One of the best things about travelling to Thailand to teach English is the actual travelling to Thailand. When you are not busy teaching, all the exotic tourist destinations are available to you to visit at your leisure. As one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations, there is a lot to see in Thailand and it would be a shame to miss out on the gorgeous jungles and endless coastline the island nation has to offer.
The following are just some of the must-see places to check out on your days off;
- Koh Phi Phi
Travel in Thailand would be incomplete without a bit of island hopping. The first island we recommend you visit is Koh Phi Phi. This is the island in the movie “The Beach” but that not the only reason you should visit. It is the perfect place for various marine-related activities including kayaking, scuba diving and snorkeling. But you will not be able to stay the night since there is not much tourist accommodation on the island to speak of.
- Khao San Road in Bangkok
You may also hear it referred to as Khao San Streets, an area in downtown Bangkok where nearly all backpackers and tourists converge. This is the best place to meet new people from different countries as well as endless opportunities to sample the local food, buy the best and cheapest souvenirs and even get a Thai massage.
- The Grand Palace
If old-timey buildings are more to your liking, you may want to check out the Grand Palace. We guarantee that you have never seen a castle quite like it. Located, on the banks of the Chao Phraya River and has been the official residence of the Kings of Siam/Thailand since 1782. Part of the appeal of the Grand Palace is that it is not just one building but numerous structures, pavilions and halls, neatly arranged around open lawns and gardens.
- A Thai Massage Parlor
You haven’t been to Thailand until you have seen the inside of a Thai massage parlor and hopefully gotten one of these world famous massages.
- A Floating Market
One of the best floating markets to visit is the Damnoen Saduak. But most floating markets will provide the experience of the hustle and bustle of a market with the exotic energy of a seaport. Not to mention, it is still the best place to stock up on fresh fruits and vegetables.
- The White Temple- Muse Wat Rong Khun
This is a temple unlike anything you will see anywhere else. The building was designed by a lone Thai artist known as Chalermchai Kositpipat. For safety reasons, you may not be able to visit the inside of the temple, but it is still a sight to behold.
- Visit a National Park
Thailand has 127 national parks offering you a great way to familiarize yourself with the nation’s flora and fauna. Khao Yai National park is particularly great for hiking and wildlife and you can catch a glimpse of the Asian elephant at Kui Buri National Park. If you want to see the highest mountain in Thailand, Doi Inthanon National park is the best place to visit.
- The Chiang Mai Night Bazaar
This night bazaar doesn’t just give you the best opportunity to purchase some adorable souvenirs for your family, but also a great place to meet people. You can also sample some of the best Thai street food including grilled meats, sweet egg pancakes, fried noodles and even papaya salad.