Embark on an enchanting journey through Phuket, a treasure trove of natural beauty and serene escapades, blessed with mesmerizing landscapes that beckon travelers from around the globe. Here’s a heartfelt guide from a former resident eager to share the gems of this tropical paradise.
Phuket Travel Guide
Bang Pae Waterfall: Nature’s Serenade in Talang
Photo: iStock
Commence your adventure with a trip to Bang Pae Waterfall in Talang, where the symphony of nature whispers in cascading falls. Trek through a trail dotted with enchanting mini waterfalls before reaching the main attraction—inviting you to plunge into its refreshing embrace. This experience is more than a mere visit; it’s an encounter with nature at its most intimate.
Nai Harn Beach: Where Sunsets Paint the Sky
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For an awe-inspiring twilight, make your way to Nai Harn Beach. Though this gem may be quaint in size, the spectacular sunsets it offers defy any crowd. The sky transforms into a canvas of warm hues, a spectacle that will enrich your holiday memories. Adjacent lies Phrom Thep Cape, another vantage point for the day’s majestic curtain call.
The Majestic Big Buddha: Beyond a Landmark
Photo: iStock
Of course, a trip to Phuket would be incomplete without witnessing the grandeur of the Big Buddha. More than a monumental landmark, it’s a viewpoint offering a panorama that captivates the soul. Standing there, you’ll find perspectives not just of the island, but perhaps your inner self.
A Blanket and A Pillow: Tranquil Cafe Retreat
Photo: A Blanket & A Pillow
Let me share a secret—a cafe that’s a haven of tranquility. A Blanket and A Pillow isn’t just an establishment; it’s an experience, where the views transport you to a world of calm contemplation.
Black Rock Viewpoint: Panoramic Splendor in Southern Phuket
Photo: iStock
For those seeking a bird’s eye view, ascend to Black Rock Viewpoint. The effort of the hike is richly rewarded with expansive vistas of southern Phuket, including the picturesque Nai Harn Beach.
Traveling to new horizons opens doors to vibrant cultures, breathtaking sights, and life-changing experiences. For women venturing to the enchanting land of Thailand, understanding local nuances can elevate your journey. Here are five thoughtful insights to prepare you for a seamless and fulfilling Thai adventure.
5 Essential Tips for Women Traveling Thailand
Hair Care in the Tropics
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Firstly, consider the tropical climate’s impact on your locks. Some women encounter hair loss due to environmental changes. Equip yourself with a portable shower filter to keep your tresses healthy and radiant throughout your stay. If a trustworthy product crosses my path, I’ll share it with you.
Fashion Finds: Embrace Local Attire
Photo: iStock
Secondly, Thailand’s fashion scene is a treasure trove of unique finds. Whether it’s the intricate designs or the flowy fabrics, you’re sure to fall in love with the local attire. Spare some suitcase space for those irresistible fashion souvenirs.
Skincare Caveats: Beware of Whitening Agents
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Third, skincare in Thailand may pose a hidden caveat – whitening agents. These ingredients are commonplace in local products. Scrutinize labels to ensure your purchases align with your skin’s needs, safeguarding its natural glow.
Cultural Sensitivities and Attire
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Delving into the fourth insight, cultural sensitivities come into play. It’s customary for women to wear bras in public. While it’s unlikely that anyone will comment, local perceptions may influence comfort levels. If your outfit challenges this norm, you might feel inconspicuous stares. It’s about navigating an equilibrium between comfort and cultural mindfulness.
Personal Hygiene Essentials: Packing Tips for Travel
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Lastly, personal hygiene essentials like tampons may be scarce or different from what you’re accustomed to in the West. It’s practical to pack an ample supply to avoid any inconvenience during your travels.
These tips are shared with the hope of empowering your travels with confidence and grace. Thailand’s warmth awaits you with open arms and endless wonders. For a more comprehensive take on experiencing Thailand’s magic, consider exploring BkkClub detailed travel guides. Wander boldly, embrace each moment, and let Thailand’s spirit rejuvenate your soul.
Uncover the pulse of Thailand by stepping within the walls of the acclaimed Rajadamnern Stadium, set in bustling Bangkok. Imagine pressing the palms of your hands against the timeworn gates and feeling a surge of expectation. As you enter, there’s an immediate shift in the air—an undeniable blend of enthusiasm that beckons you to delve into the cultural spectacle of Muay Thai.
Close your eyes for a moment and let the stadium’s rhythm envelop you: the thunderous applause, the melodies that orchestrate the ambiance, the palpable tension as fighters mentally prepare for battle. Witnessing a Muay Thai fight here is like reading a page from Thailand’s vibrant chronicle—a narrative written in kicks, punches, and the unspoken language of respect.
