From ancient culture and mystic temples to lush landscapes and sugary sand beaches, Thailand offers a little something for everyone, making it a popular spot for a vacation.  The neighboring countries of Myanmar, Malaysia, Laos, and Cambodia have all had some influence upon Thailand and its people, but the Land of Smiles remains largely unspoiled by European colonialism and has preserved its own distinct culture.

The country is larger than most people realize and you likely won’t see it all in one visit – unless that one visit is a long one.  To plan your visit, think of the Thailand as one country with five different regions, each region offering some a little different, a little special.  So, let’s discover Thailand:

The North is the heart of Thailand’s historic heritage, and the main destination in this part of the country is Chiang Mai.  Chiang Mai is situated on the Ping River, and you can arrive here by an internal flight or by train.  You’ll find nearly 300 temples, far too many to see in one trip, but put Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep on your to-see list.  In addition to the impressive site, you’ll get a glimpse of the surround area from its elevation.  Some other suggestions on what to see and do in Chiang Mai include:

• Visit Chiang Rai, a bit more laid back than Chiang Mai, and a good home base for exploring the Golden Triange (the intersections of Myanmar, Laos, and Thailand on the Mekong River).  Explore the area by boat, whether at a lazy pace or whitewater rafting on the Mae Kok River.
• Go horseback riding or trekking at Doi Mae Salong.
• Get a glimpse of Thailand’s ancient history at Sukhothai Historical Park, home to temple ruins dating back to the 13th century.  While you’re there, check out Sri Satchanalai, set back in the hillside, and the preserved elephant temple.
• If you visit during November you can enjoy the Loi Krathong Festival in Sukhothai.  The rivers will be aglow with floating flowers, incense, and candles in tribute to Thailand water goddess.
• For a more immersive vacation, you can trek into the hills for a chance to understand the country’s hill tribes and culture.

The Northeast is predominantly an agricultural area; much of the country’s rice and other crops are grown here.  The history of this region dates back at least 5,000 years and you’ll see ruins of Khmer Hindu and Buddhist temples.  This area may be a bit more of a culture shock for vacationers, but many consider this the area to visit for a look at “authentic” Thailand.  Some suggestions on things to do and see:

• Visit the ruins of Muang Tam, a 10th century towered site, located at the foot of Phanom Rung.
• Discover the archaeology of Ban Chiang, a heritage site with artifacts dating back 5,000 years.
• Look at the cave paintings of Ban Pheu, along with other interesting geological formations.
• Enjoy the wildlife of Khao Yai National Park with its mix of forests, rainforests, and grasslands.  You can see elephants, Asiatic black bears, Malaysian sun ears, tigers, leopards, barking deer, and over 300 species of birds.

The Central region is home to Bangkok, and for most travelers, this is the first glimpse of Thailand that you’ll see.  It’s a frenetic blend of luxury hotels and spas, rushing business people, crowded streets, noisy nightlife, and simple market stalls.  You’ll find top notch museums in the city, including the National Museum, the National Gallery of Fine Arts, and the Royal Barge Museum.  Bangkok will give you a headache to be sure, but you need to see it and experience it.  And then, venture out a bit for some of the other sights the central region has to offer:

• Visit the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Si Sanphet, and Wat Mahathat in Ayutthaya (you can get there by train, boat, or car).  This was once the capital city, when the country was known as Siam, and you can visit the park and aquarium here.
• Learn about Buddhism in Saraburi’s Phra Buddha Bat Woramahavihan Temple.  This is one of the most sacred spots for Thai Buddhists as it is believed that the site contains the Buddha’s Footprint.
• In Nakhon Pathom (about 30 minutes from Bangkok)is the Phra Pahtom Chedi.  At 380 feet, this is the world’s tallest Buddhist Monument.    This is also home to the famous Floating Market, but plan to visit early as it is typically empty by 8 a.m.
• Have a Hollywood moment at Kanchanaburi, the site that the movie The Bridge on the River Kwai was based.  This is also a good spot for a float trip down the river on bamboo rafts.
• Take advantage of photo opportunities at the Khao Luang Caves’ caverns and Buddha images.
• Beach it at Hua Hin, also the site of another royal palace.  This is Thailand’s oldest beach resort, and offers what you’d expect – luxury hotels, golf courses, water and outdoor activities, and more.

