping by. The street food in Bangkok is the best in the country, the parties and nightlife are amazing and there’s a unique blend of modern commercialism and historic sites.
Not only is the vibe incredible and the food fantastic, but there are endless things to do in Bangkok. Don’t miss the Chatuchak weekend market, the Royal Palace and the parks (Lumphini is great). Also, make sure to have a drink at Moon Bar, cruise the Chao Phraya River, shop at the electronic mall…and so much more. Bangkok is definitely one of the top places to visit in Thailand.
The sunset views from Vertigo Moon Bar are amazing – don’t miss it!
Read more about Bangkok on GoatsOnTheRoad:
Our Week in Bangkok – a Haven For Digital Nomads
A Digital Nomad Guide to Living in Bangkok
Silom Road Bangkok – Everything You Need to Know
Things to Do in Bangkok – 13 Things You Can’t Miss!
In Bangkok, we stayed at and recommend D Varee Xpress and Siri Sathorn Executive Residence. Both of these accommodations are in Silom, a neighbourhood we’ve chosen to stay in during our past visits to the city. For all accommodation options in Bangkok, click here to see reviews and check prices on Booking.com.
Click here to see the available tours with Get Your Guide. Or, click on the images below for more details:
Book Overland Transport From Bangkok
Bangkok To Chiang Mai
Bangkok To Pattaya
Bangkok To Koh Samui
Bangkok To Hua Hin
2. Hua Hin
Want to travel and vacation like the locals do? Hua Hin is one of the places to visit in Thailand to do just that! This is a popular weekend destination for Thais and expats, and if you’re looking for the best beach on the mainland, this is where you’ll find it. Hua Hin’s sandy stretch is 8 kilometers long, and if you arrive during the week, you’ll basically have the place to yourself.
Don’t miss Chopstick Hill and the Wat on top, the night market, the floating market, the historic train station, the nearby Rajabhakti Park and the popular Cha-Am resort area (which is around 20 kilometers north).
☞ Click here to see reviews and compare prices on accommodation in Hua Hin on Booking.com
3. Khao Yai National Park
Thailand is filled with natural treasures just waiting to be explored. If you’re interested in seeing Asian Elephants, gibbons, macaques, pythons, bears and more, then definitely check out Khao Yai National Park. This protected area spans 6,155 square kilometers (2,376 square miles) and was the first national park in Thailand. Today there are 127 parks in the country for you to explore.
You can camp with your own tent, rent a tent in the park, or stay in a cabin. If you prefer to stay outside of the park and visit during the day, there are many accommodation options along Thanarat Road, which runs from Pak Chong down to Mu Si and the Khao Yai gates.
Khao Yai National Park is a hiker’s paradise! There are numerous trails you can take via foot or bicycle, and lots of waterfalls to visit. A ranger is recommended for hiking. For our guide to the park, click here. Visiting this National Park is one of the best things to do in Thailand.
Enjoy the nature of Khao Yai National Park
4. Koh Chang
This has to be one of the best islands and one of the top places to visit in Thailand. When planning an island-hopping getaway, most travellers think to head south to the Andaman Islands or the southern Gulf trio (Samui, Phangan & Tao)…but, there are some great places in the northern Gulf of Thailand! Koh Chang (Elephant Island) is one such destination.
Despite becoming more popular over the years, this mountainous island still retains its off-track vibe, depending on where on the island you visit. White Sands Beach has an amazing stretch of sand and while this is the busiest beach on the island, with the most resorts, there is still a backpacker scene at the far north end with huts available for rent.
If you’re looking for the party scene, then you’ll want to head to Lonely Beach. If you’re after a chilled out, low key place, then check out Bang Bao Beach and the southeastern villages.
White Sands beach on Koh Chang is a beauty!
As with many islands in Thailand, the best way to get around and explore Koh Chang is by motorbike. There are more than 5 waterfalls on Koh Chang with many of them on the east coast, which can all be explored by bike. Other days can be spent snorkelling, fishing, diving, sailing, joining a cooking class or just relaxing in a hammock on the beach.
Bonus Tip: If you’re going to Cambodia, this island is on the way and makes for a great stopover
☞ Click here to compare prices on accommodation and see reviews on Booking.com.
Book Overland Transport From Koh Chang
Koh Chang To Koh Phangan
Koh Chang To Koh Tao
Koh Chang To Bangkok
5. Khao Lak
Located in the gorgeous Andaman Sea, Khao Lak offers travellers a diverse holiday. Whether you want to chill out on the beach, chase waterfalls, or do some awesome day trips to offshore islands, you’ll find it on Khao Lak.
Sadly, this island was hit hard during the 2004 tsunami with around 4,000 fatalities. These days, there is a proper tsunami warning system in place, and escape routes as well. Because of this tragedy, there’s actually a museum set up for visitors to better understand what happened back in 2004.
Khao Lak has some stunning beaches to offer
But, it’s not all doom and gloom here! The beaches of Khao Lak are stunning, the National Parks are a great spot for hiking and wildlife spotting, and the numerous waterfalls are a great place to relax and cool off.
You can also join a liveaboard boat and do some epic scuba diving around the Similan and Surin Islands! For eating, you’ll find an excellent night market and fantastic seafood restaurants. Regardless of the past natural disaster, this is still one of the best places to visit in Thailand if you’re looking for a relaxing holiday.
See Also: The Essential Traveller’s Guide to Khao Lak
☞ Click here to see reviews and compare prices on accommodation in Khao Lak on Booking.com
Book Transport From Khao Lak
Khao Lak to Koh Lanta
Khao Lak to Koh Tao
Khao Lak to Bangkok
6. Koh Muk (Koh Mook)
If you’re looking for a less developed, beautiful island, then definitely check out Koh Muk! Located south of Koh Lanta in the Andaman Sea, you’ll find this small, idyllic island.
