1. Pad Thai

Pad Thai, which means fried Thai, is a flavorful stir-fry dish. It is a traditional and staple noodle dish in Thailand. It has a sweet, sour, and salty flavor and is made with rice noodles, scrambled eggs, dried shrimp, chicken or tofu, bean sprouts, and peanuts. This affordable dish can be easily found on street eateries and is also a mainstay in the menus of upscale local restaurants. It is a good option for people on the go, as it can be quickly cooked and served after ordering it.

2. Tom yum goong soup

One of the main signature dishes in Thailand is this prawn soup that is both hot and sour. It has a pork or chicken stock base, along with lemongrass, garlic, lime, and coconut milk. It is topped with shrimp and chili. This healthy Thai soup has two variants: clear tom yum goong and creamy tom yum goong. This unmissable, soothing broth is usually eaten with rice and other Thai dishes.

3. Tuk-tuks

A tuk-tuk is a three-wheeled vehicle that is one of the most recognizable methods of transportation in Thailand. It is famous among tourists and locals as it is a practical and convenient way of getting around. This open-air ride is good for short trips. The name “tuk-tuk” was derived from the sound of its early engines. It can be seen in different designs, from traditional styles to modern ones. Fares for tuk-tuk depend on the distance you traveled, however, you can negotiate and haggle with the price.

4. Elephant sanctuary

Thailand is known for having many ethical elephant sanctuaries. One of them is the elephant jungle sanctuary, a joint project of Chiang Mai locals and Karen hill-tribes. They worked together to set up the ethical sanctuaries for elephants. It has three parks in Thailand located at Samui, Pattaya Phuket, and near Chiang Mai. A visit to the sanctuaries will enable you to learn about the elephants as well as have a chance to bath, feed, and play with them. You can also have a souvenir photo with them captured by its in-house photographer at no extra cost.

Elephant Jungle Sanctuary

Website: Elephant Jungle Sanctuary

Opening hours: 8:30am - 5pm (daily)

Price: from 1,300 THB (42 USD)

5. Muay Thai

Muay Thai is a known martial art from Thailand. This national sport started being practiced hundreds of years ago. In Thailand, Muay Thai gyms are easy to find as they are scattered throughout the country. There are two types of gyms that you can find, ones that are purely for the local community and ones with foreigners. The trainers here are expert coaches who grew up practicing it.

6. Floating markets

The floating markets in Thailand offer a unique experience to visitors by allowing them to hop aboard boats and shop from other passing boats. Some of the local products you can find here are souvenirs, handicrafts, and tropical fruits. There are also local delicacies being sold here, making it a good spot for those who want to explore Thailand’s flavors. Some of the floating markets you can visit are Amphawa, Taling Chan, Khlong Lat Mayom, Bang Nam Pheung, and Tha Kha. Meanwhile, if you want to see the floating market that has been featured in a James Bond movie, then head over to Damnoen Saduak, which is known as the “official” and oldest floating market in Bangkok.

7. Thai massage

Thai Massage is part of the local culture in Thailand and its roots can be traced thousands of years back. This traditional massage requires the masseuse to use their elbows, thumbs, and knees to touch your pressure points. It also includes stretching some parts of your body. Parlors offering Thai massage are easy to find in Thailand as they are ubiquitous. You can find them on the streets and in luxury resorts. Moreover, it is offered at a very cheap price.

8. Phuket

Phuket is the largest island in Thailand. It is known for being an incredible beach destination as it allows you to enjoy beach activities, have speedboat trips, and cruise around the bays. With its 30 beaches, you will definitely find one that you would like to explore. Aside from beaches, it also has historical towns with hidden old structures and cultural attractions. Coupled with scenic viewpoints, its lively towns also offer an exciting club scene and plenty of partying options.

9. Pattaya

Pattaya is widely recognized for its entertainment. Live performances such as cabaret shows can be seen here. The beach resort town is famous for its nightlife that extends until dawn. Expats and tourists who enjoy the vibrant scene are common sights in this area. Aside from being an adult destination, this coastal area also offers lots of fun beach activities and water sports. It also features attractions that can be enjoyed by families, couples, or solo travelers. It also has aquariums, amusement parks, and nature tours.

10. Khao San Road

Khao San Road is known to be a backpacker’s haven. This small road with a chaotic atmosphere is a favorite among budget travelers for being an ideal jump-off point to explore other attractions in Bangkok. The bustling road is good for people watching and is a place to meet fellow travelers. Moreover, the road is convenient for tourists for having cheaper accommodations, shopping bargains, and an assortment of food from street vendors. This backpacker’s hub also has bars and clubs with exciting all-night parties.

Be enthralled with Thailand

Thailand has unique characteristics and is a wonderland for culturally curious people. Keep the travel dream alive and include Thailand as your next travel destination to experience its wonderful chaos, flavors, colors, and charming atmosphere.