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A regional introduction.

Located in Southeast Asia, Thailand covers a total area of approximately 513,000 square kms and is the 50th largest country in the world, and the 12th largest in Asia.

Celebrated for its magnificent royal palaces, decorative temples, glorious beaches and modern cityscapes effortlessly perched alongside peaceful riverside communities, it may be the most visited country in the region but has retained its distinct Thai character despite the natural influence of its neighbours and foreign visitors.

But how much do you actually know about the Kingdom? Here is a regional introduction.

Full country name: Kingdom of Thailand

Population: 70 million

Capital City: Bangkok

Language: Thai

Religion: 95% Buddhism, 4% Muslim

Government: Constitutional Monarchy

Head of State: King Vajiralongkorn (Rama X)

Head of Government: Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha

– The North of the country borders Myanmar and Laos with the northernmost point Amphoe Mae Sai in the Chiang Rai Province. Tourist attractions here include the Mae Sai Market, the Golden Triangle, Wat Phra That Doi Wao and Wat Thampla.

– The South of the country adjoins Malaysia and the Gulf of Thailand with the southernmost point Amphoe Betong in the Yala Province. This area is home to the La-ong Rung Waterfall, Chaloem Phrakiat Waterfall, Bala-Hala Forest, the sea of fog at Microwave Mountain and the Betong Hot Spring.

– The East of the country borders Cambodia and Laos with the easternmost point Amphoe Si Mueang Mai in the Ubon Ratchathani Province, where main attractions include Sai Rung Waterfall, Kaeng Chu Kan and the Hin Huai Soob Stone Yard.

– The West of the country is next to Myanmar and the Andaman Sea with the westernmost point Amphoe Mae Sariang in Mae Hong Son Province. Here Wat Phra That Chom Thong, Wat Phra That Chom Chaeng, Wat Phra That Chom Kitti, the Salawin National Park, Bua Tong Field at Doi Mae Ho and Mae Sawan Noi Waterfall are the highlights.

The country is divided into six regions, namely the North, Northeast, Central, South, East, and West. The North is the country’s highlands with impressive mountain ranges dominating the landscape, specifically Doi Inthanon, Thailand’s tallest peak, which is famous among hikers. The area is very popular with nature lovers and during the cool season visitors seek out the Mae Kha Ning frost flower, throughout the year taking to the nature trails, waterfalls, and look out spots from the many peaks.

The Northeast of the country features impressive northern highlands and plateaus. Hom Mali Rice – or Thai Jasmine Rice is grown here and exported all over the world. The Mekong River is a very prominent river that runs through this area with popular places along it including Amphoe Chiang Khan in Loei Province, Tha Sadet Market in Nong Khai Province, the Indochina Market in Mukdahan Province, and the Sam Pan Bok Grand Canyon in Ubon Ratchathani Province.

Central Thailand is where rice farming and the country’s agriculture plains are found. The Chao Phraya River is very important to Thailand’s history and along it you will find interesting places and ancient historical temples such as Bang Pa-in Royal Palace, the Bang Sai Royal Folk Arts and Crafts Centre in Ayutthaya Province, and the Koh Kret in Nonthaburi Province. For those who like shopping there are plenty of local markets in Bangkok to explore such as the local Wang Lang Market, Tha Phra Chan Market, Chatuchak weekend market, and Asiatique Night Market. There are Chao Phraya boat tours from Bangkok to Ayutthaya every day.

The South is home to the renowned beaches and islands in the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea. Well-known tourist destinations such as Phuket, Koh Samui, Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lipe, and Koh Tao draw the sun seeking masses each year.

Eastern Thailand is half mountain and half ocean. Although there aren’t many provinces here, it in an area with amazing sights and stunning locations such as Koh Samed, Koh Chang, Koh Mak, Koh Lan, Koh Si Chang, Bang Saen Beach, Pattaya, Jomtien Beach, Laem Mae Phim Beach, and Mae Ram Phueng Beach.

The West is mountainous with forests, waterfalls, and dams and where many of the country’s national parks are found. With great geographical diversity, tourist attractions include the Thong Pha Phum National Park, Srinakharin Dam, Sai Yok Noi Waterfall, Erawan Waterfall, Mon Bridge, Mueang Sing Historical Park, Three Pagodas Pass, Underwater City, The Bridge of the River Kwai, Kanchanaburi War Cemetery, and World War II Museum and Art Gallery.

