Bangkok and Phuket: The 2 Must-See Destinations of Thailand

Thailand is one of the most visited countries in Southeast Asia, especially when it comes to the top destinations of Bangkok and Phuket. Not only sought for its pristine beaches, world-famous cuisine and amiable citizens, the Kingdom offers a beautiful diversity of picturesque landscapes and rich culture for visitors of all budgets.

When visiting Thailand, seeing a single city is not enough. You have not seen Thailand unless you’ve seen it's 2 must-see destinations, Bangkok and Phuket.

Bangkok Place

Bangkok is the capital of Thailand, and is home to the most imposing and stunning palace in the Kingdom: The Grande Palace. If you are to see at least one spot in Bangkok, go for this one. It is a stunning cultural exhibit that offers a good glimpse of the Thai people’s culture: reverence to their king, intricate craftsmanship and devotion to Buddha and his teachings.

Within the palace grounds is the impressive Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the shrine of Phrae Kaew Morakot – known to be the most revered Buddha image in Thailand intricately carved from one big block of jade. Just outside the premises of the palace is Wat Pho temple where the famous reclining Buddha can be found.

Just across the Chao Phraya River is another imposing temple, Wat Arun also known as the Temple of the Dawn, best known for its high Khmer-style tower.

Chinatown, Thonburi and Banglamphu are other areas in the city that offers more temples, parks, museums and zoos. Do not miss shopping in Bangkok’s famous markets such as Chatuchak – the biggest weekend market in the whole of Thailand, Patpong night market and Pratunam market for the cheapest merchandise such as clothes, shoes, trinkets and native crafts. Bangkok’s wide selections of malls also offer the best bargains from rip-offs to authentic luxury items.

Islands Phuket

Life is indeed a beach in Phuket. The island itself offers a wide variety of beautiful beaches. There’s a small beach in the cove of Laem Singh, a long stretch of fine sand in busy Patong and family friendly Kata and Karon, romance inducing Surin coast and the enchanting Rawai shores. Wherever you are located, you are bound to find your perfect spot in a nearby beach plus a friendly masseur to complete your bliss.

Exploring nearby paradise locations is also a highly recommended option. Visit the small but charming town of Phang-nga. Take a boat ride along its rich and lush mangrove-lined beach to the famous James Bond Island and floating village of Pannyi while you marvel at the several limestone cliffs scattered along the way.

Or, you can go to the opposite side of the town and take a boat to the world renowned Similan Islands where you can see the whitest sands, the most picturesque of beaches and the richest, most diverse marine life.

Don’t forget to visit another famous beach in nearby town of Krabi - the Phi Phi Islands - where the beautiful movie “The Beach” starring Leonardo di Caprio was partly shot. These beaches are beyond words. I can use exquisite, enchanting, gorgeous and still fall short at the description of their splendor. You just have to see them for yourself.