Advertorial Top 5 places to visit in Thailand this holiday season

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Are you a foreign expat, traveler, or retiree looking for places to visit in Thailand this holiday season? If yes, then we may have what you are looking for! The excitement of Christmas combined with the cooler climate and New Year celebrations makes this time of the year truly magical. 

 

So if you are in search of some memorable places to visit, this article from our friends at Pacific Prime Thailand presents the top 5 places to visit in Thailand this holiday season. Read on to discover more about them!

 

1. Mae Hong Son

This province, located in the north of Thailand, is a must-visit for anyone this holiday season. Nestled next to the Myanmar border, Mae Hong Son is surrounded by high, majestic mountains that overflow with mists in the early morning and resemble a sea of clouds. You’ll surely appreciate the fresh mountain air and dew, which is a good break from major cities like Bangkok. Plus, the cold chilly conditions can bring back memories of home for those who are from abroad.

 

Make a trip to the viewpoints

To glimpse the morning mist, head to one of the many viewpoints dotted across the region like in Pai district. For starters, Yun Lai's viewpoint is considered a great sunrise viewpoint in Pai with sweeping valley views. You may want to stay somewhere close so you can get up before dawn and head over to see the mist as the sun rises. Several hotels and resorts are located in the center of Pai for expats and travelers with families. However, camping grounds are also available for adventurous and nature-loving travelers. Just make sure you pack a warm winter jacket and prepare hot beverages for the morning sip.

 

Tip: For those who suffer from motion sickness, be aware of the long, winding roads. Some routes can be pretty daunting, and travelers may want to consider hiring a local driver who has experience in getting around the province. Also, get peace of mind with travel or health insurance coverage. Consider adding emergency medical evacuation in case the unthinkable happens!

 

Other places to visit near Mae Hong Son this holiday season

• Mae Sariang for a trek to the local hill tribes
• Padong Longneck Village to sample life in the hills
• Muang Pang Hot Springs for a nice, warm soak

 

2. Phuket

Phuket, an island and province, is a brilliant stopover for those looking to visit some of the world’s most famous tropical islands like Koh Similan and Koh Phi Phi. Expats and tourists will feel at home, too, as the province is known for its international vibe. And with the monsoon season already over, trips across the Andaman sea will be less choppy and calmer.

 

Visit Phuket Old Town

Did you know that Phuket Town, the capital of the province of Phuket, is considered an attraction itself? Talad Tai Rot or Chao Fah Market is where you will find the famous Phuket weekend market. But if you fancy a classic walking street experience, then Phuket Town has that too! Held every Sunday in the heart of Phuket Old Town on Thalang Road, This roughly 350-meter-long colorful and bustling commercial street has so much to offer, including souvenir gifts, local delicacies, and cozy eating spots. 

 

Discover the views across Phuket

Similar to the mountain ranges of Mae Hong Son, you can also get a full viewing of the sunrise across many of Phuket's stunning viewpoints. Travel to Black Rock Viewpoint for a spectacular view of south Phuket; Karon Viewpoint for picturesque scenes of Kata Yai and Karon beaches; and Laem Singh Viewpoint for its signature sunset moment. Perfect for expat couples, retirees, and travelers alike!

 

Other places to visit near Phuket this holiday season

• Ao Phang Nga National Park for its rich marine and floral life
• Krabi for its mangrove forests and prominent climbing spots
• Koh Yao and Yao Noi for their pristine beaches and diving sites

 

Tip: If you are new to Phuket island, it is worth knowing how to get around before you arrive. Luckily, the province has a well-established transport system consisting of boats, ferries, motorbikes and car rental companies, taxis, buses, Tuk Tuks, etc. If you are staying at a hotel or resort, you’re encouraged to seek the latest travel arrangements from staff. They can offer reliable travel advice for your visit.     

 

3. Pattaya

Are you looking for a place to celebrate the arrival of the new year? A popular place for expats, retirees, and travelers is Pattaya. The beach resort on the Gulf of Thailand is just 150 km southeast of Bangkok, making a trip from the capital appealing for many. 

 

Enjoy international cuisine in Pattaya

The beach resort is family-friendly and has an international vibe, similar to Phuket. Food-wise, Pattaya has a wide selection of restaurants serving some of Thailand's freshest seafood. Due to the high number of resident expat foreigners in Pattaya, you’ll find eateries serving authentic French, Italian, Swiss, German, Scandinavian, Indian, Arabic, Japanese, Chinese cuisine, etc. Knowing this, you won’t have a problem finding food to eat in Pattaya!