The jumping-off point for Koh Muk is the city of Trang, with a boat to the island taking only around 30 minutes. Once you arrive on Koh Muk, get ready for some serious relaxation. This is one of the most chilled-out places to visit in Thailand.
This is an island that moves at a slow pace. You’ll find small villages, empty beaches, and friendly locals. Koh Muk offers numerous types of accommodation from simple huts and bungalows to air-conditioned resorts (just a couple). This is definitely the place to get a hut on the beach and simply enjoy the view. If you’re feeling a bit more active, consider doing a snorkelling day trip, or visiting Emerald Cave.
☞ Click here to see reviews and compare prices on accommodation on Koh Muk with Booking.com
7. Pai
This funky hippie village in Northern Thailand is a place you won’t want to miss. Sure, it’s become more popular over the years, but it’s still a great place to chill out in a cheap hut alongside the river. Pai is surrounded by rice paddies, jungle, and waterfalls, making this a great place to get away from it all.
Don’t miss Pai’s nighttime walking street and market, Pombok and Mo Paeng Waterfalls, hot springs, the canyon, and of course, hanging out at one of the many cafes and bars. For such a small town, there are numerous things to do in Pai to keep you busy. This is one of the best places to visit in Thailand if you’re looking to chill out away from the beaches.
☞ Click here to see reviews and compare prices on accommodation in Pai on Booking.com
8. Chiang Mai
Another popular place to see in the north of Thailand is Chiang Mai. This destination has recently become a hotspot for digital nomads due to its solid internet, excellent amenities, affordable accommodation, and entrepreneurial scene.
However, it’s still an awesome place for travellers to visit! Chiang Mai is a walled city offering many things to do within the city itself, plus some great day trips.
If you’re a foodie, you won’t be disappointed in Chiang Mai, which offers cuisines from all around the world, plus some incredible Thai food as well. If you’re curious how the tasty Thai meals are prepared, join a cooking class and learn how to make Pad Thai, spring rolls, curry and more.
Also, make sure you don’t miss the night market, Wat Chedi Luang, Muay Thai boxing and getting a Thai massage. Yep, there are loads of cool things to do in Chiang Mai!
Bathe elephants at the rehabilitation centre
For day trips outside of Chiang Mai, I recommend visiting the Bo Sang Handicraft Centre which makes beautiful umbrellas from scratch, and the Elephant Nature Park which is a rehabilitation center for abused and mistreated elephants.
As an awesome 4 day trip, you can rent a motorbike and ride the Mae Hong Son Loop from Chiang Mai, which takes in Mae Sariang, Mae Hong Son and Pai.
See Also:
A Digital Nomad Guide to Living in Chiang Mai
Things To Do in Chiang Mai – 17 Things You Can’t Miss!
☞ Click here to see reviews & compare prices on accommodation in Chiang Mai on Booking.com
9. Railay (One of Our Favourite Places to Visit in Thailand!)
Technically Railay isn’t an island, but since you can only access it by boat, it feels like one. This awesome destination is located in the Krabi area of Thailand and is a must-see for rock climbers, backpackers, and holidaymakers.
Limestone karsts jut out of the sea providing an incredible scene as you arrive by boat. The beaches here are beautiful and the lush, mountainous backdrop is pretty spectacular.
There are 4 beaches to visit on Railay, and all of them are easy to reach. West Railay is the main beach that you’ll arrive at and offers the most restaurants and accommodations. East Railay is where many of the backpacker accommodations are, but the beach there isn’t great for swimming.
Tonsai is the backpacker and rock climbing hub, and to get here you need to do a jungle hike, walk around at low tide, or take a boat. And finally, Phrah Nang beach is a stunning place that offers cave swimming…and a cave with wooden penis statues.
Hiking to Tonsai Beach is a must!
Beyond the beaches, don’t miss hiking to the Railay viewpoint (which is a difficult climb, but worth it) and if you’re up for it, check out the lagoon while you’re up there. You should also check out Diamond Cave (stalagmites and stalactites) and Princess Cave (penis statues).
Finally, if you’re feeling active, you can go kayaking for the afternoon, followed up with a beautiful sunset. Don’t miss Railay, it’s definitely one of our favourite places to visit in Thailand. Learn more about planning a trip to Krabi here.
☞ Click here to see reviews and compare prices on accommodation in Railay on Booking.com 
10. Koh Samui
If you’re looking for a more upscale holiday with a pristine beach, then Koh Samui is the island you’re after. We spent 1.5 months living here as Digital Nomads and enjoyed our luxury villa in the jungle, our motorbike rides to the beach, the night markets and of course, the lovely Thai people.
We stayed in the Lamai area, which we found to have a good mix between having enough to see and do, but not being overcrowded.
On Koh Samui, you’ll want to check out the night markets which are in different towns: Bophut (Fridays), Mae Nam (Thursdays), Lamai (Sundays), Chaweng (food court daily, shopping stalls closed Fridays and Sundays).
Having a motorbike is the best way to explore Koh Samui
For beaches, Lamai beach is beautiful with the center to southern end being the best places for swimming. Chaweng beach has incredibly powdery white sand backed by hotels and palm trees. Lipa Noi is a pristine spot on the west coast with just a couple of accommodation options, I highly recommend checking out that beach for a peaceful afternoon. Mae Nam is another great area with a pretty 7-kilometer beach, numerous restaurants, and funky beach bars.
Make sure you rent a motorbike during your stay and drive the shortcut to Mae Nam from Lamai. This ride is absolutely stunning and virtually vehicle free! Finally, don’t miss the Namuang Waterfalls 1 & 2 (18m and 80m respectively), and Hin Lad Waterfall (a secluded spot). There are lots of fun things to do in Koh Samui to keep you busy.
*Bonus, there are numerous things to do in Koh Phangan, which is the neighbouring island with Koh Samui. Hop on a 30-minute boat ride and check out Koh Phangan for the day.
