Kanchanaburi awaits

Australian travel blogger Paula Morgan has turned her attention to Thailand, launching a new blog, Thailand Awaits, that provides information for travellers about Thailand’s many attractions.

Paula’s most recent Thailand adventure was in Kanchanaburi. You can read Paula’s complete guide to Kanchanaburi on her Thailand Awaits blog which includes detailed instructions on how to get there, where to stay and what to see.

Visit the Thailand Awaits blog for detailed instructions on how to get to Kanchanaburi.

What to see in Kanchanaburi.

River Kwai

The River Kwai, also known as the Mae Klong River, is a major tourist attraction in Kanchanaburi. Visitors can take a boat ride along the river and admire the beautiful scenery.

The Death Railway, also known as the Burma Railway, was built during World War II by prisoners of war and forced laborers from Japan and Myanmar. The railway is a major part of Kanchanaburi’s history and is now an important site visited by almost all who come to Kanchanaburi.

Bridge over the River Kwai

The Bridge Over the River Kwai is the most famous landmark in Kanchanaburi. The bridge was part of the Death Railway and is now a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can walk across the bridge and learn about its history.

Hellfire Pass Memorial Museum

Hellfire Pass is a section of the Death Railway that was cut through solid rock by prisoners of war and forced labourers. The pass is now a memorial site and there is an excellent museum, built by the Australian Government, that explains the story of what happened here and commemorates the lives lost during the construction of the railway. You can take a guided tour and learn about the history of the pass and then walk along the original tracks. To visit Hellfire Pass you are best to stay on the train to Nam Tok Station.

After you have paid your respects at one of more of the memorials it’s time to check out some of Kanchanaburi’s other sites.

Erawan National Park

Erawan National Park is about an hour outside Kanchanaburi. The park is famous for its beautiful waterfalls, including the seven-tiered Erawan Falls. You can hike to the top level and swim in many of the pools along the way.

Arrive early and expect to spend two hours here if you want to walk to the top-level waterfall. You could easily spend half a day if you decide to swim in some of the falls.

Wat Tham Suea – Tiger Cave Temple

One of the most spectacular of Kanchanaburi’s temples, Wat Tham Suea is a must. Known as the “Tiger Cave Temple”, this place is more than just a religious site; it’s a blend of nature, history, and art.

There are two stairways leading to the site but before you climb look for the one facing Kanchanaburi from the parking area — it’s a bit easier on the legs. If you have mobility problems, there is a small cable car that delivers you to the top for under 20 baht return.

Once you reach the top, there’s an amazing 18-metre-high gold leaf-adorned Buddha waiting to greet you.

Beyond the typical temple vibes, Wat Tham Suea has its own unique touch with its intricate carvings and relics. The summit offers a killer panorama of the surrounding mountains and vast rice paddies.

We made an offering and got a blessing from the monk while we were there. If you have never done this I recommend you do. This unique experience stays with you.

About the author: Paula Morgan has been travelling to Thailand since the mid-1990s and has fallen in love with the people, culture, and of course, the food. These days she visits as often as she can and is planning an extended stay in the country in 2024.

Thoughtful travels in Chiang Rai

Amanda Kendle, the producer responsible for the popular Thoughtful Travel podcast share her favourite three experiences in Chiang Rai in her latest episode – somewhere she’s wanted to visit her whole life.

 

1. The White Temple.

More art and architecture than temple, designed and funded by well-known Thai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat. I try my best to describe it and there are some photos here – but you really do have to see it to believe it.

2. A day at Ahsa Farmstay, north of Chiang Rai city.

In this episode I explain what I loved about it and share an interview with one of the women who run it, Aun Wannamala.

3. Ban Pang Ha village in the northern tip of Thailand in Mae Sai.

At this community-based tourism initiative we enjoyed massages, facials, paper-making, great food and I chatted to Thiraphon Saraphrom about what makes Pang Ha so special.

Check out Amanda’s website for deeper insights into thoughtful travel in Thailand.

When Shakespeare Came to Koh Samui – via Chatbot

Our regular contributor, award-winning writer John Borthwick has fun imagining what might happen if William Shakespeare and other great scribes were to visit Thailand via a chatbot app.

Thailand, often shrink-wrapped by marketing tag-lines and so many S-words: Land of Smiles, Singha, sand, sex and so on. In search of fresh descriptions of this fine destination I logged into AI – artificial, alleged intelligence – to see if literature’s hottest wordsmiths could beat the common cliches.

