Thailand
Thailand is a destination that lures travelers from all corners of the globe, but for those under 30, it’s a true paradise. Whether you’re seeking adventure, culture, or some much-needed relaxation, this Southeast Asian gem offers something for everyone. If you’re thinking about embarking on an unforgettable Thailand trip, here’s a guide to make the most of your journey through this vibrant, diverse country.
Bangkok: The Pulse of Thailand
Start your adventure in Bangkok, a city where tradition and modernity collide. From ancient temples to buzzing night markets, Bangkok is a sensory overload in the best way possible. For a cultural fix, visit the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. The intricate architecture and fascinating history are simply breathtaking.
For a more modern vibe, explore the shopping malls, rooftop bars, and lively streets of Sukhumvit and Khao San Road. Here, you’ll find an eclectic mix of street food stalls, stylish cafes, and buzzing nightlife. If you’re into food, the street food in Bangkok is one of the best in the world. Try pad Thai, mango sticky rice, and don’t miss out on the famous Thai iced tea.
Ayutthaya: A Day Trip Back in Time
A short drive north from Bangkok will take you to the ancient city of Ayutthaya, once the capital of the Kingdom of Siam. The UNESCO World Heritage site is home to awe-inspiring ruins, including towering temples and massive Buddha statues. It’s a perfect spot for history lovers and photographers alike. Rent a bike to explore the historical park, where you’ll encounter mesmerizing sights like Wat Chaiwatthanaram and Wat Mahathat.
Chiang Mai: The Cultural Heart of Thailand
Head north to Chiang Mai, where the air is cooler, the atmosphere is laid-back, and the culture runs deep. Chiang Mai is home to more than 300 temples, including the iconic Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, perched on a mountain overlooking the city. Don’t miss the famous Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, where you can shop for local handicrafts and enjoy delicious local dishes like khao soi (a curry noodle soup).
For the adventurous spirit, Chiang Mai is a hub for trekking and outdoor activities. Go on a jungle trek to visit remote villages, or enjoy an ethical elephant experience, where you can learn about these majestic creatures in a responsible way.
One of the most unforgettable experiences from my time in Chiang Mai was visiting an ethical elephant sanctuary nestled in the lush hills outside the city. Unlike tourist-driven elephant camps, this sanctuary focuses on education, conservation, and building genuine connections with these incredible animals. We spent the day learning about the elephants’ histories and daily routines, as well as the vital role of their caretakers, known as mahouts. Hearing how each elephant was rescued from hard labor or neglect—and now thrives in a more natural environment—was both humbling and inspiring
We had the chance to feed them by hand (spoiler: bananas and sugarcane are a hit), walk beside them through the forest, and even help give them a mud bath, followed by a splash-filled rinse in the river. It wasn’t just fun—it was meaningful. The sanctuary emphasized responsible interaction and showed us how tourism can support animal welfare when done right.
As part of the visit, we even got to make paper out of—believe it or not—elephant poop. It sounds strange, but it’s part of the sanctuary’s eco-friendly efforts to reduce waste and support sustainable practices. The process was surprisingly fascinating (and not nearly as gross as it sounds), turning something you’d never think twice about into beautifully textured, usable paper. It was a hands-on reminder that every part of the sanctuary’s mission is rooted in respect for the environment and the animals—and it gave us a pretty memorable souvenir to take home.
If you’re heading to Chiang Mai, I can’t recommend this kind of experience enough—it completely changed the way I view elephant tourism, and it left me with a deeper respect for both the animals and the people who care for them.
Phuket and Krabi: Island Paradise
No Thailand trip is complete without experiencing its stunning islands, the beaches of Phuket and Krabi are the ultimate destinations for sun, sea, and adventure. Phuket offers vibrant nightlife with beach clubs, bars, and parties that last until sunrise. Patong Beach is the most famous, but there are quieter spots like Kata and Karon Beach for those seeking some solitude.
Just off the coast of Krabi, you’ll find some of Thailand’s most beautiful islands. Explore the stunning Phi Phi Islands or enjoy the calm waters of Railay Beach, famous for its dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear water. If you’re feeling adventurous, go rock climbing at Railay or try kayaking through the limestone caves.
Rainy Days in Paradise: Our Unexpected Rilay Beach Experience
Rilay Beach in Thailand is supposed to be one of those postcard-perfect stops—turquoise water, towering limestone cliffs, and white sand that stretches out under a cloudless sky. What we got instead was a few days of full-blown monsoons. Sheets of rain and a constant feeling of being lightly damp, even indoors.
But weirdly enough, it ended up being one of the most memorable parts of the trip. We watched the storm clouds roll in over the cliffs, drank way too much, and got pretty good at card games we hadn’t played in years. When the rain would break for even ten minutes, we’d sprint outside just to feel the ocean breeze before the next wave hit. The longtail boats were docked, the trails were flooded, and the “island vibe” turned into more of a “waterlogged bungalow survival mode”.
Rilay Beach didn’t give us the beach vacation we expected, but it gave us a story we’ll be telling forever.
