Five Must-do Things for Your Trip to Thailand

A vacation to Thailand is a great way to relax and enjoy some of the finest beaches and natural wonders the world has to offer, while also learning about and experiencing a new culture that is made-up of great cuisine, beautiful art and religious monuments, as well as kind and generous people. While your time in Thailand is bound to present you with a great time no matter what you decide to do, here are five things that you won’t want to miss out on when planning your next trip.

1 Krabi

1. The beaches of Krabi
If you’ve seen a poster advertising the scenic spots of Thailand, odds are you were drawn towards the stunning beaches of Krabi, whose limestone cliffs and caves provide the ultimate seaside atmosphere for any beach goer. Whether you’re interested in water sports and rock climbing, or simply want to sip cocktails, swim, and take in the rays, the beaches of Tham Phra Nang, Railay, and Koh Hong are some of the area’s best.

2 Grand Palace

2. The Grand Palace
The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew are the main attraction that must not be missed while spending time in the vibrant capital city of Bangkok. The Grand Palace was finished in the late 19th-century and features an eclectic mix of elegant European architecture, and traditional Thai artworks and design. The attached grounds of Wat Phra Kaew is home to the Emerald Buddha, and the temple is considered to be the most important religious site for Thai Buddhists.

3 Erawan Falls

3. Erawan Falls and the Bridge on the River Kwai
Located just outside the sleeping jungle village of Kanchanaburi, Erawan Falls and the Death Railway (made famous by the film the Bridge on the River Kwai) provide visitors with a natural wonder and a historic site. The multi-tiered falls are some of the finest in the country and feature wonderful swimming holes, natural rock slides and crystal clear waters. The railway is an emotionally powerful site, where many forced labourers and POWs lost their lives working under the Japanese military in WWII.

4 Chiang Mai

4. Chiang Mai
The capital of the north of Thailand, Chiang Mai sits in the foothills and is a quaint and picturesque town that has ancient city walls and is surrounded by mountain jungle and rainforest. If anyone is looking to spend a little time outdoors, you’ll find great trekking, elephant sanctuaries, and rafting just a short drive from the center of town (which you can access through tours). Be sure to also try out some of the north’s famous street food.

5 Sukhothai

5. Sukhothai
One of the ancient capitals of the Kingdom of Siam, Sukhothai came of age in the 13th and 14th century, and today features a vast variety of relics that are the best examples of the era’s architecture and style. From massive sculptures of Buddha to ancient temples, a bike ride through these grounds will make you feel as if you’ve travelled back in time.
Wherever you decide to head to in Thailand, there are plenty of great sites to see and natural wonders to explore, all of which will add up to an extremely special experience.

Images by Nicolas Vollmer , Thomas Jaehnel , Ian Armstorng , xiquinhosilva and Brian Fagan used under the Creative Commons License.

Most Exotic Resorts in Central & South America

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Central and South America offer some of the most exotic resorts in the world, ideal for honeymoons, adventure, kicking back, and simply enjoying the good life. The following four hotels provide luxurious accommodations, soft tropical breezes, incredible panoramic views, and blissful sunsets just a glimpse of the hottest spots in South and Central America!Rio das Pedras Resort – Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

The recent re-launch of the exotic Rio das Pedras Resort in Brazil includes major renovations to the convention centre, primary restaurant, guest rooms, and elite adult pool. Situated in southern Rio, this exotic resort is ideal for families and adults. Club-Med Resort draws international guests to beautiful suites and colonial-furnished private bungalows. While taking a break from all the excitement and thrills that Rio offers, guests can step back, relax, and enjoy playing exclusive casino games on mobile devices in the privacy of these lavish rooms. French architect, Marc Hertrich, was the major force behind the freshly refurbished accommodations. He successfully combined traditional Brazilian, Portuguese, and Indian cultures with native vegetation and materials. Nestled within a dense rainforest the resort includes almost a thousand meters of secluded beach. Club-Med Rio das Pedras delivers the ultimate in luxury and amenities.

Tambo del Inka Resort & Spa – Urubamba, Peru

Complete with an opportunity to have your own private butler, this 100-plus room resort in Peru is part of the Libertador Chain, elaborately situated within Urubamba’s Sacred Valley. A picturesque river view allows guests to fully appreciate the surrounding landscape. Designed by Roberto Caparra, the interior is an inspired collection of ancient decorative treatments, carefully integrated with modern architecture. Lofty Inca-inspired fireplaces and fabric designs coordinate with local stonework and pottery. An on-site local railway-station transports guests to Machu Picchu. Enjoy the best of regional cuisine, a well-appointed spa, and personalized attention to detail.

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Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica, Peninsula Papagayo – Guanacaste, Costa Rica

Natural accents, vegetation, wood, and soothing neutral colours are combined to create guest rooms reminiscent of camping without the hardships of living out-of-doors. Wildlife and nature provide the ideal backdrop for families and honeymooners alike. Virtually anyone who savours rustic-style décor, coupled with the finest dining, amenities, and luxury will appreciate the Four Seasons Resort – Costa Rica. Complete with a golf course, the resort offers opportunities for hiking the volcanos, zip-lining and recreational water sports. Great service, the finest in local foods, and organic fruits and vegetables add to the already vibrant environment. It is not unusual to see monkeys swinging amongst the branches of nearby trees, and lizards basking in the Coast Rican sun.

Park Hyatt Mendoza Casino & Spa – Mendoza, Argentina

The Park Hyatt Mendoza Hotel is a five-star, magnificently renovated, 19th-century Spanish-style resort complete with an elaborate colonial façade. Situated in the heart of the Argentinian wine-country, the hotel is located within the city centre in close proximity to Plaza Independencia. Perfect for conventions, honeymooners, and tourists of all ages, the resort includes just under two-hundred rooms/suites with stunning views of the city and/or the Andes Mountains. Just fifteen minutes from an international airport, guest will appreciate ready access to ski resorts, wineries, vineyards, and an ample supply of rich amenities. Just a few of the most exotic resorts in Central and South America these four provide a choice selection of some of the finest accommodations available to the most discerning travelers!