As can be seen, wherever you find yourself, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to natural attractions and places wanting for exploration and discovery. And all that before you taste the food and get that traditional Thai massage!

As a young student looking for an affordable and exciting travel adventure with friends; on your honeymoon for the epitome of warm island romance; as a family with young children wanting to relax into an inviting culture; as a gift to self that allows self-exploration and the spiritual awakening the kingdom offers; and with children and grandchildren for multi-generational themed discoveries.

Either way, everybody should visit Thailand at least once in their lifetime, these are some of the reasons why.

The People – Wherever we travel it is the people we meet that enhance our memories. The genuine friendliness of the Thai people and their charming Thainess remain one of the most appealing aspects of time in the Kingdom. Traditionally friendly and living up to the ‘Land of Smiles’, their traditional Thai greeting, the Wai – when someone slightly bows with their hands together almost as if in prayer, will be your first introduction. The strong sense of family, the willingness to assist and the warm hospitality as they naturally go out of their way to ensure you’re having a good trip all add to the charm.

The Temples – With over 40,000 Buddhist temples found across the county you are bound to find at least one that captures your heart, and imagination. Dating back to various dynasties, each one reflects that era’s architectural and construction style in the façade and interiors, with variations found across the various provinces. Each, whatever their scale, offers a quiet and contemplative spiritual presence, and you may even be lucky enough to be offered a blessing from one of the resident monks while visiting.

The History and Culture – Even though Thailand’s cities are undeniably modern with high end establishments, luxury hotels and chic neighbourhoods, throughout your travels you will come across ancient tradition and culture existing seamlessly alongside the new. Parts of Bangkok’s China Town or Samphanthawong District seems to have remained unchanged for centuries, as do places like Ayutthaya and the remote hill side tribes of Chiang Mai. Cities like Sukhothai are pushing against too much change, with ancient ruins dating back to the Siamese Kingdom in 1238. The country’s history can also be seen in its many art forms, like traditional Thai dancing, Muay Thai and Thai puppetry.

The Beaches and the Diving – With over 3200 km of coastline, clusters of postcard perfect islands and protected marine parks, Thailand is heaven to the beach seeker. The more popular beaches draw the crowds, but step beyond these to discover stretches of palm tree lined strips of white sand that remain quiet and secluded. Some of these include Freedom Beach in Phuket and Sunset Beach on the island of Koh Kradan. Koh Bulon Lae in the Satun province and Koh Tarutao in the Andaman Sea. Thailand is also home to some of the best dive sites in the world and regardless of where you find yourself, you’ll be able to book a diving trip and go in search of sea turtles and the colourful ocean life. Some of the best places to dive in Thailand include Koh Tao, the Surin Islands, Koh Chang and Chumphon.

The Element of Adventure – Given the country’s unique and varied terrain, visitors are invited to seek out a number of adventure driven excursions during their time in Thailand. With 127 National Parks in Thailand, of which 22 are marine national parks, activities can vary from hiking, rock-climbing, ziplining in the jungles, white water rafting and days spent chasing the best surf. Ethical elephant sanctuaries are ideal for tourists wanting to contribute to a good cause. You can take Muay Thai lessons with a resident champion, and even learn to drive your own Tuk Tuk. Outdoor options are almost limitless. Look out too for marathons, which draw generous crowds each year.

The Markets, Shopping and the Food – Thailand’s markets are like no others in the world, each with its own distinct character. Be it the famous floating and weekend markets of Bangkok, or the charming night markets that appear from nowhere across the country. Shop for antiques, second hand items, clothing, and handcrafted souvenirs; you never know what treasure you may uncover. The food stall section is always a main attraction. Transformational, Thai food is so delicious and diverse that visitors often go on to cook Thai inspired dishes for friends once home. You can work your way through the markets, informal food stalls and restaurants, and never eat the same dish twice. Regionally influenced, the cuisine varies from the north to the south. It is highly recommended that you do a Thai cooking class.

      

The Colourful Festivals – There seem to be endless reasons to host a celebration with famed Thai festivals are held throughout the year. Most of the festivals are marked by religious events and the lunar calendar, and are all wonderful to witness, or better still partake in. Many travellers go as far as to plan their entire holidays around the festival they would like to attend. Some worth mentioning are the annual Songkran, a festival that takes the shape of a nationwide water fight, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival, the Lantern Festival and Loy Krathong.

