Tourism

The Most Beautiful Temples You Should See in Thailand

Thailand temple etiquette might be a bit confusing and overwhelming to those who are visiting for the first time. However, a basic tourist guide should hold some of the essential information on do’s and don’t.

Published

5 years ago

September 20, 2019

Bchcomber

We can all agree that Thailand is among the most beautiful places on Earth. The reason is its many temples or watts that are all over the country.

More than 90% of Thailand’s population is Buddhist, so it’s no wonder that there are as many temples. Precisely, there are around 40,000 temples in Thailand though not all of them are in use.

These are beautiful sights to see and are a great way of experiencing Thai culture. Visiting one is a unique experience, but it’s unlikely you can visit all that the country offers.

Max Kenyon who often travels to Thailand and has visited some of the most magnificent temples. To save time on visiting thousands, you should check his list of must-see temples.

What you should know “Temple Etiquette”

Keep in mind that these are quiet places, and even if they don’t have any religious significance, should be treated with the utmost respect.

Take your shoes off and don’t touch any sacred objects. Don’t turn your back to an image of Buddha. Don’t point with your fingers or get in the way of other worshipers. Another big no is sitting or standing higher than the image of Buddha.

What should you do? You should remove your sunglasses and shoes. You should also greet monks with a higher wai which is the prayer-like gesture. Keep in mind that monks aren’t expected to do this, so don’t find yourself offended.

Remember to be polite, quiet, and respectful. Dress modestly and show respect by not cracking jokes or chewing gum.

What about taking pictures? Unlike in Japan, it’s okay to take photos inside the temples. In most cases, you can even take a picture of Buddha statues. However, check for any signs that indicate that this is forbidden.

Wat Pha Sorn Kaew

Otherwise known as the “Temple on a high glass cliff”, Wat PhaSornKaew is about five hours north of Bangkok. Still, it’s not the most popular one because of its obscure location.

Nonetheless, the temple is striking. The construction began in 2004, so the temple is entirely new being only recently opened. It still looks like brand new, sparkling with colorful mosaics on the surrounding buildings and main pagoda.

A part of what makes it as beautiful is the surrounding mountainous area. It’s a beautiful sight to see, and the one you’ll never forget.

The five Buddha statues are impressive and remarkable. Though they’re white, they’re contrasting against the colorful buildings, green nature, and blue sky.

Wat Pharthat Doi Suthep

In the hills near Chang Main is the Wat PharthatDoiSuthep. The temple complex is beautiful and awe-inspiring, and you can clearly see the Buddhist and Hindu influences.

In the center is the golden mount, otherwise known as stupa. The entrance is lined with intricately carved dragons that look equally as impressive and striking.

You can also see the beautiful statues of Ganesh and the Emerald Buddha. However, keep in mind that there are 309 steps to climb to reach the temple. If that’s a problem for you, you can use the shuttle tram service that’s also available.

The temple looks extraordinary with all the gold and red tones. The view over Chang Main is equally as breathtaking so you won’t regret climbing the steps.

Wat Rong Khun

Wat Rong Kun is located in Chang Rai. The temple has little to no religious significance, but the sight of it is spectacular.

It’s designed by ChaloemchaiKhositphiphat, but the construction began in 1998. Today, this unique temple stands as a result.

The whitewashed walls are filled with riddles, Buddhist philosophy, and contemporary sculptures, and it’s what makes the temple as unique. Its unorthodox design also provides political comment.

For example, a large mural in one section depicts the devil with Osama Bin Laden in one eye and George Bush in the other. Accessing parts of the temple are equally as odd. You must cross a bridge over sculpted human hands reaching out from beneath.

Still, all of this is quite interesting to see. The temple is beautiful in every sense of the world, so you’ll definitely feel like in a money scene or a fairytale.

Sanctuary of Truth

In Pattaya, located some two hours southeast from Bangkok, is the Sanctuary of Truth. Though the city isn’t as well-known for its temples, this one stands out as one of the most distinctive in Thailand.

It’s a rather modern temple, so it doesn’t have much religious significance even though Hindu and Buddhist patterns are included in the design.

What’s exciting and striking is the fact that the temple was made from teak wood and by hand. Believe it or not, there’s not a single nail in its construction.

The level of detail noticeable in the patterns and carvings is astonishing. It’s breathtaking and striking in every sense of the word.

Also, the temple is set right on the shore, so even the area around it is beautiful. It’s worth taking a trip to Pattaya even if it’s just to check out the Sanctuary of Truth.

Wat Arun

Otherwise known as the Temple of Dawn, Wat Arun is one of Bangkok’s many temples. It’s among the most beautiful and iconic temples of Bangkok, sitting on the Thonburi side of the Chao Praya River.

The temple consists of a central tower called prang surrounded by four smaller towers. You can climb to the balcony in the central tower using the steep steps if you like to.

Still, at night is when the temple is most breathtaking since it’s illuminated by gold light. Though it’s called the Temple of Dawn, it’s truly extraordinary to see at sunset. It’s a sight you won’t ever forget, so make sure to visit it if you’re in Bangkok.