The East region is sort of the “Riviera” of Thailand, offering a busy resort community for guests willing to pay for it.  Pattaya is the prime spot, and was once the location for American GIs to head for R&R during the Vietnam War, and is full of the usual water activities, high end restaurants and clubs, and “happening” kind of beaches.  If you can pull yourself away from the draw of those activities, you’ll also find:

• Underwater World Pattaya gives you a look beneath the sea, viewed from a clear acrylic tunnel that visitors walk through.
• Find culture in the ancient remains and artifacts of Mini Siam the Sanctuary of Truth.
• Visit the Pattaya Elephant Village, a fun stop for families, and enjoy an opportunity to get close to the elephants.  (NOTE:  I leave it to you to decide if a visit to the elephant village squares with your personal belief system.)
• Slow things down a bit with a visit to Ko Chang, one of Thailand’s many islands, offering beaches that are just as upscale but a little quieter.
• Slow things down ever more with a visit to Namtok Khlong Chao on the island of Ko Kut.  You can swim in a jungle pool created by a waterfall.  This is the photo op that you see in movies – and it really does exist.

The South is where you’ll find the major beach resort towns, including Phuket and Samui, their luxury drawing plane loads of visitors each year. Phuket is the largest of Thailand’s islands, and has its own international airport.  It’s a bit of lifestyles of the rich and famous, with yachts, luxury spas, and nightlife – with prices to match.  There’s still plenty to see and do, if you ever leave the beach, but it’s all tailored for the international visitor:

• Go diving in Ko Tao on the Gulf of Thailand.  Or try Similan Islands Marine National Park off the Andaman coast.  This is some of the top diving in the world.
• Catch a view from the Phi Phi islands with their vertical cliffs that face the sea.
• Rock Climbing is popular on the limestone cliffs of Tham Phranang and Rai Le beaches.
• Sail among the many islands, large and small, enjoying time on the water.

Thailand is easily accessible from the United States, although it’s a time commitment – it’s a great time to cash in those miles or spring for an upgrade.  With a rich ancient history surviving the upscale modernization, you should be able to find a Thailand vacation that’s just right for you.

Here’s what else you need to know about visiting Thailand:

• International Airport:  Bangkok International Airport (also called Suvarnabhumi Airport); airport code BKK.  This is likely the airport you’ll be using for those cheap flights to Bangkok.
• Entry Requirements:  US citizens staying fewer than 30 days to not need a visa, but must have a passport valid for six months and proof of a return ticket.
• Language:  Thai is the official language, although English is generally understood.  Most road signs are also posted in both Thai and English.
• Electricity:  220 volts AC.  Be sure to bring an adapter kit.
• Money:  Baht, divided into 100 satangs, is the Thai currency.  The current exchange rate is currently $1 = 30 baht.
• Time:  12 hours ahead of the U.S. Eastern Standard Time (7 hours ahead of GMT).

Photo credits: Alter via wikimedia (Bangkok at night); Iriskh via flickr (park); edwin.11 via flickr (Phuket beach)

This is a sponsored post.

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When I think of traveling to Singapore, I think of the city life, the food, and a chance to discover so much different than my own.  But it turns out there’s another side to Singapore, one that I had no idea existed – the island resort of Sentosa.  The translation of Sentosa means peace and tranquility, and while you may find that on the island’s beaches and gardens, much of the action centers around the island’s other activities, ranging from golf to clubs to Universal Studios Singapore and other attractions.  It’s like the whole island is one giant theme park, and a recently launched Sentosa Play Pass is trying to help you enjoy as much as you can, as economically as you can.

The one-day one-ticket system covers 13 attractions offering a variety of activities for all interest levels, and also allows holders to skip the line ups.  Saving money and time is always a great combination, and for even greater savings you can update the pass to add three more attractions.

