My Highlights in Thailand
Bangkok
Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew
No first trip to Bangkok would feel complete without visiting the Grand Palace. Built in 1782, it served as the official residence of the Kings of Siam and remains one of Thailand’s most important cultural landmarks.
The complex is stunning, with ornate buildings, golden stupas, and intricate details everywhere you look. Inside the grounds you’ll also find Wat Phra Kaew, home to the revered Emerald buddha.
Yes, it is busy and very touristy, but it is absolutely worth visiting.
Tip: Arrive early in the morning to avoid the worst crowds and heat. Dress modestly as there is a strict dress code (I had to buy a t-shirt on-site because my shawl that I usually throw over my shoulders when visiting temples wasn’t enough).
Also(!): there were multiple scammers on the walk there who tried to stop me by saying the temple is closed or just for locals because of a holiday to get me into a tuk-tuk, those claims are usually false - always go straight to the official entrance/ticket booth to see for yourself.
Wat Pho
Located just a short walk from the Grand Palace, Wat Pho became one of my favorite temples in Bangkok.
The temple is famous for its enormous Reclining Buddha, measuring 46 meters long and covered in gold leaf. Beyond the main hall, the temple grounds are peaceful and beautiful to wander through.
It felt calmer than the Grand Palace and offered a nice escape from Bangkok’s busy streets.
Wat Samphran (Dragon Temple)
One of my absolute highlights near Bangkok was visiting Wat Samphran, also known as the Dragon Temple.
Located about an hour outside of the city, the temple is famous for its striking pink cylindrical tower wrapped by a giant dragon sculpture.
I almost skipped it because of the distance, but the Uber ride turned out to be completely worth it. There were very few people, which made the experience even more special.
If you’re looking for something a little different, I highly recommend making the trip.
Chiang Mai
Temples & Old Town
Chiang Mai is often considered Thailand’s cultural capital, and it’s Old Town is filled with beautiful temples, cafés, and quiet side streets.
I enjoyed simply wandering around, stopping for coffee, exploring temples, and soaking about the slower pace.
While Chiang Mai didn’t become one of my favorite destinations overall, it was still a pleasant place to spend a few days.
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
One of my favorite experiences in Chiang Mai was visiting Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a temple perched in a mountain overlooking the city.
According to legend, the temple was founded in the 14th century after a sacred white elephant carrying a relic of the Buddha climbed the mountain, trumpeted three times, and died at the site. The location was then chosen for the temple.
After climbing the famous staircase lined with colorful naga (serpent) statues, you’re rewarded with beautiful temple buildings, golden stupas, and panoramic views over the ciy.
Tip: go early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the biggest crowds and the midday heat.
Pai
Surrounded by mountains and rice fields, the town Pai has a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere that immediately makes you slow down.
For me, Pai wasn’t so much about ticking off sights as it was about enjoying the landscapes, cafés, and peaceful surroundings.
After the intensity of Bangkok, it felt like a much-needed reset.
Koh Samui
I spent a full week on Koh Samui, which allowed me to settle into a comfortable routine.
Days revolved around beach walks, cafés, good food, and sunset strolls along the shore. Meeting up with my former colleague Selma also made this part of the trip particularly memorable.
Sometimes the highlight of travel isn’t a specific attraction, but simply sharing everyday moments with someone.
Day trip to Koh Phangan
During my stay on Koh Samui, I took a ferry to neighboring Koh Phangan.
While many people associate the island with the famous Full Moon Party, I only visited for the day and enjoyed exploring a different side of the island.
Beautiful beaches, relaxed cafés and a wonderful sunset on the ride back made it a fun excursion.
Phuket
I arrived in Phuket expecting crowds, traffic and overtourism.
And while those things certainly exist, I ended up enjoying Phuket much more than expected.
In fact, I preferred the beaches. The sunsets were stunning, the beaches inviting, and overall the island felt more enjoyable than its reputation had led me to believe.
It was a good reminder that sometimes traveling with low expectations can be a gift.
Final Thoughts
Thailand may not have provided the most profound moments of my journey through Asia, but it delivered something equally valuable: ease.
From magnificent temples and mountain landscapes to island sunsets and everyday routines, Thailand was simply a very enjoyable place to travel through.
And sometimes, that’s exactly what you need.