Tourism

Interior Ministry Introduces New 180 Day Destination Thailand Visa

Published

2 months ago

July 13, 2024

Bchcomber

People from more nations will be now able to enter Thailand without a visa beginning Monday. This is part of an effort to increase tourism and encourage visitors to stay longer, Interior Ministry spokeswoman Traisuree Taisaranakul said on Friday.

According to Ms. Traisuree, Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has signed four documents that will make it easier for foreigners to travel. These modifications will all take effect on Monday, provided they are published in the Royal Gazette.

The instructions include 93 more nations on the list of individuals who can visit Thailand without a visa, up from 57 previously. People from these countries can stay for a maximum of 60 days. Additionally, from 19 to 31, nearly twice as many nations will be able to obtain visas on arrival in Thailand.

To attract digital nomads, artists, and tourists interested in learning or practicing skills such as cooking and Muay Thai, the country will also introduce the Destination Thailand Visa service.

The new form of visa, which is valid for five years, allows travelers to stay for up to 180 days.

According to Ms. Traisuree, students holding visas for master’s degrees or higher will not be required to leave Thailand immediately upon graduation. They will be able to stay for an additional year to hunt for work or vacation.

In order to enhance the economy and tourism, the cabinet took a general decision on these additional measures in May. The statement was meant to be released in June, but it was pushed back.

Ms. Traisuree believes that this is the greatest sort of visa for persons who want to work from home in the Land of Smiles and explore the nation without the various restrictions and complications that come with conventional tourist visas.

Getting a DTV will give you a 5-year multiple-entry visa that lets you stay in Thailand for a total of 180 days a year, with the opportunity to stay for another 180 days.

Ms. Traisuree said that the Destination Thailand Visa is great if you want to work from home in the Land of Smiles and see the sights without the many restrictions and problems that come with a regular tourist visa. The Destination Thailand Visa will cost 10,000 THB.

Qualifications for the Thailand Destination Visa (DTV)

According to Thai Embassy, to be eligible for the visa, you must fulfill the following conditions (which could change):

You have to be 20 years of age or older
You have to be able to afford the cost of the visa
To sustain your stay in the nation, you must demonstrate that you have at least 500,000 THB in your bank account
Proof of your employment with a recognized company is required.

For digital nomads or remote workers who want to make the most of their travels and yet have the opportunity to work while they’re there, the Destination Thailand Visa is designed just for you. Additionally, it is ideal if you are traveling to Thailand in order to partake in any of the following activities:

Thai food prepared with Muay Thai
Instruction and conferences
Sports medicine therapy
International talent International music and art events

Thailand DTV Visa Benefits

Additionally, there is uncertainty about these details and they could change:

In comparison to other Southeast Asian nations that provide comparable visas, Thailand has less stringent income requirements and charges for the visa. For another 10,000 THB, you can extend the visa once, for a maximum of 180 days.
There are ninety-three foreign nations that qualify for the Thailand DTV Visa.
With this visa, you can lawfully operate remotely for foreign clients and companies while in Thailand.
Your spouse and any children under the age of twenty may accompany you.
You are exempt from paying taxes on your foreign income because the visa allows you to stay in Thailand for up to 180 days.

Drawbacks of a Thailand DTV Visa

You are unable to work for a Thai company that needs a Thai work visa, even though you are still able to engage in some activities and make money. Your DTV will end if you decide to change the kind of visa you are currently on.

Additional information on the visa’s release date and application process will be available in late June or early July of 2024. You will most likely be able to apply for it via the Thai immigration office, a Thai embassy, or a Royal Thai Consulate.

Tourism

Hotels in Thailand Fret as German Itravel Group Files for Bankruptcy

Published

3 months ago

June 25, 2024

Bchcomber

Thailand’s Hotels Association (THA) reports that another German tour operator has gone bankrupt, but that this will have a far less effect than the recent bankruptcy of FTI Touristik.

Following notification from the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the Thai Hotels Association has now confirmed that the Cologne-based luxury tour operator Itravel Group has formally filed for bankruptcy.

Southern Thailand is home to numerous high-end resorts, which Itravel aims to attract, according to Thai Hotels Association president Thienprasit Chaiyapatranun.

As a result of Itravel’s bankruptcy, he said, the hotels association is currently collecting data from its members.

On Monday, the organization wrote to the TAT and the Foreign Ministry, requesting that they assist hotel operators in keeping up with legal developments surrounding the bankruptcy of the German tour operator FTI, which resulted in a loss of almost 111 million baht for hotels around the country.

Hotels having issues with Itravel

On Monday, during the THA monthly meeting, Mr. Thienprasit noted that they also emphasized the case’s urgency to Minister Sermsak Pongpanit of Tourism and Sports.

In response to allegations that hotel operators with business partnerships with Itravel were experiencing issues with financial transactions, the agency issued an alert to the industry, according to Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, TAT deputy governor for Europe, Africa, the Middle East and the Americas.

