Thailand is a country with some of the most hospitable and beautiful people in Southeast Asia, whose state of serenity instantly envelopes visitors. On arrival, it is customary to have jasmine wreaths placed around one's neck. One can attribute this peacefulness to the Thai people's belief in chai yen (cool heart) and sanuk (life is a pleasure) or it could simply be a magical quality sculpted by its patchwork of fertile rice fields and tropical rainforests.

The 55 million people of Thailand have strong independent spirits that were formed when their ancestors were the only people in Southeast Asia to reject foreign domination that resulted in colonialism. This free spirit is evident in the pride and graciousness with which they show their country to visitors.

A VARIETY OF SIGHTS AND TASTES

One typically thinks of glittering temples and praying Buddhist monks, but the country is also rich in activities varying from relaxing on pristine beaches highlighted by turquoise waters to visiting the vibrantly eclectic hill tribe villages via elephant-back in the northern reaches of the country.

Wild elephants and perhaps even tigers can be seen in Khao Yai National Park. Hiking trails meander through lush forests with waterfalls and the sounds of tropical birds. On a different note, indulge oneself with culinary delights of coconut milk based dishes laced with lemon grass, ginger, and coriander, not to mention the obligatory chilis!

Open-air markets are where Thai people do their daily shopping and socializing. One can hone their bargaining skills at such places as the famous floating market in the canals of Bangkok or perhaps at the swirling kaleidoscope of merchants at Chiang Mai's Night Market.

There are also a myriad of festivals which take place at certain times year-round. These Thai festivals are connected with themes such as Buddhism, the annual cycle of rice planting, or commemorations honoring past kings. Travel dates can be coordinated to overlap with these colorful and historic festivals.

POSSIBLE COMBINATIONS AND EXTENSIONS

We recommend combining a trip to Myanmar (Burma). The memory of the 326 foot golden dome of the Shwedagon Pagoda or the 5,000 shrines and temples that rise from the plains of Pagan will stay with one forever. A visit to Cambodia to see the ancient temples of Angkor is also a great addition to one's Southeast Asia adventure. This is a World Heritage Site constructed between the ninth and fifteenth centuries and is unrivalled in architectural greatness. Vietnam is a surprisingly beautiful country accented with French influences, white sandy beaches, and terraced rice fields. Isn't it time to replace our old memories of Vietnam with new ones?

Legendary spas are a great extension for a few extra days in either Thailand or Bali. Spoil oneself with herbal steam aromatherapy or a relaxing massage. Careful, you may never want to return home!

LAOS IS A PERFECT EXTENSION FOR THOSE WITH A FEW DAYS TO SPARE

One of Indochina's former French colonies; Laos has been isolated from the outside world until recent years. Visit the Wat Si Saket Temple in the capitol city of Vientiane and climb the long staircase up to the Phoussy Temple in the former imperial capitol city of Luang Prabang. Once in Luang Prabang, board a riverboat on the fabled Mekong River and be rewarded with stunning views of deep forests and the mystical caves of Pak Ou. One can even learn the secret behind distilling Laotian whiskey from one of the local villagers. A visit to a hill tribe of weavers gives one a glimpse of a local craft that supports an entire village. These weavings make beautiful gifts for those loved ones not able to experience this rustic country firsthand!

For more information or questions, please contact us.

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