See Also: A Digital Nomad Guide to Living on Koh Samui
☞ Click here to see reviews & compare prices on accommodation on Koh Samui on Booking.com
11. Koh Lanta
The more popular neighbouring hotspots of Phuket and Koh Phi Phi tend to make it onto most traveller’s itineraries, but less developed Koh Lanta is still worthy of a visit. The west coast of the island is dotted with beautiful beaches, many of which are practically empty. Don’t miss Kawkwang, Khlong Dao, Long Beach, Bamboo Beach and especially, Mu Koh Lanta National Park.
Once you have your fill of beach time, head to the old town for a stroll, join a cooking class, do some yoga, explore the markets, and of course, make sure to watch sunset from one of the many funky beach bars. There are lots of things to do in Koh Lanta, click here to learn more.
☞ Click here to see reviews & compare prices on accommodation on Koh Lanta on Booking.com
12. Koh Kood (Koh Kut)
We travelled to Koh Kood during our very first year-long trip in 2008. Although things have definitely changed on the island since that time, it’s still a relatively off-track destination with hardly any development compared to other islands in Thailand.
Koh Kood is one of the places to visit in Thailand if you’re interested in relaxed evenings, lazy beach days and enjoying the peace and quiet. It’s not a place for partying, shopping or nightlife.
The west and south coasts of the island are where you’ll find the accommodation and the best beaches. There aren’t any beaches on the east coast, while the center of the island is pretty much filled with an impenetrable amount of rubber plantations and dense jungle. Klong Chao waterfall is located on the west coast of the island, in the center, and is the most popular waterfall on Koh Kood.
☞ Click here to see reviews & compare prices on accommodation on Koh Kood on Booking.com
13. Koh Lipe
Little Koh Lipe sits in the southern Andaman Sea, actually quite close to Langkawi Island in Malaysia. This 2 kilometer by 1 kilometer island may be small in size, but surprisingly there are quite a few things to do in Koh Lipe.
Apart from spending hours on end soaking up the sun on some of Koh Lipe’s incredible beaches, you’ll also find lots of activities on offer here. For starters, you can rent a kayak and explore the nearby islands, which are just a quick 10 minute or so paddle away. The water around Koh Lipe is calm, making kayaking a breeze.
Koh Lipe may be small, but it has a lot to offer travellers
Another option is to hike to the Koh Lipe viewpoint for excellent views over nearby Koh Adang. The sunset is good from here as well, but be prepared to hike back in the dark. If you’d like to visit Koh Adang, hire a boatman from the pier for 100 baht per person.
Once on the island, there are 3 viewpoints you can hike up to, with the third one taking around an hour to reach. As with any tropical hike, make sure you have a sufficient amount of water, a hat, bug spray, and sunscreen.
See Also: Fun Things To Do in Koh Lipe: A Guide For Travellers
☞ Click here to see reviews & compare prices on accommodation on Koh Lipe on Booking.com
14. Chiang Rai
If you’re visiting the north of Thailand (and you should), then you can’t miss Chiang Rai. This small city is about a 3-hour bus ride from Chiang Mai and is worth the 185 baht. Chiang Rai is most famous for its aptly named White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), which is blindingly white!
Even if you think you’ve seen way too many Wats and you’re “templed out”, don’t miss this unique site. The carvings here are ornate and detailed, and although photography isn’t allowed inside, you’ll get more than enough incredible photos of the outside.
There are numerous other things to do in Chiang Rai including the clock tower, Baan Dam Museum, the bustling night market and Khun Korn Waterfall. Chiang Rai is also known for its lychees and pineapples, so make sure to visit one of the many farms and villages surrounding the city.
☞ Click here to see reviews & compare prices on accommodation in Chiang Rai on Booking.com
15. Historic City of Ayutthaya
If you’re interested in history, culture, and ruins, this is a site you won’t want to miss during your travels in Thailand. Ayutthaya was founded in c. 1350 and was destroyed by the Burmese in the 18th century. What you see today are the remains, which have been restored and are protected by UNESCO.
At the Ayutthaya Historical Park you’ll find statues of reclining Buddhas, seated Buddhas, headless Buddhas, a Buddha face that has been absorbed by tree roots, numerous stupas and much more. The ruins here are incredible and can be visited on a day trip from Bangkok.
The journey to Ayutthaya takes about an hour by minivan, which can be taken from Mo Chit bus station. Once you reach the site, you’ll probably want to hire a tuk-tuk, or a bicycle to explore the ruins. Alternatively, there are fully guided tours that you can easily organize from a tour agent in Bangkok (be sure to check ratings & recommendations before booking)
While you can walk to some of the areas, Ayutthaya is quite spread out so hiring transport is a wise choice for those hot days.
See Also: Ayutthaya Historical Park: A Guide For Travellers
☞ Click here to see reviews & compare prices on accommodation in Bangkok on Booking.com
The ancient city of Ayutthaya is an incredible site
16. Koh Tao
“Turtle Island” is definitely one of the best places to visit in Thailand. It’s also one of the best places in the world to get scuba certified. There are numerous dive shops that offer open-water courses at very reasonable prices. Plus, it’s possible to actually learn in the sea instead of in a pool. That definitely gives you a heads up once you’re actually ready to dive.
Not interested in diving? No worries! Plenty of visitors to Koh Tao skip out on the scuba diving. There are many more things to do in Koh Tao including hiking, kayaking, snorkeling, and even playing mini-golf.
If you’re looking for a more relaxing vacation, you can find that here as well. Koh Tao has some great beaches to chill out on, or you could just hang by the pool all day sipping tropical drinks.
As an island that’s very much on the “Banana Pancake Trail”, Koh Tao also has quite the party scene. The Koh Tao pub crawl is recommended if you’re looking for a wild night out. Buckets of booze, ladyboy cabaret shows, and fire twirlers. It’s sure to be a crazy night.
See Also: 21 Things To Do in Koh Tao You Don’t Want To Miss
17. Korat
This city is actually called Nakhon Ratchasim, but it’s more commonly referred to simply as Korat. Thanks to its accessibility to Bangkok, it’s the perfect place to begin a trip in the Isaan (Northeast) region of Thailand.
