Things to do in Thailand (Part 2) takes us away from Bangkok and gives an overview of some exciting Northern Thailand activities and highlights some Southern Thailand resort areas activities.   With so many things to see and do in Thailand this 2-part post will only wet your appetite for more information.

Away from Bangkok there are hundreds, perhaps thousands of sites to visit. Most visitors make their way to the cultural center of the north or the resort center in the south. Chiang Mai in northernmost Thailand is the jumping off point for trekking, an extended hiking adventure where you can take multi-day journeys on foot through remote mountain villages, meet the hill tribe people and explore the never ending scenery that envelopes you and steals your heart. The best way to explore is to reserve a trek either through a reputable hotel in Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai. Not all treks are created equal. You are looking for experienced guides with a reliable company who have every detail planned and can ensure your safety and comfort. This type of adventure is really for everyone willing to keep an open mind and explore the cultural differences that span the earth. Each tour is tailored to a different experience; some promote remote tribal villages, some even unseen to civilization for years, while others follow a more tried and true tourist route. Your adventure level is your only limit.

If you decide that splendor and relaxation is your ticket, try the popular islands of Phuket and Phi Phi or the mainland resort destination of Krabi. Each offers a slightly different experience tailored to your level of activity and your budget. Phuket is the most popular destination of tourists with its numerous resort hotels, nightlife, expansive beaches and endless water activities. Phuket offers the widest range of budget and posh accommodations of the three, but can also be the most crowded. For a quieter and more relaxed experience, try Phi Phi. Although budget accommodations are fewer, especially during the high season, the reward is priceless. If your goal is to save a bit of travel time, access your destination overland or have the flexibility in visiting nearby parks and contemplating land based activities, Krabi would be a better choice. At each of these destinations you’ll find kayaking, boating, fishing and just about every water sport imaginable. The turquoise waters will not be easily left behind.

Finally, for the more adventurous with a sense of flair, excitement and romance, Koh Samui and Koh Pha Ngan make the perfect pair for a weeklong diversion. Although there are several ways to get to these more remote islands nestled in the Gulf of Thailand, you will most likely land on Samui first (by air or ferry). This is a backpackers paradise turned upscale secluded resort with a quiet repose or a never-ending party; it’s your choice. You can enjoy such activities as canopy (swinging from the trees on a zip line), water sports, sightseeing or just bumming on the beach. Enjoy dinner on the beach or at an upscale restaurant in trendy Chewaeng Beach. There is something here for every budget.

Most people make the monthly pilgrimage to the full moon party, a wild all night party attracting thousands, on Koh Pha Ngan from Samui. If it is remote solitude that you are looking for, then rent a bungalow on the beach, take a kayak from cove to cove, explore the forested interior or just relax and watch the sunset as it drops below the clear blue sea. This still largely undiscovered island, well known to backpackers is paradise! Where else can you party under a thatched hut in the middle of the jungle, minutes from the beach.

So, next time you think about Thailand, think about its rich history, its cultural diversity, its natural beauty and the incredible journey that awaits you on your next adventure. Thailand is truly the pearl of Southeast Asia.