There are a number of fantastic places to visit within the country -- let's explore a few of the best!
Bangkok, the City of Angels
As an international traveler, your gateway to the Thailand experience will likely be Bangkok, the nation's capital and its most metropolitan city. Its Don Muang International Airport will greet you with warm hearts and open arms, beginning your journey into this lovely city. With reverent temples, elegant palaces, extensive museums, gorgeous parks, and a thriving restaurant and nightlife scene, Thailand's "City of Angels" will thrill your senses and spark your imagination. It's here that youÂll find the true meaning of the country's two most common sayings: mai pen rai and sanook, which mean, respectively, "never mind" and "have a good time"!
Phuket's Beautiful Beaches
Washed by the warm waters of the Andaman Sea, Phuket (pronounced "Poo-get", roughly), on the western side of the southern peninsula, is an island home to one of the most picturesque and beautiful coastlines in the world. For those who enjoy an energetic beach experience, with shopping and nightlife, Patong beach can't be missed - but, if you're looking for a bit more privacy, look to the south side of the island, to beaches like Kata and Kata Noi.
You'll also find first class spas and resorts providing exceptional English-language service nearly everywhere on this mountainous landmass, with opportunities for fishing, scuba diving, snorkeling, and other water sports abounding. Moreover, in recent years, the island has begun to feature eco-adventure tourism, and has also become a center for health and wellness.
The Mountains of Chiang Mai
In the northern part of the country you can find the city of Chiang Mai, nestled amongst the rice paddies in the foothills of misty blue mountains. The city itself is a shopper's paradise, with many local craftspeople and artisans, in addition to more metropolitan goods. Be sure to take a trip into the surrounding countryside to visit the local hill tribes, the colorful indigenous peoples of Thailand, who often sell local handicrafts. You can also find magnificent hiking in the nearby mountains, including Doi Suthep, which is home to breathtaking waterfalls and verdant hardwood tropical forests.
Pristine Koh Samui
For those looking for a more secluded romantic getaway, Kho Samui, Thailand's third largest island, may provide everything desired. Kho Samui is an area of untouched natural beauty, decidedly less developed as compared to Phuket, though still featuring its fair share of bars, restaurants, and excellent shopping. Take the time to visit beautiful Chaweng and Lamai beaches, the impressively manicured gardens in the interior of the island, or the "Big Buddha," a twelve-meter high statue of the Buddha at local Wat Phra Yai, "wat" being Thai for "temple".
Traveling and Advisories
Thai Airways International runs daily flights linking all major cities and towns with Bangkok, so getting around the country is fairly easy for those with deep pockets. For those on more conservative budgets, rail and bus service is readily available. Transportation by car is also quite common, and most taxis are metered.
Tourists staying for less than thirty days are not required to procure a visa for entry into Thailand, though a passport is required for international travel. Although Thailand is a relatively safe nation, take reasonable precautions when traveling - don't wear flashy jewelry, keep your valuables close to your body, and carry extra copies of your passport while you travel. In the event of loss or left, a photocopy will greatly expedite the process of acquiring new paperwork.
For its beautiful mountains, incredible temples, colorful shopping, and world-class beaches, Thailand is fast becoming one of the premier honeymoon destinations worldwide. As you and your new partner take your first steps into married life, why not do so in this jewel of southeastern Asia?
