First time in Asia? Go to Thailand!

It is the perfect introduction to the continent. If you have never been there before, Asia can be overwhelming.

It’s a fantastic destination for first time solo travelers. Even though i’m travelling most of the time – solo business trips in Europe, going beyond our continent and visiting a country which is almost 7.000km away from home and alone was absolutely a tremendously rewarding experience.

The people are incredibly friendly, that’s why they call them the ‘The Land of Smiles’.

Thailand solo travel is so easy as the country is geared up for tourism and because of its reputation for great beaches and partying, the country tends to attract a younger crowd of traveler.

With beautiful leafy jungles, famous sandy beaches, mouth watering cuisine and affordable prices, Thailand is a fantastic destination and ideal for someone who wants to really experience a vibrant cultural destination with a wide range of sightseeing options.

There are so many opportunities to make new friends and meet locals and the advantage of traveling alone is that you can grab every opportunity, change your plans when you like and you don’t have to worry about anybody else.

Head for Bangkok

You have to see it to believe it!

Bangkok is a bustling modern city in a world where ancient traditions mix alongside the cutting edge modern world. You will find monks walking around the city with their iPhones and bars filled with tourists and locals mingling together.

Don’t miss out trying the Thai street food from one of the countless street stalls. It is very cheap and very tasty as well. Make sure you try the Pad Thai, the duck, the soups and especially the Thai desserts.

Go to Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya is the former capital of Thailand and can be visiting as a day trip from Bangkok, on an organized trip if you prefer rather than making the journey alone. The scenery in Ayutthaya with the ancient ruins, Buddhist temples will take your breath away with so much history surrounding the city.

Chill out in Chiang Mai

More relaxed than Bangkok you can experience Thailand in the beautiful mountainous scenery in Chiang Mai. To travel from Bangkok to Chiang Mai get the overnight train, which is around 12 hours trip, a great way to see the countryside. There are many festivals throughout the year to visit and explore the culture and customs.

Don’t forget to visit the Islands

Thailand is famous for its islands and sandy endless beaches. While visiting Thailand make sure you have on your to do list to visit the Trang islands down in Koh Lanta. Railay is the Krabi region gets a lot of praise. If you want something more exotic I would recommend Koh Ngai, Ao Nang.

Getting around Thailand

Local busses are often the easiest option, with tuk-tuk usually the most expensive transport choice but that’s certainly an experience. The train service throughout the country is affordable, and there are night trains on offer if you are going long distance and it’s a great opportunity to get chatting to fellow travelers.

Befriend the locals

Demonstrating respect toward Thai’s culture will go a long way. Avoid any of the below and locals will appreciate you as much as you appreciate their own customs.

• As a deeply Buddhist country its considered widly inappropriate to walk around the streets in just swimwear. Kee the bikini or swim trunks for the beach.
• Don’t ride elephants, as the animal is sacred to Thai culture and elephant riding schemes shorten their lifespans considerably.
• Travel sustainably
• Learn Thai words. Learn the most simply works and will get you far with locals:

Hello = “Sah wah dee khaa”

Thank you = “Khob khun khaa”

Eating alone in Thailand

Eating alone may seem scary, but it’s a perfect normal way to eat in Thailand. At the end of the day you are there to test yourself that you can make it on your own! This is the time where you can show yourself that you are string.

In Thailand nobody will look at you strangely for eating alone. Most travelers tend to order the same familiar dishes over and over, like green curry, pad Thai, tom yum, spring rolls, sticky rice with mango.

Street food is a way of life in Thailand. Most street carts specialize in one dish and if it’s a busy place, you know it’s good! Fruit shakes are ubiquitous and delicious, but keep in mind they often contain a lot of sugar.

If you’re vegetarian or vegan, Thailand will be paradise for you.

Safety

If you are traveling alone, do some research about staying safe and local customs before you go.

Important considerations are dressing respectfully, respecting the monarchy of Thailand, being polite and always ensuring someone knows where you are visiting.

If you are a woman, you will feel safe in Thailand!

If you are nervous about your trip to Thailand, don’t be. Plan carefully, do your research and then go and have the time of your life!

I know I did and I’m not regretting it!

For a full description of each city I have visited – visit my site: www.chrysoiasonos.com/blog where you can find more details about the city, the traditions and customs.