The Ultimate Guide to a Family Vacation in Thailand
Thailand is an awesome family-friendly vacation destination. With fascinating culture in Bangkok, outdoor adventure in the Golden Triangle, beautiful beaches and islands to the south and east. There’s plenty of diversity for all ages to enjoy on your travels and delicious cuisine throughout.
Whether your family likes adventure or would prefer to relax on a beach, here's our ultimate guide to a family vacation in Thailand.
For adventure
Thailand’s dramatic natural surroundings are the setting for a vast array of outdoor pursuits, and from the country’s highlands to under the sea, it has countless adrenaline-infused activities for all ages. Head north of Bangkok to Chiang Mai to venture across treetop canopies in the rainforest, before travelling south to the climber’s paradise of Railay where limestone cliffs protrude out into the Andaman Sea.
Explore some of the beautiful coastline by kayaking around the craggy rock formations of Phang Nga Bay, or for more exhilaration try white water rafting. Finally, hop over to the family-friendly island of Koh Kood for some fantastic diving and snorkelling. The island is much quieter than its more famous counterparts, so you’ll encounter fewer people at the dive sites.
For the wildlife
If your family is wild about the natural world, visit Thailand’s rainforest, ocean and mountain slopes to experience its diversity of wildlife. In Chiang Mai, your children will love interacting with the animals at The Elephant Nature Park and The Orchid and Butterfly Farm.
Across the country, explore intriguing destinations where chattering monkeys reside or stay on the idyllic island of Koh Yao Yai to discover its abundant marine life. With such beautiful marine life, you’re likely to spend more time exploring underwater than you will sunbathing above it!
For culture
As a Buddhist country, Thailand has a rich cultural heritage, which is reflected through the land’s golden spires, statues of Buddha and engaging historical sites. Bangkok is an integral part of any cultural itinerary, where the temples are architecturally striking with glittering decoration that will keep your children enthralled.
If you’re early risers, wander amongst the saffron-robed monks to beat the rush of tourists, then take a step back in time by visiting the former residence of Thai royalty. These regal golden buildings are nestled together in the heart of Bangkok, with The Grand Palace attracting most of the attention. Wat Pho is a must see in Bangkok, with its 43-metre reclining Buddha.
You can also head north to Chiang Mai, which was home to a successor to the centuries-old Burmese Lan Na Kingdom. It’s worth spending some time learning about the fascinating and unique history of the region – a history that differs from that of the rest of the country.
For the food
Satisfy your family’s appetite while getting a taste of authentic Thai cuisine. Discover the exotic and aromatic fare on offer within fine dining restaurants and in the street food markets; Bangkok has a great range of both, and is a foodie destination in its own right. Aside from sampling the gastronomic offerings, take part in a family orientated culinary experience, with cookery classes for both adults and children at many of the hotels and resorts.
Thailand’s northern region, however, is famous for having its own type of cuisine – marked by its use of plenty of aromatic spices. Or you can head south to sample the famous fresh fish and coconuts of Thailand’s island. The difference in the food in each region is reason enough to explore Thailand on the whole!
And relax...
If your children remain restless, there’s plenty to keep them occupied, from beach activities to exploring the underwater world.
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