Situated between the Indian Ocean and the Gulf of Thailand; this country offers everything: breath-taking scenery, gorgeous sandy beaches, warm, crystal clear waters, friendly locals and mouth-watering delicacies – all within the price range of the budget conscious traveller.
Thailand has become one of the top destinations for travellers as it offers culture and nightlife, within enchanting natural surroundings. One thing is for certain, how ever long you stay you will never get bored.
Your Thailand experience starts off in the vibrant city of Bangkok, which offers modernity alongside tradition. The Khao San Road is a key place for travellers as it offers cheap hostels, buzzing bars where you can party the night away, and designer clothes, at very reasonable prices. The Thai people love a bit of bartering, so don’t be afraid to try and get the price down. But if it is culture you are after Bangkok also offers museums and temples aplenty, including the awe-inspiring GrandPalace. Thai food is some of the best in the world. To experience it at its very best visit local family run restaurants – for the real Thai experience and the finest food, at £1 a meal, you can’t go wrong.
Travelling around Thailand is incredibly cheap and easy. There are many over night buses and sleeper trains, so you can save on a night’s accommodation, whilst also saving precious travel time.
To get away from the hustle and bustle of busy Bangkok, why not visit the Issan region, the poorest and arguably most authentic area remaining in Thailand. Very few tourists venture here, but it is well worth it, for a visit to the Khao Yai national park. Here you can trek amongst the thick, rich rainforest with the chance to see wild animals such as monkeys and elephants in their natural habitat.
Why not take an educational trip to the quiet town of Kanchanaburi, where you can visit the bridge over the River Kwai, one of Thailand’s major tourist attractions. Or take a day trip, and have the once in a life time experience of riding elephants, for the mere price of £20. The cheapest hostels start at £2 a night per person, and you really get your moneys worth here, where you can gently rock to sleep in floating huts on the River Kwai.
Head down South to visit the many beautiful islands which Thailand has to offer. One not to miss is Ko Phi Phi, a party island that also offers peace and tranquillity. You cannot leave this island without spending a night on Maya Bay, the setting of the film ‘The Beach’. It is an un-missable experience. After all the day tourists leave, a small group of you are left. Spend the evening drinking and singing with the local Thai men, then night swim amongst the glowing plankton, wake up to the sun rising and an early morning swim in the crystal clear waters of the bay.
If you want to experience absolute luxury on a shoe-string budget then Thailand is the place for you. It will be an unforgettable experience.
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