Blog of Ryan Miriyagalla

Ever since my first trip to Thailand in 2016, I have seized every opportunity to return. People often ask me why I keep traveling to Thailand instead of exploring new destinations. However, Thailand holds a special place in my heart, thanks to the amazing experiences and people I have met there.

Allow me to elaborate on just three of the countless reasons why Thailand has captured my heart, and what you can anticipate if you decide to visit this beautiful country.

The Food

While there may be a multitude of Thai restaurants in your country, nothing can compare to the authentic taste, aroma, and experience of real Thai food found on the streets of Thailand. The vast array of food options is staggering, with countless varieties that even I, after all my travels to Thailand, have yet to try.

Whether you choose to eat in a restaurant or on the street, the decision of what to eat is never an easy one with so many mouth-watering options to choose from. Even if you’re a vegan or vegetarian, there are always plenty of dishes to enjoy. And if you’re a seafood enthusiast, you’ll find an abundance of delicious seafood dishes in the southern part of the country that you never even knew existed.

So, if you’re someone who loves food and craves new culinary experiences, Thailand is undoubtedly an excellent place to start your gastronomic journey.

The People

Before I delve into why the people of Thailand are truly special, let me first share how I first ended up in this wonderful country. In 2016, I traveled to Thailand to work as a volunteer English teacher in a primary school located in Nakhon Nayok, which is roughly 250km from Bangkok. My main role was not that of a tourist, but that of an educator, which allowed me to spend more time with the locals and students. (Stay tuned for my upcoming posts about volunteering in Thailand.)

Thailand is often referred to as ‘the land of smiles,’ and for good reason: the people are simply amazing. In my experience, the majority of the people I met during my time there were incredibly kind, and humble, and greeted me with a smile wherever I went. Thai locals don’t require you to be a high-profile individual in order to welcome you with open arms. Whether you’re a CEO or a patron enjoying a dish of pad gaprao from a street vendor, you will always be met with a friendly smile and made to feel at ease. For instance, while having lunch at a small street food stall, you may find yourself seated next to the CEO of the largest company in Bangkok.

As I previously mentioned, the food in Thailand is affordable, convenient, and utterly delicious, but it’s the company that truly elevates the experience.

The Beaches and the Scenery

I am a beach lover. Whenever I travel, I always look for a nearby beach to explore. If you share the same passion, Thailand is an excellent destination for you. You will be awestruck by its picturesque beaches, which offer a perfect setting for relaxation in ideal weather conditions.

The southern part of Thailand boasts hundreds of beaches and islands, each with its unique adventure. The largest of them all is Phuket, surrounded by several small, beautiful islands. On the other hand, Krabi, located about 150km from Phuket, also has some fantastic places to visit. If you are looking for a peaceful and relaxing trip, I recommend Krabi over Phuket. But if you’re seeking a place for shopping, partying, and bonding with friends, Phuket is your ideal destination. Although Phuket can be a bit crowded compared to Krabi, both places are worth visiting. If you plan to visit either of these places, I recommend taking a flight from Bangkok, which will take you less than two hours (the bus takes approximately eleven hours).

If you love snorkeling, you must visit the Phi Phi Islands, which are accessible from both Phuket and Krabi. The crystal-clear waters of these islands offer the best snorkeling experience. However, you must choose your tours wisely to have a memorable experience.

In conclusion, Thailand is a country that offers so much to explore and experience. From the delicious food and friendly people to the stunning beaches and unique adventures, there’s never a dull moment in this beautiful country. Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a seasoned adventurer, Thailand has something for everyone. I hope this article has inspired you to consider Thailand as your next travel destination and to discover all the amazing things that this country has to offer. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey in the land of smiles.