An office conversation some time back revolving around travel, led the budget traveller in me wanting to explore Southeast Asia. The four destinations in question were Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia and Thailand. The ‘Amazing Thailand’ campaign hooked me on to begin with Thailand, known as the land of smiles due to its hospitable people and abundant nature. Upon research I realised that it truly is a melting pot of cultures where budget travellers from across the globe set foot absorbing the varied experiences on offer. After a thorough online exploration, I jot down my wishlist of things-to-do while in Thailand. Thailand Tourism, are you listening? :p
Witness monks meditating at Wat Doi Suthep: Being a follower of Buddhism, I wish to witness the monks in robes chanting and collectively raising the positivity around at this monastery in Chiang Mai. I will have to ascend 306 steps to reach the top and see this sight in addition to feasting my eyes on the varied Buddha statues scattered around. The Zen calm that they exude is unmatchable to any other destination!
Gorge on the delicious and traditional Khantoke dinner: How can food be away when I travel! Khantoke is the traditional dinner in Thailand wherein delicacies are served in large bowls that are to be relished while sitting at low tables. A cultural performance is also a part of this ceremony. The food satiates the hunger and the traditional cultural performances on display add a fun flavour to the whole experience. These colourful and culture-rich shows are mostly performed by the hill-tribe villages of Yao, Lahu, Hmong, Lisu and Karen. With so many well-known restaurants offering the traditional dining experience, I am sure to have a difficult time on finalizing one while I dine out there.
Indulge in a bit of adventure at Bua Thong Sticky Waterfalls: I am sure to do my flight booking after knowing about this almost-wonder-of-the-world destination! I was delighted to know about the Bua Thong Sticky Waterfalls, the unique feature of which is that it allows you to climb up on the rocks with the gushing water flowing! Yes, the special mineral deposits on the rocks have made it sticky which allows people to climb them with little effort. Time to feel like Spider-woman and show some brawn in Thailand!
Visit the “Art in Paradise,” an interactive art museum: Being an art enthusiast, I was elated to hear about “Art in Paradise,” a first-of-its-kind 3-D museum wherein one can have fun with art in the literal sense. Imagine standing next to a plain wall but the camera captures the illusion of you crossing a river on a puny bridge! Interesting, isn’t it? There are three such museums; one in Bangkok, Pattaya, and Chiang Mai each.
Travellingis 