Not sure what there is to do?  Take a look at this list and see the choices you can make:

• Segway – An island adventure of a fun tour on a Segway is a great way to start the day.  It’s fun and easy to learn.
• Bi-Pedal bicycle – 1 hour rental to get a little look around.
• The Merlion – A historical attraction, this structure has the head of a lion and the body of a mermaid, and a walk to the top will give you an amazing view.
• Butterfly Park & Insect Kingdom – Over 15,000 butterflies are in this outdoor conservatory, and they fly freely, so keep a close eye out.  Don’t worry though, the dangerous insects on display are in an enclosed area.
• Images of Singapore – Interactive displays and wax mannequins showcase the various ethnic groups of Singapore, Chinese, Malay and Indian.  You’ll get a bit of history along with a healthy dose of culture as you learn about the various festivals, holidays, and rites of life.
• Luge & Skyride – With a course for the beginner as well as the advanced rider, it’s a race to the bottom as riders see how fast they can manage their 3-wheeled cart without hitting the brakes.  If the Luge is a little too much action for you, you can opt for unlimited trips on the Skyride.
• Flying Trapeze – Fly like fox (a flying fox, that is) while bouncing on a trapeze.
• Fort Siloso – This historical attraction displays the history and evolution of Sentosa Island, from the era of World War II up to its modern day status and a recreation and tourism area.
• Tiger Sky Tower – A free standing observation tower that, on a clear day, will provide a view of parts of Malaysia and Indonesia.  The ride to the top is in a glass enclosed cabin, providing a view all the way to the top.
• Cineblast – A cinema ride that features a wide screen and a log ride.
• DESPERADOS – A virtual attractions featuring a shoot out on horseback.
• Nature Discovery – Flora, fauna and more.
• 4D Magix – A movie experience with seats that move.

There’s plenty more to do and see on the island, whether you opt for additional attractions, the beaches, to other theme parks.  It’s just a matter of choosing the Singapore escape that best suits your time, interests, and preferences.

The Sentosa Play Pass is available with 3 options:  The Day Play Pass is valid from 9 am-7 pm, with prices starting at $47.90 for kids and $63.90 for adults, and covers admission to 13 attractions.  The Noon Play Pass is valid from 2:30-7 pm, with prices starting at $31.90 for kids and $37.90 for adults, and covers admission to 4 attractions.  The Premium Play Pass is valid from 9 am-7 pm,with prices starting at $65.90, and covers a choice of three additional action-filled attractions (Segway eco-tour, Wave House Flow Rider, Heritage Island Exlorer, Cable Car ride, ClimbMax zip adventure, or MegaZip adventure park).

Sentosa might not be the reason you travel to Singapore, but it’s a wonderful day break once you’re there.

Photo credit:  Courtesy of Sentosa Play Pass

NOTE:  This post was sponsored by Sentosa Play Pass.

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If you are tired of cold and gloomy weather, maybe it is time to stop daydreaming about scuba diving, sandy beaches, palm trees and warm sunshine, and do something about it.   You can start with making plans to visit some place exotic like Bali.  Bali beckons travelers from around the world each year, with its unbelievable warm breezes and beautiful scenery.  Imagine yourself on a luxury holidays in Bali, enjoying the crystal clear water and beautiful warm sandy beaches with their exquisite hotels. And don’t forget those relaxing spa treatments that the island is famous for.

When planning your holiday, keep in mind the best time to visit is between April and October.  During this period, there will be less rainfall and humidity, and your practically guaranteed to have days filled with warm breezes and sunshine.

No matter how beautiful the beaches are, at some point you’re going to be ready to see or experience a little something more.  When you’re ready to do that, take a visit to Ubud.  Located in the heart of Bali, for over a century Ubud has been the center for music, dance and art. Ubud is also considered “royal town” and princes who bear the title “Tjokorda” or “Agung” still reside in palaces where their forefathers once lived. There are several palaces in Ubud, most of them found in a cluster around the main cross-roads near the Bud market. Several other “royal” towns may be found in the Ubud area, each with their own palaces.

If you are thinking about a visit to Bali in March or April, you may want to coincide your visit with Nyepi, a Balinese day of silence that precedes the beginning of the Hindu New Year. This important Hindu holiday provides a day for self-reflection, and the island virtually closes down for 24 hours – shops, beaches, everything.  It’s a big switch from the normally busy-ness you’ll find.  You’ll find the most non-Hindu residents and visitors also observe the holiday and associated rituals which range from partying and revelry the day before, then a day of reflection, and finally a welcome to the new year shared with family and friends.

And if New Year celebrations interest you, the Tamil New Year is celebrated in Malaysia (a 3 hour flight from Bali) each year on April 14th.  By way of contrast with Nyepi, the Tamil holiday is full of more festive celebrations ranging from decadent decorations to feasting to the exchange of gifts.  In other words, more partying and less reflection.

