Thailand, getaway of a lifetime

After a four-hour-long flight from Chennai, the first thing that caught our eye when we set foot in Bangkok was the sheer number of travellers. Be it honeymooners, babymooners, backpackers, foodies or shopaholics – Bangkok is for everyone. The pulsating metropolis that is also one of Southeast Asia’s most popular travel destinations, is a potpourri of captivating culture, intriguing history, modern infrastructure, and a celebration of art and scenic natural attractions. A holiday at Bangkok can be anything but dull. 

We started our day by satiating our craving for biryani at an Indian joint. Trust me, it was definitely one of the most delectable preparations I’ve ever had. We then made a visit to the Grand Palace. Built in 1782 — and for 150 years the home of the Thai King — the palace with intricate architectural details is spectacular. Within the palace complex are several impressive buildings including Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), which contains the small, very famous and greatly revered Emerald Buddha that dates back to the 14th century. A visit to the palace is a must. But don’t forget to dress appropriately. A strict dress code applies. The Grand Palace is Thailand’s most sacred site. Men must wear long pants and shirts with sleeves (No tank tops. If you’re wearing sandals or flip-flops you must wear socks — in other words, no bare feet). Women must be similarly modestly dressed. No see-through clothes, bare shoulders, etc. There is also a booth near the entrance that can provide clothes (a deposit is required). 

We then headed to Wat Pho, a Buddhist temple complex in the Phra Nakhon District. It is on Rattanakosin Island, directly south of the Grand Palace. The temple complex houses the largest collection of Buddhas in Thailand, including a 46m long reclining Buddha. The golden Buddha with pearl ornaments on his feet is a sight to behold. And, if you would like a little good luck, you can purchase a bowl of coins at the entrance which you can drop in the 108 bronze bowls which line the length of the walls. Dropping the small pennies in makes a nice ringing sound and even if your wishes don’t come true, the money goes towards helping the monks ren ovate and preserve the Wat Pho. 

The next day, we visited Safari World, which is a different universe in itself split into two distinct areas — Marine Park and Safari Park. While the former lets you drive through in your car or in the park bus across 480 acres inhabited by hundreds of animals from all over the world, the latter is more of a traditional zoo mixed with many animal shows, food stalls and plenty of souvenir shops. It was exciting to sit in the van and see tigers and lions walk majestically in close quarters. We also got to feed the tiger cubs with feeding bottles. It’s an experience we’ll cherish forever. 

Our next stop was Pattaya. We experienced Tiffany’s Show, the world’s first original transvestite cabaret show. In an hourlong riot of music, vibrant colours and lights, we experienced a theatrical event that had everything from a Bollywood-style musical to Korean fan dance and slapstick burlesque to Broadway spectacular. This was an experience of a lifetime.

Next in line was the long cherished dream of trying parasailing. Parasailing in Pattaya is an extremely popular way to enjoy a unique view of the beach. I got my pulse racing and adrenaline flowing as I scud across the sky, occasionally plummeting into the sea only to be wrenched up into the air once again. 

How can I write about Thailand and forget street food? Street food in Thailand brings together various offerings of ready-to-eat meals, snacks, fruits and drinks sold by hawkers or vendors at food stalls or food carts. Don’t forget to try the pad Thai and som tam. They go great with grilled chicken. So, if you’re looking for a destination where you get a bit of everything from food, culture and shopping, you know where to head.  

Use public transportation. The BTS (Subway) and MRT (Light Rail) are cheap, convenient and fast. The tuktuks and taxis are also affordable. 

Cover your elbows and knees when you visit temples. 

Don’t miss the street food. They’re a real treat

(Ashwin Guru and his mother feed a tiger cub at the Safari World in Bangkok)