Thailand has always been the destination to go to as a backpacker, with the massive amounts of first time backpackers choosing it as their first ever destination, surely there’s a reason for that? Is it the infamous full moon party? Or the fact that everything is incredibly affordable? Or even the beautiful landscape and tranquil beaches?
When people asked me where I wanted to travel to in my gap year (despite me repeatedly emphasising that university just wasn’t for me), everyone’s first assumption was always ‘Are you going to backpack Thailand?’, of course I will! It will probably be one of the first destinations we travel to, so here are some things we plan to do whilst there.
Go on a guided trek
I love hiking, and I also love going exploring, which is why I really want to do a guided trek in Thailand. This is also a great way to meet people whilst travelling, or you could even find a group to trek with you from your new found friends at the hostels you’re staying in. There are lots of places all across Thailand who run these tours, some even include other activities like bamboo rafting and ethical elephant experiences, however, make sure you are researching more reputable companies who’s main goals are being ethical and respectful, and not just finding the cheapest possible deal.
Khao Sok National Park
When you picture Thailand, this is probably one of the first images that would pop into your head, even if you didn’t know the name. There’s so much to see and do here like hiking, tubing and kayaking, that you could spend multiple nights here and still not see and do it all. Accommodation is super cheap in this area too, you can find stays for as little as £4.50 a night! It is the most expensive national park in Thailand, however it’s about 300 THB which is just under £7.
Go diving in Koh Lanta
Koh Lanta has some of the best dive spots in Thailand, and after seeing the pictures, it’s not hard to see why. It is also known for being a good spot to see Whale Sharks!!! At the very top of my bucket list is swimming with Whale Sharks, so I will take every opportunity to make this dream come true, however, even if I don’t get to see a Whale Shark this time, the whole experience will surely be incredible.
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Learn Muay Thai
I had never really thought about this until Reilly actually suggested we try to learn something new in the countries we visit, like cooking food or learning Thai boxing and I was super into this idea. I do love to exercise and work out but I’m not the most keen gym-goer and having a structured work out to learn a new sport is the best way to work out for me. I also followed along with Youtuber Christianne Risman’s Muay Thai journey and it just sold the idea to me even more.
Explore as many temples as we possibly can
Temples are in abundance in Thailand, one of the best things to do is just stop at any you may drive past on your way to other places you’re wanting to visit, like visiting the Big Budda’s on the way to Pai Canyon for example. Alternatively, in Chiang Rai there are so many temples in a small area, you could easily create your own (mostly free) temple walking tour, only paying any entry fees and possibly fuel usage if you have hired a moped.
Gorge ourselves on fresh fruit and a floating market
There are several different floating markets in Thailand, the most famous being Damnoen Saduak floating market. However, if you want to avoid the overly tourist areas, Taling Chan weekend market is said to be one of the most authentic markets, as it’s not long been discovered by tourists. To nab the best bargins, you want to arrive early, and this way, you’ll also avoid a lot of the crowds. They’re will be people selling everything from fresh fruit, to beautiful dresses and even intricately hand carved Budda statues.
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Shop and eat the street food at Chiang Mai night markets
I love to buy souvenirs and gifts for people when I travel, as well as buying items to upgrade my backpacker wardrobe and the Chaing Mai night markets are some of the best places to get these item. However, the main reason a lot of people travel there is for the food! These markets are a foodies HEAVEN! There’s a wide range of variety for such decent prices and the photos and reviews on line show delicious looking food and highly recommend going.
Go island hopping
I really want to go island hopping as it’s a great way to see so much in a short amount of time. There are lots of organised tour companies who run island hopping, however, it seems super easy to set up your own route and itinerary which we’d probably prefer because that way if we’d rather stay some where longer, or add in other destinations along the way, we’d have the freedom to do that.