Thailand: How We Stole Some Time in Tantalizing Thailand

Thailand Bangkok

A land where history and culture blend seamlessly with modernity. A country whose traceable history dates back to over 40,000 years. A land that was known to the outside world for long as Siam. A place that boasts of exotic islands and virgin beaches.

Thailand

Thailand
Cities and villages that reverberate to the hypnotic gongs of spirituality are home to magnificent palaces and exquisite temples. Landscapes range from verdant rice fields to pristine silver sands and people who are the epitome of warmth and hospitality.

No wonder this country draws over 27 million tourists every year and features in the list of the top 10 most visited countries in the World.

Visit Bangkok & Pattaya in Thailand

Yes! Thailand is the country we are talking about. A country that has so much to offer to visitors that they leave with a feeling that, “once is not enough”. There is so much to explore and experience, and one wants to do that conveniently, there is always the option of customized itineraries.

Why You Must Visit Bangkok & Pattaya in Thailand

ThailandGiven the hypnotic appeal of Thailand, it was no wonder that we found ourselves researching various Thailand Tourism packages with a view to solidifying our Thailand plans. We did a lot of research into the best and most cost-effective flights available, accommodation, vegetarian food options, the best time to visit Thailand, etc.

We had a time constraint and of course, it was not possible to do justice to the beautiful land with the time at our disposal. We had to sadly prune our itinerary and finally decided on focusing on Bangkok on our first visit to Thailand. We, however, did manage to squeeze in a couple of days in Pattaya too. We share here a slice of our experiences in Thailand.

The Best of Bangkok

The Grand Palace

Thailand

We began our exploration of Bangkok in the right royal style with the Grand Palace. This historic palace dates back to the year 1782 when it was constructed and has since been the home of the Kings of Thailand. The palace complex is huge and spans over 218 thousand square meters.

The Palace is partially open to the public and consists of a series of buildings and gardens. The lush gardens, the golden domes, and the spectacular architecture had us amazed as soon as we set foot in the palace complex. Though there is something unique and dazzling in every turn of the Grand Palace, the most resplendent jewel in its crown is undoubtedly the temple of the Emerald Buddha or Wat Phra Kaew.

Thailand

The temple is the home of a 26 inch standing Buddha statue made from a single stone of Jade. The statue is considered very sacred and revered and worshipped as the protector of the land. The colour of the robes of the statue are changed with the change in season, thrice a year and this is done by the King. This is a very important ceremonial ritual of the place.

Wat Pho, the temple of the reclining Buddha

Thailand

After spending a scintillating time at the Grand Palace we moved to the nearby temple of Wat Pho, only to be further bedazzled by the lustre and beauty of the reclining Buddha.

Thailand

The temple itself is a big complex and houses the largest collection of Buddha images including the reclining Buddha. We were mesmerized by the beauty of the reclining Buddha, a 46-metre statue covered in gold, of the Buddha in repose.

Thailand

We filed past the sleeping Buddha as we circumnavigated the statue from head to toe and were filled with feelings of sublime joy at this mystical manifestation of human artistry and reverence. We also were fascinated by the fact that this temple is widely regarded as the birthplace of Thai massage. We definitely wanted to head back again for an authentic Thai massage.

Safari Park

Thailand

We visited Safari World, a popular animal and leisure park. We took a 45-minute safari in a special bus that took us across 8 kilometres of wilderness where we had the good fortune of viewing wild animals in a naturally simulated environment.

Thailand

Thailand

Lions, tigers, and bears strutted majestically around while a herd of giraffes and zebras cavorted gracefully in the grass.

Pattaya and Koh Larn Island

Thailand

We took a bus from Ekamai, Bangkok’s Eastern Bus Terminal and reached Pattaya by afternoon after a smooth journey ride across the 147 odd kilometre distance. Pattaya is famous as a resort city and is the second most visited city in Thailand after Bangkok.

The Walking Street, which is a red light area in Pattaya lures hordes of tourists, both foreign and domestic with its pulsating nightlife. But what drew us to Pattaya was its beaches and the nearby islands.

We chose to take a quiet walk along the Pattaya Beach Front which is lined with shopping malls, restaurants, and hotels, in the evening. As the day dissolved into the night, the lights came up and the area was illuminated brilliantly.

