Anirban Mahapatra - Lonely Planet Best of Thailand 3 (Travel Guide)

COVID-19

We have re-checked every business in this book before publication to ensure that it is still open after 2020s COVID-19 outbreak. However, the economic and social impacts of COVID-19 will continue to be felt long after the outbreak has been contained, and many businesses, services and events referenced in this guide may experience ongoing restrictions. Some businesses may be temporarily closed, have changed their opening hours and services, or require bookings; some unfortunately could have closed permanently. We suggest you check with venues before visiting for the latest information.

Thailand is blessed: exotic and mysterious yet approachable and hospitable, it has the looks and personality to entice the world to its shores.

Bangkok, the kingdoms capital, is an adrenaline rush. The pace is fast, the spaces cramped and the sights and smells dizzying. It is disorienting but addictive. In contrast, the tranquil southern coast will soothe modern nerves. The waters are clear, the diving is spectacular and the pace is oh-so sleepy. Thailands famous islands and beaches specialise in fun, from beach parties to casual dining. Along the Andaman Coast dramatic limestone mountains cluster like prehistoric monuments.

Thailands culture trail edu cates and enlightens. Intense displays of devotion and history unfold in Bangkok, the seat of religion, government and monarchy. The ancient capitals of Ayuthaya and Sukhothai are peppered with splendidly decaying ruins and serene Buddha figures. Northern Thailand is lush mountains, historic cities and border intrigue. The gateway to the region, Chiang Mai, has a well-preserved old city and university atmosphere. In higher altitudes, minority hill tribes cling to a distinct cultural identity.

In every corner of the kingdom, Thais concoct flavourful feasts from simple ingredients. Travelling from region to region becomes an edible buffet, from fiery coconut-milk curries in southern Thailand to steamy bowls of noodles in Bangkok and hearty stews in Chiang Mai.

Bangkok has it all in super-sized portions

This high-energy city loves neon and noise, chaos and concrete, fashion and the future. Its an urban connoisseurs dream: a city where the past, present and future are jammed into a steamy pressure cooker. Zip around town in the sleek, elevated BTS; watch the sun sink into the muddy Chao Phraya River on a commuter ferry; or get stuck in one of the citys famous traffic jams. Then pamper yourself with a top-notch spa treat.

THAILANDS TOP 12 PLAN YOUR TRIP

The cultural capital of the north

Chiang Mai is a cultural darling wearing its Lanna heritage with pride. Its old walled city is crowded with temples dating to the days of the teak boom. Bookshops and ethnic-chic stores outnumber glitzy shopping centres and the dining scene celebrates fresh and local produce. Country escapes are just an hour away. Nowhere else in Thailand has such a delightful mixture of big-city attractions with a provincial pace.