Nested in the mountains of northern Thailand, the ancient city of Chiang Mai is to this day a sacred destination. The multitude of Lana temples, built in the exquisite architecture of soaring rooftops, mosaics and paintings create an enchanting atmosphere. Spirituality, meditation and enlightenment are in continuous pursuit by monks and visitors who dive into the ambiance of the mountain and the city temples. Outside of the Old Town, there is a modern metropolis where busy markets, street vendors and talented craftsmen stand out as the charm of Chiang Mai.
Nested in the mountains of northern Thailand, the ancient city of Chiang Mai is to this day a sacred destination. The multitude of Lana temples, built in the exquisite architecture of soaring rooftops, mosaics and paintings create an enchanting atmosphere. Spirituality, meditation and enlightenment are in continuous pursuit by monks and visitors who dive into the ambiance of the mountain and the city temples. Outside of the Old Town, there is a modern metropolis where busy markets, street vendors and talented craftsmen stand out as the charm of Chiang Mai.
The beautiful and serene nature surrounding the falls is the perfect compliment to this natural curiosity. Climbing the Bua Thong Sticky Waterfalls is such a weird feeling against all that you are used to... Climb the falls right in the middle as the water is running over the cliffs, and yet, you'll be able to do that without a problem. The limestone is not slippery at all, just the opposite - it is sticky and allows you to go up and down the falls. Such a fantastic experience! Your pictures of it will look photoshopped...
Explore, volunteer and do good at the Elephant Nature Park, just an hour drive from Chiang Mai. This elephant camp is not like all the rest, animals here have been saved from bad working conditions or orphaned so you'll get a chance to play, feed, bathe them and most of all, experience the good nature of these gentle giants.
From dusk till midnight, the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, is the place to be. Shop till you drop for discount souvenirs, clothing and household items, try out your bargaining skills and enjoy the hustle and bustle of this grand nightly happening.
Every Sunday, from 4pm till midnight, the market event of the week happens along the entire Rachadamnoen Rd and even spilling over the side streets - The Sunday Walking Street Market. This is the place to explore the art and craftsmanship of the Northern Thai people which is not only beautiful but of suburb quality as well. The products are truly authentic and made from an incredible array of materials including wood, metals, ceramics, fabrics, paper, coconuts and much more. The Sunday Walking Street Market is also a street food heaven with an incredible variety of deliciousness. If you want to sit down for a meal after all the walking and shopping, fear not, there is also a number of restaurants and cafes to enjoy.
Wat Chedi Luang is one of the most impressive temples of Thailand, originally home to the country's most sacred Buddha, the Emerald Buddha. The pagoda was partially destroyed by a massive earthquake in 1545 but it is still one of the tallest buildings in the area and is easily spotted from a distance. Its unique beauty and enchanting ancient magnificence are unforgettable.
Built in 1345 by King Pha Yu for the ashes of his faher, King Kham Fu (which are still there), Wat Phra Singh is believed to have been the first temple to house the Emerald Buddha, which was later sent to Wat Chedi Luang and is now enshrined in Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok. The entire monastery complex is impressive and is the place to visit in the Old Town of Chiang Mai.
This is THE place to try the amazing street food of Chiang Mai! Every night, street vendors set up their stalls around the Chiang Mai Gate and offer every possible dish you can think of! Enjoy!
Doi Inthanon National Park surrounds the highest peak of Thailand and provides breathtaking panoramas of vast green forests, rich animal kingdom and rare bird species. Atop the peak of the mountain are beautiful Chedis (temples) dedicated to Their Royal Majesties, The King and Queen, surrounded by wonderfully landscaped gardens and creating a mesmerizing ambiance of piece and beauty.
A visit to Doi Pui is definitely a memorable one! Just the drive up the mountain and among the vast green nature is absolutely gorgeous while the views from above are breathtaking! A visit to Hmong Tribal Village is also a must. It is true that the village is very tourist oriented and you'll see souvenir stands along with big groups of visitors, but nevertheless, it will give you an insight into the local life, the simple housing and you'll enjoy seeing the smiley faces of old women and young children as they work on their crafts. The tribe had to "pre-qualify" from opium production to handicraft production so support the locals and buy something!
The journey to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is not an easy one but it is totally worth it! Located up in the mountain, it takes some hiking or biking to get there, although you can hire a local cab... But even after you get to the base of the temple, you'll see your next challenge: climb the steep stairs, guarded by dragons, leading to the ultimate destination. Once you reach the top, you'll be impressed by the beauty of Wat Phra That Doi Suthep! Its centerpiece is the seated Buddha and as you are trying to approach it, you'll pass by a number of fascinating statues and gorgeous Thai architecture.
A true celebrity among all Thailand islands is, no doubt, Phi Phi! Crystal clear emerald water surrounds the sandy beaches contrasting with the towering dark coastal cliffs and bright green vegetation. A real paradise on earth, Phi Phi is the place to escape, relax and disconnect as you stare at the surrounding beauty. The laid back atmosphere takes you away and immerses you in the moment. No hustle and bustle, pure tranquility overpowers Phi Phi of which only Ko Phi Phi Don is inhabited while all the rest are gorgeous virgin nature.
A true celebrity among all Thailand islands is, no doubt, Phi Phi! Crystal clear emerald water surrounds the sandy beaches contrasting with the towering dark coastal cliffs and bright green vegetation. A real paradise on earth, Phi Phi is the place to escape, relax and disconnect as you stare at the surrounding beauty. The laid back atmosphere takes you away and immerses you in the moment. No hustle and bustle, pure tranquility overpowers Phi Phi of which only Ko Phi Phi Don is inhabited while all the rest are gorgeous virgin nature.
The most famous among all Thailand vacation spots is, no doubt, Phuket. And for a good reason! Spectacular beaches, luxury resorts, backpacking districts, temples and charm set up the background to the fun nightlife and entertainment which great all visitors. Here are the top things to see and do in Phuket.
The most famous among all Thailand vacation spots is, no doubt, Phuket. And for a good reason! Spectacular beaches, luxury resorts, backpacking districts, temples and charm set up the background to the fun nightlife and entertainment which great all visitors. Here are the top things to see and do in Phuket.
The temples of Bangkok are so impressive, so grand, so spiritual and, overall, so amazing that it is hard not to stand in awe trying to take on all the colors, intricate design and symbolism before your eyes.
The temples of Bangkok are so impressive, so grand, so spiritual and, overall, so amazing that it is hard not to stand in awe trying to take on all the colors, intricate design and symbolism before your eyes.
Bangkok is a city with many faces. It is hard to define and hard to explain. The contradictions are everywhere... Red light districts in plain sight next to luxury shopping malls. Backpackers' mecca of cheap street stalls is contested by outstanding world-class restaurants and hotels. Run down old buildings, crossing wires and dark allis are quickly forgotten before the sight of richly decorated palaces and temples... It is a city that has to be experienced and cannot be defined.
Bangkok is a city with many faces. It is hard to define and hard to explain. The contradictions are everywhere... Red light districts in plain sight next to luxury shopping malls. Backpackers' mecca of cheap street stalls is contested by outstanding world-class restaurants and hotels. Run down old buildings, crossing wires and dark allis are quickly forgotten before the sight of richly decorated palaces and temples... It is a city that has to be experienced and cannot be defined.
Asia is such an incredible destination with countless treasures to discover. Here are some of the best places to visit where natural beauty, cultural diversity and outstanding architecture will make the experience absolutely unforgettable.
Asia is such an incredible destination with countless treasures to discover. Here are some of the best places to visit where natural beauty, cultural diversity and outstanding architecture will make the experience absolutely unforgettable.