Isaan is one of the places to visit in Thailand if you’re looking to escape the hordes of bucket-drinking backpackers and selfie-snapping tour groups. You won’t find many banana pancakes here, but you will find some of the best food in Thailand. Load up on some Pad krapao moo (spicy minced pork cooked with basil), which will only cost you about a dollar here.
The most visited attraction is a statue of Thao Suranaree, a local heroine who helped defeat an attack from intruding Laotian forces in 1826. You’ll see locals kneel before the statue making offerings of flowers and incense. There’s even a small museum here that details her famous victory.
As with other Thai cities, you’ll also find plenty of temples, markets, and parks to explore in Korat. If you want to see what life is like in Thailand without mass tourism, this is a great place to visit. From here you’ll also have easy access to places like Khao Yai National Park and Phimai Historical Park.
18. Mae Hong Son
One of the best adventures you can take in Thailand is riding the 1,864 curves of the Mae Hong Son Loop. Rent a motorbike in Chiang Mai, pick up a map, and hit the road on this epic loop around Northern Thailand.
This motorbike journey is named after the province that you spend much of the trip riding through. The capital city goes by the same name, and you’ll definitely end up spending at least a night here if you do the loop.
While you’re in this small Thai city in the mountains, be sure to check out the picturesque pond and the temple. It’s illuminated at night and is a beautiful sight. There’s also a small night market here where you can score some tasty and cheap Thai street food.
With a couple of days here, there’s plenty more to see and do. You can ride up to a hilltop temple for some incredible views, see a cave full of fish, or relax at a mud spa.
Many backpackers also use Mae Hong Son as a jump-off point for treks in the surrounding area. Every tourism office in this small town can help arrange trekking trips, so get out there and see some of the countryside – one of the best places to visit in Thailand for sure!
See Also: A Guide To Travelling the Mae Hong Son Loop
19. Lopburi
Lopburi is one of the oldest cities in all of Thailand and is a former capital. While it has a long history, these days it’s known for the large population of crab-eating macaques that call the city home. The monkeys are everywhere you look in the Old Town. They’re naughty monkeys, too, so keep an eye on your bag and hold on to your hat/sunglasses.
It’s not all monkey business in Lopburi, though. There are several historical sights worth visiting here, including King Narai’s Palace and the Phra Kan Shrine. There’s also good hiking and rock climbing just outside of the city if you’re looking for some more excitement.
If you’re interested in visiting Lopburi, a good idea is to combine a stop here with a trip to the ruins in Ayutthaya. Both are connected to Bangkok by train and you can hit them both in just a few days before heading back to the capital.
20. Khao Sok National Park
Many travellers to Thailand like to spend some time on both coasts and do a bit of island hopping. Why not take a break between all that beach bumming and do some hiking in a national park? Khao Sok is very easy to visit for a few days when travelling between the coasts.
This park is home to Thailand’s largest virgin forests, plenty of waterfalls, and a few caves. There’s also a beautiful lake with floating guesthouses. This is one of the best natural places to visit in Thailand.
There are plenty of hiking trails in Khao Sok that you can follow on your own. If you’d like to learn more about the environment and the wildlife here, you can easily hire a guide to take you through the park. Don’t skip out on this natural wonder on your way from island to island. 
See Also: Cost Of Living in Thailand – A Guide for Expats & Digital Nomads
21. Phuket
This is one of the most popular places to visit in Thailand, and may just be the king of Thai islands. Phuket is the largest island in Thailand and is probably the most popular among travellers. Home to world-class beaches, a wide variety of activities, and some incredible choices for accommodation, dining, and nightlife, it’s no wonder so many people flock to Phuket.
The western part of the island is the most developed for tourism. Here you’ll find the town of Patong, which is known as one of the party capitals of Southeast Asia. If you’re looking for a good time, you’ll most certainly find it here.
Despite a large number of tourists, not all of Phuket is filled with knick-knack shops and go-go bars. Once you head into the interior of the island, you’ll find mangrove forests, fishing villages, and even a national park. It’s very easy to escape the crowds if you’re looking for more peace and quiet on your trip.
While the island itself is great, a major highlight of visiting Phuket is getting out in the water. You name it and they got it here – diving, snorkeling, yachting, parasailing, fishing – you can do it all in Phuket. There are also several smaller islands nearby that you can visit on a day trip. With so much to see and do, you could easily spend a week or more.
☞ SEE ALSO: 9 Reasons To Fall in Love With Phuket A Mini Guide to Phuket and A Mini Guide to Phuket
22. The Ancient City of Sukhothai
Before Ayutthaya, there was Sukhothai. Established in the 13th century, this was the first capital of Siam. Its name means “Dawn of Happiness,” and it’s said to represent a golden age in Thai civilization.
During the Sukhothai kingdom, the Thai alphabet and Theravada Buddhism were introduced. Art and architecture also flourished, as did trade. After two centuries of rule, this great empire eventually declined and became part of Ayutthaya.
These days, Sukhothai is a historical park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s much smaller than other famous ruins in the region such as Angkor Wat and Bagan, so you can easily explore in just a day.
The best way to see Sukhothai is on two wheels. Rent a bicycle and head out early in the morning to beat the heat and the tour buses. You might even have some of the temples all to yourself!
To get to Sukhothai, you can take a train from Bangkok or Chiang Mai to the nearby town of Phitsanalouk and then switch to a bus for another hour. Alternatively, you can just get a bus to the town. It’s best to go ahead and stay a night, as there are plenty of guesthouses and restaurants near the ruins.
23. Khon Kaen
If you’re planning on exploring the Isaan region of Thailand, you’ll probably end up in the city of Khon Kaen. While many people simply view this city as a place to catch a bus, there’s enough to do here to warrant sticking around for a day or two.
