Besides shopping, dining and nightlife, you might ask yourself what else is there to do in Thailand and Bangkok. There is so many things to do and you will never be bored here in this country which famous for leisure.
Im sure that you will want to explore the wonders of Thailand. It offers a rich variety of stunning landscapes and traditions as well as some of the best activities in the world, you will be able to indulge in scenic nature walks in the national parks, wildlife reserves, spending the day at the many beaches or hiking in the mountains or a simple cruise down the river while dinning on board seeing the lights of the skyscrapers with temples along the riverside. You will also be able to explore the nearby islands if you feel adventurous.
One of the popular leisure activities in Thailand is watching sports, football, basketball, volleyball and table tennis not forgetting the highly skilled SEPAK TAKRAW you will be able to see it in parks and its brilliant to watch the athleticism of the individuals playing.
If you like the cinema, another great pastime and the cinema halls are ultra modern and feature the very latest films to hit the screens. Language is not a problem as the films will be in English so no issues with language barriers.
Bars and clubbing is great and it caters for all ages. Nightlife in the smaller towns is limited but Bangkok has excellent venues and top DJ’s hammering out the latest tunes.
Thailand has many cultural attractions; most of them are based in Bangkok. THE NATIONAL MUSEUM which is close to the famous GRAND PALACE, make sure you visit it. This is one of the biggest museums in South East Asia, the palace dates back to the 18th century. Exhibits include Thai history and art and crafts. You can get a guided tour which is advisable and are available in several languages other than Thai.
The NATIONAL THEATRE is close to the NATIONAL MUSEUM. The performance of the “KHON” a traditional mask dance, other shows are available to view. It is advisable to make bookings in advance to avoid disappointment.
The NATIONAL ART GALLERY is opposite to the NATIONAL THEATRE and shows modern and classic Thai art, the works are mainly created by well know Thai artists. Famous works are on display and you will love it as it gives you a great insight to Thai cultural arts. A great shop is located there also where you can purchase some great memorabilia.
Some important dates for you to bear in mind here in Thailand are as follows. New years day is a holiday and in February the full moon festival of MAGHA PUJA. This is a Buddhist day to commemorate the teachings of the Buddha. April there is the CHAKRI MEMORIAL DAY on the 6th which commemorates the founding of the CHAKRI DYNASTY and the birth of Bangkok. Songkran festival runs from the 13th to the 15th of April, this is classed as the Thai New year, you will be getting wet so be prepared.
The Kings coronation is commemorated on May 5th and the Royal ploughing ceremony will take place in May to bless all the countries farmers. The full moon in May is the festival of VESAK it celebrates the birth and passing of Buddha. The full moon in July the festival of ASALHA PUJA celebrates the first disclosure of the Buddha. The Queens birthdays a national holiday and is celebrated on August 12th and on October 23rd it is CHULALONGKORN day which is to observe the passing of the King Chulalongkorn in 1910. The Kings birthday is remembered on December 5th and constitution day on December 10th.
More Ideas for your leisure
Shopping
Whatever your budget is, Thailand is a mecca for shopping and you get to shop until you drop as they say. The modern malls to the night markets offer just about everything money can buy. The street stalls offer some great bargains and its fun to haggle with the vendors to get the best deal possible, I have been doing it for years and still enjoy the process.
All the major cities and resort towns offer a shoppers paradise. Favourite buys include Thai silk and cottons, artworks and Thai artifacts. Almost anything imaginable is readily available.
Thai Massage
Amazing Thai health spas which are very relaxing and rewarding after a long day out or simply to unwind. There are many different types of massages to choose from, Thai foot massage to the more traditional ones. Health resorts are also available and worth a visit as they are retreats and always have very pleasant staff.
Lavana Spa or Lavana Grand are 2 very popular ones, however please find here the overview with other Spas in Bangkok.
Elephant Trekking
The jungles in Thailand are dense and have some of the best jungle trails around, experience true nature whilst sitting on an elephant, you can experience the thrill from Phuket in the south to Chiang Rai in the north, elephants are plentiful. Retreats offer you a true experience you will never forget. You will also see in Bangkok, however it is become more of a rare site now, the odd elephant with its owner going about the streets and you get the opportunity for feeding them bananas and a great photo opportunity.
Chiang Rai is one of the best areas to see the elephants and on the camps its an ideal setting and secured protective environment to keep them safe. Not to be missed, it will be my 3rd time to elephant trek and always love it.
Snorkeling
A wonderful place to go snorkeling also. Clear waters permit you to observe stunning underwater scenery, marine plants and thousands of species of tropical fish. All the correct equipment and certified instructors are available to learn and show you how its done. These would be classed as some of the best locations available for your snorkeling experience. Phuket, Phi Phi, and the Similan Islands as they have shallow coral reefs which give you the ultimate experience.
Like it is mentioned there are too many things to list, but this should make a fantastic guide for some hard earned leisure excursions here in the Kingdom of Thailand.
A guaranteed experience. ENJOY……………………………..