Category: Asia

6 Best Tours to Book in Thailand

Published on by Ashley Bonner1 Comment

6 Best Tours to Book in Thailand

Thailand is a beautiful place to visit, with a fascinating history and culture. From Island hopping to exploring temples, you will never get bored. There is SO much to do, learn about, and experience. Read six reasons to visit Thailand for inspiration! Below are the 6 best tours to book in Thailand. 

Find a Hotel in Thailand!

#1: Chiang Mai Walking Tour-

Wat Phra Singh in Chiang Mai

The enjoyable and educational walking tour will take you to the amazing temples in Chiang Mai. You will see the largest stupa at Wat Chedi Luang, the intricate designs carved into the wood at Wat Phan Tao, and the mosaic features at Wat Phra Singh.

Tips:

  • Temples: Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phan Tao, Wat Phra Singh
  • Cost: The tour costs $13.50. Entry fees to the temples are not in the $13.50 fee
Book Your Chiang Mai Walking Tour on Get Your Guide

#2: Temple Tour in Chiang Rai, Thailand:

The Viator tour will pick you up from Chiang Mai and take you to famous temples and Buddhist sites on a day trip to Chiang Rai. Temples you will see include Wat Sang Kaew Photiyarn, Wat Rong Khun, Wat Huay Pla Kang, and the Blue Temple.

Wat Sang Kaew Photiyarn

A. Wat Sang Kaew Photiyarn- Temple Represents Paradise

B. Wat Rong Khun or The White Temple- Beautiful Temple

C. Wat Huay Pla Kang- Chinese Temple Style

SAMSUNG CAMERA PICTURES

D. Wat Rong Seur Ten or The Blue Temple- Most Famous in Chiang Rai

Book Your Viator Chiang Rai Temple Tour from Chiang Mai

#3: Elephant Sanctuary Tour Options: 

elephant calf

A: Elephant Rescue in Chiang Mai-

You will spend the day with Elephants that were rescued from poor conditions. You will observe the Elephants up close, bathe them, and see their day-to-day activities!

Book Your Viator Elephant Rescue Tour in Chiang Mai

B. Phuket Elephant Sanctuary: 

animal elephant tusk close up
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

You can watch elephants roam freely and feed them at the Phuket Elephant Sanctuary.

Book Your Viator Phucket Elephant Sanctuary Tour

#3: Phi Phi Islands Day Trip from Phuket-

This tour will take you on a speedboat to go snorkeling in the Phi Phi archipelago. You will snorkel over the coral reefs of Pileh Lagoon and Bamboo Island, see monkeys at Monkey Beach, and have an amazing buffet lunch.

Book Your Phi Phi Islands Snorkel and Speedboat Day Trip

#4: Canoeing Tour in Phuket

You will paddle around Phang Nga Bay in a canoe. Places you will admire include James Bond Island, Panak Island, and Hong Island. Lastly, you can even go for a swim at Lawa Island. Lunch and transportation to and from your hotel are all included in the tour! 

Book Your Viator Canoeing Tour in Phucket

#5: Chiang Mai Cooking Class: 

pad thai
Photo by Markus Winkler on Pexels.com

Learn how to make traditional Thai food at this incredible cooking class at a local organic farm in Chiang Mai. Meals you will prepare and enjoy are Tom Yum Koong, Pad Thai, Pad Kra Prao, and the ever-popular curry in the Lanna Pavillions.

Book Your Cooking Class on Get Your Guide

#6: Bangkok Temple Tour: 

Grand Palace Bangkok

The Temple tour will teach you about the history and culture of Bangkok. Highlights of the trip include visiting the Grand Palace, the Emerald Buddha Temple, Wat Pho, local markets, and Wat Arun. 

Book Your Bangkok Temple Tour on Get Your Guide

10-Day Thailand Itinerary:

Monday- Day 1: Fly to Bangkok

  • Stay in Bangkok in the Riverside Khao San area.

Tuesday- Day 2: Bangkok Temple Tour

  • Visit the classic Bangkok sites and go on a Temple Tour
  • Bangkok’s Sky Bars at Night

Wednesday- Day 3: Thai Massage

  • Thai massage while exploring Khao San Road

Thursday- Day 4: Travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai

Friday- Day 5: Chiang Mai

  • Visit an ethical Elephant Sanctuary, like Elephant Nature Park. 

Saturday- Day 6: Chiang Mai

  • Temples in Chiang Mai or Take a Day Trip to see the Temples in Chiang Rai
  • Thai cooking class

Sunday- Day 7: Travel from Chiang Mai to Phuket

  • Relax at Patong Beach

Monday- Day 8: Explore Phucket

  • Explore Phuket

Tuesday- Day 9: Phi Phi Islands

  • Take a day trip to the Phi Phi Islands

Wednesday- Day 10: Fly Home from Phucket

We shared a Thailand Itinerary and the 6 best tours to book in Thailand. Have you ever been to Thailand? Please comment below about your experience.

List of Countries in Asia in Alphabetical Order

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List of Countries in Asia in Alphabetical Order

Asia has friendly people, bustling cities, and delicious Asian Cuisine. Below is a list of countries in Asia in alphabetical order. In Asia, there are 48 Countries and two are also in Europe.

