Now that it’s December, all everyone seems to be talking about is gift giving, large gatherings and all the holiday cheer you’re supposed to be feeling. We understand how tiring and overwhelming Christmas can be, and avoiding it altogether might just be what you need.
Instead of holing up in your room and letting all the festivities pass by like what a classic ‘Mr. Scrooge’ would do, why not spend your free days somewhere fun and different?
Escape Christmas this year and get yourself a plane ticket to Thailand, one of the most beautiful tropical parts of the world. Not only is it affordable and budget-friendly for all ages, but the abundance of exotic fruits and delicious food here will make you never want to leave this paradise. And surely enough, you’ll be swerving your typical Christmas experience.
Thailand is known for its magnificent temples, sunny beaches in the south, lush greens up north, and of course, and its world-renowned cuisine filled with vibrant spices and complexity. No matter where you choose to go for your holiday getaway, there’s no better way to spend it than doing something good for others when you can.
Visit Bangkok
Ranked as one of the world’s most visited city, this Venice of the East is the bustling capital city located in central Thailand. Whether it’s spending the weekend bargaining for the best boxing shorts at the Chatuchak Weekend Market or getting the best foot massage at Wat Pho, there is no shortage of exciting things to do in Bangkok. Boasting its harmonious blend of old-world charm and futuristic malls, Bangkok is truly a city of contrast.
The perfect day consists of spending the early morning exploring the old part of town in Rattanakosin where the glistening roofs of the Grand Palace and the famous Reclining Buddha resides. As soon as it’s noon and the sun is radiating hot, pause a bit to go on a Tuk-Tuk tour around town before settling for a relaxing lunch next to the Chao Phraya river, the most important river of Bangkok that gives the city its life and nourishment.
However, if you’re looking for a more rewarding experience that will make this holiday an unforgettable one, you can opt in for one of Friends for Asia’s volunteer programs. From volunteering at an orphanage to teaching English to Buddhist monks, there are a wide range of options for you to choose from. For more information, check out our volunteer programs in Bangkok here.
Visit Phuket
Have you seen pictures on a postcard from Thailand of a beautiful beach accompanied by a clear blue sky and the pristine emerald greens of the Andaman Sea? Chances are, the pictures are from Phuket, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Thailand. It’s always sunny and filled with on-land and water activities to do. An amazing spot for snorkeling and exploring the colorful reefs, Phuket is the answer to all beach lovers’ prayers.
Imagine spending your day lounging around, sipping on fresh coconut water while catching up on your favorite book. This island is the true definition of paradise. Phuket offers all types of accommodations from backpacker hostels to luxury resorts for you to vacation in style.
Visit Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is up north in the quiet mountains and colorful hill tribes of numerous diverse ethnic groups. If Phuket is the rebellious and fun youngest child of the family, Chiang Mai is definitely the calm and peaceful mother with old ruins of the northern kingdom and adorning temples.
Since it’s located up north, it is a popular destination during the winter season where Thai people like to experience the sought-after and hard-to-come-by chilly weather. Perfect to relax and charge up your batteries while overlooking the sunrise, Chiang Mai will heal and bring back the inner peace within you.
If the slow, relaxing trip is not for you, then we recommend you to try out the local cooking class and embrace the deep flavors of northern Lanna cuisine. Another great option is volunteering at Friends for Asia’s Elephant Camp where bath time is in the river surrounded by nature, greenery and food like corn and grass are your new best friend’s favorite crunch. It’s the best opportunity to truly be emerged with mother nature and one of its beauty by giving back smiles to the gentle giants that will touch your heart forever.
Whether it’s Bangkok, Phuket or Chiang Mai, there are just so many options and things to do in Thailand that await you this holiday season. Give a new meaning to Christmas and try out something that’s more rewarding that the typical gift giving traditions and elaborate feasts at home.
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