The 10 best activities in Thailand

"Wàt-dii" - That's how you say hello in Thailand, probably one of the most popular travel destinations in the world. Because not only above, but also below sea level, Thailand is absolutely breathtaking. Colorful reefs, exotic animals in dense jungle, crystal clear water, good cuisine, as well as vibrant cities with lovely locals and rich culture. All this is waiting for you in Thailand. In order not to lose track of all the sights that this country offers, we have compiled the 10 best things to do in Thailand. You shouldn't miss them on your next trip to Thailand. 

Paradise Island Hopping: The 10 Best Activities in Thailand

Thailand has a large number of islands, which are often very close to each other. If you can't get enough of island life, then island hopping is a great option. Decide for yourself which islands you would like to visit and let yourself be taken there by boat or ferry. The great thing is that each island has something different to offer. Some islands are known for their nightlife, others for their unspoiled nature, their particularly relaxed atmosphere, or for their diving scene and much more. You are guaranteed to find the right island for you and you will be amazed how quickly you get used to the quiet island life.

Tuk Tuk Riding: The 10 best activities in Thailand

Thailand's roads are littered with them - the small three-wheeled autorickshaws. They are perfect for the traffic situation and are well suited for all roads, no matter how narrow. They complement the classic cab rides and a ride in a tuk tuk is an absolute must. Often the tuk tuks are equipped with loud music and colorful lighting which makes the experience even more popular. You can even drive a tuk tuk yourself, but you have to pass a training and a small test on a training ground beforehand - and off you go.

Visit elephants in the sanctuary: The 10 best activities in Thailand

Here, mistreated elephants are given a new life in which they are not forced to do anything. Elephants are definitely not meant to be ridden, even though there are unfortunately still many local providers of elephant rides. There they are held captive on chains, stand all day in blazing heat on call and have neither access to enough food nor water. Because they are unfortunately very often beaten or kicked by their owners and quickly develop trauma. In order to reintroduce these elephants to their natural environment, sanctuaries ensure that the animals have enough food and water and find joy in life again through interaction with other elephants. There you can feed elephants, watch them cool off in the mud or even join the elephants in the mud bath yourself. The giants are truly impressive animals and the sanctuaries are very special places to see elephants up close.

Learn Thai Cooking: The 10 Best Things to Do in Thailand

Asian cuisine is very popular with many, especially Thai dishes stand out. The colorful meals let you taste many new spices and yes, for some people the dishes even cause tears - but this is usually due to the degree of spiciness. If you are a fan of Thai cuisine, consider taking a cooking class. You will learn the most important ingredients and how to put them together to create your favorite dishes. By the way, Pad Thai, Thai Curry, Fried Rice and also Mango Sticky Rice are among the dishes you have to try in Thailand. A cooking class can be a lot of fun and gives you the opportunity to learn directly from locals. And the best thing about it: you can decide for yourself how much chili your food contains.

Get pampered with a Thai massage: The 10 best activities in Thailand

In Thailand, you are approached everywhere and asked if you would like to be massaged. There are many different types offered, but especially the classic Thai massage you should try once. It is a traditional therapy that combines acupressure, Indian Ayurvedic principles and assisted yoga poses. Therapists use their hands, thumbs, elbows and forearms, and sometimes their feet to relieve tension. The massage consists of a combination of stretching, movement and pressure. Since you remain clothed during a Thai massage, you are sometimes given a traditional robe to put on. Be prepared for deep relaxation!

Discover the underwater world: The 10 best activities in Thailand

Discover Thailand underwater as well, as there are a variety of colorful fish, sea creatures and corals to see. Grab a snorkel and go on an adventure: yellow, blue, red and rainbow-colored fish, turtles and various forms of corals and plants can be seen in Thailand's warm sea. You may also be lucky enough to encounter a whale shark. Always be respectful of the underwater world, never touch coral and don't scare off the rest of the sea life. 

Marvel at bioluminescence: The 10 best activities in Thailand

Have you ever heard of it? 

Bioluminescence is the phenomenon in which living things glow in cool light. In addition to fireflies, this effect also exists in unicellular algae in the ocean. These react to any external disturbance with bursts of light that last only a few seconds. The light of the small unicellular organisms serves for their own protection. By illuminating approaching enemies, they attract their enemies. It is up to you whether you discover the phenomenon on a guided tour with a guide or whether you prefer to keep your eyes open yourself during a night walk. It is best to find out which beaches are suitable to discover this phenomenon. It is really a magical experience to swim or walk in luminous water.

Tip: Make sure to stay away from external light and go exploring at new moon.  

Exploring temples: The 10 best activities in Thailand

The Thai population predominantly follows Buddhism. Therefore, there are many great temples to see throughout the country, which are decorated in every detail. It is important to know that in order to enter a temple, you have to follow some rules. These include: Keeping your upper arms and cleavage covered, covering your legs at least up to your knees, and taking off your shoes. Most temples also have a sarong to borrow, a cloth that you knot around your body to become a skirt. The temples are really very impressive and it is definitely worth a trip. Highly recommended are: Wat Rong Khun (Chiang Rai), Wat Arun (Bangkok), Wat Pho (Bangkok), Wat Tham Suea (Krabi).

Emerald & Blues Pools: The 10 best activities in Thailand

If you want to take a break from the beaches, we recommend exploring the Mineral Pools. There, a wooden path leads you through the Thai jungle to various small springs. Crystal clear water awaits you, shimmering in all shades of blue, in one of which it is even allowed to go swimming. Don't forget to pack your swimsuit, because you don't want to miss cooling off in the beautiful water after the trek through the jungle.

Celebrating the New Year: The 10 best activities in Thailand

If you are in Thailand over April 13, you can celebrate Songkran, the Thai New Year. Traditionally, families sacrifice rice, fruit and other food in the temples. In addition, the Buddha statues there are doused with water to "bathe" them. In many cities, very popular in Chiang Mai, Buddha statues are paraded through the city, giving believers the opportunity to douse the statues with water as well. Over the years, the tradition has developed where participants in the procession and spectators also douse each other with water, people dance to music and celebrate on the side of the road.

An unforgettable trip to Thailand

You like these activities and it means for you: Off to Thailand?!

Then also take a look at our Thailand trip where we offer exclusive experiences and guarantee you an unforgettable stay in Thailand.

For more travel inspiration, check out our Instagram and Pinterest Profile over.