Children are cherished in Thailand, which is just one of countless reasons why a road trip across the Land of Smiles will make for the perfect family vacation. Thailand is known for its superb weather, affordability and countless activities aimed at families, making it no surprise that nearly 35 million tourists visit the country every year according to Reuters. There is no shortage of outstanding road trip destinations in Thailand, ranging from idyllic sea-side resorts and mountain communities to bustling cities and secluded islands. Here are just three of the most sought-after destinations you can add to your road trip bucket list.
Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is known to offer visitors the best of both worlds with its perfect combination of big-city amenities and small-town charm. Boasting countless outdoor activities fit for the whole family, Thailand’s cultural hub makes for the perfect road trip destination. The mountainous city offers spectacular natural landscapes as well as fun-filled activities for the whole family ranging from buzzing markets and night bazaars to cooking classes aimed at children and a range of interesting museums and galleries. If you are seeking more of an outdoor adventure you can choose to visit the Maesa Elephant Camp or spend a day getting acquainted with the more than 330 bird species that call the park home. Make sure your vehicle is reliable as the roads are long and the inclines are steep. The last thing you want to do while on a family road trip is a break down on the side of the road with a car full of children.
Bangkok
No road trip in Thailand will be complete without a visit to Bangkok. Thailand’s capital is a wonderful destination for travelers of all ages, offering families superb, affordable accommodations and plentiful exciting activities for the whole family to busy themselves with. Kids will be mesmerized by the underwater kingdom of Ocean World while Safari World offers close encounters with an array of wildlife in a very natural setting. Legend has it that you haven’t experienced the essence of Bangkok until you have gone on a shopping spree at the Chatuchak Weekend Market. Boasting more than 8,000 stalls offering everything from clothing and ceramics to toys and even exotic pets, a trip to the market will definitely present your family with countless beautiful memories.
Hua Hin
Hua Hin is an understated seaside town not far from Bangkok and the ideal road trip destination for a family looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Family activities are varied and range between peaceful days spent lazing on the beach and exhilarating trips to the Vana Nava Water Jungle. Easily accessible from Bangkok as well as easy on the pocket, Hua Hin provides ample opportunity for the family to spend quality time together. The Hutsadin Elephant Foundation together with the ever-popular Monkey Mountain allows children and adults alike to get into touch with nature – a rare treat especially for city dwellers.
Thailand offers countless fun-filled opportunities for the entire family, many of which can be incorporated into an exciting road trip. By planning ahead, taking the entire family’s personalities into consideration and ensuring equal amounts of relaxation and excitement you can engage on a road trip that will provide you with a plethora of memories to last for the rest of your lives.