Facts About Asia:

  • Asia has 11 time zones!
  • Please read the 10 BEST DESTINATIONS TO VISIT IN ASIA
  • The main religions are Muslims (21.9%) and Hinduists (21.5%)
  • NO ONE can travel to North Korea and the people are STARVING in North Korea

List of Countries in Asia

Afghanistan

Armenia

Azerbaijan

Bahrain

Bangladesh

Bhutan

Brunei

Burma

Cambodia

China

brown concrete wall surrounded by trees
Photo by Tom Fisk on Pexels.com

Cyprus

Georgia

India

two women wearing traditional dress carrying basins
Photo by Jose Aragones on Pexels.com

Indonesia

asphalt road near black concrete arch gate beside trees
Photo by Guillaume Meurice on Pexels.com

Iran

Iraq

Israel

white concrete building
Photo by Haley Black on Pexels.com

Japan

close up photography of cherry blossom tree
Photo by Bagus Pangestu on Pexels.com

Jordan

Kazakhstan

Kuwait

Kyrgyzstan

Laos

Lebanon

Malaysia

colorful stairs of batu caves
Photo by Akhir Roslan on Pexels.com

Maldives

aerial photography of bungalows
Photo by Asad Photo Maldives on Pexels.com

Mongolia

Myanmar

Nepal

North Korea

Oman

Pakistan

Palestine

Philippines

white and green sail boat photography
Photo by Christian Paul Del Rosario on Pexels.com

Qatar

Russia

Saudi Arabia

Singapore

green leafed plants inside greenhouse
Photo by Palu Malerba on Pexels.com

South Korea

Sri Lanka

Syria

Taiwan

Tajikistan

Thailand

wat rong khun building in thailand
Photo by Andrew Jones on Pexels.com

Timor-Leste

Turkey

photo of hot air balloons on flight
Photo by Adil on Pexels.com

Turkmenistan

United Arab Emirates (UAE)

Uzbekistan

Vietnam

woman wearing a hat
Photo by Vo Thuy Tien on Pexels.com

Yemen

10 Destinations in Asia to Add to Your Bucket List

Published on by Ashley Bonner2 Comments

10 Destinations in Asia to Add to Your Bucket List


Asia is the world’s largest continent, home to various landscapes to explore, from tropical islands in the Philippines or Thailand to big, bustling cities in China or Singapore. There are festivals to attend, local markets to shop at, temples and churches to see, and cultures to learn about. You will also find monkeys to hang out with, delicious authentic food to try, and incredible locals to meet. There are SOOOO many places to visit in Asia that it was hard to narrow down this list. Below are 10 destinations in Asia to add to your bucket list.

agriculture asia countryside cropland
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

#1: Prambanan Temples, Yogyakarta-

Can you believe the Prambanan Temples exist? WOW! The ruins are stunning. The Hindu architecture built in the 9th century collapsed due to an earthquake. The beautiful Hindu temples in Indonesia should be at the TOP of your bucket list. After exploring the temples, you can catch a Ramayana Ballet performance in the park.

-Prambanon Temple Tickets!

#2: Hong Kong-

Hong Kong has delicious food, spectacular skylines, hiking trails, and hidden beaches. There are so many things to do in Hong Kong, but we will narrow down the list to the top 6 activities!

  • Gardens- Visit different parks, including Nan Lian Garden, Hong Kong Park, and Tsing Yi Park.
  • Views- Witness amazing views at Victoria Peak, Peak Tram, and Dragons Back.
  • Beaches- Swim at beaches, including Clearwater Bay Peninsula, Middle Bay, Shek O Beach, and Turtle Cove Beach. 
  • Culture- Visit beautiful and intricate Temples, Monasteries, and Cathedrals. A few of the thousand to see are the Man Mo Temple, Hong Kong China Temple, Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery, Western Monastery, and St. John’s Cathedral.
  • Landmarks- Admire the INCREDIBLE landmarks, including the Big Buddha and Tang Chung Ling Ancestral Hall. 
  • Museums- Go to different Museums, like the Hong Kong Museum of History, Hong Kong Science Museum, and Hong Kong Heritage Museum. 

#3: Philippines-

There are so many different islands in the Philippines to explore.

gray and green turtle swimming on water
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com
  • Apo Island- Apo Island is also known as Turtle Island because you will see giant sea turtles constantly surfacing for air. I highly recommend jumping off the boat to swim with them.
a koala perched on tree branch in close up photography
By Nalz on Pexels.com
  • Bohol Island- Visit the infamous Chocolate Hills and explore the Tarsier sanctuary to observe their cute primates at Bohol Island. The tarsier is the second smallest primate on earth!
beach in palawan philippines
Cedrick Samonte on Pexels.com
white boats on sea near the gray rock formation
Photo by Romel Duarte on Pexels.com
  • Palawan- Visit the small and big lagoon in El Nido, go scuba diving or snorkeling, and visit the Puerto Princesa Underground River in Palawan for a perfect getaway!
daku island siargao philippines
Photo by Mary Hipayo on Pexels.com
  • Borocay– Watch the sunset and sunrise at the beautiful white sand beaches, experience the lively nightlife and events, and go cliff diving at Borocay.
  • Cebu- The best things to do in Cebu are to swim with Whale Sharks at Oslob Beach and to complete Kawasan Canyoneering, a hike down a canyon. Lastly, you can go parasailing, jet skiing, and banana boating.

