If you’re looking to quitting your job, escaping the daily routine, and run away to discover different cultures and experience a new way of life, there are loads of potential places to choose from.
From learning to surf in Central America to road tripping the USA, and hiking Peru’s Inca Trail, the possibilities are endless. But for quite some time, Thailand has been the destination of choice for adventurous globetrotters and intrepid travelers around the world.
What’s more, after reading the following list of reasons why the Land of Smiles is so popular among travelers, you might find yourself booking flights to Thailand, packing your backpack and embarking on an unforgettable adventure to the Kingdom Of Thailand.
1) Variety
Even though ‘variety is the spice of life’ might sound like too much of a cliché, visiting the diverse and varied destinations in Thailand is sure to be an eye-opening and sensational experience: mountains, temples, wetlands and exotic islands, to name just a few. There’s so much to do, you could literally spend a lifetime exploring Thailand.
2) The Food
Although Asian cuisine can now be found in almost every corner of the world, there is nothing quite like visiting the region and tasting the real thing. From grabbing a quick 1$ Pad Thai snack in Bangkok to sampling the fried bugs at a street stall, nothing encapsulates this country’s vibrant and colourful culture more than its food.
3) The Beaches
The lure of glorious white sand beaches that seem to extend for thousands of miles is difficult to resist. Whether you decide on Koh Lanta, Krabi, or Koh Samui, sit back and relax on a sun-lounger or take advantage of crystal clear waters for a bit of snorkeling.
The beaches of Koh Pha Ngan
4) The History
While many backpackers stick to the beaches and party scene, there are loads of cool historic sites to be discovered. Heavily influenced by the culture and religion of India, Thailand traces its routes back over 40,000 years ago starting with the Kingdom of Funan around the 1st century CE. Unmissable historic sites include Ban Chiang Bronze Age site and the ancient centre of Sukhothai, the country’s first independent state.
5) The Culture
There are numerous opportunities for backpackers to gain an understanding about Thailand’s unique culture. From meeting minority civilisations and trekking through the north of the country to visiting Buddhist temples like Phimai and attending a Muay Thai kickboxing match. Wherever you go in Thailand you are sure to have a cultural experience.
6) Night Life
The Thai party islands of Koh Phi Phi and Koh Samui have become synonymous with all-night revellers the world over. On top of that, the infamous full-moon parties on Koh Phangan are legendary. Just be sure not to drink the buckets mixed with the poison that is local rum with Red Bull.
7) Other Backpackers
If you’re worried about travelling alone and want to find like-minded people to explore with, then Thailand is the place to go. Bangkok’s hostels are full of welcoming and friendly backpackers who are quick to smile and always open to adding new people to the group
Nothing like backpacking Thailand
8) The Friendly People
The phrase ‘Mai Pen Lai’ which roughly translates to ‘No Worries’ is a common expression in Thailand. The majority of locals are laid-back, polite, and are eager to share their country and accept your Dollars or Euros. As long as you respect their culture and traditions, then good times will be had by all.
9) The Cheap Pad Thai
Although Thailand isn’t as cheap as say neighboring Cambodia or Laos, it’s still pretty cheap cheap. Accommodation can be as little as $10 a night, street food costs around $2, while an air-conditioned bus ride to your next destination will set you back roughly $15. This makes Thailand one of the best countries to run away to.
10) Ease Of Transportation
Whether you want to travel around the Gulf Coast islands, explore the northern jungle or even hop across the border to Cambodia, Vietnam or Laos, getting there is cheap and easy.
Conclusion
So if you were looking for a nudge to book that trip, this top ten might just be the inspiration you need. After all, what could be more appealing than a country of incredible eats, friendly people and inspiring sights, all for the cheapest price you can imagine? As a budget backpacker it really is one of my favorite countries and one I will be returning to in the near future.
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