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Top Tips for Thailand

Thailand is such a wonderful place, with a variety of experiences for all to enjoy. It has the best of both worlds: the city and the beach. While in Thailand, I got to explore Phuket and Bangkok. Both were unforgettable in every way and if you're planning a trip to Thailand, here are the top tips for exploring Bangkok and Phuket.

Phuket

There's no need to bring any sand to the beach in Phuket, because you'll find plenty. Whether you're chilling on Nai Yang Beach or relaxing at Patong Beach, Thailand has some of the most beautiful beaches I've ever visited. One thing I really liked about Phuket was the option to get away to the islands for a day.

Arriving in Phuket was a breeze. I booked a ride from the airport through an airport transfer service for about $15 USD. This was convenient because my driver was waiting for me upon arrival. I stayed at the Dewa Resort and had such an phenomenal experience. The staff was so friendly and accommodating, from check-in to check-out.

My resort was absolutely beautiful but I couldn't leave Phuket without visiting Phi Phi Islands. There are plenty of great options for full-day and half-day tours of Phi Phi Islands (7 of the most incredible islands, including Maya Bay). You can only get to Phi Phi Islands by boat, most of the tours are operated by speedboat. If boat tours aren't your thing, there are other options for day tours of Phuket. Here is a list of day tours I put together:

Since there is so much to see and do, I recommend carving out a day or two for excursions and then leaving some time to relax at whichever resort you choose to book. A spa day is the perfect way to spend the day. I had a tranquil experience at the Lime Leaf Spa, located at Dewa Resort. I paid 600 THB (less than $20 USD) for a 60-minute massage. Get several massages before you leave Thailand, because not only are they super affordable, but you are guaranteed to leave feeling amazing!

Nai Yang Beach is directly across from the resort property, so you can literally walk across the street to the beach. The pool is amazing; I sat by the pool for hours reading and enjoying some of the great happy hour deals (they have buy one, get one free drinks daily from 5 to 6pm).

Top Things to See and Do in Phuket:

  • Visit Nai Yang Beach and Patong Beach

  • Book a boat tour to Phi Phi Islands, Maya Bay, and Khai Island

  • Take a ride on a long tail boat

  • Get a massage

  • Go to the Elephant Sanctuary

  • Hang out at Pullman's Edge Beach Bar

  • Have Dinner at Patong Sunset View Restaurant

  • Eat at Three Monkeys Restaurant

  • Book a day tour to see the temples and the Big Buddha statue


Bangkok

It's easy to Bangkok from Phuket, the flight takes about an hour. I booked my flight with Thai Airways International (they have a regional carrier called Thai Smile for local routes). Book your flight in advance to ensure that you get the best deal and have the flexibility of seat selection.

Bangkok has the city vibes for sure, it reminded me a lot of New York City. I booked a stay at the Akara Hotel, a five-star hotel with a rooftop pool. The rooftop views did not disappoint and the breakfast buffet each morning was certainly worth the hype.

If you know me, you know I love a good shopping trip. Bangkok has some of the biggest shopping malls in the world. The largest mall in Bangkok is CentralWorld, and then ICONSIAM comes in close second. I made my way up to all 8 floors of ICONSIAM, a state-of-the-art global marketplace with 500 shops and 100 restaurants. It is so beautifully-designed , it was more of a shopping experience than a shopping trip. Not only did I enjoy shopping at some of the luxury-brand stores, but shopping for handmade clothing and gifts was probably my favorite part.

Honestly, Asia has it figured out when it comes to design and aesthetic of pretty much everything I visited and experienced. From the greenery to the variety of options, ICONSIAM is a must-see while you're in Bangkok. I mean it sits on the Chao Phraya River...I can see why they call it the "Mother of all Malls."

Top Things to See and Do in Bangkok:

Before you Go...


Don't forget to try the Thai food and exchange your currency.

  • A trip to Thailand wouldn't really be complete without eating some authentic Thai food. It's an absolute must. I recommend trying everything, but I really enjoyed the chicken satay, spring rolls, all the rice, stuffed croissants, and of course the Pad Thai.


  • Upon arriving at the airport (whether you're in Bangkok or Phuket), convert your currency to the local currency, Thai Baht (THB). It was very cheap to travel around Thailand because of the exchange rates. I highly recommend downloading the GlobeConvert app (available in your App Store) to keep up with the ever-changing exchange rates.

Thailand exceeded all my expectations and then some. I can't wait to go back and visit more cities in this beautiful country. Next time I'm back in Thailand, I'm definitely visiting Chiang Mai (after I stop in Phuket, because Phi Phi Islands just really did it for me).





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