Uncovering Thailand's Best-Kept Secret: Nakhon Si Thammarat

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Travel Journal | Issue 16 | February 2017

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8 | Travel Journal | Issue 16 | February 2017

UNCOVERING THAILAND’S BEST-KEPT SECRET:

NAKHON SI THAMMARAT You may think you have explored all there is to explore in the Land of Smiles – but

we’re here to introduce you to one of Thailand’s elusive gems: Nakhon Si Thammarat.

Nakhon-Si-Thammarat

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ocated in the south, the province of Nakhon Si Thammarat is the second largest in Thailand. Nakhon Si Thammarat used to be an important trade link between Thailand and the rest of the world, and the remnants of the ancient transactions are evident today in Nakhon Si Thammarat’s cuisines, temples, and historic monuments.

There are many ways to get to Nakhon Si Thammarat.

You can fly in from Bangkok, or hop on to a mini-bus at an inter-provincial bus terminal. You can also make your way through Hat Yai, which can be used as a gateway to reach the province. Before heading further into Nakhon Si Thammarat, you may want to tick the following few places off your bucket list!

Things To Do in Nakhon Si Thammarat

Visit a Waterfall Relish in the beauty of nature when you take a day trip down to one of the many waterfalls in Nakhon Si Thammarat. There is nothing like sitting in the cool waters of a stream, soaking up the sun and getting drenched in the waterfalls, in the middle of a dense rainforest. The ethereal Karom Waterfall Yong Waterfall and Phrom Lok Waterfall are some of the noteworthy beauties to check out.

PHOTOS: © TOURISM AUTHORITY OF THAILAND

Check Out Khanom’s Art Scene Mr. Suchart Subsin is a shadow puppet maker and performer in the province of Nakhon. Incorporating Thai music, poetry and culture into his work, Mr. Subsin pioneered the delicate craft of shadow puppet performances in Thailand. Ban Nang Talung Suchart Subsin is a museum dedicated to Mr. Subsin’s craft and is a treasure trove of symbolic artefacts.

Aquaint Yourself with the Locals Take a peek into the lives of locals as you set foot into

Kiriwong Village. Located less than an hour away from the airport, this endearing village is an experience like none other. The pace of life in Kiriwong - with its surrounding mountain, slow-moving river, and lush greenery - will make you want to ditch the city life.

Dolphins in Khanom! As one of the main highlights of the small town, it is incredibly easy to book a boat tour to spot the friendly mammals. These creatures are not easily found in other parts of the world, and they only inhabit waters that are extremely clean with a healthy ecosystem.

Travel Back in Time Make a stop at Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan, one of the most important and impressive historical sites in Thailand. The great Buddhist pagodas and surrounding buildings are hosts to relics, religious artefacts, architecture, and legends that date back to 291 AD! One of the must-visit districts in Nakhon Si Thammarat is the small, unpretentious and beautiful town of Khanom - still yet to be touched by the fanfare of tourism. Littered with palm trees, paddy fields and rubber tree plantations, Khanom ticks all the right boxes for that authentic, laid-back island life: pristine, sandy white beaches that you can enjoy all to yourself; friendly locals that have yet to be daunted by the that will flurry of tourists; and tasty local food leave you craving for more.

Things To Do in Khanom

Hit the Beach Nadan Beach is 10 kilometers of perfection. The shores are clean and free from crowds – perfect for a time of real rest and relaxation.

The town’s only beach bar – CC Beach Bar, a fantastic little place well-stocked with great food and drinks – can be found at this beach. About a 20-minute drive away from Nadan is Ao Thong Yee beach, another solitary piece of paradise.

Finding a coastline that is not packed with touts is a rarity, so take the time to enjoy the tranquility.

Go Pink Dolphin Sighting Don’t miss out on the chance to snap pictures of Pink

Pink Dolphins

What to Eat

One of the greatest things about Thailand is their ability to serve immensely flavourful dishes. Khanom La is one of the products of the district of Nakhon. It is a light, crispy and airy dessert in a tube-like form, made from flour, eggs and honey.

Another signature item is the Khanom Jeen – soft and thin fermented rice noodles. You can drown your Khanom Jeen noodles in your choice of curry (you can also pick multiple flavours!) and have it together with pickled vegetables. Mouth-watering, light, and nothing short of perfection – a bowl of Khanom Jeen is a must-have.

Kaeng Som is a tasty fish dish that can be enjoyed as a curry or a soup, brimming with vegetables, served with a side of steamed rice. The dish is a crowd favourite with locals throughout Thailand; it hits all the right notes with its spicy, sour, and sweet elements. Hungry yet?

Where to Stay

Despite the fact that this part of Thailand has yet to see an influx of tourists, there are still plenty of excellent accommodation options to suit every traveler’s budget!

Beach-side accommodations include Talkoo Beach Resort, Khanom Golden Beach Hotel, and Le Pes Villas.

For more information, visit http://www.tourismthailand. org/sg

9 | Travel Journal | Issue 16 | February 2017

FIND PURE BLISS IN KO SAMUI

This island paradise is ideal for families, couples, or groups of friends looking for rest and adventure.

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ocated in the province of Surat Thani, Ko Samui is an island 80km off the coast of the south of Thailand.

This piece of paradise, which is also the second largest island in the country, is only a 2-hour direct flight away from Singapore. Ko Samui offers immaculate beaches, luxurious resort and spa facilities, and a range of varied and unique experiences to suit all your beach getaway needs.

to meet fellow travellers, learn more about the nuances in Thai cuisine from your knowledgeable hosts, make your own cocktails, and of course – feast on a 15-dish, 3 course meal!

Rest and Relax

Sometimes the best thing you can do whilst on holiday is

to not do anything! Enjoy the captivating beauty of Samui by lounging idly on the beautiful and clean beaches of Chaweng, Lamai or Bophut. Catch the sun setting at one of the beaches with a drink in hand, and watch as the skies turn into a vivid masterpiece.

Visit http://www.tourismthailand.org/sg

TOP THREE THINGS TO DO IN SAMUI Embark on a Day Tour

Hop onto a speedboat and zoom off at full-speed to the nearby islands or Koh Tao or Koh Nang Yuan, where you can snorkel at several different sites, in crystal clear turquoise waters! You could also set sail from the island of Samui to experience the natural beauty of Ang Thong National Park, which consists of 42 scenic islands. Explore lagoons and caves on a sea-kayaking adventure, snorkel or swim in the emerald sea and tuck into some delicious Thai food (included in most day full-day boat tours) during your expedition.

Alternative Dining

The Thai Experience is rated the top thing to experience if you ever find yourself in Maret, Samui. This dining place aims to redefine eating out – making your dining experience communal, experiential, cultural, and social.

The Thai Experience will make you feel as if you have just been invited to a friend’s place for a dinner party; you get

Chaweng Beach