I asked an AI chatbot to “do” Thailand in the style of famous writers. First off, the 19th century Australian bush poet, Banjo Paterson. Within 30 seconds the lit-bot was off and balladeering:

In Bangkok’s streets where the people meet,
The tuk-tuk’s beep and the vendors greet,
With a smile so wide and a heart so sweet,
In the style of Banjo Patterson’s beat

Ouch! Verses purple as the Aussie weed, Paterson’s Curse. Thailand’s great capital deserved truer grit than that, so I keyed-in “Bangkok, by William Burroughs” — a scary thought. The ghost of the mordant, American Beat novelist soon came out, growling.

The streets are alive with a frenetic energy that pulses through the veins of the city, drawing in the unwary and the curious alike. From the seedy bars of Patpong to the glittering temples, Bangkok is a place of extremes, where the sacred and profane collide in overload, a city that takes you to the limits of sanity and beyond.

Mercifully, Burrough’s dark prose wasn’t in his infamous Naked Lunch style, but it was still way better than the usual over-curated travel tropes. On a roll, I prompted the bot to have a go, improbably, at “William Shakespeare on Koh Samui”. The Algorithm-upon-Avon courteously obliged and poetically opined:

Here on this isle, a stage for love and fate,
Where travellers come to seek a new estate,
And where, amidst the shimmering tropical light,
A play of passion doth unfold each night.

Here Romeo and Juliet may meet,
Beneath the swaying palms and tropic heat,
Their love a flame that doth the world defy,
And passion deep that doth the soul untie.

Tropical tosh, agreed. But let’s give credit where it’s due: the bot was flash as a rat with a gold tooth when it came penning instant iambic pentameters.

Sticking with Thai islands as seen by British scribes, I dropped the radical novelist Jeanette Winterson into Koh Phi Phi. The AI voice switched to third-person voice, schmooze mode.

It was a perfect escape. She had come to Phi Phi to find solace, to escape the pressures of everyday life and immerse herself in the natural world … time seemed to stand still, Jeanette felt at one with the world around her. She closed her eyes, feeling the warmth of the sun on her skin and the soft sand between her toes.

If one could sue an algorithm, Winterson surely would have it up for aggravated banality. Undeterred, I pressed on, proposing a visit to Phuket by that superb chronicler of Tudor England, the late Hilary Mantel. The chatbot reckoned,

Mantel would see the layers of history that have shaped this island. From the ancient trade routes that brought Chinese and Indian traders to the recent influx of Western tourists seeking sun, sand and sea. She would delve into the darker side, where the excesses of tourism have taken their toll. She would see the towering resorts and flashy nightclubs, and the impact they’ve had on the island’s ecology and culture.

Fair enough. And not a swaying palm, mad monarch or headless ex in sight.

Hilary’s AI tale, however, proved more convincing than the next take, novelist Lee Child’s hard man Jack Reacher on the lam in mystical Phang Nga Bay.

Reacher, on the run from a dangerous criminal organization takes refuge in the caves that dot the bay … he discovers clues that lead him to a hidden treasure, and must use all his skills to outwit the criminals and claim the treasure for himself.

More like the blurb for Biggles Goes Troppo than Jack the avenger strikes again.

I persist with the “hero on holiday” theme, curious to see how Jo Nesbo’s Oslo detective Harry Hole might see a Thai airport.

A den of thieves and smugglers, where the worst of society came to hide. He made his way through the crowds, scanning for signs of trouble. He could smell the fear and desperation, a heady mix that made him feel alive. And then he saw her. A young woman, standing alone by the baggage carousel …

The AI bot had gone AWOL. Nesbo Noir had landed in Phnom Penh 1978, not the Chiang Mai of today. Instead, I dialled-up Chiang Rai, this time as from the pen of rock group Cold Chisel’s roadhouse poet, Don Walker.

I caught a plane to Chiang Mai
A city full of colour and light,
Temples gleaming in the sun
A thousand years of history, it’s a sight.

No cheap swine with a three-day growth could have done worse. Moving on, my final searches, Pattaya as seen by Salvador Dali (“where palm trees grow upside down”) and Hua Hin banged out in rap (“Yo, dude, listen up …”) were beyond comic, even for a robot.