Those who plan on travelling overland through Laos or Vietnam may find Khon Kaen to be a useful and necessary stop. There are both Laotian and Vietnamese consulates in town where you can apply for a visa. Thankfully, there’s also plenty to do while you wait a few days for that shiny new visa.
Be sure to check out Wat Nong Waeng, which is home to a beautiful 9-story stupa. It’s full of important Buddhist sculptures and murals that detail the town’s history. From the top, you can enjoy panoramic views of the lake and the town. Speaking of the lake, it’s a very pleasant place for a stroll once you’re finished at the temple.
Perhaps the best part about visiting Khon Kaen is that it’s very much off the beaten path. Those looking for more authentic places to visit in Thailand will enjoy a visit here. Look up the tour operator Isaan Explorer if you’re interested in exploring more of the area, as they run some great trips.
24. Koh Tarutao
Would you believe me if I told you it’s possible to have a beach all to yourself on a Thai island? That’s just one of the many reasons Koh Tarutao is one of the best places to visit in Thailand. This former prison-turned national park in the far south of the country is a fascinating place to visit.
Once upon a time, this remote island was a prison and was home to several thousand inmates. They were deterred from plotting an escape thanks to the shark and crocodile-infested waters. When supplies ran out during World War II, inmates and guards alike either perished or turned to piracy. You can explore the former prison grounds, which look like a great place to shoot a horror movie.
Other activities on offer here include taking a boat cruise through the mangroves and into a cave or hiking up to the viewpoint. You’re sure to see a lot of wildlife during your stay as well – macaques, lemurs, hornbills, wild hogs, lizards, and more.
Unlike other Thai islands that are full of hotels, shops, and bars, life is simple here on Tarutao. Your only option for accommodation is camping on the beach or staying in rustic cabins that only get power a few hours a day. There’s one restaurant here, so you’ll need to be sure you don’t miss mealtimes.
If you’re looking for that Robinson Crusoe-esque trip, be sure to put Koh Tarutao at the top of your list of places to visit in Thailand.
25. Chumphon
Planning on visiting the islands off the Gulf Coast in Thailand? Well then you’ll already be passing through the city of Chumphon. Instead of quickly connecting to your ferry to Koh Tao or Koh Phangan, though, you may want to consider sticking around for a couple of days.
The area to the north of Chumphon is known as the Royal Gold Coast thanks to its abundance of unspoiled beaches. If you’re one of those people who would prefer a long walk on the beach to a wild party scene, you might just want to stick around here and skip the islands entirely. With snorkeling, canoeing, paragliding, cave exploring, and more, why would you want to leave?
Heading south, you can find the scenic Khao Phang Forest Park and Mo Ku Chumphon National Park. Both are excellent choices for enjoying some time out in nature. You can even camp out at the national park if you want to really get away from it all.
There are many ways to get in and out of Chumphon. Most travellers arrive via the overnight train from Bangkok. Once you’re here, you can easily hop a ferry over to the Gulf Coast islands or switch to a bus if you’re headed to the Andaman Coast. Whatever you do, be sure to give at least a night or two to Chumphon before moving on.
26. Koh Samet
If you’re looking for a quick island getaway from Bangkok, then Koh Samet just may be the Thai island for you. It’s about a 3-hour ride from the capital to Ban Phe, where you can catch a ferry to the island in just 20 minutes.
Famed for its silky white sand beaches and stunning coral reefs, Koh Samet deserves a spot on the list of the best places to visit in Thailand. It’s also far less developed than other islands, which makes for a far more laid back vibe.
Most of Koh Samet is actually classified as a national park, so you’ll need to pay an entry fee to visit the island. It’s well worth it to spend a few days relaxing on the pristine beaches, enjoying water sports, and sampling the island’s culinary and nightlife scenes.
27. Mae Sariang
Mae Sariang is a peaceful town in the mountains of northern Thailand. Those looking to escape the crowds and chaos of Chiang Mai will love taking a few days to explore the town and its beautiful surroundings. With plenty of waterfalls, rice paddy fields, caves, and a scenic lake, there are postcard-worthy images around every corner here.
One of the most popular activities in Mae Sariang is trekking to hill tribe villages. Unlike the “human zoos” that you’ll find in other parts of Thailand, these are authentic villages where tours are focused on cultural immersion and understanding.
If you visit Mae Sariang on the weekend, you can also experience the traditional markets. These are the best places to sample local food and purchase handicrafts directly from the villagers who travel to the market to sell their goods.
Mae Sariang is best visited as a stop on the Mae Hong Son motorbike loop. If you’re not up for riding the winding mountain roads, it’s also possible to get here by bus from either Chiang Mai or the city of Mae Hong Son.
28. Phimai Historical Park
Most travellers in Southeast Asia hope to visit the incredible temples of Angkor Wat. If you’re headed there from Thailand, you might as well warm up by seeing Phimai Historical Park. The Khmer temples here are some of the best-preserved in Thailand and are well worth a visit. One thing’s for sure – you’ll find way smaller crowds here than you will at Angkor Wat!
While you’re here, you can also check out the largest banyan tree in all of Thailand. There’s also a small museum, giving you plenty to do for a quick overnight stay. Be sure to check out the night market for some cheap and delicious Thai food. There are also a few bars here where you can catch some live music and have a drink with locals.
The best way to visit Phimai is on a longer trip through the Isaan region. It’s a great stop in between the bigger cities of Korat and Khon Kaen, as it’s only a few hours by bus or motorbike from each of them.
29. Similan Islands
This national park in southern Thailand is an archipelago of eleven islands. It started out as nine, which is where the name comes from – Sembilan means “nine” in Malay – but two smaller, remote islands were eventually added.
The Similan Islands are considered to be the best place to go scuba diving in all of Thailand. Most people visit the islands as part of a liveaboard diving trip from Phuket or Khao Lak. Note that you’ll also have to pay a national park fee and a daily usage fee, meaning this is definitely one of those trips you have to splurge on.