The Capital – Bangkok needs an independent mention and should not be overlooked or rushed through.  Home to over eight million people with a healthy expat community, it’s a madly exciting introduction to the country. Crowded with heaving traffic, it can be overwhelming, but you will find Bangkok is a city full of surprises and hidden gems. Temples, sky bars, museums, art galleries and expansive green parks. High-rise buildings, intense heat, and a rich culture and tradition that is ever prevalent. We may call it Bangkok, but to the Thais it is better known as Krung Thep, which means City of Angels. Shop at the markets, take a boat trip on the Chao Phraya River and pay respect at the Grand Temple, among much more.

Affordability – For travellers on a budget wanting to share their time between cities and islands, Thailand’s affordable and diverse modes of transportation make getting around easy. Budget-friendly airlines service their international and domestic airports and buses and trains are incredibly affordable. Accommodation takes on every shape and form with recognised hi-end hotel brands, beachside resorts, hostels and self-catering apartment for every budget. All this making Thailand a destination that allows you to easily divide your time between more than one hub, diversifying your overall experience.

With the rise of soulful getaways for girls, Thailand is increasingly popular as a destination offering the balance of wellness, health, food and retail therapy.

Beyond the country’s long history and unique culture, modern cities and inviting attractions are the luxury hotels and resorts, as well as the spectacular health spas and wellness retreats. But what really makes Thailand special is its generous and welcoming people, whether encountered in a small mountain village or in the vibrant capital city of Bangkok.

That and the ever-instagrammable limestone mountains, tropical rainforests, white sandy beaches and crystal clear waterfalls, where girls can gather to soak up this slice of paradise, go snorkeling through coral reefs, lounge next to the pool, get massages on secluded islands, and learn to cook with Thai locals.

But should the focus be on health and wellness and the ever important quiet that we seek out to replenish the soul and restore balance to our systems, Thailand is where you are likely to be reminded of what really matters in life.

Thailand is recognised as a premier health and wellness travel destination with world-class standards, modern and traditional techniques, with ancient medical wisdom and core values of the people of Thailand adding to the wonder.

For Spa focused wellness, a favourite is the Oasis Baan Saen Doi – a unique boutique Retreat, nestled beneath enchanting mountains on the outskirts of Chiang Mai. Elegant Asian décor and teakwood architecture is accented with the arts and crafts of the Hill Tribes. Here you can sink into your very own Jacuzzi, relax beside the saltwater pool, or while away afternoons in the spa. You will find here a branch of one of the most celebrated day spas in Thailand. The Oasis Spas offers the unique “Lanna-style” spa experience with treatments created to combine the best of Thai traditional medicine and herbal secrets with advanced discoveries in beauty and wellness.

The gentle and courteous Lanna ambience pervades to create a magical place where beautiful, gracious people provide the ultimate in personal service without pretentious airs. The Oasis network of Spas can be found across the country with fourteen locations in four destinations. In Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket and Pattaya, Oasis Spa’s gentle, highly-trained therapists use specialised treatments and products to awaken a better you. This commitment to excellence has resulted in countless awards over the past 15 years.

Thailand is perfect if you want to discover peacefulness and practice yoga, both which are known to improve the quality of life. Of the hundreds of meditation temples in Thailand, not all cater specifically for foreigners with meditation sessions and retreats in English. Novices as well as practised meditators are however generally welcome at wats, but absolute beginners might like to consider the regular retreats at Wat Suan Mokkh and Wat Khao Tham, which are conducted by supportive and experienced Thai and Western teachers and include talks and interviews on Buddhist teachings and practice.

Of course, this may not be exactly what a girly retreat calls for – especially not a silent retreat – however a couple of friends may benefit greatly from joining one of these together.

An alternate option is the SPA Koh Chang Resort on Koh Chang Island, which is ideal for a complete spiritual retreat. Formed on their passion for a healthy lifestyle, medical practitioners Piranuch and Kamthorn Orn, one a Doctor and the other a Dentist, who have taken their philosophies and blended them with true Thai hospitality to create a very special eco-friendly destination.

Says Piranuch – ‘We routinely exercise, cook healthy food for our family and are really mindful about what we eat taking extra care in the selection of the food we choose. Our acquired knowledge of natural holistic health from our own interest, studies and training is in such incorporated into our daily life.’