Over a Singha and a dish of spicy somtam I reverted to old Banjo Paterson for an exit algorithm algorhyme:

So let us raise a glass to Thailand’s land,
With its beaches, rice fields and jungle grand,
And to the people who make it so damn grand,
In the style of Banjo Patterson’s command.

Sweet. Except that in Banjo’s time “Thailand” didn’t exist. The country was still Siam.

AI — must do better?

All images (c) John Borthwick.

10 things to do when it rains in Phuket

Travel blogger Holly O’Sullivan learned the hard way that you can’t always rely on non-stop sunshine when you’re travelling, and on a recent visit to Phuket, despite the rain, she was determined to enjoy herself.

It was raining the day I arrived in Phuket but I made it my mission not to let it stop me from enjoying my trip.

Luckily a lot of companies allow you to postpone tours because they themselves don’t know how the weather will turn out – but some operators still continue through the rain.

Here are some things to do during a rainy holiday in Phuket

1. Get a spa treatment

One of the best ways to experience some of Thailand’s culture is to sample one of the various types of spa treatments available. My top two recommendations would be:

Thai Massage: these are usually done without oils, in comfortable silk pyjamas – often Thai massages take place in private room divided by curtains with dim lighting. Thai massages are relaxing, yet more energizing than most forms of massages. A popular comment made is that having a Thai massages is like doing yoga without any work. Get bent in all different directions with a Thai Massage that leaves every joint cracked and every knot removed.

Milk baths: can you really leave Phuket without taking advantage of one of the beautiful milk baths filled with flowers? An unforgettable experience is to get a scrub and massage treatment, which consists of being covered in a body scrub, then relaxing in a milk bath, and finishing off with an oil massage.

2. Trickeye Museum

One to take the family to, Phuket’s Trickeye Museum is an experience that will fill up your photo albums. ‘Museum’ probably isn’t the best term, as it is an interactive experience with 3D paintings that offer unique photo opportunities.

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3. Phuket Aquarium

You’re on an island that is pretty well known for its snorkelling opportunities, so if it’s raining, why not get a better look at the fish? The recently renovated Phuket Aquarium is a great place to take the family, and gives the kids a chance to run around in the underwater tunnels.

4. Phang Nga Bay day tours

Sure you’re probably thinking, why would I want to do the Phang Nga Bay tour in the rain? But once you’re out discovering caves and mangroves you’ll realise that Phang Nga Bay can be just as beautiful in the rain.

5. Stroll through the Upside Down House

Baan Teelanka, is the first and only upside down house in Thailand and is whatever you make of it – certainly a few good photo opportunities. With free WiFi, you are able to stay connected to your social media and post some of the unique photos that the attraction provides.

6. Take a cooking class

A lot of Phuket’s hotels have cooking classes so guests are able to learn and make traditional Thai cuisines. Popular dishes to be made in cooking classes are; Thai Green Curry, Som Tam, and Tom Yam Goong.

7. Have a go at Thai Boxing

If you’ve already taken a stroll down Bangla Road by Patong Beach, you’ll realise just how popular Thai boxing is. Exciting enough on TV, if you’re not going to attend a live show, you can take a class. There are many training camps all over Phuket and all cater for different skill levels – from beginners to professionals.

8. Take part in a beach cleanup

Many of Phuket’s resorts are working towards a single-use plastic free future, no longer serving drinks with plastic straws or selling products in plastic bags. Some organise regular beach cleanups, with a few such as Aleenta Resort, rewarding individuals for their cleanup efforts with a free coffee and also organising regular community beach cleanups where volunteers are rewarded with a free beach BBQ.

9. Explore Old Phuket

Phuket Town is a historical town that makes a part of Phuket City – it’s main street is Thalang Road which is home to cafes, bars and shops all within the traditional architecture that was constructed many years ago when Phuket was a centre for tin mining.

10. Go white water rafting

So it pretty much says it in the name, but what are the chances you wouldn’t get wet when white water rafting? So adding a little rain to that could make it even more exciting.

Holly O’Sullivan blogs about her travels at THATraveller.com and visited Phuket as a guest of the Tourism Authority of Thailand.

Top 7 Instagram Moments in Thailand

Picture a country as diverse in its natural beauty as it is fascinating with cultural heritage. Where you can be exploring deserted tropical islands one day, and wandering through centuries-old Buddhist temples the next.

