Читать книгу Thailand – Important Instructions for Tourists - - Страница 5
1.2. Routes
ОглавлениеBeaches, culture, trekking, excursions, shopping – itinerary options for different types of tourists
Choosing the right itinerary determines the entire nature of your trip. Thailand offers a huge variety of vacation options: from secluded beaches to rich cultural programs, from sea expeditions to lush jungles. Below is a detailed description of the main itineraries, including one of the country’s best regions, Khao Lak.
Khao Lak: one of the best places for a quiet, clean and quality holiday
Khao Lak is located on the west coast of Thailand, north of Phuket. It’s considered one of the safest, cleanest, and most pleasant resorts for those who appreciate spacious beaches, a quiet nightlife, and ultra-clear waters. Unlike Phuket, there are no overcrowded streets, noisy neighborhoods, or crowds around every restaurant. Khao Lak is perfect for families, couples, long-term stays, winter camps, and a more relaxed lifestyle.
Why Khao Lak is considered one of the best resorts
· Long beaches that stretch for tens of kilometers with almost no people.
· Soft waves in winter and gentle sunsets on the Andaman Sea.
· Cleanliness, safety, no crime.
· Good roads, shops, restaurants and all the infrastructure for living.
· Direct access to the country’s finest marine national parks.
· Tours to the Similan and Surin Islands depart from here.
· The city itself has a quiet atmosphere, family-friendly amenities, tranquil cafes, culinary schools, massage parlors, and markets.
· Convenient location: nearby are jungles, waterfalls, national parks, farms, and temples.
Khao Lak is a resort that offers exactly what most tourists want: the sea, nature, and real relaxation, without the noise and overcrowding.
The Similan Islands: One of Thailand’s Main Maritime Symbols
The Similan Islands are among the top snorkeling and diving destinations not only in Thailand but throughout Southeast Asia. Their white sand, glass-blue water, granite boulders, and impressive underwater reefs have made them a global icon.
Why Similan Islands are one of the best tours in Thailand
1. Water transparency reaches twenty to thirty meters.
2. Rich marine life: turtles, rays, thousands of fish, corals.
3. Unique granite rock shapes that are not found on other islands in Thailand.
4. One of the most photogenic beaches in the country.
5. Clear natural protection: the islands are closed for six months to allow the ecosystem to recover.
6. If the weather permits, tours are organized from Khao Lak daily during the season.
If a tourist is looking for exciting snorkeling, crystal clear water, and unforgettable views, the Similans are the number one destination.
The Surin Islands: Peace, Tranquility, and Unique Nature
The Surin Islands are less popular than the Similan Islands, but even more atmospheric and natural. They are located closer to the Myanmar border and are known as the home of the Moken sea gypsies, a unique ethnic group.
What is special about Surins?
· This is where you have the highest chance of encountering turtles, reef sharks, and large rays.
· The water is calmer than in the Similans, and often even cleaner.
· Very soft, calm atmosphere without crowds of people.
· The best snorkeling for those who love to observe underwater life.
· The lack of mass character makes Surin particularly comfortable.
Surin is recommended for those who prefer natural silence, gentle sea, tranquility and a minimum number of tourists.
Why tours to the Similan and Surin Islands are considered the best in Thailand
· They are located in national marine parks, where nature is strictly protected.
· The number of visitors is limited, so nature is not harmed.
· The clear water is much cleaner than on most tourist islands.
· A wide range of marine animals.
· The best underwater photography you can get in Thailand.
· Unique natural landscapes that cannot be found anywhere else in the country.
· The tours are safe, well organized, and run by trusted operators.
· The best starting points are Khao Lak, not Phuket.
These tours are a must for those who want to see the sea “like on a postcard”.
Other route options for different types of tourists
Thailand is vast, and here you can create dozens of different routes to suit your personality.
1. Beach routes
Suitable for those who are going overseas.
Examples:
· Like Lak
· Phuket (quiet areas or the north of the island)
· Ko Lanta
· Koh Tao
· Koh Phangan
· Samui
2. Cultural routes
For those who come for temples, history, and traditions.
Examples:
· Bangkok
· Ayutthaya
· Chiang Mai
· Chiang Rai
· Sukhothai
3. Trekking and nature
For travelers who value mountains, forests, and national parks.
Examples:
· Khao Sok
· Doi Inthanon
· Doi Suthep
· Phuphaman
· Pai and Mae Hong Son
4. Excursions and active recreation
For those who love action-packed routes.
These could be:
· sea trips to the Similans and Surins
· jungle safari
· trips to the Khao Lak waterfalls
· trips to hot springs
· cooking classes
· diving and snorkeling
5. Shopping routes
For those who value markets and shopping centers.
Examples:
· Bangkok (the best city for shopping)
· Phuket Town
· Chiang Mai Night Bazaar
· large markets in Pattaya
· Bang Niang Market in Khao Lak
1.3. Health and insurance
Traveling to Thailand doesn’t require complex medical preparation, but the country’s tropical climate does impose certain challenges. A proper understanding of medical risks, a well-chosen medication plan, and comprehensive travel insurance are the foundation for a safe and relaxing vacation.
Below is detailed information on what to bring, what vaccinations are relevant, and how health insurance works in Thailand.
Medicines to take with you
Thailand has a large number of pharmacies and many medications can be purchased locally, but it is still recommended to have your own personal kit of medications, especially if you are traveling to remote areas, islands, or planning a jungle trek.
Mandatory basic set
1. Remedies for upset stomach
Thailand is famous for its street food. Even if it’s delicious and fresh, some people may have a reaction due to differences in water or spices. It’s recommended to take antidiarrheal medications, absorbents, enzymes, and fluid-salt replacement supplements.
2. Allergy remedies
Even if you don’t have allergies, in the tropics you may experience reactions to insect bites, fruits, plants, or seawater. Antihistamine tablets and anti-itch creams are necessary.
3. Repellents
Mosquitoes are active in some areas, especially in the evening. Local repellents are strong, but it’s best to have your own, tried-and-true one. Creams and sprays with a high concentration of active ingredients are suitable.
4. Plaster, bandage, antiseptic
This will come in handy for minor cuts, scrapes or blisters, especially if you plan to do a lot of walking or trekking.
5. Antipyretics and analgesics
Fever and headaches are common in hot climates. It’s important to have the right medications for your condition.
6. Sunburn Remedies
The tropical sun is significantly stronger than the average European sun. Even with regular use of sunscreen, skin redness may occur.
7. Individual drugs
If you take regular medications, you should take a supply of them, as well as a copy or a translation of the prescription into English in case of an inspection.