When it comes to travelling the world, Thailand is the first destination for many people, whether they’re students on their summer holidays from university, or professionals taking a year sabbatical. With such a wealth of beauty of offer, from the islands of the south to the cultured towns of the north, it can be tough to consider where to start your journey of discovery in Thailand. Much of the island has now been rebuilt after the 2004 tsunami, and although there are still a few pockets of desolation, much of the island is just waiting to be explored. To help you on your way, here are some of the most beautiful locations in Thailand today!
Phuket
Especially in the summer seasons, where temperatures can top 40 degrees, Phuket is one of Thailand’s tourist hotspots, and for many reasons this deters new visitors from exploring the island. However from Karon and Kata to Patong, there are a number of amazing beaches in Phuket that surely can’t be missed, simply because of their immense beauty! Indeed, there are chain hotels, bars and clubs to contend with, however these are only in the more modern and redeveloped parts of the island. Upon landing in Phuket, you should hire a tour guide to take you around the undeveloped parts of the island that aren’t tourist hotspots – that’s where you’ll find the real natural attractions and perfect landscapes!
Koh Lanta
Koh Lanta is another fantastic island in the south of Thailand, and although its not as big as Phuket, its certainly one of the most stunning. With towering limestone cliffs and rugged beaches, many parts of Koh Lanta appear to not have been touched by the commercial arm of the tourist industry, and although there are a few hotels and traditional bars, they’re not as overpowering as others at places like Koh Phi Phi.
Koh Phi Phi
Koh Phi Phi is up there with the most visited places in Thailand, and you could even be mistaken for thinking you’re in Ibiza or Zante. But in actual fact, Koh Phi Phi is one of the more traditional islands in Thailand, bearing in mind it bore the brunt of the 2004 tsunami. Much of the island is still being rebuilt, meaning popup wood lodges and bars made out of old ships aren’t hard to come across. Tourism is vital to the Thai economy, so do expect to see the usual beachfront resorts, but if you take a little time to explore the island, there are some beautiful sights to be found. Go on the Cheapflights.com.au website for the best airfares to Thailand, no matter where you’re flying to!
Koh Tao
For many first time tourists to Thailand, Koh Tao is a particular highlight. Not only is the food here some of the best in the region, but the views across the beach as well as the spectacular inland landscapes are a joy to behold. Without doubt, the island of Koh Tao is an experience not to be missed!
Photo by Harsha K R, Janne Hellsten, Mike Behnken and David Sim