If you want to actually stay on the islands, your options are limited. The only two islands you can set foot on are Koh Miang (#4) and Koh Similan (#8). You can camp on either island and there are a few rustic bungalows for rent on #4. Staying a night or two means you can enjoy the islands in peace once the hordes of day-trippers leave.
In addition to the fantastic diving and all the marine life, you can also spot rare birds such as the endangered Nicobar pigeon. Both islands also have walking trails that lead to gorgeous beaches and a few viewpoints where you can enjoy the sunset. For scuba divers, this is undoubtedly one of the top places to visit in Thailand.
30. Loei
Believe it or not, there’s actually a place in Thailand where the temperature drops to zero degrees Celsius. That’s exactly what happens up in the mountainous province of Loei along the border with Laos. While most people look for places to visit in Thailand that are filled with sun and sand, Loei is a great choice for nature lovers looking to experience a different side of the country.
The town of Loei is where you’ll likely base yourself for adventures in the area. There isn’t a whole lot to do in town, but there are plenty of options for accommodation as well as travel agents arranging hiking trips to the mountains. You can even camp at the top of one nearby mountain called Phu Kradung.
About 80 km west of Loei is the town of Dan Sai, which is famous for its Phitakon Festival. Also known as the Ghost Festival, it’s highlighted by processions where people wear freaky masks and bells to chase away evil spirits. It then becomes a fertility festival, where people wave around comically large wooden phalluses. This is definitely one of the most unique festivals, and places to visit in Thailand.
Perhaps one of the coolest things about visiting Loei is that this small city in the mountains of northeast Thailand is home to an excellent craft brewery. Be sure drop by Outlaw Brewing to sample their delicious beers. After drinking Chang for a while, a sip of their IPA is nothing short of glorious.
31. Ao Nang
If you end up flying into Krabi and need a place to crash for a night or two before island hopping, Ao Nang is a great choice. This chilled-out beach town has plenty of places to stay, shop, eat, and party. It’s also a good base for further exploration of Krabi province and all that it has to offer.
While the beaches in Ao Nang aren’t amazing, the main draw here is the easy access to nearby islands and dive sites. Tour operators are a dime a dozen in this popular beach town, so it’s not hard to sign up for a day trip. You can even do cavern diving or take a marine safari to spot whale sharks and manta rays.
Ao Nang is the perfect place to stay before heading to the more scenic Railay/Tonsai area, as it’s just a 10-15 minute boat ride to get over there. You could also just visit Railay on a day trip if you prefer, as there are more tourist amenities and choices for accommodation/restaurants in Ao Nang.
Although not love at first sight, after a few days of roughing it in a shack without power in Ton Sai, you’ll probably be happy to return there for some much-needed A/C and WiFi.
Click here to see available tours in and around Ao Nang with Get Your Guide. Or, click the image below:
See Also: 21 Things To Do in Krabi – Thailand’s Most Picturesque Place
32. The Golden Triangle
The Golden Triangle refers to the point where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet at the confluence of the Mekong and Ruak rivers. A day trip here is actually one of the most popular things to do in Chiang Rai.
Not too long ago, this corner of Southeast Asia was known for its cultivation and illicit trade of opium. You can learn all about the history at the Hall of Opium, an excellent and very informative museum.
There’s also a beautiful Buddhist temple set on a colorful ship along the river and plenty of other random attractions. To be fair, the whole area is somewhat of a tourist trap, but it’s worth visiting if you have a day to spare in the area.
33. Kaeng Krachan National Park
Located on the border with Myanmar, Kaeng Krachan is the largest national park in the country and one of the most natural places to visit in Thailand. It covers an area of 2,914 square kilometers spread across the provinces of Phetchaburi and Prachuap Khiri Khan.
Kaeng Krachan is an excellent place to spot wildlife or do some bird watching. There are 57 species of mammals and more than 400 types of birds that have been spotted in the park. Wild elephants, clouded leopards, barking deer, and the white-fronted scops owl can all be spotted here.
The park’s headquarters and the visitor centre are located near the town of Baan Kaeng Krachan. There’s a campground here, and you can also arrange trips to the other parts of the massive park. Once you get deep in the forest, you’ll need a ranger or a guide to go on the trails. They can easily be hired once you’re in the park.
If you’re really looking to get out in nature and enjoy the great outdoors, Kaeng Krachan is easily one of the best places to visit in Thailand.
34. Koh Phangan (one of the best places to visit in Thailand for a party!)
The island of Koh Phangan is famous for its monthly lunar bash. The Full Moon Party is a rite of passage for backpackers making their way across the Banana Pancake Trail, and it’s an absolutely wild time. What started out as a few travellers with guitars around a campfire has morphed into a massive party with 30,000-something revelers descending upon Haad Rin Beach.
While it is tons of fun, you’ll definitely want to make sure you’re prepared for the madness. Check out this guide to the Full Moon Party to get some tips on how to make the most of the experience.
One mistake that a lot of travellers make is simply breezing through Koh Phangan to hit the party and then head to another island. There are so many things to do in Koh Phangan to warrant sticking around for at least a few days, though. Don’t miss the world-class diving, excellent hiking opportunities, secluded beaches, rushing waterfalls, and so much more.
These days, Koh Phangan also attracts tons of digital nomads and yogis. There are several yoga studios located on the island and retreats go on year-round. It’s possible to find high-speed internet here now, and there are quite a few co-working spaces and cafes where you’ll find nomads working away.
35. Kanchanaburi
Ask Thais where the most beautiful places to visit in Thailand are, and many will respond with the province of Kanchanaburi. The city of the same name is the capital, and it’s a great place to base yourself for some adventures to the surrounding national parks and waterfalls.
Those interested in WWII history will find Kanchanaburi a fascinating place to visit in Thailand. The bridge over the Kwai River was part of the infamous Death Railway. Japan had the railway built by hundreds of thousands of civilian laborers and POWs. It’s estimated that over 100,000 of them died as a result of the horrific conditions.