Thailand

The next day found us on a speed boat that drove crazily on the swirling waters of the sea at a dizzying speed. We hung on to the rails as the boat shook as if it was caught in a high magnitude earthquake. Our destination was the island of Koh Larn. A little distance from the sea, the speedboat docked at a pier and we clambered out of the boat. The Pier was where one can indulge in parasailing.

Thailand

There was also a couple of small shops selling curios and light refreshments. After a 30 minute halt here, we were off again crashing through the waves to Koh Larn.

Thailand

We reached Koh Larn and spent a couple of hours lounging on the beach and frolicking in the sedate waters and generally had a great time. We did not have much time to explore the island, though. We also had a vegetarian lunch in one of the small restaurants that lined the beach.

Soon it was time to head back to Pattaya city and off we went in the crazy speedboat. We got some lovely views of the Pattaya skyline on our way back.

Thailand has so much on offer from palaces to beaches to temples to islands. These are enough reasons to convince anyone as to why one must visit Bangkok and Pattaya in Thailand.

We had a great time in Thailand and were moved by the warmth of the people that we came in contact with including the guides and hotel staff. We stayed at Ibis Bangkok Nana Hotel in Bangkok and Ibis Pattaya in Pattaya. We realize that what we were able to see in Thailand on our first trip was just the tip of the iceberg.

This post too as mentioned earlier just skims the surface and we will be back with more posts on our other experiences in Thailand. Do stay tuned for more experiences in tantalizing Thailand. Do check out this mini-guide with useful tips and info on Thailand. Thailand has so much to offer and it can be done at a leisurely pace.

If it is your first visit, you might want to check this guide on where to stay in Bangkok. And if you are planning a trip to Phuket then check out the Best Places to Stay in Phuket. If you are planning to visit Chiang Mai then we suggest you check out this Chiang Mai food guide.

Have you visited Bangkok and Pattaya or any other places in Thailand? Do share with us in the comment section.

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Thailand

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123 thoughts on “Thailand: How We Stole Some Time in Tantalizing Thailand”

  1. I have yet to see Thailand, but your post has pictured it all so wonderfully. I would love to see the Grand Palace in Bangkok or the beaches of Pattaya.

  2. I’ve found that Asian countries have such unique architecture and cultures. Your visit to Bangkok and Pattaya just prove that is true. Amazing to see all those Buddhas and gold shrines!

  3. Everything in the city seem so opulent and colourful and vibrant. In stark contrast to the beach where its more peaceful, natural and paradise-like. The best of both worlds – would love to visit one day.

  4. You’ve brought back some wonderful memories.

    My first ever trip abroad was Thailand, and I still have vivid recollections of the smells and tastes that I think define any trip!

    You’re tempting me to head back sooner rather than later for sure!

  5. I was in Bangkok until yesterday and I agree, it is an amazing place and the grand palace is incredible! I love how you’ve written this article, so easy to read! X

  6. Last month, I was in Bangkok to attend Thailand Tourism Festival 2017 and I can definitely say Thailand knows how to put tourism as their first priority. Everything about the country is so colorful, fascinating and welcoming.

  7. Thailand is indeed a beautiful place and I totally agree with you on people’s warmth. My favorite out of advice is Buddha temple though I would like to visit least known serene places in my next visit

  8. Thailand is a country that has long been on my bucket list and I’d love to visit one day! The architecture is beautiful and I’ve heard many times how friendly the people are (as you’ve pointed out in your post). 🙂

  9. Ah that make me miss Bangkok now! I was there few months ago and I loved it! It was my first Asia and I had amazing experience! I wish I knew about Safari World I would love to visit that place!

  10. I’ve always had a softspot for Pattaya – since my 1st visit in 99. I then worked there for a year (2003), and loved every minute of it. Pattaya ‘is what it is’ but its much more than just sex, sex, and more sex. Over the years the Thai authorities have tried hard trying to market it as a family resort too. Good post! Thanks for sharing.

  11. Bangkok is a definite for us this year – I have wanted to go for a long time! Like you I am struggling to decide where to go – we have decided Bangkok and probably Phi Phi as its been somewhere I have heard about from friends.

  12. I’ve wanted to go to Thailand for a while, especially to Bangkok. Thanks for sharing your experiences in Thailand and for providing some background information about the country!

  13. I’ve been to Phuket and Krabi, but I’m yet to make it to Bangkok and I’d love to explore the temples there! Love what I’ve seen of Thailand so far!