This is what you’ll find in Thailand, the Land of Smiles, a place so spectacular that one visit is never enough and you could spend a lifetime venturing from beach to village to city and always find something new to marvel at.

In today’s world of travel, where we all document our experiences through social media, it’s only normal to want to capture the best moments possible of our adventures and share them with our friends and family.

On our most recent trip to Thailand we did just that, filling up countless SD cards with images and videos of our favourite places. And even after spending almost a year total travelling in Thailand, we still found plenty of new spots to shoot.

If you’re planning a trip to Thailand (and let’s be honest, now is the perfect time to be booking that flight!), let our 7 best Instagram moments help guide you on where to visit that’ll turn your grid into a wanderlust-fueled bucket list!

Pha Jun Jaras Viewpoint – Ang Thong Marine Park, Koh Samui

Pha Jun Jaras Viewpoint - Ang Thong Marine Park, Koh Samui

Sometimes you have to work to get that perfect Instagram shot, and the Pha Jun Jaras Viewpoint in Ang Thong Marine Park is a perfect example of that.

Just a short boat ride away from Koh Samui, the spectacular island of Koh Wua Ta Lap is one of the most beautiful places in the Gulf of Thailand, with lush forests, crystal clear seas and the magnificent Emerald Lake attracting thousands of nature lovers every year.

The real crown jewel of the island though is found at the top of a steep climb at the Pha Jun Jaras Viewpoint.

Don’t let the hundreds of stairs put you off. The view from the summit is completely worth the effort, as you’ll be rewarded with one of the most magical vistas in Southeast Asia.

Phuket Old Town – Phuket

Alesha in Phuket Old Town

Phuket may be best known for its white sand beaches and award-winning resorts, but did you know it’s also home to a gorgeous historical town as well?

Pry yourself away from the coast and check out Phuket Old Town, with its colourful collection of 19th-century Sino-Portuguese style homes and businesses.

Wandering the narrow alleyways feels like you’re stepping back in time, and you’ll find plenty of restaurants, bars, souvenir shops and even ice creameries to keep you busy while you gaze in delight at the Peranakan architecture.

Pull up in front of your favourite colourful house and grab those Instagram snaps! Bonus points if you can coordinate your outfit to match.

Floating Rafts – Cheow Lan Lake

Elephant Hills Floating Accommodation Cheow Lan LAke

Khao Sok National Park is one of the most rugged places in Thailand, with an abundance of wildlife roaming the mountains from ox to elephants and even tigers.

As wild as it is though, it’s still possible to visit, and the most popular place to check out is Cheow Lan Lake, the man-made reservoir most famous for its limestone islands and unique accommodation.

Here you can spend the night in a floating bamboo raft house, where you’ll literally be sleeping on top of the lake in a basic yet comfortable room that can only be accessed by boat.

There’s nothing quite like watching the sunrise while gently rocking in your own floating hotel cabin, hypnotised by the sounds of gibbons swinging and hornbill birds singing.

Koh Yao Noi

Koh Yao Noi

Throw a dart at a map of southern Thailand and you’ll likely land on a tropical island that looks like it’s inspired a million ‘Wish You Were Here’ postcards. Koh Yao Noi, just 45 minutes from Phuket, is no exception.

This traditional and tranquil spot is the smaller sister of nearby Koh Yao Yai, but what it lacks in size it makes up for gorgeous Instagram spots!

Jump on a longtail boat and cruise around the sea to find your own private beach, or simply zip around between the fishing villages for a real local vibe. No matter where you go you’re guaranteed to be filling your grid with more content than you can shake a smartphone at.

The Temples of Chiang Mai

There’s more to Thailand than just beaches (and delectable food). The Land of Smiles is also home to some of the most fascinating cultural buildings in Asia.

Chiang Mai, Thailand’s spiritual hub in the north of the country, is teeming with Buddhist temples that will take your breath away.

You could spend months visiting every temple in Chiang Mai, but if you’re looking for the most photo-worthy options to see in a day, check out Doi Suthep, Wat Umong and Wat Suan Dok.

Finish up your temple-hopping excursion at Wat Phra Singh in the Old Town, which is sensational when the sun sets and the lights of the complex turn on.

Wat Arun – Bangkok

Wat Arun

No trip to Thailand is complete without a few days spent bouncing around all the amazing things to do in Bangkok.

This bustling metropolis is truly one of the most interesting capital cities in the world, and no matter your interests you’re sure to find plenty of things to photograph during your trip.

