Why Thailand Is A Backpackers Paradise
My credentials why you should listen to me:
- I backpacked in Thailand for 2 months
- I live my life through people that are currently there
- It’s the best country I’ve ever visited
Anyone else that lands in Bangkok when starting any sort of Thailand trip or holiday that it is the ultimate baptism of fire, often emphasised by a trip to Khaosan Road, the main strip of Bangkok that is not friendly, mad hectic and very loud, yet everyone goes there. Bangkok as a whole is dirty, so hot, loud, and full of scammers, often giving bad first impressions of Thailand and capable of putting full grown adults into comas with the hustle and bustle.
This being said, when you know what Bangkok is about and overcome the initial shock, it’s very manageable and can be a great place to start with amazing temples like Wat Arun, so many eating options legit anywhere you go, incredible public transport (for both good and bad reason but certainly an experience), the ability to have a western experience and quality, and super affordable, massive shopping malls and the nightlife.
Even with the positives and negatives, Bangkok is never gonna be the best place you go to in Thailand, because there are SOOOOOOO MANY amazing places for whatever you like. Expensive, local, beaches, countryside, jungle. I tell a lie, if you like cold weather, don’t come here — Thailand doesn’t want you or to know anything about you.
A quick round up of the places and general areas of Thailand:
- The north — is very hilly and has jungle vibes, cheaper than the south, more adventurous, and the best place for elephants. Can be affected by the burning season, not as many places with water to cool down and the roads are a bit more treacherous.
- The centre and east — are full of history, less touristy, again cheaper, underrated, and hidden gems. Negatives are fewer travel routes, likely to be less sociable, and less chance to meet new people.
- The south — is mainly islands with so many chill islands, no lack of adventure either, amazing underwater life and dive spots, and loads of people to be social with. There are some downsides like over-tourism, slightly expensive, waves of people around the full moon party and lack the culture compared to other parts of the country.
The negatives of some areas can be pretty strong and seen, like Koh Phi Phi, which does feel very ‘culturally washed’ but doesn’t mean it isn’t an amazing place to go for nightlife, a close knit feel and with stunning day trips and even a small jungle.
It really depends on what you're into to where is best for some people, but some common favorites are Pai because of the slow pace of life, relaxed vibes, and social atmosphere. Koh Tao is often popular as it’s similar to Pai but on an island with amazing and cheap scuba diving, amazing nightlife, and just quality vibes. A more touristy one would be Koh Samui, as it has the option for luxury, and loads of amazing things to do whilst being on an island with access to the sea.
But my personal favorite spot was Khao Sok National Park. It is somewhere so unique, so incredible and I just can’t give the place justice. The locals were so nice, amazing jungle and places to walk and explore, and staying on a floating bungalow was the best place I stayed the entire trip.
Furthermore, here are some reasons why the WHOLE of Thailand is worth visiting and why it is so great:
Culture — People say this about everywhere they go but Thai culture is great — the friendliness, hospitality, and people are such good people, so trustworthy. I think a big reason for this is the Buddhist culture as people are very religious and it’s so refreshing to see a culture so involved and loyal to their religion. I also really liked the lack of reliance on alcohol to have fun, and make the journey that bit more enjoyable, whilst having the opportunity to drink if you want to.
Variety of types of places — Often when you go to a country, there are one or 2 types of places to go to, like cities, beaches, historical significance, etc but rarely so many types. The jungle and north, the amazing national parks of rainforests like Khao Yai National Park, the nightlife of Patong in Phuket, high end resorts in Koh Samui, the history of the country in Kanchanaburi, and the uninhabited islands around the paradise of Koh Lipe. All these places are worth visiting on their own and the diversity really is impressive.
Wildlife — I think everyone knows about Elephants which are obviously a must, but there is so much else, from turtles and sharks in the oceans to smaller land animals like wild dogs and cats, bigger mammals to larger animals like tigers, bears, and deer, and even some lesser known animals like the pink river dolphin which is only found in the Mekong river. If you're an animal lover, there is so much to love!
Affordability — Our last mode of transport was a 6 hour train, which cost 42 Baht which is just over £1. From street food to hostels, to local kindness, there is not one aspect that you thought “Phwo, this is a bit steep.” There is the option for luxury which we did take a couple of times, but even the most expensive food I had was a burger in Phuket for £7, which was worth it as we ended up going twice! I happily survived off a budget of £30 per day which was perfect for me.
Well trodden route — Thailand has been a backpacker's route for decades, meaning there is no shortage of amenities and essentials for travellers from rooms, laundrettes, English-speaking locals, bars, western food places, and anything you may need. But even with catering for the tourists, they haven’t let it dilute their culture, even by keeping their bidets which came as a shock!
Climate — Constant warm weather is why I believe these people are so happy (well there could be loads of reasons but this is the one I’m going with). The constant tropical temperature all year round, with torrential but short showers, this keeps the plants green and the locals smiling and maybe a bit sweaty.
My final and maybe biggest point is the community (I might repeat myself a bit here). Whether that be locals, backpackers, thrill-seekers, drinkers, shop owners, or foodies - it doesn’t matter, they are happy to see each other. EVERYWHERE you go, there is a friendly buzz with people. Hospitals, police, everyone. It’s amazing.
Well, that’s it for now about my favorite country that I have travelled to but fire away any comments!