Photo credit:  Public domain via wikimedia

NOTE:  This post is sponsored by Bridge and Wickers; the opinions expressed herein are those of the guest author, Jody Ferguson.

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A guest post today, from another country I’ve yet to visit — Japan.  It sounds like fall might be a wonderful time of year for a trip.

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Japan is a stunning country the whole year round, but is particularly eye-catching in the autumn. ‘Kōyō’ (pronounced kou-you) as it is known in Japan, literally translates to ‘red leaves’; and there are certainly plenty of these as the season takes hold. The red and golden foliage begins in Hokkaido on the north-west coast, and then slowly descents southwards.

The movement of the autumn leaves in Japan makes it a great place to visit for an autumn escape. And considering that 70 per cent of Japan’s landmass is actually made up of mountains, there are plenty of places to escape for a quiet wander amongst nature’s finest. Look out for the bright red Japanese maples and the golden ginkgos if you want to find the best subjects to put before your camera lens.

You can also visit traditional Japanese gardens during your stay. There are three main types to look out for: Tsukiyama, Karesansui, and Chaniwa; but all of these look equally spectacular as the autumn envelopes them in its chilling embrace. Why not pool together your Japanese yen and follow these gardens from north to south?

Tsukiyama

The idea behind the Tsukiyama garden is to recreate the natural scenery of Japan, but in miniature. These gardens consist of ponds, streams, hills, stones, trees, flowers, bridges and paths to create a perfect relaxation space.

Karesansui

The Karesansui is slightly more abstract than Tsukiyama, but still focuses on a natural landscape. For example, a few patches of moss, as well as stones, gravel and sand might represent mountains, islands, boats, seas, and rivers. This type of garden is highly associated with and influenced by Zen Buddhism.

Chaniwa

The Chaniwa has a slightly different use than Tsukiyama and Karesansui; it is designed for the tea ceremony. The gardens are made up of stepping stones and lanterns that lead up to the tea house. The general theme is one of simplicity and cleanliness, as revealed by the stone basin which guests use to purify themselves before the ceremony.

Photo credit: Kimon Berlin via flickr

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Miles Bumphrey is a keen traveller and has extensive knowledge of all things travel related including destinations, currency including Japanese yen. He is a freelance writer and publishes his work on a number of blogs and websites.

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For many Baby Boomers, a visit to Vietnam represents both a cultural exploration and a reconciliation of political beliefs from the 1960’s.  It can be voyage of discovery, exploration of history, an answer to long unanswered questions, and the turning of a new page on a country deeply embedded in US history.

One way to learn more about the country is a visit to one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, many of which are included on Vietnam tours.   There are four cultural and two natural sites on the list.

Hue, in Central Vietnam, is the former capital of the country (until 1945), and is the cultural, intellectual, and spiritual center of Vietnam.  The city is packed with pagodas, temples, citadel and royal tombs, or at least what remains of them, all blended into the incredible natural landscape.  Here you’ll find the Imperial City, the Forbidden Purple City and the Inner City.  Hue became a cultural world heritage site in 1993.

Ha Long Bay is a collection of over 1,300 islands and islets in the Gulf on Tonkin, and was once the residential place of the ancient Viet people.  The islands form a seascape of limestone pillars, and most are uninhabited and unspoiled by a human presence.  The area is rich is bio-diversity, with  multiple eco-systems. Ha Long Bay became a natural world heritage site in 1994.

Hoi An, an ancient town in Quang Nam Province, dates back to the 16-17th centuries when it was a busy commercial port.  The architecture of the trading port is still largely intact, and you’ll see houses, pagodas, temples, bridges, wells, markets, and other buildings.  The city is closed to cars, allowing visitors to walk or bike in the charming historic town, and despite its ancient ties, it boasts a remarkably urban lifestyle.  Hoi An became a cultural world heritage site in 1999.

My Son Sanctuary, located in a valley in Quang Nam Province, is home to the remains of one of the most important Hindu sanctuaries in the country, including 70 shrines and towers.  Between the 4th and 13th centuries this dramatic site was the religious and political capital of the Champa Kingdom.  My Son became a cultural world heritage site in 1999.