When it comes to temples and royal residences, the Grand Palace and Wat Pho are two of the most beautiful places to visit. But our personal recommendation if you’re looking for a uniquely Bangkok Instagram shot is to head across the river to Wat Arun, aka the Temple of Dawn.

If you’re really lucky you may even find a few monks dressed in their flowing orange robes climbing the steep steps. No need for selfies here – Wat Arun guide you in what you want to shoot.

Elephant Hills – Khao Sok National Park

Elephant at Elephant Hills

We have saved the best for last on our list of the top 7 Instagram moments during our recent trip to Thailand – Hanging out with rescued elephants!

The elephant is the national symbol of Thailand, and you’ll never forget the first time you see one up close.

Thankfully the days of riding elephants for tourism are coming to an end, so the best way to spend time with one of these majestic creatures is to visit a reputable sanctuary. These days Thailand has a number of responsible, sustainable elephant sanctuaries around, and one of the best is Elephant Hills in Khao Sok National Park.

Elephant Hills is home to 12 female elephants that have been rescued from the logging and entertainment industries. They have been brought to their sprawling property to rehabilitate and live out their days under the watchful eyes of trained mahouts who put their health and wellbeing above all else.

You can visit Elephant Hills on one of their exclusive safaris, where you’ll learn all about the Asian elephant, prepare food for them and observe the happy animals wandering around. It truly is an experience that will stay with you forever.

About the authors: NOMADasauras

Alesha and Jarryd are the co-founders of NOMADasaurus, Australia’s largest adventure travel blog. Travelling the world together full-time since 2008, they seek out unique cultures, adventures and destinations, documenting their experiences through writing, photography and video. You can follow their journey on their website, Instagram and YouTube

Mr & Mrs Romance share: 10 reasons Thailand is tops for romance

Mr _ Mrs Romance - Romantic Thailand - 0 dinner on the beach
Credit: Christina Butcher, Mr & Mrs Romance

Exquisite food, fascinating culture, magnificent landscapes, exciting cities – Thailand’s repertoire for travel inspiration is enticing indeed. But when these elements combine, that’s when the romance happens. Mr & Mrs Romance, Jim and Christina Butcher, share their Top 10 reasons to pick Thailand for a romantic escape.

Every time we visit Thailand it feels more like coming home than the last. Yet, each time we arrive, it’s like we’ve unlocked a hidden room, revealing another dimension to the Land of Smiles. So, when people ask us what we love about Thailand the most, we usually start with one answer… and it very quickly becomes a list. It’s almost impossible to separate any one part of this amazing country from its sum.

Even better, joining each element with any of its counterparts means you can create potentially boundless recipes for romance, adventure and moments that will stay with you forever. While we all dream of travel, here are 10 things we love about Thailand; the things that have romanced us when we’re there and that break our hearts when we’re not.

10 Thailand travel elements that create a perfect recipe for romance

Each of these elements inspire travel, but combine one of them with at least one other, and you’ll find a sweet spot on the Venn Diagram for romance. This is what keeps us returning to Thailand time and time again.

Credit: Christina Butcher, Mr & Mrs Romance

1. The mountains

From the monolithic islands around Phuket and Krabi to the northern highlands, Thailand has plenty of dramatic rock formations. But the likes of Doi Inthanon – Thailand’s highest mountain – have real impact. Part of the foothills of the Himalayas, these northern mountains are a remarkable feature of Thailand’s landscape.

Credit: Christina Butcher, Mr & Mrs Romance

2. The temples

Thailand is home to over 40,000 temples of all shapes, sizes, colours and designs. And they’re everywhere – on mountaintops and city streets, in lush green jungles and on reflective riverbanks. Remember to walk around the main pagoda clockwise three times for good fortune and follow Buddhist etiquette when inside.

Credit: Christina Butcher, Mr & Mrs Romance

3. The history

Little of Thailand’s history before the 1300s is known, but the last 700 years have provided more than enough to enlighten, educate and entertain. One of the best places to soak up some of Thailand’s earliest history is Ayutthaya – once the ancient capital of the kingdom. Only an hour north of Bangkok, this city of ruins is truly beautiful.

Credit: Christina Butcher, Mr & Mrs Romance

4. The shopping

Whether it’s squeezing through the press and noise of Chiang Mai’s night markets that stretch through the middle of the old town or strolling through the luxurious expanses of high-end Bangkok malls like Icon Siam, shopping in Thailand is fun. Remember, shopping here isn’t just about buying things; it’s the entire experience.