Offering the choice of a Detox Retreat, Fasting and Cleansing, Juicing, Raw Food Diets and Demonstrations, Yoga and Yoga teacher training, Weight loss, Health and Wellness packages. Or you can opt to book in simply for the beauty of the place and arrange treatments and yoga at your convenience. They buy fruit from a local project, recycle, are chemically free and advocate for the symbiotic relationship that should exist between man and nature.

The Kamalaya is an award-winning luxury meditation resort, on the beautiful island of Koh Samui that specialises in only the best holistic packages and offers customised treatments by medical professionals. Retreats include meditation, yoga, massage and health treatments as well as private consultations. Another wonderful option.

Yoga, wellness and inner refection can be hungry work, and you’d do well to join a cooking class either at the spa or resort that you are staying at, or at one of the many on offer around town. They can be health, vegetarian or vegan focused, and even include a visit to the local markets to get all the required ingredients. Learn how to create eye-popping fruit carvings, make tofu from scratch, ‘cook’ raw vegan food, or participate in a traditional culinary experience on an organic Thai farm. You can even join a family in their home, for a more intimate cooking experience.

Shopping in Bangkok is a day-and-night activity that rivals the best found elsewhere in the world. Work your way through Bangkok with visits to the legendary MBK, the sophisticated Emporium, trendy Siam Discovery and Central World Plaza, or the impressively upscale Siam Paragon. Not to be missed is the market of all markets – Chatuchak Weekend Market; with floating markets and night markets found around the country. A new one to lookout for in Bangkok is the ICONSIAM on the banks of the Chao Praya river.  A very upmarket shopping mall with Thai food delicacies for sale on the basement level.

Chiang Mai deserve extra mention for its authentic craft atmosphere. A city of artisans and craftspeople, there are many beautiful boutiques and art galleries. From little markets to hidden temples, hip cafes and shops. Look out for banana spring rolls, lemongrass tea served in a bamboo, and sticky rice with mango, if you need some sustenance as you go.

Health and wellness retreats can be nothing short of transformative with many programs designed specifically for women. Pair all that with affordability and excellent tourism infrastructure, and Thailand truly is one of the best places for this form of self-discovery.

Between June and October each year, much of Thailand enjoys dedicated rain and moody overcast skies for at least a few hours each day – but it isn’t all bad for visitors.

There are some pros to travelling to Thailand during these rainy months, for one with the lower rates meaning you get to travel in Thailand at half the cost of high season. Thailand is also home to many stunning national parks that are at their best during this time of year. The water falls boast their most powerful and beautiful of streams and the weather is slightly cooler for tackling those hiking trails. That said, you may need to give your itinerary a bit more thought as the focus won’t only be on beaches and islands.

The rainy season occurs at different times depending on the region of the country. In Central, Northern, North-eastern and Eastern Thailand, the rainy season is from May to November, with August and September often being the wettest months. In Southern Thailand, the rainy season is different for each coast. Along the Andaman Coast, the rains usually come between April and October. The rainy season along the Gulf Coast is typically between September and December.

Don’t let the rain dampen your mood or spirit.

The rainy season in Thailand is still a great time to visit, with these few things in mind.

– Join a Thai cooking class

– Head out for a few hours of shopping at the markets and malls

– Book a Spa Treatment

– Visit Museums and Temples, from the Grand Palace to the Siriraj Medical Museum

– Retreat to a Meditation session

– Catch a Live Muay Thai Match

– Join a Great Yoga Class

– Take a lesson in the language of Thai

– Go to a Thai Culture Shows

– Simply pop in to a restaurant for a traditional Thai coffee, tea or a meal

Regardless of when you visit Thailand, a trip to the South East Asian Kingdom is always going to impress. Remember to pack that rain coat and umbrella in your bag and enjoy – come rain or shine.