The essence of these bouts transcends physicality; it’s encompassed in the Wai Kru Ram Muay, the fighters’ spiritual dance. This ancient ritual, performed before each match, is a poetic tribute to the fighters’ lineage, trainers, and the warrior spirit residing within the stadium’s walls. It’s an integral thread in the cultural fabric of Thailand, one that continues to resonate with the beating hearts of both locals and visitors.
Amidst this captivating experience, local flavors await to entice your palate. Each dish is a chapter of Thailand’s rich culinary story, served to you amidst the thrills of the day—a fusion of taste and excitement creating memories that linger long after the bouts conclude.
Venture behind the scenes to witness the quiet intensity of the fighters’ world, where every calculated movement and moment of focus builds towards the crescendo of the coming clash. These up-close interactions reveal the profound dedication and artistry at the core of this martial tradition.
Embrace the invitation to Rajadamnern Stadium and immerse yourself in the narrative of Muay Thai, where sport, culture, and community interlace. Stay with me on this journey to explore the authentic heart of Thailand, where every exploration is an avenue to connect, understand, and celebrate the rich tapestry of our shared human experience.
Directions to the Stadium
From Ratchathewi BTS Station or Victory Monument Station, take a taxi to reach the stadium.
Use Sam Yot MRT Station and then hail a taxi to the stadium.
Bus options: 157, 509, 201, 503.
Alternatively, access the stadium via Talad Bobae Pier or Panfa Leelard Pier.
Step into the bustling city of Chiang Mai, a place where adventure and culture blend seamlessly. In this corner of northern Thailand, ordinary simply doesn’t exist, especially not at the Chiang Mai Circuit Go-Kart track. It’s a spot where speed meets spirit, and laughter rings louder than the engines.
This isn’t just a go-kart track—it’s a microcosm of the city’s vibrancy. Here, whether you’re young or simply young at heart, you can select a go-kart that feels like it was made just for you. They’ve got a fleet that suits all—from easy riders to speed demons—and the prices make sure fun isn’t exclusive.
Under the watchful eyes of ever-smiling staff, who value your safety as if it were their own, you’ll strap in and hit the asphalt. The track is an invitation to let loose, to challenge your friends, or to outpace your own shadow. The rush of the race is a bond you’ll share with those around you, each lap drawing everyone closer in a shared escapade.
So, if you find yourself in Chiang Mai, make the circuit a must-do on your list. It’s an authentic slice of local life, a chance to create stories you’ll recount for years to come. Take the leap, embrace the joy of go-karting, and leave with not just memories, but a new entry in the diary of your life’s adventures.
Embarking on an adventure to Dansai, a serene town nestled in Thailand’s Loei province, presents an encounter with the extraordinary. Every year, this place blossoms into the vibrant Phi Ta Khon Festival, known to many as the Ghost Festival. Here is an invitation to step into a narrative brimming with tradition and enigmatic allure. For the travelers amongst us, those who chase the sunrise and find joy in the tapestry of human connection, this festival is a thrilling pause in the hum of everyday life.
In preparation for the festival, every villager becomes an artisan, weaving tales of heritage into each colorful mask and costume with a dedication that radiates warmth. These aren’t simply outfits, they are emblems of unity and the continuation of a legacy that spans countless moons. When the drums start to beat and the dancers sway, the atmosphere transforms into a celebration of existence. It’s an event that speaks to the rhythm of life itself.
When the second day dawns and the parade begins, do remember, the tropical sun is a generous companion. Bring along your hat and sunglasses, for you’ll want to soak in every vibrant hue, every expressive mask, without the sun’s playful interference. There, amidst the handmade wonders and rhythmic footsteps, you sense the town’s heartbeat syncing with your own.
At the Phi Ta Khon Festival, it’s not just about witnessing grandeur—it’s about being a part of it. It’s in the shared glances and the collective effervescence, in the laughter that bubbles up as you exchange stories with locals. You’re not just a spectator; you’re a chapter in the story that Dansai tells.
For the explorer at heart who revels in cultural immersion and seeks authenticity, a visit to the Phi Ta Khon Festival is more than an item on a bucket list. It’s an immersive narrative waiting to be felt, a chapter that beckons you to live it fully. So keep wanderlust as your compass, and revel in the myriad other cultural treasures awaiting your discovery.