  14. I’m heading to Bangkok and various other places in Thailand next month. Thanks for providing some ideas on things to visit. I can’t wait to visit Wat Arun, The Grand Palace and the floating market in particular.

  15. I spent two years in South East Asia and Bangkok is always the place I went back to and it very quickly felt like home. I just love it!

  16. Thailand, the land of beaches. I always wanted to visit these places and this article will definitely help me. I will surely consider these places when I will visit Thailand especially the safari park and Pattaya and Koh Larn Island.

  17. We visited Bangkok a long time ago and loved it. Your article made me want to go back! We are yet to visit Pattaya but maybe on our next trip to Thailand we will visit too. It looks really nice. Thanks for sharing, Great post.

  18. On your next trip to Thailand, try going to the other islands. The islands by the Gulf of Thailand and Andaman Sea are much much more beautiful compared to Pattaya! Great photos

  19. The places you mentioned in Bangkok such as the grand palace are great for photography. Your pictures do them justice. I love visiting Pattaya, I go once a week to play golf in one of the many surrounding golf clubs. Then after the golf it’s time for a night out in pattaya!

  20. I only spent little time in Thailand and you are right, it does taste like more! Your day trip to Koh Larn Islands sounds fun, although I think I could do without the speedy boat bumpin on the water. Jaiks.

  21. These are some great spots you have been to in Thailand. Grand Palace was just out of this world! The elaborate and ornate details of the temples were nothing like I’ve sen before. You’ve shared a few others that I haven’t seen while in Thailand – something to look forward to on the next visit!

  22. the first photos seem to be out of this world , Asian culture is fascinating on a magical way, seems like you had the full experience from all those beautiful places, definitely a place to remember for future trips.

  23. I’ve been to Thailand three times now and I love it. I have been to Bangkok but have not made it to Pattaya yet. I have avoided it due to the reputation but you have made be rethink especially if I can get out to the island. Maybe next time 🙂

  24. Bangkok is pretty incredible. I really loved Wat Pho and seeing the reclining Buddha. It is such a cosmopolitan of people and culture that everything about it is worth seeing. I wish I had more time to explore as one day the last time I was there was not enough. I never got to Pattaya, but hopefully next time i get there!

  25. There is so much to love about Thailand! The architecture, the culture – and the people are oh so friendly. We have visited Bangkok twice now and loved it – although it can be a bit confronting for first-timers! We’ve also been North to the mountainous region of Chiang Mai & Chiang Rai and south to a few of Thiland’s many islands – it really is a destination that has something for everyone!

  26. I’ve never been to Thailand, but I’m hoping to change that this year or in 2018 at the latest. I’ll make sure to add Pattaya on my itinerary as well, it looks beautiful!

  27. So many of my favorites are on the list! Thailand is a really great vacation spot, especially for people who haven’t really been to an Asian nation. It’s so unique and awe inspiring, but also really easy. Perfect for new travelers.

  28. The first time I visited Bangkok I hated it! With a passion. Almost swore to never go back. After attending TBEX there it changed my mind. I saw Bangkok and indeed the rest of Thailand as you did. A wonderful country, with warm welcoming people and some great food.

  29. I have been wanting to visit Thailand for a long time now, but flights from the US are so expensive! Someday I’ll make it over there though. I just can’t wait to see the temples and the busy streets, and just eat SO MUCH Thai food!

  30. YES! I was lucky enough to steal a quick 48 hours in Bangkok during a flight stopover and it was truly an experience unlike any other! Your photos are beautiful 🙂 Definitely making me nostalgic!

  31. Looks like an amazing place and tons of great things to explore especially The Grand Palace. I think it would be a place where you would want to spend time and not be rushed. I have always heard the food is wonderful too. Your pictures are always special and capture the beauty of the area and all those vibrant colors. Thanks for sharing hope to visit one day.

  32. Good that you made it to TH despite your time constraint, it is such a beautiful country! I have only been to BKK and some places in the north west, next time I will follow your steps to Pattaya and some of those beautiful Kohs

  33. Great article! Your words “Hypnotic appeal of Thailand” is exactly how I feel about this mesmerizing city. I have wanted to visit for nearly 20 years and maybe some day…. 😉 Appreciate all the wealth of info.

  34. I loved the Grand Palace…it was my fav place in Bangkok. Isnt it amazing how many shops are there around it to ensure you come in a proper dress code. We went to the safari park as well, but I didnt like it at all. The animals are kept terrible…no space…over crowding and the park has a very bad reputation for smuggling baby animals. 🙁
    Pattaya looks lovely…I always head to the islands in Thailand..but this seems to be a great option!

