Why visit Thailand?

Thailand, the Land of Smiles

by Alexandra Devisch | Product Manager | @nut.ri

Thinking of Thailand, often the first associations that cross our minds are an ever-busy Bangkok, countless tuk-tuk taxis vying for your attention, hot sandy beaches beneath a sun bursting sky and lots of tourists on stunning beaches. But did you know the country is also the perfect getaway for those seeking some well-needed peace of mind? Take a deep breath, find a comfortable space and let me take you on a journey!

Best time to visit

You can basically visit Thailand all year round but bear in mind the rainy season lasts from July till October. That also means… hello, mosquitos! Temperatures are usually nice and warm or burning hot, though Thailand’s northern part can also be surprisingly chilly. Even if it feels counterintuitive, make sure you pack a sweater and socks – you will thank me for it!

What to do

Try out massages, lots of them. From Thai full body massage, herbal compress massage, foot massage, hot stone massage… go crazy, be bold and try multiple out! However, avoid commercial houses and look for small local parlours instead for the authenticity. It is incredibly cheap and you will experience a great body and soul pamper session. You will unwind in no time!

Where to go

If you love the hustle and bustle of big cities, endless stimuli for all 5 senses, nightlife and bursting markets, then go crazy in Bangkok. Fancy a quieter alternative? Head straight to Chiang Mai, located about 435 miles north of the capital. Easily reachable via (night) train or plane, and much loved by a large variety of travellers. Chiang Mai is home to hundreds of Buddhist temples, heaven for night bazaar lovers and often praised for its excellent authentic cuisine. In need for some adventure along the way? Try the ‘Flight of the Gibbon’, one of South East Asia’s longest ziplines. Glide effortlessly through the treetops of the Thai rainforest for some unique views and wildlife sounds. Admittedly, it might take some courage for those suffering from fear of heights, but well worth it. It will leave you speechless. While in the north, consider paying Pai a visit, a small town surrounded by misty mountains. The town centre is incredibly laid back yet vibrant but, truth be told, also very touristic. My tip: rent a motor bike and carefully explore the surrounding wide areas. Chances are you discover a hidden hot spring, a small organic farm, or find yourself suddenly in the middle of an exotic herb plantation. Go with the flow and let yourself be surprised. But a trip to Thailand wouldn’t be complete without some fun at the beach. Avoid commercial places and try one of the different Koh’s at the Thai east side. You will be treated to stunning views and relaxed atmosphere.

Tip before you go! When travelling in Thailand, a cotton or silk scarf is your best friend, especially for the ladies. It allows you to cover your shoulders or legs when unexpectedly visiting a Buddhist temple, protects against the sun if there is no shadow nearby and works as a blanket when picnicking on the go.

What to eat

Thailand is heaven for food lovers, period. The spices are abundant, the curries ever creamy and the fruit colourful. And those fruits go much further than the classic breakfast buffet trio of watermelon, pineapple and mango. Head to your local market and take in the varieties of mangosteen, rambutan, rose apple and more. Yes, they taste as great as they sound. Another must try is pandan jam, also called coconut jam, a sweet spread made from coconut milk and eggs, flavoured with pandan leaf. It has a typical bright green colour that you cannot miss. Often referred to as the ‘Asian vanilla’, the taste of the pandan plant can be best described as floral with citrus and pine undertones.