Credit: Christina Butcher, Mr & Mrs Romance

5. The bars and restaurants

Eating and drinking are cornerstones to Thai culture, so it’s not surprising that there are so many incredible gastronomic experiences to have here. Sipping cocktails at rooftop bars overlooking the capital, feasting on whole spicy barbecued seabass from shacks on southern beaches or exploring the bustling food markets in every little town between, this is food paradise.

Credit: Christina Butcher, Mr & Mrs Romance

6. The beaches

With almost 3,000km of coastline, Thailand has beaches in spades. Whether it’s the calm waters of the Gulf of Thailand or the sunset-facing, white sandy beaches on the coast of the Andaman Sea, beach time beckons.

Credit: Christina Butcher, Mr & Mrs Romance

7. The spas

Nothing puts you in the mood to relax more than a spa treatment, and most spas in Thailand offer couples’ packages so you can enjoy being pampered with your partner beside you. The resorts and hotels throughout the country offer wonderful services that will leave you feeling lighter than air.

Credit: Christina Butcher, Mr & Mrs Romance

8. The sunsets

It’s always a good idea to keep an eye on the setting sun in Thailand. You’re usually up for a treat. On the west coast, the sun sinks into the ocean, but you can also catch it dipping behind palaces and pagodas in Bangkok and mountain temples in the north.

Credit: Christina Butcher, Mr & Mrs Romance

9. The culture

From food, fashion and festivals to arts and crafts, architecture, religion, and lifestyle, from the moment you arrive in Thailand, you’re immersed in its rich culture. But while Thai culture is immediately apparent, it’s also so nuanced that there’s always something new to learn, something to keep you coming back.

Credit: Christina Butcher, Mr & Mrs Romance

10. The sea

Warm and welcoming, the Gulf and the Andaman Sea are perfect for sailing, snorkelling, scuba diving, swimming and surfing. And from the deck of a boat, a whole new aspect of Thailand emerges. Little islands and atolls appear on the horizon, lagoons that would otherwise be unreachable become part of your itinerary, and seclusion from everything but the romance of Thailand is yours.

For more romantic travel ideas, head to Mr & Mrs Romance.

7 Romantic Things to do in Thailand

Guest bloggers Jim and Christina Butcher of Mr & Mrs Romance share their top 7 romantic things to do in Thailand

Mysterious, exotic, beautiful and enticing. These are words of travel and words of romance. And it’s no coincidence that these same words describe Thailand so perfectly too.

Seated deep in the throne of Southeast Asia, the Kingdom of Thailand is full of the romance of travel. From its blissful tropical beaches and vibrant cities to its gold-adorned temples and majestic, misty mountains… Thailand spoils you for choice.

But these seven ideas will inspire your romantic travel plans and invoke Trimurti the Thai deity of love.

1. Luxuriating with private beach dining in Phuket

The candlelight and the white tablecloth flutter in the warm evening breeze, and the sounds of the rolling waves of the Andaman seem to touch your toes as they curl into the sand.

This is a dinner of complete romance, with dish after dish of superb Thai delicacies while you both relish in this luxurious moment.

Many Phuket hotels offer this incredible experience, but the private beach dining at Aleenta Phuket is sublime.

2. Sipping cocktails high above Bangkok

Towering above the twinkle and chaos of the capital, rooftop bars in Bangkok offer the height (pun intended) of romance. Somehow your martini tastes better as you peer down at the packed streets or gaze across the skyline, the balmy night sky deep and dark above you.

Bangkok has always led the way for extravagant rooftop bars, but King Power Mahanakhon beats them all. At 314 metres, the Mahanakhon Skywalk is not only the highest standing point in Bangkok, it’s also Thailand’s highest bar.

One floor down, SkyBar offers some of the best dining in the city with panoramic views from this icon of Thai architecture.

3. Island-hopping in a private speedboat around Krabi

Skimming across the shimmering waters of the southern Andaman, your private boat carves a white wake towards the looming domes of mysterious karst mountains that emerge for the sea.

As you pull up to the first beach, its crystal white sand beckons you into the clear green-blue water. Snorkelling, swimming or enjoying the shade of the broad-shouldered cliffs that hug the beach, it feels like the two of you, alone in the world, know this place.