4-South Korea-

gazebo near trees during day
Markus Winkler on Pexels.com

South Korea is rich in history and culture. You will find amazing Buddhist temples and delicious cuisine!

  • Seoul- Seoul is the capital of South Korea. You have to visit the Traditional Gyeongbukgung Palace, stroll along Bukchon Hanok Village, and admire the city view from Seoul Tower. Did I forget to mention? You MUST take a tour around Changdeokgung palace and Deoksugung Palace. Do you want to relax on your trip? GO TO A KOREAN SPA!
  • Gynegou– Gynegou is a coastal city in South Korea, home to parks, archeological sites, and more. It would make for a perfect weekend trip from Seoul to South Korea. Don’t forget to admire the incredible sunset from the beautiful red Woljeonggyo Bridge that lights up gold at night. You have to explore the beautiful temples in Gynegou, including the Golgulsa Temple.

#5: Thailand-

the big buddha under blue sky
Photo by Phakchira Sukcharearn on Pexels.com

Thailand is one of the world’s favorite travel destinations, as it has a tropical climate. All year round is a pleasant time to visit. Thailand is a cheap place to travel to, as for only $1.00 you can have delicious Pad Thai, and for $5.00 you can sleep in a hostel. Aside from the perfect climate, the nature surrounding the area is beautiful. You’ll find dense jungles, rice fields, crystal-clear beaches, whirling rivers, and incredible wildlife. 

  •  Ayutthaya- Ayutthaya is a famous city mainly because the country is home to ruins that are a part of the Ayutthaya Historical Park. This archeological site holds palaces, temples, and many statues.
  • Bangkok- Bangkok is a large modern city with ancient temples and is famous for hospitality, as the capital is bustling with tourists. You will find golden temples, canals, shops, restaurants, and a great nightlife scene.
black elephant near trees
Photo by Venkat Ragavan on Pexels.com
  • Chiang Mai- Chiang Mai is in the mountains of Northern Thailand, where you can explore Buddhist temples and ruins. The best things to do are to visit Doi Suthep, which is a famous attraction, explore Inthanon National Park, home to the highest mountain in Thailand, bathe an elephant at an Elephant Sanctuary, shop at the Warorot Market, and go on a boat ride along Mae Ping River. 
photo of beach under blue sky scenery
Photo by Asad Photo on Pexels.com
  • Ko Lipe- You will find palm trees, turquoise beaches, and white sand in Ko Lipe, making it the perfect place to spend any holiday or vacation.

#6: Japan-

close up of red wooden temple
Photo by Charles Postiaux on Pexels.com

Japan is home to temples, shrines, natural landscapes, gardens, and delicious food. 

red and brown castle landscape photography
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com
  • Kyoto– Kyoto is Japan’s most beautiful city, with over 1,000 Buddhist temples. Kyoto is the historical and cultural heart of Japan. The best thing to do is to visit Arashiyama, a 30-minute trip from the center of Kyoto. Go on the trip of a lifetime entitled the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Walking Tour. The other best thing to do is to visit the Fushimi-Inari Taisha Shrine. The best way to get around Japan is by purchasing a Japan Rail Pass. The pass can get you from Tokyo to Kyoto and save you money. For example, you can buy a 7-day Japan Rail Pass to take you to Tokyo, Kanazawa, and Kyoto.
  • Tokyo -Tokyo is another fascinating place to see in Japan. Don’t forget to visit the Meiji Shrine, Tokyo National Museum, Sensoji Temple, Imperial Palace, and the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden. 

#7: China-

brown concrete wall surrounded by trees
Photo by Tom Fisk on Pexels.com

China is the most populous country in the world, home to almost one-fifth of the world’s population at 1.3 billion people. The Chinese cultural values include harmony, benevolence, righteousness, honesty, and loyalty. There is so much to explore, from incredible architecture to ancient traditions.

  • Great Wall- The Great Wall of China is one of the most impressive handmade structures ever built. The wall spans over 20,000 km and will leave you in awe. Did you know? If you were to walk the entire path, it would take you 18 months. Of course, you will find shorter routes and trails perfect for a one-time visit. The most famous hiking section is about 1 to 3 hours from Beijing. The views throughout the hike are stunning!
snow capped mountain peak
Photo by Dick Hoskins on Pexels.com
  • Mount Everest- Mount Everest is earth’s highest mountain at 29,000ft above sea level between Nepal and Tibet. It is a VERY dangerous trek, so BE CAREFUL if you ever decide to take on the adventure! 
  • Huanglong- You will find beautiful limestone formations and hot springs to dip into at Huanglong in China !!! You HAVE to visit and add this destination to your ASIA bucket list. The light blue river has many waterfalls to admire! 

#8: Singapore-

architecture building illuminated night
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

Singapore is a city with 64 ISLANDS! WOW! The waterfalls in Singapore are man-made and gorgeous! The best gardens and parks to relax at are Singapore Botanic Gardens, East Coast Park, and the Gardens by the Bay. The best museum to see is the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum! Don’t forget to go on a River Cruise! 