When the calendar turns its final page, the anticipation of welcoming a new year transforms the night sky into a canvas of vibrant fireworks. For those seeking the quintessential New Year’s Eve in Bangkok, there’s no better backdrop than the charming Chao Phraya River. Imagine spending this joyous occasion surrounded by family and friends, embraced by the cool river breeze, and treated to a visual feast that is both grand and intimate. Let’s unwrap the list of riverside dining in Bangkok crafted with care that stands ready to offer you an experience as personal as it is splendid.
10 Romantic Riverside Dining in Bangkok
RIM Rooftop Dining & Bar
Photo: RIM Rooftop dining & bar – ร้านอาหารติดแม่น้ำเจ้าพระยา (Facebook)
RIM Rooftop Dining & Bar invites you to the fourth story of Kowtha Rivertel Hotel, a sanctuary by Charoen Nakhon 35 where the river’s embrace is almost tangible. Expect nothing less than an enchanting evening under the glow of fireworks.
*Operating hours might differ during New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day
Hobs ICONSIAM
Photo: Hobs (Facebook)
Step into the open arms of Hobs ICONSIAM, where the rooftop mingles with the stars, and live tunes set the stage for a mesmerizing night, as bursts of colors dance across the sky.
*Operating hours might differ during New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day
The Coffee Club River City
Photo: River City Bangkok
At The Coffee Club River City, comfort meets elegance. Here, quiet conversations mix with the spectacular view, and the fireworks become an accompaniment to memories being made.
*Operating hours might differ during New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day
ibis Bangkok Riverside Hotel
Photo: Ibis Bangkok
ibis Bangkok Riverside Hotel crafts a ‘Camping by The River’ soiree where the night unfolds in an allegory of light and joy. It’s a setting tailormade for laughter and toasts to the future.
The iconic Greyhound Cafe ICONSIAM prepares a special night where the food is celebrated just as much as the fireworks, ensuring your countdown to midnight is as delicious as it is unforgettable.
*Operating hours might differ during New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day
Viva & Aviv The River
Photo: Viva & Aviv The River (Facebook)
Viva & Aviv The River waves you over to a corner of delight, where the finest drinks and the majesty of the Chao Phraya converge, making for a storybook ending to your year.
Service hours: Sunday to Thursday 12 PM – 10 PM / Friday and Saturday 12 PM – 11 PM
*Operating hours might differ during New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day
River Vibe Restaurant and Bar
Photo: River Vibe Restaurant and Bar (Facebook)
Embrace the heartwarming welcome of River Vibe Restaurant and Bar, a rooftop gem that lets you take a 360-degree view. It’s as if the fireworks show was curated solely for your arrival.
*Operating hours might differ during New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day
Sirocco Restaurant at Lebua at State Tower
Photo: Lebua
Ascend to the opulent Sirocco Restaurant at Lebua at State Tower, and you’ll find a celebration at its most refined, with a view to match the exquisite savor of the evening.
*Operating hours might differ during New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day
SEEN Restaurant & Bar
Photo: Avani+ Riverside Bangkok Hotel (Facebook)
And at SEEN Restaurant & Bar, Avani+ Riverside Bangkok Hotel, say cheers to the minute before and the years ahead, in the embrace of a riverside scene that takes your breath away with each burst of light above.
Service hours: 11 AM – 1 AM (Tuesday 11 AM – 12 AM)
*Operating hours might differ during New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day
With this riverside dining in Bangkok guide, you are set to embark on a New Year’s journey that not only dazzles the eyes but also warms the heart. Embrace the laughter, hold on to the moments, and find in these venues the ideal start to a fresh and hopeful year. Here’s to a night where every sparkle is a wish for a future bright and beautiful. Welcome to a New Year’s Eve not just experienced, but felt deeply, in the heart of Bangkok.
Seeking vibrant nightlife in Bangkok? Don’t miss our guide to the top bars in Bangkok for an unforgettable night.
Let us journey into the heart of Bangkok’s vibrant Sukhumvit area, where a beacon of commercial delight has recently made its entrance. We’re referring to none other than EMSPHERE, the latest addition to The Mall Group’s illustrious portfolio. Open to the public as of December 1 this year this gem of retail sophistication beckons enthusiasts from near and far to explore its expansive quarters, which span over 200,000 square meters.
EMSPHERE isn’t merely a shopping center; it is a sanctuary for those seeking a refreshing amalgam of stylish attire, sumptuous dining, and lounging spaces that are nothing short of photographic perfection. It stands proud as a new landmark in Bangkok, a destination that warmly invites one and all to immerse themselves in its abundant novelties.
Within this emporium, patrons have the luxury of savoring delectable cuisine at eateries that welcome guests until the late hours. In addition, IKEA presents its inaugural City Center Store in Bangkok, a concept meticulously tailored for city dwellers—its showrooms brimming with inspiration. Coffee aficionados and food lovers will rejoice at the multitude of cafes and culinary establishments, ensuring that every visit to EMSPHERE is an enchanting and satisfying experience.
