Prior to COVID-19, Thailand was one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. The country has so much to offer from the palaces and temples of Bangkok to the world-class beaches of Phuket, the Land of Smiles has something to offer everyone. However, it is easy to forget that expats are living in Thailand, and they have all this on their doorsteps, but often they never get the opportunity to enjoy it.
You should always take every chance to travel around the Kingdom, but if you are one the fortunate ones to be living here, you must have adequate expat health insurance in Thailand. If you feel it is time to get out and see some more, here are some of our suggestions about places that you could visit, many of which are away from the main tourist areas. All of these places allow you to see some that are unique and unavailable else in the world.
- Kanchanaburi
Kanchanaburi is around three hours to the west of Bangkok and is perhaps best known for the notorious Death Railway. The railway was built by Allied Prisoners of War during the second-world and linked Thailand with Burma. The POWs faced the brutality of the Japanese army with more than 12,000 killed during its construction. The railway is incredibly scenic, but at the same time, places such as Hellfire Pass are frighteningly eerie.
There are many interesting sites to visit, such as the famous bridge over the River Kwai, Museums and war cemeteries. However, the province also has some amazing waterfalls, superb scenery and temples for those who prefer something about more relaxing than a history lesson. It is worth acknowledging that this is a popular tourist attraction with hundreds of thousands of visitors from Thailand and across the globe visiting each year.
- Sam Phan Bok (3,000 Holes)
Often referred to as the Grand Canyon of Thailand, Sam Phan Bok is a spectacular volcanic rock formation on the Mekong River in Ubon Ratchathani province. You can roam around the area free of charge and experience the 3,000 holes that make the landscape appear mountainous. It is something that is best observed during the rainy season, although it does look superb throughout the year.
Sam Phan Bok is a highly photogenic place which often goes overlooked by western tourists and expatriates. If you are looking to go somewhere different away from the madding crowds, then this could be the perfect place for you.
- Sra Nam Pud (Blue Maze Canyon)
If you find tranquil clear blue waters enchanting, then Sra Nam Pud in Krabi is a must-see destination. Surrounded by dense forest, you will find a stunning lagoon that is surprisingly unknown about by many visiting the island. It will give you a perfect break from the beaches as well as an opportunity to take some photos to remind you of your visit.
It is a place that is only open from November to April from 10am until 3pm. The sun reflecting off the lagoon is a memorable site, but there is very little protection from the UV, so it is advisable to take a hat and plenty of water. It is just another reason why you should have expat health insurance in Thailand.
- Tham Phra Waterfall
There are some spectacular waterfalls in Thailand, but arguably Tham Phra is one of the most impressive and least visited. It can be found in Bueng Kan in northeast Thailand and is surrounded by stunning jungle. The waterfall itself falls on several large rocks and is impressive around the rainy season although it is advisable to wear non-slip shoes. The waterfall is stunning, and the cool waters are perfect for taking a dip.
Tham Phra is best reached by boat and is an ideal place to get away from everything, especially if you work or live in a city such as Bangkok or Chiang Mai.
- Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat Phrachomklao Rachanusorn
You won’t need us to tell you that Thailand has literally thousands of temples although in many cases, they all look the same. Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat Phrachomklao Rachanusorn offers something different as it is a series of floating pagodas that sit on the top of the mountains. The temples were carried there by monks and around 50 willing workers.
It is in Lampang province and has been a Buddhist site for over two millennia. If you go to the top of the peaks, you will be rewarded with some magnificent vistas which are as good as anywhere else in Thailand.
- Wat Rong Khun (White Temple)
The White Temple is not a temple per se even those its appearance would suggest that it is. The temple is white to represent the purity of Buddha, and its architecture is said to represent karma, life, heaven and hell. It is a popular destination for Thais and can be found in Chiang Rai province in the north of Thailand. It is a very spiritual place as well as being picture perfect and appearing in many people’s holiday snaps.