Thailand Vegan Food SignAlso known as the Nine Emperor Gods Festival, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival celebrates the Chinese community’s belief that abstaining from meat and other stimulants during the ninth lunar month of the Chinese calendar will help them obtain good health and peace of mind.
Held over nine days, it is considered by many to be the most extreme of Thailand’s festivals with devotees giving up meat for the duration and a few select participants, or mah song, practicing self-mutilation in the form of piercing their cheeks with swords, walking on hot coals, and climbing ladders made of knife blades.
The festival is celebrated throughout Thailand by people both with and without Chinese ancestry, with the largest celebrations taking place in Phuket. The Vegetarian Festival is lively and loud with a crowd of people gathering around the procession while chanting and throwing fire crackers. Participants wear white, while the entranced devotees who invite the gods to enter their bodies – wear elaborate traditional costumes.
A crowd of devotes gather in every Chinese shrine around the island, followed by an even bigger group of photographers hoping to get the shot of their lifetime. Pieces of orange paper and cloth distributed throughout the crowds are for good luck.
The Vegetarian Festival is an internationally known event, and while it also happens in a modest way in Bangkok around the same dates, it is really a Phuket event. For several days on both sides of Phuket Town streets leading to shrines are lined with food stands displaying vegetarian dishes in all imaginable shapes and sizes. Yellow Chinese flags hang at roadside intersections, stages are set, and temples are decorated.
As with many ancient festivals, its unsure the origins of the Vegetarian Festival. One theory is that the festival was brought to Phuket from China by a troupe of actors in 1825. The group had fallen ill with malaria while performing on the island and decided to follow a strict vegetarian diet and pray to the Nine Emperor Gods to ensure purification of the mind and body. To everyone’s amazement they made a complete recovery. The people celebrated by holding a festival to honour the gods and express their gratitude.
One of the most exciting aspects of the festival are the various ceremonies which are held to summon the gods. Fire walking, body piercing and other acts of self-mortification undertaken by participants acting as mediums of the gods, have become more spectacular and daring each year.
Men and women puncture their cheeks with various items including knives, skewers and other household items. It is believed that the Chinese gods will protect them from harm, and blood and scarring results from these mutilation acts. This is definitely not something the faint hearted.
The ceremonies of the festival take place in the vicinity of the six Chinese temples scattered throughout Phuket. The main temple is Jui Tui Shrine not far from the Fresh Market in Phuket Town. The first event is the raising of the Lantern Pole, an act that notifies the nine Chinese gods that the festival is about to begin. The pole is at least 10m tall and once erected, celebrants believe that the Hindu god, Shiva, descends bringing spiritual power to the event.
For the next few days, the local Chinese/Thai community brings their household gods to the temple, along with offerings of food and drink. It is assumed that the household gods will benefit from the annual dose of spiritual energy that fills the temple. Visitors can observe and even participate in the lighting of joss sticks and candles that are placed around the various gods.
The Nine Emperor Gods Festival is observed in China, but the piercings and self-mutilation are unique to Thailand. Some suggest that the piercings were influenced by similar acts that are performed during the annual Indian Thaipusam festival.
Where to Experience the Vegetarian Festival
The Vegetarian Festival is celebrated in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Trang and Phang Nga, but Phuket with a Chinese population of around 35% of the total inhabitants, is the best place to experience it. The best shrines in Phuket for witnessing ceremonies are Jui Tui, Bang Niew, Phut Jaw, Cherng Talay, and Kathu. The festivities move between the various temples and it is recommended that you pick up a schedule of events to guide you to the best time and place.
When to See the Vegetarian Festival
The Phuket Vegetarian Festival begins on the first day in the ninth month of the Chinese lunar calendar, so dates change annually. Typically, the festival is held in autumn, near the end of September and beginning of October. The peak of the Nine Emperor Gods Festival is on the ninth, or last day as the ceremony.
While many tourists attend the festival to see the extreme piercings, you should try the vegetarian food on offer. All participating restaurants and food stalls fly a yellow flag with red Chinese lettering and offer various vegetarian versions of famous Thai noodle dishes. Actually, most of the food is vegan and not even eggs or dairy products are used during the festival.
During the Vegetarian Festival those observing don’t only limit it to diet but also wear white, maintain body cleanliness and agree to keep their body clean, keep up a high moral standard in action, words and thoughts, and abstain from sex and alcohol. Do bear in mind that people in mourning and pregnant or menstruating women are not supposed to attend the ceremonies.
Tourists are invited to attend the procession and take photographs. Although the Vegetarian Festival can appear sensationalist, it is a deeply religious event and you are reminded to show respect at all times.
NOTE:
The 2019 Phuket Vegetarian Festival will be from Sunday 29 September to Monday 7 October.