Though the traditional long-tail motorboats may look more beautiful, modern speedboats are quieter and faster, so you can explore further and in more comfort.

4. Exploring Chiang Mai temples and being blessed by monks

Sitting merry in the valley of the northern mountains, Chiang Mai is a modern city of culture, silver and temples. There are more temples in Chiang Mai than anywhere else in Thailand.

From the ornate silver temple of Wat Suen Man to the mighty and most sacred Wat Phra That Doi Suthep and its gold-clad chedi high above the city, exploring Chiang Mai’s temples is as much of an architectural delight as it is a spiritual and cultural one.

The mesmeric Pra Ma Ha Tat Noppamethanedon and Pra Ma Ha Tat Nopphonphusiri two temples celebrating King Bhumibol and Queen Sirikit are so high in the mountains and often shrouded in mist, adding to the romance of the place.

Being blessed by Thai monks somewhere like this is a profound experience, but be aware of important protocols and bring an offering too.

Bangkok Flower markets
Image: Holly O’Sullivan

5. Wandering the Flower Market and having a private Thai cooking lesson

A conflagration of colour, movement, food and flowers, Pak Khlong Talat is the biggest market of fresh produce in Thailand and among the biggest in the world.

But this icon of Bangkok is not only home to blooms for temple offerings or baskets of chillies and fruit. Perched above the bustle and noise is a kitchen classroom where you can learn to cook Thai dishes and forever recreate your romance in the Land of Smiles.

6. Relaxing in a couples Thai massage

Sharing the exquisite experience of a pampering in a Thai day spa with your love is simply magical. As you both relax in the warm serene confines of the treatment room, it’s hard to imagine the noise and turmoil of the city outside.

There are plenty of day spas across Thailand and many hotels have their own, but The Oasis Spa on Sukhumvit 31 is lavish and incredible.

7. Watching the sunset in Bangkok Old Town

As the sky turns filigree of burnished gold and Bangkok settles into her night-time ritual, the only place to be is by the Chao Phraya River and watching the light touch Wat Arun, Wat Pho and the Royal Palace for the last time.

From your vantage point of Above Riva an elegantly low-key rooftop bar, your evening begins with a delicious cocktail and a light show like no other.

10 of Bangkok’s Best Hidden Gems

If you think you know Bangkok, think again! Thailand’s bustling capital city is a treasure trove of great activities, delicious food and unique cultural experiences to suit every budget and travel style. For those keen to escape the well-worn tourist path and experience something another side to the city, guest blogger Phoebe Lee of Little Grey Box shares a few of Bangkok’s very best hidden gems!

Bang Lamphu Community Walk

Join the Kesorn Lamphu Volunteer Club on a guided tour through a side of Bangkok most tourists will never experience. Connect with locals as you learn about handicrafts passed down through generations, like costumes hand-sewn for Traditional Thai Masked Dance performances. Contact the team directly via email or direct message via Facebook here for information and bookings, with tours run on donation.

Fine-dining at R-Haan

After you’ve savoured some of Bangkok’s famous street food, head to R-Haan, on of the city’s Michel Star restaurants. The menu boasts authentic Thai cuisine taken to the next level, perfectly sampled in their Samrub, a family-style dining experience similar to a degustation.

Historic Ice Cream Shop

Satisfy your sweet tooth with a visit to the historic Nuttaporn Ice Cream store in Bang Lamphu. The unassuming corner shop has been churning out delicious ice cream for over 60 years and three generations with all their flavour made from coconut milk and lavished with traditional Thai toppings like corn, pumpkin, lotus seeds and peanuts.

Wang Lang Market

Hailed as Bangkok’s best street food market, you won’t find many other tourists scouring the Wang Lang Market. Located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya, you’ll find an abundance of food stalls offering Thai snacks as well as clothing, arts and crafts, gifts and more. Be sure to visit before 2 pm as it closes early.

Afternoon Teat at Gingerbread House

Nestled under the shade of an 80-year-old mango tree, Gingerbread House takes up residence in a century-old house, offering the perfect respite from the Bangkok humidity. Savour refreshing sodas and a range of spectacular Thai desserts, all beautifully served in crystal dishes.

Dinner and drinks at Mahanakhon SkyBar

Take in the very best 360 degree views of Bangkok from the Mahanakhon Skywalk, 314-metres above the ground then visit Thailand’s highest restaurant and bar, Mahanakhon SkyBar, for dinner and drinks. The views here are unbeatable and the modern brasserie serves up truly delicious meals and fantastic cocktails in an elegant setting.