#9: Kandy, Sri Lanka-

elephant carries grass
Photo by kavindra yasas on Pexels.com

Kandy is a major city in Sri Lanka situated near tropical tea plantations. Don’t forget to relax near Kandy Lake, visit the Degal Doruwa Raja Maha Vihara cave temple and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic!

#10: Vietnam- 

blue and white boat on body of water
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

Vietnam has traditional delicious food and a heroic history. The architecture and archaeology are incredible. Do not forget to catch a performance of Vietnamese Water Puppets and go to the temple in Hoan Kiem Lake. Ha Long Bay makes an excellent backdrop if you would like to go on a dragon boat cruise!

We listed 10 destinations in Asia to add to your bucket list. Have you ever been to Asia? Please comment below about your experience!! 

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6 Reasons to Visit Thailand

Top 5 Places to Visit in Asia

Published on by Ashley Bonner1 Comment

Top 5 Places to Visit in Asia

Asia is an incredible place to visit. Every country in Asia has a unique culture to learn about and kind locals to meet! Below are the top 5 places to visit in ASIA! 

My Experience:

Traveling to Asia is a long, more expensive flight from New York, but worth every second and penny.

Israel:

Negev Desert in Israel

I traveled to Israel many times because my mother is from there. I loved exploring the Negev Desert, swimming in the dead sea, and visiting Old Jaffa in Tel Aviv. The best hike is at Ein Avdat National Park in the desert.

Philippines:

Swimming with Whale Sharks in Cebu, Philippines

I have also been to the Philippines, which sparked my desire to TRAVEL the world. I loved island hopping and swimming with Whale Sharks!

Bali:

Mount Batur in Bali

I also traveled to Bali with my best friend Ariana in 2019! My favorite parts of traveling to Bali were relaxing at our infinite pool, swimming at the beaches, watching the sunrise at Mount Batur, and exploring the temples made out of volcanic rock.

1: Cebu, Philippines

waterfalls
Kawasan Falls in the Philippines

The Philippines has incredible waterfalls and unbelievable landscapes. Did you know? You can go swimming with whale sharks in Cebu! Whale Sharks are the largest fish in the sea, as they reach lengths of 40 feet and weigh up to 60 tons. They are harmless creatures, as they feed on squid or fish and would not harm people. You can even complete the infamous trek called CANYONEERING in Cebu. Canyoneering is a popular outdoor thirty-minute adventure. Tourists travel by climbing, jumping, and swimming down creeks and streams within the canyon. The turquoise-colored streams lead to Kawasan Falls, as shown in the photo above.

Whale Sharks and Canyoneering Tour

#2: Bali, Indonesia

canoe on body of water with pagoda background
Photo by Oleksandr Pidvalnyi on Pexels.com

Bali has beaches, temples, volcanos, waterfalls, and rice terraces to explore. The best things to do are to watch the sunrise at the top of Mount Batur, an active volcano, swim at Padang Padang Beach in Uluwatu, and visit the Tegallalang rice terraces. Don’t forget to try the LOCAL street food, including Balinese coffee. You will want to add the sacred monkey forest sanctuary and a temple tour to your itinerary. Temples are made out of volcanic rock. It will be an experience that you will remember forever. 

Mount Batur Sunrise Hike Tour
Monkey Sanctuary, Rice Terrace, and Waterfall Tour
Temple Tour

#3: Chiang Mai, Thailand

wat phra that doi suthep temple in thailand
Photo by Alberto Capparelli on Pexels.com

Chiang Mai is in Northern Thailand, where you can explore temples and ruins. The best things to do are to visit Doi Suthep, which is a famous attraction, explore Inthanon National Park, home to the highest mountain in Thailand, bathe an elephant at an Elephant Sanctuary, shop at the Warorot Market, and go on a boat ride along Mae Ping River. 

Chiang Mai Temple Tour

#4: Kyoto, Japan

orange temple
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

Japan is home to temples, shrines, natural landscapes, gardens, and delicious food to try. Kyoto is Japan’s most beautiful city, with over 1,000 Buddhist temples. Kyoto is the historical and cultural heart of Japan. The best thing to do is to visit Arashiyama, a 30-minute trip from the center of Kyoto. Go on the trip of a lifetime entitled the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Walking Tour. The other best thing to do is to visit Fushimi-Inari Taisha Shrine. The best way to get around Japan is by purchasing a Japan Rail Pass. The pass can get you from Tokyo to Kyoto and save you money. For example, you can buy a 7-day Japan Rail Pass to take you to Tokyo, Kanazawa, and Kyoto. 

Arishiyama Bamboo Grove Walking Tour

#5: Siem Reap, Cambodia

the bayon temple at the angkor wat complex at siem reap cambodia
Photo by Serg Alesenko on Pexels.com

Angkor Wat temple complex is a MUST-SEE if you are ever in Cambodia. The Khmer people have a rich history and culture. You can learn more about the locals while exploring the ancient ruins on a tour! 

