Open to the New Shades Thailand Rich culture
Thai culture offers a huge variety. Strongly infl uenced by local beliefs and religions, examples include: Wat Muang in Ang Thong, which houses the largest sitting golden Buddha in Thailand. Wat Rong Sue Ten, also known as the Blue Temple, is a colourful, but peaceful temple located just north of the Kok River in Chiang Rai. In the Northeast, witness the breathtaking vista from the viewing platform at Wat Sirindhorn. For those seeking more active pursuits, Thai boxing can be found in gyms scattered about the country; they offer authentic Muay Thai experiences to visitors and enthusiasts. Plus, the MotoGP World Championship comes to Thailand from 2018 through 2020 where famous riders including Marc Marquez, Jorge Lorenzo and Valentino Rossi will compete for top honors. Alternatively, there are many local festivals to be enjoyed. The contemporary Wonder Fruits Festival provides visitors with the opportunity to take part in music, yoga, meditation, and sustainability activities while immersing themselves in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. The spectacular Candle Festival in Ubon Ratchathani marks the beginning of the rainy season retreat for Buddhists and is a visual wonder.
Way of life
The best way of truly understanding Thai culture is to come to Thailand and live like a local. Wake up early and give alms to the monks, walk around a local market, join a morning talk with the locals or cruise along a river to see how people spend their days. Many local Thai communities welcome visitors who prefer hands-on activities. Visitors play their own part in sustaining the environment and can learn about farming practices, traditional medicines, foods and handicrafts along the way.
Baan Rai I Arun in Ranong is a good example. This farm stay promises a real back-to-nature experience and the all-year-round temperate weather makes it popular with guests. Alternatively, planting sea-grass at Bo Hin in Trang to help conserve endangered animals such as dugongs and sea turtles can be equally as rewarding. For those looking for a more spiritual experience, candlelight processions, or circumambulations, take place at all Buddhist temples across the country on important religious holidays. This stunning display of devotion will appeal to those traveling to the country for more than just the beautiful beaches.
Artistic merit
The world-class artisans found throughout Thailand have resulted in the many unique art and crafts venues. One such venue is the Maiiam Contemporary Art Museum in Chiang Mai province, which is recommended for those with an interest in modern art. The Museum of Floral Culture in Bangkok is situated in the secluded Samsen area – a tranquil spot and a great setting for fl ower and nature lovers to explore the many varieties of indigenous Thai fl ora. When travelling to the lesser-known provinces, visitors will be enchanted by authentic arts and crafts experiences such as ceramic chicken bowl painting in Lampang, a famous rural painting at Wat Phumin in Nan or shadow fi gure making at Wat Khanon in Ratchaburi.
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