To learn more about what happened during the war in the area, you can visit the Thailand-Burma Railway Centre and the World War II Museum and Art Gallery. There are also two war cemeteries where thousands of POWs were laid to rest. For history buffs, this is definitely one of the best places to visit in Thailand.
In addition to all the historical sites, Kanchanaburi is located near several national parks. At Erawan National Park, you can see some of the most beautiful waterfalls in all of Thailand. While it’s possible to visit on a day trip, you may want to consider staying a night to experience the park minus the crowds.
36. Soppong
One of the best places to stop along the Mae Hong Son Loop is the village of Soppong. The population here is comprised mostly of hill tribes and Burmese Shan and is only about 20% Thai. Unlike nearby Pai – which is now full of tourists – Soppong remains very much off the beaten path.
With a few days here, you can explore the many caves in the area and do a bit of trekking. The highlight is Tham Lod, which is also known as the Coffin Cave for its large collection of ancient coffins. If you come here around sunset, you’ll see the amazing sight of thousands of swifts returning to the cave as thousands of bats make their way out.
From Soppong, you can head out on single or multi-day trekking trips to hill tribe villages. Along the way, you’ll pass through some incredibly beautiful scenery. You’ll stay in remote mountain villages where your guide will teach you all about the unique local culture. When you’re ready to move on, you’ll be just a few hours away from Pai.
Whether you book a room there or not, be sure to stop by the Cave Lodge. They cook up some delicious Shan food, and the owner has some fantastic stories about his decades of living in the area and discovering several of the caves.
37. Nong Khai
Those looking to travel overland between Thailand and Laos might find themselves in the city of Nong Khai. It’s located along the banks of the Mekong River, just a quick ride from the Laotian capital of Vientiane.
One of the most interesting things about this city is its nickname – Naga City – which refers to the serpent guardians that are said to inhabit the river. You’ll see the giant serpents all over the city, as there are several statues of them.
The main attraction here is Sala Keoku, a park full of giant Buddhist and Hindu sculptures. Some of them tower as high as 25 meters. This and a similar park over on the Laos side of the border were built by Bunleua Sulilat, a mystic/spiritual leader whose mummified body is actually located here.
38. Ang Thong National Marine Park
One of the most stunning places to visit in Thailand. Just northwest of Koh Samui, you’ll find an archipelago of 42 islands that are collectively known as the Ang Thong National Marine Park. Of all the islands, only two are actually inhabited.
A boat trip around the islands is one of the most popular day trips from the nearby islands. Most trips include a visit to Koh Mae Ko (Mother Island), where a short hike brings you to a stunning emerald saltwater lake. It’s surrounded by some epic karst mountains and is definitely a postcard-worthy image.
After that hike, you’ll get to relax on the beach or do a bit of snorkeling. Whether on land or in the sea, you’ll spot a lot of wildlife here. Blacktip reef sharks and angelfish may swim by as you snorkel, and you’ll see dusky langurs and crab-eating macaques running by on the beach.
While most visitors simply come for the day, it’s possible to stay overnight. The park headquarters are located on the island of Koh Wua Talap, where you’ll find some rustic bungalows and a campsite. A few nights out here is a great escape from the crowds on nearby Koh Tao or Koh Phangan.
39. Phanom Rung Historical Park
Phanom Rung (Big Mountain Temple) is probably the most impressive Khmer temple in all of Thailand. This Hindu shrine is dedicated to Shiva and symbolizes his heavenly dwelling at Mount Kailash. It’s located on top of an extinct volcano and surrounded by rice paddies, which makes for incredibly beautiful scenery.
The best place to stay near the park is the town of Nang Rong. It’s not much of a tourist destination in and of itself, but it’s a nice place to crash for a night or two to experience a real Thai town minus all the bells and whistles that accompany mass tourism.
A quick stay in Nang Rong plus a visit to the historical park is a great addition to any itinerary through the Isaan region. It’s also a good warm-up for those headed to Cambodia to see the more famous temples at Angkor Wat.
40. Doi Inthanon National Park
Also known as the “Roof of Thailand,” Doi Inthanon National Park is home to the tallest mountain in the country. It’s located in Chiang Mai province and is a popular day trip from the city. You can also stop here as you ride the many curves of the Mae Hong Son Loop.
In this huge park, you’ll find several waterfalls, viewpoints, and hiking trails. There are also two pagodas that were built to honor the 60th birthdays of the late King Bhumibol and his wife, Queen Sirikit. There’s a lovely garden surrounding the pagodas and small shrines inside.
A major highlight of the park is the Giew Mae Pan Nature Trail. You’ll need to hire a guide to walk the trail, but it’s well worth it. The amazing views of the mountains along the trail alone make it worth the effort to get here. When considering places to visit in Thailand that are filled with natural beauty, Doi Inthanon National Park should be high on your list.
While it’s possible to reach the park via public transportation, your best bet is to hire a driver from Chiang Mai or rent a scooter to get yourself there.
41. Koh Si Chang
Not to be confused with the more famous Koh Chang, this small island is much closer to Bangkok and is also far less visited. If you only have a few days to spare from the city, Koh Si Chang makes a great choice for a quick island getaway.
There’s only one beach on the whole island and there aren’t any bars, so you don’t come here just to sunbathe and party. Days on Koh Si Chang are spent exploring the island’s many interesting attractions. There’s a colorful Chinese temple complex with several caves, Buddha images, and amazing views.
You can also check out the former summer palace of King Rama V. Take a few hours to enjoy a leisurely stroll around the stunning gardens, fountains, and ponds.
To get here, take a bus from Bangkok to the town of Sri Racha, catch a tuk-tuk to the pier, and then hop on a ferry. If you’re looking to experience a Thai island minus the buckets and go-go bars, look no further than the hidden gem of Koh Si Chang.
Things NOT to Do in Thailand
Thailand isn’t perfect, but nowhere is.
