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Destination Thailand: Popular Attractions

Posted on 12. Jan, 2012 by Jo-Ann in Travel

Damnoen Saduak a.k.a.The Floating Market

The  Floating Market located in central Thailand in the province Ratchaburi is filled daily with boats which are piled high with tropical fruit, vegetables, ready-to-drink coconut water and local food cooked from floating kitchens located right on the boat. The ambiance is rather colourful, noisy, fun and is the perfect spot for tourists. Damnoen Saduak continues to offer an authentic experience. Envision hundreds of wooden row boats floating by. Food vendors fill their vessels with charcoal grills, ready to make seafood skewers upon request.

The Grand Palace in Bangkok

The Grand Palace in Bangkok really lives up to its name. By Molly Mazilu

The Grand Palace is a complex of buildings in the heart of Bangkok, Thailand.  Notoriously one of the major tourism attractions in Bangkok. It was built in 1782 by King Rama I. The palace occupies an area of 60 acres of land and is situated on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. The Grand Palace was not only home to the King and his court, but also the entire administrative seat of the government. No visit to Bangkok would be complete without visiting the bedazzling and breathtaking landmark.

Ko Phi Phi a.k.a. Phi Phi Islands

Ko Phi Phi by Wagner T. Cassimiro "Aranha"

Ko Phi Phi is a small archipelago in the Krabi Province in Southern Thailand. It’s been in the movies for example “The Beach”. It’s the subject of conversation for tourists all over Thailand. For some, it’s the only reason to visit Phuket. Phi Phi’s charm does not disappoint. Some describe it as love at first sight. Need a break from the “hustle and bustle” take a trip to Ko Phi Phi.

The Ancient City

Ancient City "Rainbow Bridge" by Jeff_Leigh

The Ancient City is 33.5 kilometers southeast of Bangkok, in the neighbouring province of Samut Prakhan. The theme park boasts impressive scale replicas of Thai ancient monuments, combining a Thai folk art and culture center.  The Ancient City contains 116 replica monuments, buildings and shrines.  The captivating Rainbow Bridge is a tribute to Thai residents inference that rainbows personify Thailand’s fertility, happiness and natural beauty. This is just one of the monuments to be found at this historical park.

Wat Pho a.k.a. Wat Phra Chetuphon

Wat Pho by Coolinsights

The world famous Temple of the Reclining Buddha Statue can be found here. It is located in the Rattanakosin district directly adjacent to the Grand Palace. The extraordinary gold plated reclining Buddha is approximately 46 meters long and 15 meters high, and was fashioned to represent the passing of the Buddha into nirvana. Wat Pho is acclaimed as Thailand’s first University. It is the midpoint for a traditional Thai massage. Imprinted  in the walls of this benchmark is all that is notorious about Thai massages dating from as far back as the dynasty of King Rama III. Below is a photo of The Reclining Buddha:

Reclining Buddha at Wat Pho by Joe Stump

China Town Bangkok

China Town Bangkok by Vasenka

Bangkok’s Chinatown is a popular tourist attraction crammed with market stalls & street-side restaurants. Particularly suited for individuals who like the “hustle and bustle”. Here you can stock up on souvenirs and gifts for relatives and friends. The energy and friendliness that is emitted from this environment leaves you wanting more.

The Tuk Tuk a.k.a. Taxi

Chang Mai Night Tuk Tuk by Brian Jeffery

You can’t leave Thailand without riding one of these! That’s just Insane! These are motorized rickshaws and are popular amongst tourists. They are naturally  faster than taxis in heavy traffic as bob and weaving in and out is easier. This cab can seat 3 persons comfortably. So jump on one of these when you visit Thailand. Hint: It’s essential to bargain the price with tuk-tuks before getting in. Especially being a tourist. It’s really a thrilling ride. True Thailand experience in my eyes.

Thailand has many other attractions which may take months and maybe a whole year or two to explore. But above are a few of the must visit attractions and activities to engage in on your first visit.

- Have a Safe Trip!