  35. Whenever I would be going out of my country (Philippines) for the first time, the very first country I would really visit will be Thailand. It’s rich history and culture (that is quite similar with ours) just captures everyone’s hearts when they visit this country. Thailand is long due on my travel bucket list and I will definitely use this blog as a guide for me when I will be going here soon! 🙂

  36. Thailand is fantastic. Bangkok has so much to see and do. I loved Wat Pho and the flowered stupas. Of course, the reclining Buddha too, is a sight to see! 🙂 Thai massage is a highlight and a must while you’re in Bangkok. Not to mention seeing the flower market and eating delicious Thai food!

  37. I adore Thailand, Thai people and Thai food! It’s an amazing country with so much to offer. It’s also encouraging to see that the country is starting to move away from cruel animal attractions – education and awareness are so important!

  38. Honestly had no idea Thailand had safaris, but 8km sounds like a nice space to see anazing creatures. Thai massages are the best, well worth experiencing! I didnt make it to Wat Phi when I was there, but walking entirely around the reclining buddha would be amazing.

  39. Oh we loved Thailand I could back and spend so much more time there! I agree the warmth of the people is incredible! And the food oh the food! My family and I loved WatPho and the Grand Palace amazing place!

  40. Thailand is simply amazing and I think everyone would agree, I just got back home from Northern Thailand a week ago and it didn’t disappoint me yet again. Great food, nice spa, amazing shopping experience, and happy sightseeing moments. Can’t wait for another trip to Thailand already! @ knycx.journeying

  41. tantalizing indeed! i think thailand was my favorite country in 2016 haha and i am thinking of going back due to the numerous activities i can do in different islands… would love to go to pattaya next time! thanks for a wonderful itinerary to follow!!!

  42. Thailand would be my first choice in south east Asia, when its come to choose a best place in term of budget and some amazing experience. Thailand is like a complete destination. it offers something for everyone.

  43. Thailands’ tourism is getting better especially Bangkok. A lot of my friends go here yearly and attend some festival where you throw water at each other. Merchandise and clothes are also cheaper than my country as they say. I must say, this is really a nice place with rich culture too. I hope I can visit soon!

  44. Thailand is one of my favourite countries – a tantalising mix of history, culture and great food! Pattaya doesn’t appeal but Koh Larn looks beautiful! Thanks for sharing

  45. These are what we wanna see when we go to Thailand. Thanks for sharing this. My hubby really loves to go there. And this is on our list when we go back to Asia (to the Philippines). Great post. 🙂

  46. We just got back from Thailand. We spent all of December in country. We started out with 150 mile ride down the Gulf of Thailand Coast. Then we hopped over to Koh Tao for some diving. Then up to Khao Sok for an elephant encounter and lake camping. Island hopping from Phuket-phi phi – Railay in the Andaman sea. Up to Chang Mai for Christmas and then finally down to Bangkok. The Grand Palace and Pho Wat were amazing. So many things to see. In fact, all of Thailand is something to behold.

  47. I was in Thailand with a Cruise, but I was never in Bangkok. It’s still on my list. I’ll try to make a stopover over there at one of my next trips. Do you think 2 days is enough?

  48. The Grand Palace is pretty impressive. It’s probably the single most important site to visit in Bangkok, so it’s good that you did that. It sounds like you enjoyed your time!

  49. Looks like you had an amazing trip! I’ve had a friend who visited those very temples, it’s amazing how much gold leaf they apply to all of their statues. The beaches look great as well. I wonder if it gets deep quickly, or if you can wade out, well into the ocean.

  50. I’m a big fan of Bangkok and have visited many times. To be honest I’m not sure about Pattaya though and I thought it was a bit of a hole. Having said that I’ve only been there the once so maybe a second visits’ could help change my opinion of the pace.

  51. I visited Bangkok many years ago but your photos of the Grand Palace and Wat Pho brought back all the memories. We will be travelling to Bangkok soon on our nomadic lifestyle so it will be interesting to see these places again. We are also going to Pattaya so your review was most helpful, thank you. #feetdotravel

  52. I have read a lot about Thailand because it is in my bucket list. But they is a unique way you have written this article that makes me feel like I am reading about it for the first time! I love the introduction and conclusion. Fantastic! You are a genius with words. You have just increased my appetite for Thailand. Keep up!

