Thailand | The Adventure Travel Site

Photographing Paradise

Koh Samui instils a feeling of immense satisfaction the minute you touch down on its shores, and it is easy to see why. Beyond its sun-kissed shores lies a photographer’s paradise, where every frame tells a story of the island’s mesmerising beauty. From golden sunsets to hidden waterfalls, Koh Samui offers a diverse canvas for photographers seeking to capture the essence of paradise.

Sunset Splendors

Koh Samui Photography — Koh Samui – Image via Flickr

Koh Samui’s sunsets are legendary, painting the sky with hues of orange, pink, and gold. The island’s western beaches, such as the iconic Chaweng and Lamai, have properties such as Santiburi Koh Samui that provide front-row seats to this daily spectacle. Photographers can capture silhouettes of swaying palm trees against the fiery backdrop, creating images that embody the island’s serenity.

Turquoise Horizons

The crystal-clear waters that embrace Koh Samui’s shores are a visual feast. Snorkelling at spots like Ang Thong Marine Park and Silver Beach are some of the best things to do in Koh Samui, and offer opportunities to capture the marine life beneath the surface. Photographers can immortalise the island’s aquatic wonders, from colourful coral reefs to gracefully gliding sea turtles.

Cultural Kaleidoscope

Koh Samui offers a wealth of cultural experiences for photographers to capture, in addition to its stunning natural beauty. The Big Buddha, Wat Plai Laem, and Fisherman’s Village offer glimpses into the island’s spiritual and historical heritage. Colourful festivals and local markets provide additional opportunities to document the cultural heartbeat of Koh Samui.

Train Trip To Khao Sok National Park

Travelling across Thailand can be a treat! The lush landscape and fine trains will make your journey worthwhile. Experience the beauty of Thailand and its incredible wildlife, from tigers to elephants!

Get to Hua Lampong

If travelling from Bangkok, go to Hua Lampong first to catch your train. You can get to Hua Lampong via different bus lines. If not, hop into a taxi from Suvarnabhumi Airport or Don Mueang Airport to get where you need to go.

Find your train

Although Thailand has an extensive public train system, chances are that you won’t be able to find a direct train from Bangkok to Khao Sok! Plan to get off at the nearest station in the town of Phun Phin next to Surat Thani, 100 km from Khao Sok.

Boarding the train

Plan to reach Hua Lampong at least 30 minutes ahead of your departure time. Know that for some compartments, you will have to buy tickets in advance at the station or a travel agent. However, if you arrive early, you might be able to get a second-class seat.

Train times and Arriving

You can find the allotted train times at Hua Lampong. If not, book ahead via a travel agency in Bangkok. Once in Surat Thani station, find a travel operator to arrange your transport to Khao Sok. A minivan or a car is an option to consider. You can also find luxury villas in Koh Samui like those at the Santiburi Koh Samui, when looking for a place to stay.

Complete Guide to Khao Sok National Park

If you are planning on visiting the Khao Sok National Park soon, but are quite lost on the planning part of it, don’t worry. Read on!

Explore the Verdant Rainforest

Khao Sok is famous for housing an ancient rainforest, which is a biodiversity hub that brims with exotic flora and fauna. Walk through dense greenery as you look in awe at the magnificent limestone cliffs. While here, do keep an eye out for wild animals such as gibbons, elephants, and the hornbill!

Go on a Cheow Lan Lake Adventure

Go right to the middle of the park to discover Cheow Lan Lake, an expanse surrounded by stilted peaks. You can kayak or take a boat ride here if you want a serene experience while holidaying at SAii Koh Samui Choengmon or any other property offering Koh Samui beachfront villas.

Marvel at the Limestone in Sok River and Caves

The Sok River lets you go on a canoeing journey, where you will slowly glide past tall limestone karsts and green river banks.

Discover the Vibrant Underwater World

While Khao Sok National Park is known for its lush rainforest and stunning landscapes, it also offers a unique opportunity to explore the underwater world. Consider taking a snorkelling or diving excursion in the nearby areas to discover the colourful coral reefs and diverse marine life that inhabit the waters.

A Mind-Bending Visit to the 3D Museum Phuket

One of the more unique attractions in Phuket, the island’s 3D Museum offers a fun-filled visit for the whole family with plenty of opportunities to get some stunning pictures. Read on to find out more!

Location

Earlier known as the Trickeye Museum, the 3D Museum can be found in the Old Town area, a popular place for sightseeing which is within easy reach of properties like SAii Laguna Phuket. Situated along Phang Nga Road, this attraction is open daily from 10:00 am to 07:00 pm; you can allocate around two hours to spend here. In front of the entrance, snacks and drinks are available as well, in case hunger strikes!

