5 Must-See Cities in Thailand

hotels in patong beach phuket

Thailand is an exciting vibrant country.  The country has turned into a modern industrial powerhouse with excellent infrastructure.  There is a modern system of roads and highways.  Travel by air and train is inexpensive and readily available.  Health care is world-class, and high-speed Internet is available throughout the country.

The Thais are a wonderful, warm, generous people with their traditional Buddhist background.  It is called the Land of Smiles for a very good reason.  The cuisine is delicious and many a culinary treat awaits you in the market stalls or from the myriad local food sellers, that line the streets everywhere.

Bangkok

Every trip to Thailand starts and ends in Bangkok.  For years Bangkok has been one of the most visited cities in the world.

Bangkok offers vibrant street life, world-class cuisine, world-renowned nightlife, ultra-modern shopping malls, ancient temples and enough variety to please just about everyone.

Phuket

Phuket is another world-class destination.  It ranked as the 14th most visited city in the world in 2023.

It is known as a beach and nightlife destination.  With over 40 beaches to choose from it is a sun seekers paradise.  Coupled with a bustling nightlife scene in Patong, Phuket is a must-see city.

There are lots of 5 star hotels in Patong Beach Phuket Thailand that will keep you centrally located and close to the action.

Pattaya

Located less than 200 kilometres from Bangkok, Pattaya is a favourite of tourists and Thais alike.  Thais flock to its beaches on their weekend breaks.  Western soldiers discovered the then-sleepy town during the Vietnam War. 

It has a worldwide reputation as an “adult city”, and even though the Thai government has made inroads into making it more family-friendly, its reputation remains.

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is the largest city in Northern Thailand.  It is located in the mountainous highlands and offers a completely different experience than the southern capital or beach cities.

Doi Suthep and Doi Inthanon National Park are high on every visitor’s list.  There are day trips along spectacular winding roadways, visits to elephant sanctuaries or to native Karen villages.

Udon Thani

Located deep in the heart of Isaan, Udon Thani is another unique Thai destination.  Isaan is an area of Northeast Thailand that is known for its wonderful people, food, and agricultural production. 

Although Udon Thani is more rural than the other cities listed, it has its own unique beauty.  If you make it when the rice fields are in season, you will be met with stunning views of mile after mile of green tranquillity. 

Like the rest of Thailand, it has its share of historic temples and other cultural sites.

For most of the world, Thailand is very easy to visit.  The Thai government has made it easier than ever for much of the world to come to the country with a visa on arrival.

Thailand and its cities have much to offer the Western world.  The slower more relaxed lifestyle is attractive to those who are seeking something a little less hectic.