  53. I am yet to visit Thailand and it is a must-visit in every traveler’s bucket list, I guess. Also, it’s a vey budget friendly destination. The article is well written and crisp. Thanks 🙂

  54. wow I never knew you could also do parasailing in Thailand! I miss Bangkok terribly. Everything was so cheap! I’m planning to go back and visit Chiang Mai soon as it is a hub for digital nomads. 🙂

  55. I am simply in love with Thailand. I can visit the place n no of times. Loved shopping in Bangkok and also loved visiting so many temples in the city. Haven’t been to Pattaya though. Love the street food in Bangkok.

  56. Gorgeous photos! I’ve never been to Thailand but I’ll definitely need to visit sometime – I’ve heard so many great things about it! Those temples are just gorgeous (I love Wat Pho) and would love to visit Koh Larn. It seems like a great place to unwind after a long day of exploring!

  57. Koh larn looks so beautiful. If I had to choose, I will certainly choose this place. I don’t think Pattaya is to my liking. I didn’t like certain aspects of Pattaya. Anyways, its a popular destination & quite popular among the old age “Pharangs” and Indians.

  58. One of my favorite destinations to travel. In fact, Ill be going back next week. Ive been to Bangkok and northern Thailand but never been to pattaya. Well my friends are discouraging me because of its red district. The beach looks nice and its just few hours way from Bangkok. Ill consider this place this ime.

  59. Coincidently, I have been to all these not once but twice and have loved it each time. I can do one more visit and discover more – they are just so much fun. The Grand Palace, especially is so culturally vibrant.

  60. I am going visit Bangkok in April and this post comes right in time. Safari World is something I want to do and see the wildlife up-close is my dream. You had a great shots of tigers and zebras, and I wish I could see lions on my visit too. Keep posting more of your Thailand trip and I can make plans according to your travel posts.

  61. Thanks for sharing a collection of vibrant and beautiful pictures in your post, these are tempting me to visit Thailand as soon as I can. Nice to know about Wat Pho Temple especially the fact as it is regarded as birthplace of Thai massage.

  62. I’ve yet to explore Thailand but am planning a trip for this year. Thanks for compiling all the must-see and do. I’m gonna use this as a guide.

  63. Thailand surely has immense diversity. Most people just go to the obvious places and do not explore much. I’d also like to know if you have done some hikes in the northern areas of Thailand.

  64. I did these 2 places in Thailand, your post brought back some wonderful memories as this was my first international destination with my little daughters. I still remember their awe at this foreign land. The elder one even exclaimed how neat this place is.

  65. Thailand is a place I’ve never really thought about visiting, however seeing all of the beauty in the photos here has made me reconsider! I didn’t realize how much there really was to see and do in Thailand.

  66. I’ve never been to Thailand and I’ve heard nothing but great things about the place! I sure would love to visit someday soon with my daughters. I’m sure we’re going to have a fantastic time there, exploring the temples and trying out the good food.

  67. Bangkok is another amazing place we have to add to our dream Asian trip. Thailand has such a rich culture! Your photos sure convinced us to include Bangkok in our travel bucket list. The palace, the temples, beautiful beaches and lush gardens are a traveler’s dream.

  68. I had no idea that Thailand had 27 million tourists each year! That is crazy, but I can see why. Thailand is top on my must see list, and I would love to start at the Grand Palace. So amazing!

  69. Every time I see a movie or show set in Thailand I immediately want to visit. Your post is making that no different for me!

  70. Thailand looks like a wonderful and beautiful place to visit. I would love to try and visit here this year.

  71. A very dear friend of mine from high school was from Thailand. I always wanted to visit her country and see it up close for myself. It is truly stunning and I can only imagine how divine the food tastes.

  72. These are beautiful pictures. I am looking forward to visiting there when my kids are older. Thanks for sharing about our experience. It sounds wonderful.

  73. nice lengthy post, to me the biggest disadvantage is that thai people kinda suck and the ones in pattaya are the worst….. ok ok the majority of thai people are decent, but they are certainly ruder than most southeast asians

  74. three years ago, I dream of going to Bangkok to visit a loved one. When we parted ways, I got the lazy feeling of going there. BUt really, I would love to visit the place to see the sights and forget bitter memories. Thankyou for reminding me that Bangkok will always welcome me whatever happens. 🙂

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