Thailand

This was one of our favorite trips so far. We went during Thanksgiving in 2019, and we were able to visit Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phang Nga, and Phuket. Here are a few videos of some of our time there.

Chiang Mai is a beautiful city in northern Thailand, known for its rich culture, history, and nature. It is the former capital of the Lanna Kingdom, and home to over 300 temples. It is also a popular destination for digital nomads, foodies, and adventure seekers. 

Some of the best things to do in Chiang Mai are: 

Visit Doi Suthep, a sacred mountain with a stunning temple and a panoramic view of the city. 

Explore the Old City, where you can admire the ancient architecture, visit museums, and shop at the night markets. 

Enjoy the cafe scene at Nimmanhaemin Road, the trendiest area in Chiang Mai with many fashionable bars and restaurants. 

Experience the local culture and cuisine by taking a cooking class, a meditation course, or a tour with a local guide. 

Discover the natural beauty of Chiang Mai by visiting the national parks, waterfalls, and hill tribes in the surrounding mountains. 

Depending on how long you plan to stay in Chiang Mai, you can choose from different itineraries that cover the main attractions and activities. You can also use Chiang Mai as a base to explore other places in northern Thailand, such as Chiang Rai, Mae Hong Son, and Pai. 

I hope this helps you plan your trip to Chiang Mai! 

Phang Nga is a region in southern Thailand, known for its natural beauty, pristine beaches, and stunning limestone cliffs. There are many things to do in Phang Nga, depending on your interests and preferences. Here are some of the most popular activities and attractions in Phang Nga: 

Explore the spectacular Phang Nga Bay, where you can see the famous James Bond Island, kayak through the mangrove forests, and discover hidden caves. 

Visit the iconic Wat Suwan Kuha Temple, also known as the Monkey Cave Temple, where you can admire the Buddhist statues, murals, and monkeys that live in the cave. 

Take a trip to the enchanting Ton Pariwat Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can trek to the waterfalls, camp in the wilderness, and see various endangered animals. 

Dive into the vibrant underwater world at Similan Islands, where you can snorkel or scuba dive among the crystal-clear waters and colorful coral reefs. 

Embark on an elephant trekking adventure, where you can ride, interact, and feed these gentle giants in the jungle. 

Discover the ancient caves of Phung Chang, where you can see the impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and rock formations. 

Experience the excitement of white-water rafting, where you can paddle through the rapids and enjoy the scenic views. 

Trek to the majestic Khao Lak Lam Ru National Park, where you can hike through the rainforest, see the wildlife, and relax at the beach. 

Take a trip to Samet Nangshe Viewpoint, where you can witness the stunning sunrise or sunset over the bay and the islands. 

Explore Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park, where you can enjoy the nature trails, waterfalls, and beaches. 

I hope this helps you plan your trip to Phang Nga!

Phuket is a popular island in southern Thailand, famous for its beaches, nightlife, and natural beauty. There are many things to do and see in Phuket, depending on your preferences and budget. Here are some of the best travel recommendations for Phuket: 

If you love the beach, you can choose from many options, such as Patong Beach, Kata Beach, Karon Beach, Kamala Beach, and Surin Beach. Each beach has its own vibe and attractions, such as water sports, shopping, dining, and entertainment. 

If you want to explore the culture and history of Phuket, you can visit the Old Town, where you can see the colorful Sino-Portuguese architecture, temples, museums, and street art. You can also visit the Big Buddha, a 45-meter-tall statue that overlooks the island and offers a stunning view. 

If you are looking for adventure and nature, you can take a day trip to Phang Nga Bay, where you can see the famous James Bond Island, kayak through the mangroves, and discover hidden caves. You can also visit the Similan Islands, where you can snorkel or scuba dive among the crystal-clear waters and colorful coral reefs. 

If you want to experience the nightlife and entertainment of Phuket, you can head to Bangla Road, where you can find bars, clubs, live music, and shows. You can also check out the night markets, where you can shop, eat, and enjoy the local atmosphere. 

I hope this helps you plan your trip to Phuket!

Bangkok is a vibrant and diverse city that offers a mix of culture, history, and modernity. It is the capital and largest city of Thailand, and home to over 8 million people (about half the population of New York). It is also a popular tourist destination, with many attractions and activities to suit different interests and budgets. 

Some of the best things to do in Bangkok are: 

Visit the Grand Palace, the former residence of the Thai kings and the most iconic landmark of Bangkok. You can admire the stunning architecture, see the Emerald Buddha, and learn about the royal history. 

Explore Wat Pho, the oldest and largest temple in Bangkok, where you can see the reclining Buddha, the largest Buddha statue in Thailand. You can also enjoy a traditional Thai massage at the temple’s school. 

Cruise along the Chao Phraya River, the main waterway of Bangkok, where you can see the city’s skyline, temples, and landmarks. You can also hop on a boat to visit the floating markets, where you can buy fresh fruits, vegetables, and souvenirs. 

Experience the nightlife and entertainment of Bangkok, where you can find bars, clubs, live music, and shows. You can also check out the night markets, where you can shop, eat, and enjoy the local atmosphere. 

Enjoy the food and culture of Bangkok, where you can taste the delicious Thai cuisine, from street food to fine dining. You can also take a cooking class, a cultural tour, or a temple visit to learn more about the Thai traditions and beliefs. 

I hope this helps you plan your trip to Bangkok! 

Check out our recommendations on Trip Advisor to help plan your next trip or to book a tour. You can also use Yelp and Open Table for more ideas as well as restaurant reservations. More photos from our visit are posted on Instagram and Facebook.