Angkor Wat Temple Tour

Bonus: Tel Aviv, Israel

aerial photo of road near buildings and beach
Photo by Naya Shaw on Pexels.com

I am adding Israel to this list since I spoke about it in my intro! Tel Aviv is the cultural capital of Israel and is home to beaches and the Old City of Jaffa. The Tayelet, a pedestrian-only street, runs between the beach and Jaffa, which has plenty of cafes and restaurants. Strolling along the Old City of Jaffa is a must-see activity if you are ever in Israel. You will find preserved acropolis remains, stone architecture, a flea market, artisan stores, and an old port. The old-fashioned charm is surreal.

We listed the top 5 places to visit in Asia! Have you ever been to Asia? Please comment below about your experience.

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Similar Post: Top 5 Places to Visit in Israel

Top 8 Travel Resources

Published on by Ashley Bonner9 Comments

Top 8 Travel Resources


We list the best resources to help you find the cheapest flight, purchase train tickets, book excursions, and select where to stay. We share how to get volunteer work, apply for your passport, and find Visa information. These resources will make traveling easier. They help me when traveling somewhere for the first time and somewhere I have been previously! Below are the top 8 travel resources!

Download the Free Travel Planner

We send a travel planner that you can print out!

1: Passport

anonymous tourists showing us passports on street on sunny day
Photo by Spencer Davis on Pexels.com

We all know that you need a PASSPORT to travel internationally. You have to renew your passport nine months before it expires. Always check the expiration date before booking an international flight.

Fill out a Passport Application form at www.usa.gov/passport. The application fee for a Passport Book is $130.00 and for a Passport Card is $30.00, but who doesn’t love PASSPORT STAMPS? Haha, just kidding, but in all honesty, if you want to save $100.00, get the card. It costs the same to apply for your first time or renew it.

In the application, you have to download a passport picture. The best spot to get your passport photo taken is at your local CVS. They print your photos instantly!

2: Book Your Flights

You might be wondering how to get the best price for your flight and when is the best day to book your flight. You can compare flights and dates on the App Hopper! Hopper compares prices from all airlines and finds you the best deal. I always notice it is cheaper to travel on a weekday, like a Monday or Tuesday. Another way to compare flights is at CheapOair. You can book flights, hotels, and cars at CheapOair!

3: Excursions

The best resources to book your excursions are TripAdvisor, Get Your Guide, and Viator. They offer tours ALL over the world. Tours are a great idea because they provide transportation, multiple things to do in one day, and the guides offer valuable insight!

4: Visa

person pointing a location on the map
Photo by Element5 Digital on Pexels.com

Project Visa lists Visa requirements for all countries.

5: Where to Stay

You can stay anywhere, from hotels and boutique apartments to hostels and guesthouses. The list of places to stay is endless. We recommend using the VRBO for apartments, Booking.com for hotels, or Hostel World for hostels. Visit each site according to what kind of accommodation you are looking for. Be sure to read reviews to help you decide where to stay!

Find a Hotel:

Find a Hostel:

6: Volunteer Work

yellow flower with green leaves
Photo by Lara Jameson on Pexels.com

Help Exchange is volunteer work in exchange for free food and accommodation! It is FREE to join!

7: Trains

photo of railway on mountain near houses
Photo by SenuScape on Pexels.com

Rail Europe will help you with booking train tickets and travel within Europe. You can see 33 countries with one pass! Trainline is the ultimate train resource. You can get the best available prices, times, and train/bus tickets for your journey in 45 countries!

8: Travel Insurance

AirHelp+ 300X50

The best resources to have insurance while you are on the road are Safety Wing and Covermore. Safety Wing focuses on medical travel insurance. Covermore includes coverage for personal items, electrical goods, and more. Air Help offers compensation on your flight whether it was delayed or canceled.

Which resource that we listed have you used before? Did this list help at all? Please let us know in the comment section down below!

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6 Reasons to Visit Thailand

Published on by Ashley Bonner7 Comments
6 Reasons to Visit Thailand

Thailand has stunning tropical beaches to relax at, islands to explore, and historical sites to see. Thailand is one of the world’s favorite travel destinations, as it has a tropical climate. All year round is a pleasant time to visit. Thailand is a cheap place to travel to, as for only $1.00 you can have delicious Pad Thai, and for $5.00 you can sleep in a hostel. Aside from the perfect climate, the nature surrounding the area is beautiful. You’ll find dense jungles, rice fields, crystal clear beaches, whirling rivers, and incredible wildlife. Without further ado, let’s dive into the 6 reasons to visit Thailand!

Find a Hotel in Thailand:

#1: Nature

A. Beaches-

6 Reasons to Visit Thailand
Koh Lanta

The beautiful beaches are one of many reasons to visit Thailand. The beaches of Thailand are blissful, as the beaches have bright white sand, palm trees, and a warm sea to swim in. If you go scuba diving or snorkeling, you will see tropical brightly colored fish and incredible wildlife. The best beaches to visit in Thailand are Koh Lanta, Koh Chang, and Railay.

B. Jungles-

Elephants in Thailand

Jungle trekking, rafting, and zip lining are popular activities in Thailand. For the best jungle trekking experience, visit Northern Thailand around the Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai areas or Southern Thailand at Khao Sok National Park.