What to Expect

Southern Thailand’s first 3D museum, this site features amazing paintings that one can “interact” with to capture pictures that will amaze your friends and family back home. Easily accessible from some of the best resorts in Phuket, it has various themed galleries each providing something different to photograph; how you position yourself at each picture is key, and there are sample photos for you to get an idea of the ideal angles and positions.

Zones 1 & 2

“Classic in Frame” is the first zone where you will find modified and hilarious versions of famous paintings by the likes of Leonardo da Vinci and Vincent van Gogh; for example, you can take a picture where it looks like you are using a pump to inflate the Mona Lisa! The second zone is titled “U Variety” and features imaginative paintings ideal for funny poses; you can take a picture where it seems you are being eaten by a giant panda, battling the Hulk, or escaping a huge crocodile!

Zones 3, 4 & 5

The third zone of the 3D Museum Phuket is titled “Tee Lor Su Waterfall” and you can take more fascinating pictures; these include those showing you hanging on a helicopter’s rope ladder next to a waterfall, running with bulls and meeting your demise at the hand of the Grim Reaper!

Encounters with dinosaurs and a fire-breathing dragon await at “Ancient Time” which is the fourth zone; meanwhile, in the fifth zone, “Body Move”, you can position yourself to make it look like you are about to fall into a lava-filled hole or even have your head being served as a meal!

Water Sports and Activities to Experience in Koh Samui

Koh Samui, a tropical paradise in Thailand, is renowned for its palm-fringed beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life. Beyond its stunning shoreline, the island offers a plethora of thrilling water sports and activities that cater to all adventure enthusiasts. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced water sports enthusiast, Koh Samui has something to offer everyone.

Scuba Diving and Snorkeling

Explore the underwater wonders of Koh Samui by embarking on scuba diving or snorkelling adventures. Dive into a vibrant underwater realm teeming with colourful coral reefs, exotic fish species, and other marine creatures. Popular dive sites include Sail Rock, Koh Tao, and Ang Thong Marine Park. If you’re new to diving, numerous dive centres on the island offer courses for beginners, while snorkelling trips provide a more accessible option to witness the marine beauty at shallower depths. If you’re staying at a place like Santiburi Koh Samui you’re most likely to find many fun activities like this to keep your days occupied.

Jet Skiing

Experience an unparalleled surge of adrenaline as you ride the waves on a jet ski, immersing yourself in the exhilarating thrill. Koh Samui’s pristine beaches present abundant possibilities for jet skiing, enabling you to swiftly traverse the mesmerizing turquoise waters and leisurely discover the captivating coastline. Regardless of your skill level, whether a beginner or a seasoned rider, jet skiing guarantees a breathtaking escapade and an opportunity to relish the island’s breathtaking vistas from an extraordinary vantage point. Your beach villa at Koh Samui will most likely offer a myriad of water-based activities such as this, so make sure you inquire with the hotel staff about how you can partake in such activities.

Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP)

Embrace tranquillity while engaging in a popular water sport – stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). Cruise along the calm waters of Koh Samui’s bays, taking in the breathtaking scenery as you glide across the surface. SUP is not only a fun and rewarding activity but also a fantastic way to improve your balance and core strength. Rent a paddleboard from the beach and set off on a peaceful adventure, exploring hidden coves and enjoying the serenity of the island.

Kayaking

Discover the hidden corners of Koh Samui’s coastline by kayaking through its pristine waters. Rent a kayak and set off on a self-guided exploration or join a guided tour to uncover the island’s natural beauty. Paddle through mangrove forests, explore secluded beaches, and navigate around rocky cliffs. Kayaking allows you to get up close to nature, providing opportunities to spot local wildlife and enjoy the tranquillity of your surroundings.

Parasailing

Get a bird’s-eye view of Koh Samui as you soar through the sky during a thrilling parasailing experience. Attached to a parachute, you’ll be lifted high above the water, taking in panoramic vistas of the island’s stunning coastline. Feel the rush of adrenaline as you glide through the air, enjoying an unforgettable perspective of Koh Samui’s natural beauty.

Your Krabi Island vacation

There aren’t too many places on this beautiful planet Earth where you feel like you’re in heaven. Ever heard of Krabi Island? It is a mystical paradise located on the Southern Coast of West Thailand where pristine blue waters are surrounded by glistening cliffs and lush forests – like Tolkein-level magical caves and beautiful scenery. If you feel like planning a vacation there, here are some of the fun things you can try.

