Exploring the world is a common life wish, and understandably so. The allure of the wide world, and all the wonders it has to offer (both natural and manmade), is near-universal, as is the drive to go and discover it all. Luckily, it’s easier than ever to plot your global travels, thanks to the other people that have documented that wide world for us. One of the more popular areas for backpacking wanderlust-ers is south-east Asia, a region of the world dense in culture, history and geography that begs to be experienced in person.
For this reason, Thailand is one of the more popular places for tourists to visit and is one of the best places to be a digital nomad – and enjoys a strong tourist economy accordingly. But this economy can often obfuscate the ‘real’ Thailand, in favour of shoving Western-‘friendly’ experiences and souvenirs in the way. As someone interested in exploring Thailand, how do you sidestep the tourist experience for something a little more authentic?
Understand and Respect Local Culture
Here, an apology. This isn’t a list of must-visit places in Thailand that eschew tourist-friendliness in favour of the ‘true’ Thailand experience. These places exist, no doubt, but an earnest experience in Thailand isn’t something you get to stumble across as a Western tourist. Wherever you go, you’ll be recognised for your visitor status and treated accordingly – for better or for worse.
This is why the onus is on you, as a tourist, to understand Thai customs and etiquette for yourself as you enjoy exploring Thailand. Doing your research enables you to connect honestly, actively and respectfully with the people and places you come across. Avoiding tourist experiences is as simple as leaving high streets and beach bars in favour of lesser-known market towns; getting the most out of those places is a matter of understanding greetings, temple etiquette, and basic phrases that show respect.
Exploring Thailand – Choose Responsible and Sustainable Travel Options
Your manner of getting to Thailand might not materially impact the content of your trip – but it can have a philosophical impact on your approach to your holiday. Thailand holidays are phenomenal opportunities to explore stunning natural landscapes as well as bustling cultural districts; planning your travel accordingly is key to making the most of them.
Indeed, with those stunning natural landscapes firmly in mind, it’s up to you to make better choices that reduce environmental impact and support Thai communities as you enjoy exploring Thailand. Staying in locally owned accommodation is one part of that equation, as is visiting conservation-minded attractions and participating in community-based tourism projects
Travel Around Like a Local
Travel is about more than getting in and out of Thailand too – and travelling like a local can open you up to more local spontaneity. Don’t bother with the guided tours and tourist buses; instead, research local transport links, and use them to venture safely off the beaten path.
Main Image – Photo by Te lensFix: https://www.pexels.com/photo/photo-of-woman-sitting-on-boat-spreading-her-arms-1371360/ | 2nd image – Photo by DUYTRG TRUONG: https://www.pexels.com/photo/vibrant-night-street-with-tuk-tuk-in-thailand-31188950/