DISCOVER THAILAND
Your Go-To Source
If there’s one country that effortlessly blends peace and energy, it’s Thailand. From the temple-filled tranquility of Chiang Mai to the buzzing beach parties of Koh Phi Phi, this Southeast Asian gem has a way of stealing your heart (and your taste buds).
I based myself in Chiang Mai, with side trips to the dreamy mountain town of Pai and beach getaways to Phuket and Koh Phi Phi. I didn’t make it to Bangkok this time, but it’s at the top of my list for next round!
Whether you’re hiking through waterfalls, learning Muay Thai from the pros, or island-hopping under the sun, Thailand offers rich cultural moments, tropical escapes, and flavors that stay with you forever.
THINGS TO DO
Day Trips & Destinations:
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Pai – A peaceful hippie mountain town surrounded by nature. Rent a scooter and explore waterfalls, hot springs, and Pai Canyon.
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Phuket – A mix of beach luxury and wild nightlife. Take a boat tour or relax in the sand.
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Koh Phi Phi – I opted for the private side and then island hopped from there—a must! Each island is unique: think hidden coves, turquoise water, and limestone cliffs.
Top Experiences:
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Sticky Waterfall (Bua Thong) – Yes, you literally climb up the falls. A thrill you won’t forget!
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Ethical Elephant Sanctuary – One of my top experiences all year. Seeing the elephants up close, fed and cared for with love, was soul-nourishing.
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Muay Thai Training + Match – Train with the pros during the day, then watch them fight at night. An unforgettable rush!
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Doi Inthanon Temple + Hiking Trails – The highest point in Thailand! Waterfalls, lush trails, and temples with views.
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Temple-Hopping – Chiang Mai alone has over 300 temples. Make time for a few—each one is its own work of art.
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Weekend & Night Markets – So much shopping! Handmade jewelry, flowy clothes, and all the food. My fave way to spend an evening.
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Full Moon Party – If you’re on an island during the right time, this is the beach party of all beach parties. Glow paint, fire dancers, music all night.
THAILAND HIGHLIGHTS
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FOOD & DRINKS
Must Try Favorites
There are fresh fruit stands and food stalls everywhere, and the flavors are unforgettable. Thai cuisine is bold, spicy, and soul-satisfying—don’t be afraid to try something new!
Must-Try Dishes & Drinks:
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Khao Soi – Chiang Mai’s signature dish: egg noodles in a coconut curry broth, topped with crispy noodles and lime.
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Som Tam – Spicy green papaya salad with a punch of sweet, sour, and heat.
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Sai Ua – Northern Thai herb sausage with serious flavor.
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Khanom Jeen Nam Ngiaw – Fermented rice noodles in curry with pork and chicken-blood cubes (if you're feeling adventurous).
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Mango Sticky Rice – A sweet finish of sticky rice, mango slices, and creamy coconut milk.
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Thai Tea (Cha Nom Yen) – Try it iced and creamy; get the OG version from Cha Tra Mue.
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Street Skewers & Pad Thai – Cheap, delicious, and found on every corner.
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Smoothie Stands – Fresh fruit smoothies for under $2—yes, please!
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BASICS TO KNOW
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Travel + Leisure recently named Chiang Mai the best city in Asia and second best in the world, thanks to its relaxed atmosphere, good food, and historical significance.
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Land of Smiles- A smile is often used for many different emotions. It may be an apology, a thank-you, a greeting, or to show embarrassment. Smile!
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Temples everywhere!! Go see them especially ones that include hikes!
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Do bargain in the green market, explore the Old Town and meet friends for a coffee like a proper Dalmatian - for hours. Go on the walking tour of the Old City. Sit by the beach, bring drinks and a guitar and make your friends sing along.
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Do Not drink tap water.
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Take your shoes off indoors. This is not necessary for restaurants, but inside homes and some stores, you may need to remove your shoes. Be sure to look if there are shoes outside before entering to find out if you have to or not.
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Tuktuks are the quintessential Thai transportation experience. If you can get past the car fumes, they’ll give you a reliable and efficient ride through traffic. Just make sure the driver knows a nearby landmark, since maps aren’t always enough. Haggle a price beforehand. From our accommodation, it should be around 50 THB to the Brick or 80-100 THB to Old Town
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Alcohol Laws & Restrictions
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Do not drink in public. Most places only sell alcohol between the hours of 11:00-14:00 and 17:00-24:00, except registered bars/restaurants/clubs and international airports. Do not promote alcohol consumption on any social media as it is illegal in Thailand (i.e. posting a bottle of alcohol with its name and mentioning how good it is).
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