C. Rice Fields-

6 Reasons to Visit Thailand
Ban Pong Pian

The best place to visit a rice field in Thailand is Ban Pa Pong Pian located in the mountains on the western side of Doi Inthanon national park. Rice fields are a beautiful green color during the rainy season. 

day tour to rice fields

D. Rivers-

Chao Phraya

Chao Phraya, Mae Klong, and Mekong are three of the best rivers to visit in Thailand. The nature alone is one of the best reasons to visit Thailand!

#2: Things to Do

A. Island Hopping

6 Reasons to Visit Thailand
Kao Tao

Island hopping is the #1 activity that I recommend everyone should do in Thailand. Ferries are located between Ko Samui, Ko Phangan, and Koh Tao, or Koh Jum, Koh Lipe, and Koh Phayam.

B. Swim at a Waterfall at Erawan National Park-

Erawan National Park

This national park is home to a waterfall that is seven tiers at 1,500 meters long. The park also has rock paintings and limestone caves to explore. The waterfalls are a great reason to visit Thailand.

erawan national park trip

C. Witness Wildlife at Kaeng Krachan National Park-

Kaeng Krachan National Park is a beautiful park covered by the rainforest. The national park has wildlife, waterfalls, and caves to visit. There are tigers, leopards, deer, Malayan tapir, gibbons, elephants, langurs, numerous reptile species, and 460 bird species everywhere.

D. Temples

temples
Wat Phra Singh

There are so many temples to visit in Thailand. There are 300 temples alone in Chiang Mai. The best three to explore in Chiang Mai are Wat Chiang Man, Wat Chedi Luang, and Wat Phra Singh. Wat Phra is the most beautiful, as the temple is built in the Lanna style of temple architecture and features gold and maroon wing-shaped roofs.

E. Thai Massage

There is nothing like a Thai Massage, as you will feel refreshed, reinvigorated, and ready to see more of what Thailand has to see afterward. You will find massage parlors on every corner in Thailand. There are very few places in the world where you can get an hour-long massage for just $5.00!

#3: Thai Food

thai food

Thailand has the most delicious food, as you will find everything from exotic fruit to curries, sticky rice, and meat right off the barbecue. Everything is tasty and cheap, and you can even have a meal on the street for one dollar. Bangkok is Asia’s food capital and is best known for its street food. If you want to experience authentic Thai life, then you need to visit Pattaya Floating Market. The market consists of four sections that sell everything from flowers to herbs and fruits.

#4: Ancient Culture

6 Reasons to Visit Thailand

Did you know? 95% of the population in Thailand practice Buddhism. The people are kindhearted, warm, and hospitable. Buddhism is a way of life in Thailand. Thailand has Buddhist temples on every street corner, and you will see monks taking the buses and living their lives.

#5: The Wildlife

Elephants are Thailand’s national symbol. You are almost guaranteed to see an image of an Elephant everywhere you go, whether you witness one at a royal palace, temple, or even on souvenir cushion covers. Visitors come to Thailand to interact with Elephants. You can prepare food or even help bathe the gentile giants at elephant sanctuaries. Elephant Nature Park has rescued dozens of elephants since it launched in 1990.

elephant nature park tour

#6: Places to Visit

A. Bangkok–

Bangkok is a large modern city with ancient temples and is famous for hospitality, as the capital is bustling with tourists. You will find golden temples, canals, shops, restaurants, and a great nightlife scene.

B. Phuket-

6 Reasons to Visit Thailand
Phuket

This island is on the top of the list of places to visit in Thailand merely because it is stunning. Phuket is home to golden beaches and adventurous watersports to try.

C. Phi Phi Islands–

6 Reasons to Visit Thailand

Phi Phi Islands are home to six islands full of the best panoramic views. Don’t forget to visit the Viking Cave while you are there!

D. Chiang Mai-

Chiang Mai is the best city to visit in Thailand, as it is in the mountains. There are a ton of Buddhist temples to explore.

E. Ayutthaya-

Ayutthaya is a famous city mainly because the country is home to ruins that are a part of the Ayutthaya Historical Park. This archeological site holds palaces, temples, and many statues.

F. Krabi-

This coastal town offers spectacular beaches, islands, and unique lime formations.

G. Ko Samui-

Ko Samui is home to picture-perfect beaches, mountainous rainforests, and jaw-dropping scenery. Visit Koh Tao to go scuba diving!

H. Chiang Rai-

Chiang Saen, found in the Chiang Rai province, is a river town on Thailand’s border and is a must-see place to add to your Thailand Bucket List!

We shared 6 reasons to visit Thailand. Have you ever been to Thailand? Please comment below about your experience!!

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21 Things to Do in Malaysia

Published on by Ashley Bonner1 Comment
21 Things to Do in Malaysia

21 Things to Do in Malaysia

Malaysia is a Southeast Asian Country that has 13 states. Malaysia has incredible wildlife to see, beautiful scenery to visit, a fascinating culture to learn about, and cultural festivals to attend. Without further ado, we will dive deeper into fun facts and 21 things to do in Malaysia!

