Whether you want to be pampered or active, there are a plethora of things to do in Thailand. Massage and spa treatments are found on every corner from cheap traditional shops to ultra high-end pampering packages. See how the traditional Hill tribes live up north. Relax on the beach down south or cheaply get your SCUBA license. Take a cooking class to learn the fine art of Thai cuisine or play with the elephants at a rescue and rehab center.
Take a trip down the Chao Phraya to see the beautiful temple wats. A relaxing river cruise in Bangkok, feed giant fish while making stops at the gilded religious edifices, each one more impressive than the last.
Massage and body treatments have made Thailand famous for pampering. From the streets of Bangkok to the glamorous beach resorts of Phuket, an hour of getting your feet rubbed for as little as a few dollars will take your mind off the chaos going on around you. If you’re truly adventurous, you can try a fish spa, where schools of fish suck off your dead skin, just do your homework first because some have been known not to have the most sanitary conditions.
The limestone cliffs of Krabi and other southern destinations make for excellent rock climbing. One of the best areas is Railay Beach, where cheap boat rides to the limestone pinnacles are available. Gecko Extreme can offer tours for even the most inexperienced of climbers.
Get a sense of adventure by kayaking around the islands in the southern reaches of Thailand. There is no better way to explore Krabi and Phuket than by paddling into the limestone caves and beautiful estuaries. Guided tours can be arranged through Active Thailand.
Some of Southeast Asia’s best scuba diving and snorkeling are found off the coast of Thailand and the country is notably a great place to get certified for its low prices. Most visitors head to the island of Ko Tao, but Ang Thong National Marine Park is becoming equally as popular. Dive Safari organize tours in the southern Thai islands.
Golfing is popular and affordable, with numerous plush courses near Bangkok and Pattaya. The Royal Bangkok Sports Club requires an expensive membership, but most greens are open to the public. Contact Thailand Golf Tours for more information.
Shopping is a favorite pastime in Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket and everywhere in between. With endless outdoor and floating markets to explore, if you have a few days, consider going to a custom tailor to get handmade clothes crafted especially for you. Costs and quality varies, but can be as low as $10 USD per shirt. Thailand Tours knows the best spots for retail therapy.
Asian elephants are one of Thailand’s prides and joy and elephant sanctuaries are an amazing way to get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures. From riding to bathing and care, spend a full day or half day with the animals.
Thai cooking classes are a rapidly growing industry with schools all over the country. They usually begin with a trip around the local market, where fresh ingredients and spices are obtained to make a variety of curries, seafood and vegetables. From garden to table, the perfect balance of the four taste buds — sour, sweet, salty, and sometimes even bitter are a staple in the cuisine.