Phong Nha-Ke Banq National Park in the Quang Binh Province is a natural reserve with limestone tectonics, over 300 caves (it is known as the “kingdom of caves”), the world’s longest subterranean river, , and a rich diversity of flora and fauna.  These spectacular formations can be traced back some 400 million years.  Phong Nha-Ke Banq National Park became a natural world heritge site in 2003.

Thang Long Imperial Citadel in Hanoi was built in the 11th century by the Ly Viet Dynasty on the remains of a Chinese fortress dating back to the 7th century.  It was the regional center of political power for nearly 13 uninterrupted centuries.  The buildings and remains reflect the unique Southeast Asian culture of the Red River Delta and Valley.  The Imperial Citadel became a cultural world heritage site in 2010.

Of course, there’s much more to see, do, and experience during your time in Vietnam.  But if history and culture are on you list of things to do, you’ll find plenty of Indochina tours that can deliver just what you’re looking for.

Photo credits:  Yves Picq (Hue); via flickr (My Son Sanctuary)

NOTE:  This post was sponsored by Wendy Wu Tours; the opinions expressed herein are those of the author.

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I’m in the process of putting together my “bucket” list for travel destinations and experiences, and will be posting it in a couple of days.  A bucket list is a list of those must-do and must-see things that you want (or need) to accomplish before you die.  The expression comes from the movie The Bucket List starring Morgan Freeman and Jack Nicholson, where their two characters created a list of things that they wanted to do before they kicked the bucket.

My travel bucket list is long, and every time I cross a few things off, it seems like I discover something new to add.  Perhaps that doesn’t make it a true bucket list, but it’s my list and I get to call it what I like.

One of the destinations that’s on my bucket list is Thailand.  Best gal pal, Anita, and I continue to talk about travel to Thailand, and may be able to make the trip sooner rather than later.

Here are some of the reasons that we’ve identified why we think Thailand sounds so appealing, and some of the things we like to do and experience:

Bangkok – Spend a day in the busy city checking out the markets, doing some people watching, and getting a feel for the pulse of the city.  Sure, it’s crowded, noisy, and a bit gritty, but so are Rome and New York City and both of us love them.  I want to experience the city, although I don’t want to stay for any prolonged time here.

Luxury hotel and spa – After hearing so much about the pampering and service at luxury Asian properties, I’d love to spend a day feeling like I was one of the rich and famous.  The treatments that I’ve read about sound divine, and although my budget could only accommodate a day of this luxury, it would be fun to experience it.

Custom clothes – I still need to pull out business attire every once in awhile, and the suits in my closet are looking a little dated and shabby.  I’d love to have a custom suit made, one that fits perfectly in all the right places, is made of a fabric that I love, and serves as a practical, yet special, reminder of a vacation trip.  I know the prices for custom clothing aren’t at the bargain level that they were, but it’s still an affordable treat that I could fit into the budget.

Temples – A little taste of culture is good, and temples are an easy way to start.  The history and culture that surrounds the temples fascinate me, although my knowledge is minimal.  A little research and reading before arrival would help give me good basis to understand what I’d be seeing.

Cooking and food – I’m pretty adventurous in eating, within limits, so enjoying the local dishes would be a real treat.  Even better, though, would be taking a cooking class.  I know that many of my favorite dishes are time intensive, but it would be wonderful to know how to recreate them at home.  Noodle dishes are a real favorite of mine.

Beaches – After all that traveling, shopping, and touring, it’s time for a little rest and relaxation, and from what I hear about the beaches of Thailand, I can’t go wrong.  I’d love to stay somewhere that had those cottages that are built out over the water.  The kind of stilts, or at the end of a long dock, where the ocean surrounds you.  I can imagine myself sitting with a cup of coffee in the morning, perhaps reading a good book or doing some writing in the quiet hours.  Or, chatting with a friend over a glass of wine while watching the sunset and planning the day to come.  The quiet and stillness may be forced by the location, but it’s a necessity that I don’t often allow myself.  Oh, and a massage on the beach would be nice, too!

I know I’ve missed much of what Thailand has to offer, and even this list would require a fairly crowded schedule.  What do you think I’ve missed?  What can I comfortably do and see in a relatively short period of time?  And, if you can help with suggestions, ideas, accommodations, tours, or have other recommendations, I’d love to hear from you.  Please leave a comment below, or email me.

NOTE:  This post is sponsored by the Tourism Authority of Thailand, who also provide the photographs.  The opinions expressed are my own.

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