Fun Facts:

  • Malaysia has two main landmasses, Peninsular Malaysia and Malaysian Borneo, separated by the South China Sea.
  • The capital is Kuala Lumpur
  • Malaysia’s official religion is Islam. 61% practice Islam
  • Malaysia is the product of three different cultures: Indian, Malay, and Chinese

Things to Do:

1- Walk Along the Rainbow Stairs at the Batu Caves

21 Things to Do in Malaysia
Entrance to the Batu Caves

The Batu Caves temple has three main caves featuring statues and paintings. The art portrays the story of how Lord Murugan defeated the demon Soorapadman. There are rainbow staircases that lead to the caves.

2- Visit the Famous Landmarks in Penang

21 Things to Do in Malaysia
Penang

Penang is a city with 18th and 19th-century architecture that is well-preserved. Landmarks in the city to visit are Kek Lok Si Temple, Kapitan Keling Mosque, and Fort Cornwallis. Visit the Penang Bridge, the 3rd longest bridge in Asia. Climbing Penang hill is a top tourist attraction. The view at Penang Hill is well worth the hike.

3- Explore the Hills at Cameron Highlands

The Cameron Highlands is a hill discovered in the 19th century and is famous for its traditional English cream teas and strawberries. 

4- See the Reclining Buddha at Wat Chaiyamangalaram

The design and architecture of this temple in Georgetown are beautiful. The gold temple is also known as sleeping buddha by the locals. Georgetown is an Island of Penang with creative street art.

5- Explore Dharmikarama Burmese Temple

The oldest Buddhist temple in the Burmese style was created in 1803 and is in Penang.

6- View Mount Kinabalu from a Distance

The highest mountain is Mount Kinabalu. The hike is intense and not recommended for beginners. There is a risk of altitude sickness. However, we do recommend seeing the mountain from a distance.

7- Explore the Largest Buddha Temple Called Kek Lok Si Temple

Kek Lok Si Temple is the largest Buddha Temple in Penang. The temple was built over a period of time from 1890 to 1930.

8- Visit the Capital City called Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur, the capital city, is home to iconic landmarks like the Petronas Towers.

9- Go on the Skywalk at the Petronas Towers

The Petronas twin towers are the tallest in the world and feature Islamic art representing the Muslim majority in Malaysia. There is a skywalk that connects the Petronas Towers over a bridge. 

10- Relax at The Banjaran Hot Springs

21 Things to Do in Malaysia
Banjaran Hot Springs

 The Banjaran Hot Springs has geothermal hot springs, thermal steam caves, heated swimming pools, fish foot spas, and meditation caves.

11- Explore Ipoh City

Ipoh is the Capital city of the state of Perak.

12- See the Secret Tunnels at Kellie’s Castle

Kellie’s Castle is a building filled with mysteries. The Castle has secret tunnels, hidden rooms, and a romantic storyline.

13- Watch a Horse Race at Perak Turf Club

The Perak Turf Club is a great spot to watch a horse race.

14- Swim in the Beaches at Langkawi Island

Go to the beach and relax in the warm sand at Langkawi Island, an archipelago of over a hundred islands.

15- Go Island Hopping at the Perhentian Islands

Perhentian Islands are close to the coast of Thailand. The best way to get to the Islands is by water taxi or ferry. The best activities to enjoy are island hopping, scuba diving, and snorkeling.

16- Visit Tunka Abdul Rahman National Park

Tunka Abdul Rahman National Park has five islands off the coast of Kota Kinabalu in Sabah, East Malaysia. The park is accessible by ferry. Gaya Island is a busier and more crowded island in comparison to Sulug Island. 

17- See Taman Negara National Park

Taman Negara National Park has the longest rope walkway in the world. The park has incredible hiking trails and wildlife. The people who live in the area are the first inhabitants of Malaysia and are known as the Orang Asli.

18- See Orangutans at the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre

The rehabilitation center opened in 1960 to rescue orangutans. The facility provides healthcare and training to help them reintegrate and survive in the wild.

19- Book Your Tickets and See the Kuching Cat Museum

Kuching Cat Museum is the world’s first cat museum featuring art exhibits, feline souvenirs, and the history of cats. If you love cats, then a visit to the Kuching Cat Museum is for you.

20- Admire the Kuching Waterfront

Kuching Waterfront

Kuching, a city alongside the Sarawak River, is home to cat statues and colonial architecture.

21- Hike at the Taman Negara Rainforest

Taman Negara is the world’s oldest tropical rainforest!

Have you ever been to Malaysia? We list 21 things to do in Malaysia. We would love to hear about your experience!

Similar Post: 13 Best Things to Do in Bali, Indonesia

25 Things to Do in China

Published on by Ashley Bonner2 Comments
25 Things to Do in China
Photo by Tom Fisk on Pexels.co

China is the most populous country in the world as it is home to almost one-fifth of the world population at 1.3 billion people. The Chinese cultural values include harmony, benevolence, righteousness, honesty, and loyalty. There is so much to explore, from incredible architecture to ancient traditions. Below are 25 things to do in China!