 

Test the waters or head to Koh Lan

Water sports are a big draw for thousands of visitors. Care to windsurf, water ski, swim, sunbathe, snorkel, and sail? Pattaya has it all! A one-day trip to Koh Lan is also worth considering. Once on the island, minibus drivers are available to drive you and your loved ones around to sample the idyllic scenes, cafes, and quiet spots across the island. 

 

For solo travelers, you can rent a scooter to explore the hidden gems located around the island. If you decide to stay overnight, you might spot a few locals fishing for squid when conditions allow. Join in if fishing is your thing! 

 

Note: The sun in Pattaya, like everywhere across the Land of Smiles, is very strong. If you are heading to the beach, make sure to apply sunscreen liberally to protect your skin and prevent sunburn. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially when out doing one of the many water sports.

 

Other places to visit near Pattaya this holiday season

• The Sanctuary of Truth, which is a temple carved out of wood
• Nong Nooch, a 500-acre tropical botanical garden
• Ramayana Water Park, one of the biggest water theme parks in the country

 

4. Ubon Ratchathani

Ubon Ratchathani, a province bordering Laos and Cambodia, has many historical places to visit, such as Pha Taem National Park, which is famous nationwide for its prehistoric rock paintings. So if you are looking for a cultural experience this holiday season, Ubon Ratchathani is a great choice! But if shopping is on your mind, the province is well-known for its locally made souvenirs and gifts.  

 

Buy your Christmas gifts for friends and family

During your visit, why not pick up some popular souvenirs, including hand-woven cotton cloths, silk cloths, folk style pattern pillows, brasswares, etc. When the chance arises, ask the locals for more details about how they are made so you can tell a great story back home. Not only are you buying directly from the locals, but you will also be supporting the local economy. A win-win for all!
 

Tip: Locals in this part of Thailand will speak a Northeastern Thai dialect (Esarn), which may be hard to follow and fully understand. So before traveling to Ubon Ratchathani, make sure to ask a local guide or check online for ways to speak the local dialect. Don’t worry if you struggle. The locals will do their best to understand but appreciate your efforts even more!

 

Other places to visit near Ubon Ratchathani

• Sam Pan Boak or the Grand Canyon of Thailand, 
• Wat Tham Khuha Sawan for its large white chapel and Mekong river viewpoint 
• Hat Wat Tai to enjoy a meal along the river and watch the sunset 

 

5. Bangkok

Last but not least on the list is Bangkok, the most popular city to visit in Thailand. Expats and visitors traveling to Thailand will most likely choose the capital as their first stop. Not only is it an international hub for travelers in the region, but the location is ideal for those looking to do some incredible bargain hunting and sightseeing across the city. 

 

Explore Bangkok’s temples to gain peace and tranquillity 

Bangkok has a rich history stretching back several centuries and is well known to the international community. Expats, retirees, and travelers should, at least, visit the cities immaculate historical temples such as:

 

• Wat Phra Sri Rattanasamaram (Phra Kaew)
• Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimon Mangalaram (Wat Pho)
• Wat Arun Ratchawararam
• Wat Phra Bor Banphot (Golden mountain)
• Wat Benchamabophit

 

Shopping for holiday season gifts at the malls

Once you have had your fill of temples, there’s also the fantastic shopping experience in Bangkok. The capital is home to some of the largest shopping malls like CentralWorld, Emquartier, Siam Paragon, Icon Siam, and more. You’ll find global brands and luxury goods in these places too. 

 

During the holiday season, many will be decorated for Christmas. CentalWorld and Siam Paragon, and Emquartier, to mention a few, are already showcasing Christmas trees, decorations, and sparkling lights. There are also numerous Christmas markets to check out in the capital too.

 

Local shopping experience

If you are looking for a local experience, head to places like Chatuchak Weekend Market, Sampeng Market, Yaowarat, Phahurat Night Market, and Talad Rod Fai Train Night Market. You’ll come across many wonderful gifts from clothing and accessories to homeware and electronic goods.

 

Tip: When shopping in malls, consider asking for a tax refund if you are a foreign traveler (tourist) to Thailand. Stores participating in this scheme will display a 'VAT Refund For Tourists' sign. If unsure, speak to a staff member at the store for more information and instructions. Nothing beats saving while you shop.

 

Other places to visit near Bangkok this holiday season

• Lopburi for its sunflower fields located in Phatthana Nikhom
• Khao Yai National Park, where temperatures can hover around 10 degrees Celsius or less
• Wang Nam Khiao for some of the purest air in Thailand, with temperatures dropping to 10 degrees Celsius at night

 

Have any specific questions about travel or health insurance? As a leading employee benefits specialist and insurance broker with over two decades of industry experience, Pacific Prime Thailand is here to help. Contact Pacific Prime Thailand for 100% impartial insurance advice and a personalized plan comparison today!