Unfortunately, Thailand is home to many animal shows and activities aimed at tourists, which involve monkeys, tigers, snakes, and elephants. Consider where you want to spend your tourism dollars when you’re backpacking Thailand, and hopefully, it’s not on activities that promote cruelty and captivity of animals.
When deciding on the places to visit in Thailand, please don’t go to zoos or aquariums, don’t pet tigers or ride elephants. Finally, avoid partaking in any sort of sex tourism in the country. 
By avoiding these places and being aware of where your tourism dollars are being spent, you’ll deplete the market for these activities and help put a stop to them once and for all. Let’s all be responsible travellers this year.
Ready for Thailand?!
We’ve travelled to Thailand over 7 different times for a total of around 6 months. Even though we’ve spent so much time here, there are still many different places that we need to see — it’s a place we could return to again and again.
Thailand is a country filled with natural wonders, welcoming people, world-class cuisine and epic adventures. Hopefully, you’ll add Thailand to your travel list this year… and include some of our recommended places to visit
What did we miss? What are your favourite places to visit in Thailand? Share with us in the comments below.
Note: Images in this article are courtesy of Shutterstock.
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touristguidebuzz · 8 years ago
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Chinese Travelers Prioritize Food More Than Shopping When Choosing Destinations
Hilton’s Huanying Chinese traveler program is among the efforts by various hotels and airlines to cater to Chinese travelers' culinary needs, a key priority in their hotel and airline choices. Hilton
Skift Take: The way to Chinese travelers' wallets may be via their stomachs. Availability of food amenable to the Chinese palate is a top concern for Chinese business and leisure travelers, and catering to needs such as hot, potable water can make a difference in their choices of airlines and hotels.
— Steven Schwankert
Editor’s Note: Skift has launched a new series, Gateway, as we broaden our news coverage geographically with first-hand, original stories from correspondents embedded in cities around the world.
We start with regular reports from Beijing and Singapore, and look for us to add cities around the world shortly. Gateway Beijing and Gateway Singapore, for example, signify that the reporters are writing from those cities although their coverage of the business of travel will meander to other locales in their regions. Read about the series here, and check out all the stories in the series here.
The room was filled with travel agents, all in a position to start turning on their clients to a relatively new destination for travelers from China: the Philippines, which at the time was only receiving about 100,000 Chinese tourists per year, compared to one million in Thailand.
Choosing to focus on the island paradise of Palawan, the official began showing photos of two resorts on the island. The white sand beaches and cerulean blue waters were well-received. But the official then showed photos of the resorts’ restaurants: empty chairs, empty tables, and no food.
The agents began to mutter and look at each other. To a Chinese travel agent – or traveler – an empty restaurant is probably empty because it isn’t good, and a Chinese travel rule of thumb is if you’re looking for a decent restaurant in a city you don’t know, go with a place that’s crowded.
“Food is a very important consideration for Chinese travelers. According to a recent Hotels.com survey, cuisine is the third most important option Chinese travelers consider after safety and presence of historical sites — it even came in ahead of shopping,” said Liz Flora, editor in chief of Jing Daily, a digital publication on luxury consumer trends in China.
In the survey, Chinese travelers weighted cuisine (8 percent) as the third most important option after safety (18 percent) and historical sites (14 percent) when picking a destination. Shopping came in at 6 percent.
“The destinations that have an advantage in attracting Chinese travelers for the food tend to be the ones that are known for items that have parallels in Chinese cuisine. For example, seafood and fresh fruit are both a major draw for Chinese tourists to tropical locations, while a resort representative in Bali once told me that trying the local suckling pig was one of the most important activities on Chinese guests’ lists,” Flora said.
With over 100 million Chinese travelers going abroad every year now, and with that number potentially reaching 200 million by 2020, addressing their drinking and eating preferences is of great importance to those hoping to welcome them.
One simple example. is boiled water. Most Chinese, especially older Chinese, do not drink cold drinks, and carry bottles of boiled hot water as their beverage of choice. Kettles for boiling water or making tea are provided in almost every hotel room in China and on Chinese airlines, and the availability of boiled water also allows for the quick preparation of instant noodles or other portable meals.
Hilton Hotels and Resorts is one company that looks to serve the market in this way, with its “Hilton Huanying” (haunying being Mandarin for “welcome”) program, started in 2011, to include kettles, Chinese tea, and slippers to make Chinese travelers more at home.
“Very picky,” is how one travel operator described her compatriots and their food requirements. “They really only love Chinese food. They may eat local food for one or two days, but then they will definitely want Chinese food,” said Meijin Chen, marketing director of Naturenuts Adventure Travel Co., a U.S.-based specialty travel provider. She estimates that such requirements add $60-$70 per person per day to the cost of their trips, to ensure sourcing of Chinese dishes either from restauranhts able to cater, or hiring a Chinese chef to accompany their clients to more remote areas.
“I worry that I may not like the food when I travel abroad, but it wouldn’t stop me from going there,” said Sherry Qiu, a Beijing-based advertising executive, who in the past two years has visited destinations including Italy, Morocco, Singapore, South Korea, the United Kingdom, and the United States, sometimes with her elderly parents in tow. Qiu said she can go a week, maximum two, without Chinese food while away from China. Her parents bring rice with them when traveling, in case they don’t care for their local options.
“I don’t like most Western food. It’s too greasy. And I really don’t like the taste of cheese,” said Amanda Zhang, an editor from Beijing who travels to the U.S. regularly on business. Zhang said she eats only Chinese or Asian food she’s almost always able to find a variety of Chinese options in and around major American cities, and even in places where people might not expect: “There’s a good Sichuan restaurant near Yellowstone National Park,” she said.
What happens if Zhang finds herself in a location with no Asian options? “I can go to McDonald’s if I really have to,” she added.
Based in Beijing, Steven Schwankert has 20 years’ experience writing about technology and culture in Greater China. Fluent in Mandarin, Schwankert edits an English language lifestyle and entertainment  publication, the Beijinger.
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