The mall also houses the expansive UOB LIVE Hall, an arena designed to host an array of events and concerts, making it a pulsating hub for entertainment. As such, EMSPHERE beckons shoppers, social butterflies, and connoisseurs of established and emerging brands to convene and revel in its offerings.
Positioned conveniently adjacent to the BTS Phrom Phong, access is made effortless through Exit 6. I encourage you all to allow yourselves the pleasure of a leisurely promenade within EMSPHERE’s cool, air-conditioned embrace. It promises to be an experience that gratifies the senses and lifts the spirits. So, take my heartfelt words as an invitation to this treasure of Bangkok, and indeed, you shall find it to be as rewarding as it is enchanting.
Photo: Emsphere at EM District (Facebook)Photo: Emsphere at EM District (Facebook)Photo: Emsphere at EM District (Facebook)Photo: Emsphere at EM District (Facebook)Photo: Emsphere at EM District (Facebook)Photo: Emsphere at EM District (Facebook)
Apart from restaurant listings, the guide includes distinctive accommodation information worldwide, available at no cost via the Michelin Guide website and app. Reservations for these lodgings can also be made directly. Moreover, Michelin experts meticulously curate these accommodations based on uniqueness, service, and outstanding style. Explore our guide to top breakfast restaurants in Bangkok.
Get ready for an unforgettable rail adventure this winter, as the State Railway of Thailand teams up with the Lamphun Provincial Office to launch an inspiring series of train tours. With bookings kicking off today, you have the opportunity to join any of the 10 distinctive trips slated from December 2023 to March 2024, introducing you to the picturesque landscapes of Northern Thailand.
Leading this venture with passion and excellence, Ekkrasit Sriaranyakornpong, the dedicated head of the State Railway, echoes Minister Suraphong Piyachit’s vision for a revived and robust rail network that also stimulates local communities. In harmony with Lamphun Rajabhat University, this seasonal travel initiative beckons adventurous spirits to embrace the north’s natural and cultural splendors across five engaging routes.
These tours are your ticket to experience an array of Northern Thailand’s wonders during the cooler months. You’ll have the chance to revel in the beauty of provinces like Phrae and Nan, bask in the tranquility of Lamphun and Lampang, and dive into the cultural heart of Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. Immerse yourself in the tastes, sounds, and serene pace of life unique to the Lanna region, all while journeying through the north by train.
There are 10 available trips and their respective routes for your consideration:
The Alluring North
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Your passage weaves from Bangkok to Lamphun and Chiang Rai, with tickets priced at 8,590 baht.
The first trip departs from December 18 to 20, 2023, followed by another from February 19 to 21, 2024.
Winter Wonders
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Starting from Bangkok, you journey to Chiang Mai and Lamphun, also at a fare of 8,590 baht.
Trips are scheduled for December 22 to 24, 2023, and January 23 to 25, 2024.
Journey into Bliss
Embark on a spiritually uplifting route from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, onward to Lamphun, and Lampang. Tickets are available for 7,990 baht.
The first journey is set for January 5 to 7, 2024, and the second for February 28 to March 1, 2024.
Pilgrimage to Phra That Srikhun
Venture from Bangkok through Den Chai to Phrae and Nan, with the fare set at 9,590 baht.
Pilgrimages commence on January 12 to 15, 2024, and January 29 to February 1, 2024.
Lanna Colonial Experience
Roll along from Bangkok to Lamphun and Phrae, at a fair rate of 7,790 baht.
Embarkation dates are January 19 to 21, 2024, and March 4 to 6, 2024.
These travel arrangements come to fruition through a sterling academic collaboration, with the State Railway joining hands with the knowledgeable folks at Lamphun Rajabhat University as well as partners from both public and private sectors in the North. Our purpose is clear: ignite tourism, support local livelihoods, boost the local economy, and encourage Thai people to journey the landscape via train, in line with the state’s goals for energy conservation. You’re invited to book your adventure at any railway station or via the D-Ticket system, with availability limited to 38 spots for each Express Train CNR. Bookings are open up to 90 days before departure. Your reservation wraps in your accommodation, train and air-conditioned coach fares, other transport costs, entrance fees, and insurance, not to mention meals and drinks throughout the trip.
For more information, contact Customer Relations Center at 1690, where the team is on standby day and night.
Step into the embrace of Thailand’s majestic North on these tours, fostering memories to cherish and stories to recount long after the journey ends. Explore our guide to budget-friendly hotels at Chiang Mai
