Popularly known for its cultural heritage, stunningly beautiful beaches and islands, and rich cuisine, Thailand is considered one of the top tourist destinations in Southeast Asia. Oddly, there is a less popular way for tourists to experience Thailand at its best. And that is, to live like a local. Herewith are eight ways to guide you on your trip.
- Ride a Tuk-Tuk.
“Tuk-Tuk” is a public transportation in Thailand that can take you to places around the city. Locals usually ride tuk-tuks that careen through congested traffic.
- Buy food from a floating market.
Damnoen Saduak in Ratchaburi is the most famous of all the floating markets in the country. Situated southwest of Bangkok, this colorful market can offer you the best bargain of the country’s local produce.
- Eat street food.
A little detour from the well-paved roads goes a long way. Get yourself to a street stall and you surely won’t regret it. Thailand’s specialty is often found on the streets.
- Take a long boat ride.
Although a tad touristy, you may experience a piece of Thailand’s history through a boat ride on the Chao Phraya River. You will see lots of decaying shacks and some of their temples while on the ride.
- Play with elephants.
Elephants are revered animals in Thailand. Instead of riding the elephants, try swimming with them at an elephant rescue camp instead. I’d recommend Hug Elephants Sanctuary in Chiang Mai.
- Shop from a night market.
Talk about booths and lights, shirts, scarves, and a variety of good finds. Chiang Mai’s Night Market has everything you want and all that you need from a market.
- Live at hill tribe villages.
Spend a day or a few nights with a local family to learn and experience the way of life of some local tribes. The Akha, Lisu, Hmong, and Karen tribes are the most common and they are found across the north of Thailand.
- Pray.
The Grand Palace, a temple complex in Bangkok is a place where most locals and tourists pray. Be sure to take off your shoes, walk in, sit, and keep the soles of your feet away from the Buddha as a sign of reverence.
Surely, there is more to Thailand than its exceptional royal palaces, ancient ruins, temples displaying figures of Buddha, and modernized cityscapes. Use this as a guide in drawing up your itinerary for your well-deserved authentic Thailand experience.