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Fun Facts:

  • The highest mountain on the border with China is Mount Everest.
  • The longest river in China is the Yangtze River.
  • Beijing is its capital
  • Shanghai is the largest city
  • Chinese is the official language
  • China is a one-party communist state

Things to do:

1- The Great Wall of China

The Great Wall of China is one of the most impressive handmade structures ever built. The wall spans over 20,000 km and will leave you in awe. Did you know? If you were to walk the entire path, it would take you 18 months. Of course, you will find shorter routes and trails perfect for a one-time visit. The most famous hiking section is about 1 to 3 hours from Beijing. Views throughout the entire hike are stunning and this is for sure worthy of a bucket list item.

2- Walk of Faith at the Tianmen Mountain

25 Things to Do in China

The glass walkway called the Walk of Faith sits at 1,430 meters above sea level and is 61 meters long at the top of Zhangjiajie Tianmen Mountain.

3- Forbidden City

Visit the forbidden city or Tiananmen Square. Tiananmen Square can hold up to a million people at once, where they have a daily flag-raising ceremony every morning. The square is a national symbol dedicated to the martyrs who revolted against the country’s oppressors.

4- Heaven’s Gate

25 Things to Do in China

Did you know? There are 999 steps that lead to Heaven’s Gate, which is an arch that is 130 meters tall at Zhangjiajie Tianmen Mountain.

5- Terracotta Army

The Terracotta Army is in Xi’an, a fascinating city in China. This site seriously lets history come to life as archeologists have restored infamous statues. China’s first emperor created The Terracotta Army to serve as his guardian in his afterlife. The archeological site was discovered 50 years ago.

6- Visit Shanghai at the Bund

Most of Shanghai has modern skyscrapers; however, you need to see the Bund because this area is contrived of European Gothic, Renaissance, and Romanesque-styled buildings. If you love architecture, then be sure to visit the Bund!

7- Zhangjiajie National Park

25 Things to Do in China

Zhangjiajie National Park is the inspiration for Avatar. The scenic peaks are beautiful and mesmerizing. 

8- Observe Pandas at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding

The Giant Panda is super cute and is native to southwest china specifically. There is a breeding center in Chengdu, where you can see pandas being cared for before being released into the wild. The breeding center is necessary for survival because the sleepy creatures who consume bamboo are increasingly in danger.

9- Kung Fu Performance at the Shaolin Temple

Shaolin temple is the birthplace of Shaolin kung fu and the Zen Buddhism movement. The temple lies at the foot of the Song Shan Mountain range.

10- Leshan Giant Buddha in Sichuan

Leshan Giant Buddha is the tallest stone Buddha in the world. It was built to calm waters that were common in the area and is about 71 meters high on the Leshan River. You can visit the statue on a boat or foot.

11- Silk Route

The Silk Route is an international trade route transporting luxury goods like silver and silk. It was the only route where the transportation of valuable goods was allowed until the middle of the 15th century.

12- Lhasa

Lhasa is a spiritual city and the capital of Tibet. You will find three great monasteries.

13- Mount Kailash

Mount Kailash is a stunning snowcapped mountain surrounded by two lakes.

14- Ice Sculptures at the Harbin Ice and Snow Festival

Witness structures made with snow and ice at the largest ice sculpture festival in the world. The city transformed into a winter wonderland.

15- Yangtze River Cruise

The Yangtze is the longest river in China, passing three major cities like Shanghai. Cruises range from $500 to $3,000, depending on the itinerary and how long you would like to go.

16- Li River

25 Things to Do in China

Taking a bamboo raft down the Li River should be on your China bucket list! The beautiful river is surrounded by incredible rock formations and rice paddies.

17- Yellow Mountain (Huangshan)

The Yellow Mountain is one of China’s most beautiful destinations. The nearby village, known as Hongcun, will take you a step back in time. On the mountain, you will find twisted pine trees and stone spires.

18- Summer Palace

The Summer Palace in Beijing is home to lakes, mountains, and palaces. It was an imperial garden during the Qing Dynasty. The Palace’s intricate detail alone makes it worth a visit.

19- West Lake, Hangzhou

This freshwater lake has temples and gardens to explore near it, as well as natural and artificial islands within it. The islands formed five separate lakes.

20- Buddhist Art in the Magao Caves in Gansu

The Magao Caves are home to artwork that dates back more than 1,000 years. There are 750+ caves to explore, where you will see statues to intricate murals all celebrating the Buddhist religion.

21- Admire the Lights and Limestone at the Reed Flute Cave in Guilin, Guangxi

The cave has rock formations, including both stalactites and stalagmites. Multi-colored lighting artificially illuminates the caves.

22- Visit the Xian City Wall

The Xian City Wall is well-preserved and was built under the rule of a Chinese Emperors’ military defense system.

23- Gardens of Suzhou

Gardens to visit in Suzhou are Humble Administrator’s Garden, Lion Grove Garden, Canglang Pavilion, Lingering Garden, and Master of the Nets Garden. Each classical garden has a ton of florals and is unique.

24- Jiuzhaigou

Jiuzhaigou is a lake surrounded by mountains and has waterfalls. The crystal-clear water allows you to see all of the fish very clearly and leaves that have fallen to the bottom of the lake.

25- Waterfall in Guizhou

Asia’s highest waterfall is in Guizhou. The waterfall stands 74 meters high. Huangguoshou Falls is a site you do not want to miss!

We listed 25 things to do in China! Have you ever been to China? Please comment down below about your experience.

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