Wat Bowonniwet Vihara

The final resting place of the remains of two Thai Kings, Wat Bowonniwet Vihara is where many royal Princes and Kings have studied and served their Monkhood, including the current King. Gaze inside at the Buddha statue dating back to around 1357 and wander around the stunning temple grounds, a unique opportunity to experience Thailand’s history and local culture.

Wallflowers Cafe

Tucked down an alleyway, the airy and eclectic Wallflowers Cafe is a must-visit. Serving up an array of mouth-watering cakes and sweets there’s also a coffee menu boasting familiar favourites and quirky options like coffee, sparking raspberry and pop-rock candy! Sit a while and relax in this tranquil, hidden spot while enjoy the beautiful surrounds.

Sané Cafe & Workshop

Get hands on with Thailand’s culture at Sané Cafe & Workshop. Pronounced, ‘Saneh,’ traditional Thai dessert cooking classes aim to make local sweets more widely known among tourists and provide new culinary experiences. Be sure to try the coffee while you’re there!

Dinner at TAAN

Located on the top floor of Siam@Siam Design Hotel, TAAN combines delicious Thai fine dining with exceptional views of Bangkok. Carefully developed relationships with local farmers ensure all ingredients are 100-per cent local and the flavours are authentic, showcasing Thai cuisine in modern and delectable ways. Try the 9 or 6 course tasting menu for an unforgettable experience.

The Best Rooftop Bars in Bangkok

Rooftop bars are a common sight across the world, yet few cities do them quite as well as beautiful Bangkok. These sanctuaries of calm high above the busy streets below allow you to experience the magic of the city from an entirely different perspective… not to mention enjoy some deliciously inventive cocktails too. Travel writer and Repeat Traveller Chris Ashton shares his pick of the best.

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From the dizzying heights of Sky Bar by Lebua to the glamour of a bygone era at The Speakeasy, these are the rooftops hideaways worth adding to your Bangkok wish list.

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Sky Bar by Lebua

If you’ve scrolled through #bangkok Instagram results anytime in the last few years, there’s a good chance you’ve seen this showstopper in Bangrak. Sky Bar is iconic – the crowning jewel atop the 63rd floor of Lebua State Tower. A by-product of its Insta-fame means it tends to get pretty busy in the evenings, but it’s worth the wait once that view reveals itself.

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Vertigo and Moon Bar

Banyan Tree is a name synonymous with elegance and refinement, and the dazzling Vertigo restaurant and Moon bar atop the Banyan Tree Bangkok are no exception. Find yourself a candlelit table, order a signature cocktail like the Vertigo Sunset, feast on sumptuous seafood and steaks, and watch the city come alive as the sun fades into the horizon.

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Red Sky Bar

Fifty-six floors above the city atop Centara Grand at CentralWorld, Red Sky Bar is a treat for the eyes as well as the tastebuds. Though impressive by day, it comes alive with the setting sun. A spectacular 360-degree view across the skyline, a sea of twinkling lights stretching out before you, it’s a perfect place to relax and indulge after a busy day of sightseeing.

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HI-SO Rooftop

Gazing out across the emerald expanse of Lumphini Park, HI-SO Rooftop Bar at Sofitel So is so hot right now. The 29th floor terrace is a place to see and be seen, to rub shoulders with the Bangkok glitterati, and then dance like no one’s watching to electrifying live DJ sets.

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Above 11

A whimsical retreat like one Alice might encountered in Wonderland, Above 11 overlooks the vibrant nightlife mecca of Soi 11 and beyond from its vantage high atop Fraser Suites Sukhumvit. The quirky décor, with giant steel trees and armchairs that could double for barrows, is like nowhere else in the city – and the Peruvian Japanese menu is to die for.

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The Speakeasy

Last but by no means least, The Speakeasy is a swinging presence on the 24th and 25th of Hotel Muse Bangkok, an M Gallery Hotel Collection property. A throwback to the 1920s prohibition era, it beckons you in with the sounds of smooth jazz and clinking martini glasses. It’s fun, it’s funky, and destined to become your new favourite drinking den. Ready to raise a glass or two at one of these ultra-glam hideaways? Be sure to dress to impress, and also call or check websites in advance for details on opening hours.

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