Rock Climbing at Railay Beach

Railay Beach is the ideal destination for rock climbers. The towering limestone cliffs provide the best arena for anyone, even complete beginners. You can only reach Railay by boat, which you will have to plan for a little ahead of time. But there are plenty of boat services that shuttle tourists daily so it should be quite easy. If you’re not too keen on rock climbing, you can take in the magnificent sites and go for a walk along the scenic coastline.

Klong Thom hot springs

Located a one-hour ferry crossing away from hotels in Krabi such as SAii Phi Phi Island Village these hot springs are the best day trip you can take from your luxury resort. The hot springs here are famous among tourists and locals for their smooth, tub-like pools, soothing 35-42 C0 water rich in minerals. The pools are open for 12 hours every day and you’re charged a small entrance fee.

Bungee jumping

Embark on an exhilarating adventure as you embrace the thrilling leap from one of Thailand’s most astounding bungee jumping spots. Towering at an impressive height of 56 meters, the bungee jumping site in Krabi stands as the highest in the entire country and ranks as the fifth highest in all of Asia. Prepare to immerse yourself in the ultimate rush of adrenaline as you take a leap of faith into the abyss.

Try finger-licking local foods

Indulge your taste buds with an array of culinary delights when visiting Krabi. This vibrant destination offers not only an abundance of mouthwatering barbecued delicacies but also a unique twist on skewered treats that come in whimsical Angry Birds shapes. Prepare to embark on a delightful culinary adventure as you explore the diverse range of offerings.

Take a plunge into the nightlife

Nightlife in Krabi — Image via Wikimedia Commons – Ilya Plekhanov, Thai barbecue, CC BY-SA 3.0

There are so many trendy bars, clubs and beach parties happening all over Krabi. You’ll come across many spots that serve up amazing street food delights too. You can check out Phi Phi Island Resort Deals and find out more about places that have in-house bars and other events to enhance your holiday experience!

Best Places in Phuket, Thailand to Celebrate Loy Krathong

Loy Krathong, one of Thailand’s most enchanting festivals, is a celebration of lights, spirituality, and gratitude. Each year, on the full moon night of the twelfth lunar month, locals and visitors gather to release beautifully crafted krathongs (floating lanterns) onto rivers, lakes, and oceans, symbolizing the release of negativity and making wishes for the future. Phuket, known for its stunning beaches and vibrant culture, offers an ideal setting to immerse yourself in the festivities of Loy Krathong.

Patong Beach

Patong Beach, Phuket’s most popular and lively beach destination, comes alive during Loy Krathong. Join the festivities along the shoreline as locals and visitors gather to release their krathongs into the Andaman Sea. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere, enjoy cultural performances, and witness the beach illuminated by the flickering lights of thousands of floating lanterns. Don’t miss the spectacular fireworks display that adds a touch of magic to the celebrations.

Bang Tao Beach

For a more serene Loy Krathong experience, head to Bang Tao Beach. Away from the bustling crowds, this pristine stretch of sand offers a peaceful setting to partake in the festivities. As dusk falls, release your krathong into the gentle waves, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the beach. The serene ambience and the reflection of the lanterns on the water create a truly enchanting atmosphere. There are many wonderful luxury hotels in Phuket such as the SAii Laguna Phuket for you to have a memorable vacation.

Nai Harn Lake

Located in the southern part of Phuket, Nai Harn Lake provides a picturesque backdrop for Loy Krathong celebrations. Join the locals as they gather around the lake, offering prayers and releasing their krathongs adorned with candles and incense. Take a moment to soak in the spiritual ambience and witness the colourful spectacle of floating lights illuminating the tranquil waters. Capture beautiful photographs and create cherished memories in this serene setting.

Phang Nga Bay

Embark on a memorable Loy Krathong experience by taking a boat trip to Phang Nga Bay, known for its stunning limestone karsts and emerald-green waters. Sail amidst the towering cliffs and release your krathong into the bay, surrounded by the mesmerizing beauty of nature. As the lanterns drift away, embrace the sense of serenity and awe-inspiring surroundings that make this celebration even more magical.

Old Town Phuket

Phuket Old Town, with its charming Sino-Portuguese architecture and vibrant cultural scene, provides a unique backdrop for Loy Krathong celebrations. Join the locals as they gather at various temples, including Wat Mongkol Nimit and Jui Tui Shrine, to partake in traditional ceremonies and release their krathongs in the nearby canals. Experience the blend of Thai and Chinese traditions as the streets come alive with processions, cultural performances, and vibrant decorations.

Exciting Water Sports in Thailand You Should Not Miss – Get Ready for Wet & Wild Adventures!

For those looking for family fun or adrenaline-pumping action in Thailand, water sports provide plenty to enjoy, and the great thing is, there’s something for everyone. While there are many activities to choose from, here are some of the best.

