Why do some families go all the way to Thailand just to lie on the beach? We don’t know either. Adventure travel company G Adventures reveals its top experiences for a family holiday that mixes a whole lot of bona fide Thai culture with a little bit of sand and relaxation.
1. Take a Guided Tour of Wat Pho in Bangkok
Families can immerse themselves in Thai Buddhist culture and visit the giant 46m reclining Buddha, which is covered in gold leaf. Whilst there, you can relax with a traditional Thai massage at the country’s leading school of massage.
2. Longtail boat ride on the Chao Phraya River
Float along the busy Chao Phraya River, which flows through Bangkok and then into the Gulf of Thailand, and through the smaller klongs (canals) to see skyscrapers, temples and shops in the distance, and the densely populated waterfront settlements up close.
3. Swim at Erawan Waterfalls
Thailand’s most beautiful waterfall, Erawan Falls, has seven tiers reaching up to 1,500m high, offering a unique experience at every climb. Families can swim in the turquoise pools, snap photos from the top tier, or go hiking through the jungle to spot monkeys.
4. Visit the Bridge on the River Kwai
We’re sure most parents have seen or heard of the famous movie, Bridge on the River Kwai. Why not tour the real thing and take in a piece of World War II history? It’s massive, majestic, and imposing, offering fabulous views of the river below.
5. Explore the ruins of Ayutthaya
This UNESCO World Heritage-listed site served as Thailand’s capital from the 14th to 18th centuries, when it ranked as one of the most magnificent cities in the world. Late in the 17th century its population reached one million, and foreign visitors wrote awestruck accounts of its size and splendour.
6. Chiang Mai city tour
Enjoy a tour of this historic city in Thailand’s mountainous north, which has been an important Buddhist centre since the 14th century and is home to more than 300 temples. Explore its great cafes, shops and architecture of the old city.
7. Visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
This golden Buddhist temple lies outside Chiang Mai on the Mt Doi Suthep. Climb 300 steps to reach the temple and be rewarded with an unforgettable view. Admire the many Buddhist relics and visit the white elephant shrine (popular amongst younger travellers). Legend has it that the location of the temple was chosen after a white elephant carried a relic to the mountain and trumpeted three times, before dying on the spot. With a little luck, you may witness the chanting of the monks.
8. Do a family-friendly cooking class
Pick out the best ingredients at a local market and learn how to make delicious kid-friendly Thai dishes that you can add to your repertoire when you return home!
9. Explore the tropical paradise of Phuket
Phuket is a perfect destination for families, where you can take boat rides, explore its many beaches, and participate in all the water sports it has to offer. It’s famous for its delicious, fresh seafood, so indulge in fresh fish, crab, and squid whilst you’re there.
G Adventures’ 12-day Thailand Family Adventure is priced from $1,317 per family member, including accommodation, some meals (allow $250 for meals not included), the services of a chief experience officer throughout, transportation and all activities listed above. Prices do not include flights. For more information or to book, phone 1300 853 325 or visit gadventures.com
MORE INFORMATION: amazingthailand.com
IN PARTNERSHIP WITH G ADVENTURES AND TOURISM AUTHORITY OF THAILAND