He speculated that the losses might be lower with Itravel, an online travel agency that focuses on the niche luxury market, than with FTI, the third operator.

According to the Bangkok Post, at Monday’s THA meeting, Mr. Sermsak stated that the ministry will look into measures to assist hotels, especially since the goal of 3.5 trillion baht in tourism earnings for this year is still very ambitious.

According to Mr. Thienprasit, the organization is opposed to the government’s plans to increase the legal foreign ownership of condominiums from 49% to 75%. This, he added, might lead to an increase in unlawful accommodations and make other condo residents feel uneasy about having more guests around the clock.

Unscrupulous investors

He said that some international investors are already breaking the law by renting out their rooms to day guests, even though the Hotel Act only permits rentals of at least 30 days.

An increase in the foreign ownership quota for condos, according to Mr. Thienprasit, could entice unscrupulous investors and lead to the construction of even more unlawful rooms, which now exceed the number of registered hotel rooms by a factor of two.

The success of Thailand’s hotel industry is highly dependent on the business of tour operators. These collaborations bring in a constant flow of visitors, particularly during busy seasons.

It is more convenient for passengers to book comprehensive packages offered by tour operators, which include hotel accommodations and activities. Because of this arrangement, hotels may anticipate a specific amount of bookings without having to spend a lot on advertising.

Additionally, hotels are able to provide more affordable rates, which appeals to guests who are mindful of their budget. But if tour operators go through slumps or start focusing on other places, this dependence might be disastrous.

Source: Bangkok Post, Thai PBS

Tourism

Embracing Paradise: Your Guide to an Unforgettable Vacation in Los Cabos

Published

3 months ago

June 24, 2024

Freelancer

Embracing Paradise: Your Guide to an Unforgettable Vacation in Los Cabos

Nestled at the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula, Los Cabos emerges as a paradise where the desert meets the sea, offering a unique blend of natural wonders, luxurious accommodations, and vibrant culture. Whether you seek serene relaxation, thrilling adventures, or cultural explorations, Los Cabos promises an idyllic escape that exceeds expectations.

Discovering Pristine Beaches

Los Cabos is renowned for its stunning beaches, each with its own charm and allure. Sink your toes into the soft sands of Medano Beach, a bustling stretch perfect for sunbathing and people-watching. For a more secluded experience, explore the rugged beauty of Santa Maria Beach, ideal for snorkeling amidst vibrant marine life in crystal-clear waters. Enhance your beach experience with guided tours and snorkeling excursions offered by https://boattripsloscabos.com/, where you can explore the coastline and underwater wonders with expert guides.

Embarking on Aquatic Adventures

Venture into the azure waters of the Sea of Cortez and Pacific Ocean for thrilling water activities. Dive into snorkeling or scuba diving expeditions to discover underwater treasures like colorful coral reefs and curious sea creatures. Set sail on a whale-watching tour during the winter months to witness majestic humpback whales breaching against the backdrop of the Pacific horizon.

Exploring the Baja Desert

Beyond its pristine coastline, Los Cabos boasts dramatic desert landscapes waiting to be explored. Take an ATV or jeep tour through the rugged terrain of the Baja desert, where towering cacti and unique rock formations paint a striking contrast against the deep blue sky. Visit the Sierra de la Laguna Biosphere Reserve for hiking trails that lead to hidden oases and panoramic vistas of the surrounding desert.

Indulging in Culinary Delights

Los Cabos is a culinary paradise, offering a fusion of traditional Mexican flavors with international influences. Sample fresh seafood tacos at local taquerías or dine on gourmet cuisine crafted by world-renowned chefs at upscale restaurants overlooking the ocean. Savor authentic Baja cuisine with dishes like fish tacos, ceviche, and grilled octopus paired perfectly with locally produced wines and craft cocktails.

Experiencing Vibrant Nightlife

As the sun sets, Los Cabos transforms into a lively nightlife destination. Explore the vibrant nightlife scene in Cabo San Lucas with its array of beachfront bars, live music venues, and pulsating nightclubs. Dance the night away under the stars or enjoy a sunset cocktail overlooking the marina, where the atmosphere buzzes with energy and excitement.

Relaxing in Luxury Resorts

Los Cabos boasts a plethora of luxurious resorts and boutique hotels that cater to every traveler’s desire for relaxation and indulgence. Unwind in infinity pools with panoramic ocean views, rejuvenate with holistic spa treatments inspired by ancient Mexican traditions, or tee off on world-class golf courses designed by golf legends amidst stunning coastal landscapes.

Immersing in Local Culture

Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Los Cabos with visits to historic landmarks like the Mission San Jose del Cabo Church or art galleries showcasing local and international artists. Browse through vibrant markets selling handmade crafts, textiles, and souvenirs, or attend cultural festivals and events celebrating Mexican traditions, music, and dance.

Planning Your Los Cabos Escape

Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, Los Cabos offers a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion. With its breathtaking landscapes, diverse activities, and warm hospitality, Los Cabos ensures a memorable vacation that leaves you rejuvenated and inspired, promising a return to its paradise shores time and again.