Snorkelling & Diving

From finding Nemo (clownfish) and Dory (blue tangs) to coming across larger manta rays, whale sharks and turtles, there are plenty of denizens of the deep to encounter when snorkelling or scuba diving! Those staying at properties of hospitality brands like Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas on islands including Koh Samui, Phuket and Koh Phangan can look forward to such escapades. The east coast of the country is ideal for such activities the whole year through, while the best time on the east coast is from December to April.

Kayaking

Thailand is blessed with some stunning coastal scenery complete with enchanting islands, intriguing sea caves and towering limestone karsts which can be witnessed while kayaking; as a bonus, such paddle-powered excursions offer a great cardio workout too! Apart from indulging in luxury travel experiences, ensure you go kayaking especially at destinations like Ang Thong National Marine Park and Phang Nga Bay where there is much to discover.

Jet Skiing

For those who possess an insatiable need for speed or a daredevil spirit, hop aboard a jet ski and prepare for some high-octane thrills! Destinations such as Phuket and Pattaya are ideal for this activity that beginners can soon get the hang of it as well. You can ride tandem with a skilled instructor taking you on an exhilarating journey, while those who prefer, can go on a solo adventure with the open sea providing the perfect playground.

Banana Boat Rides

One of the most popular water sports in Thailand for families, banana boats provide an epic ride full of fun thrills. Not surprisingly, the islands and coastal locales of the country are the destinations where this activity is popular. It’s easy to enjoy too and no experience is required; all you have to do is straddle a giant inflatable banana with friends or family and hold on tight. Soon, you will be pulled along the water via a speedboat on a fast and furious ride with twists and turns that will have you screaming in delight!

Skydiving Safety Tips for Your Pattaya Adventure

Embarking on a skydiving adventure in Pattaya? Ensure a safe and exhilarating experience with these essential safety tips.

skydiving-721298_1280 | Image by antoine carrion from Pixabay

Choose a Reputable Skydiving Center

Select a reputable skydiving centre in Pattaya that prioritizes safety. Research their track record, certifications, and reviews. Ensure they adhere to international safety standards and have experienced instructors who prioritize your well-being. You can also ask your helpdesk at hotels near Pattaya Beach the likes of Travelodge Pattaya to recommend a reputed skydiving instructor.

Undergo Proper Training

Enrol in a comprehensive training program provided by the skydiving centre. Learn about safety procedures, parachute handling, body positioning, and emergency protocols. Pay attention during training sessions to ensure you have a solid understanding of the necessary skills.

Check Equipment and Gear

Before every jump, inspect your equipment and gear thoroughly. Ensure your parachute, harness, altimeter, and other gear are in excellent condition. Double-check the connections and secure all straps properly. If you notice any issues, notify your instructor immediately.

Follow Safety Instructions

Listen attentively to your instructor’s safety instructions before the jump. Understand the proper body positioning, deployment techniques, and emergency procedures. Communicate clearly with your instructor and fellow skydivers throughout the process.

Maintain Physical Fitness

Skydiving can be physically demanding. Maintain a good level of physical fitness to ensure you can handle the physical requirements of the jump. Stay hydrated, get enough rest, and inform your instructor of any pre-existing medical conditions.

Things Not to Do in Krabi

The appealing coastal locality of Krabi in Thailand would always be an attractive place at which to spend time; to make the most of your visit, there would be some things you should never miss when here like those aspects mentioned below.

Miss a visit to the Tiger Temple

An engrossing religious attraction in Krabi would be Wat Tham Seua or Tiger Temple; this fascinating shrine is believed to be a place where formerly tigers made their home. At this site, you could also undertake interesting hikes, view the large trees and perhaps observe the monks who live within the caves to be found here.

Not take a longtail boat excursion

Your visit to Krabi wouldn’t be complete without taking a trip to the nearby islands on a longtail boat. On one of these excursions, you would be able to admire the picturesque sights and visit the entrancing locations that would delight visitors. A Phi Phi Island holiday resort in Krabi to consider from which you could take such a longtail boat excursion would be SAii Phi Phi Island Village.

Avoid experiencing the local foods

During your visit to Krabi, you would have the opportunity to feast on some delectable local foods and you should always take the chance to enjoy a delicious buffet of authentic dishes. Here, you would be able to savour typical Thai culinary creations such as som tam, fried fish, larb, squid, massaman curry and so on.

Not visiting Railay Bay

A well-known attraction in Krabi would be Railay Bay which would draw the interest of adventure seekers as well as those who wish to relax by the coast. Here, you would have the opportunity to bask in the sun amidst the scenic surroundings or perhaps try your hand at rock climbing around the nearby cliffs.