Thailand Holiday Destinations

As Thailand’s largest island, it would be nothing short of a shame to miss visiting Phuket on a trip to Thailand. Based in the south, it’s easily accessible and a great island to head to for first-time Thailand visitors. This is wholeheartedly one to tick off your bucket list.

On a visit to Phuket, be sure to explore the streets of Old Phuket Town. Expect brightly coloured Sino-Portuguese townhouses that have spanned centuries. The charming markets offer a look into authentic Phuket life, serving street food delicacies like fried banana, as well as beautiful souvenirs.

Kata Beach is known as the surfing capital of Phuket and hosts the island’s biggest annual surfing competition. Alongside offering unmatched waves and surfing conditions, Kata Beach also provides guests with a fruitful Thai food scene like fresh seafood. Plus, a vibrant yet sophisticated nightlife ideal for younger travellers and couples.

As the smallest island of the Samui-Pha-Nagan-Tao trio in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Tao is making its way onto many more tourist’s maps for all the right reasons. Speckled in palm trees and white sands, the island takes its name from the sea turtles that frequent the shores, which visitors can expect to see.

Offering guests an endless list of beaches, coves and coasts to explore, Ao Tanot Bay is most definitely the most popular. Providing the perfect waters for snorkelling, rock-jumping and diving, become acquainted with the local wildlife like angelfish and coral, as well as a sunken catamaran. Or, simply sunbathe on the peaceful shores. For something more secluded, Hat Laem Thian is a sheltered white sandy beach north of Ao Tanot offering the same clear waters and activities.

For those seeking views from Koh Tao, John Suwan viewpoint is just the ticket. Allowing visitors to take in the trio of islands from new heights and revel in the blue and green hues from above, it offers a truly unforgettable view. However, we recommend hiking to the top in cooler temperatures or early in the morning, as the uphill trail is known for being challenging.

As the capital city of Thailand, it’s no surprise that Bangkok is one of the most popular Thailand holiday destinations. Known for its array of elegant shrines and buzzing atmosphere, it’s the perfect place for visitors to throw themselves into and explore.

When visiting, the Grand Palace should most definitely be on your list. A complex of exquisite buildings right in the heart of Bangkok, it’s a famous architectural symbol of the Thai Royal Family and is used for ceremonial purposes. Expect to see magnificent building after magnificent building, including the Temple of the Emerald Buddha and Queen Sirikit Museum.

When it comes to temples, Bangkok is a hubbub of stunning spots. If you’re merely passing through Bangkok whilst visiting other areas of Thailand, we recommend heading to Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan (known as Wat Arun or Temple of Dawn.) Set amongst the Chao Phraya River’s banks and missile in shape, it’s one of Bangkok’s most popular structures and offers enchanting views of the river, accessible via stairs. Whilst there, explore the colourful spire, murals in the ordination hall, and beautiful grounds. If possible, visiting at sunset offers nothing short of mesmerising views and photo opportunities.

Another popular Thai island is Ko Khao Phing Kan, which is found northeast of Phuket. Known as James Bond Island, it was the famous backdrop in the 1974 film The Man with the Golden Gun, putting it at the top of many tourist’s lists.

With its claim to fame, it’s no wonder that there are many wonderful tours available at Ko Khao Phing Kan. Take in the breathtaking scenery and limestone rock formations whilst navigating your own canoe or kayak. Plus, enjoy a paddle in the crystal waters and explore the nearby ocean caves. For those who prefer to sit back, boat tours are also available via luxurious speedboat or longtail boats.