Destinations,  Itinerary,  Planning

The Ultimate 14 Day Thailand Itinerary

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If you are interested in traveling to Thailand in the near future, you’ve come to the right place! Although Thailand is not the biggest country in the world, the regions will vary tremendously, so the region you choose to spend your time in will determine the type of experience you will have.

First, I’ll give a brief overview of each main tourist region of Thailand.

After that, I will provide a detailed 14 Day sample itinerary for a traveler looking to visit all three regions in one trip. To me, this is the best way to experience Thailand your first time, in order to truly understand what Thailand has to offer.

 

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Region One: BANGKOK

The Capital Of Thailand

Population: 9.3 million (2018)

Region: Central Thailand

 

  • Bangkok is where you will likely fly into when flying from an international destination, so this is where you would want to start your journey.
  • Bangkok has a high population density.
  • You will notice while walking around the city how polluted the air is. That, plus the humidity, will feel extremely harsh to your face.

TIP:  I HIGHLY recommend these skincare products while on your trip! Protecting your fragile skin from the harsh environment is key. (These are all highly rated AND budget friendly)

 

 

Region Two: CHIANG MAI

The Mountains and Jungles of Thailand

Population: 200,952 (2018)

Region: Northern Thailand

 

  • It is a mountainous region so the temperatures are noticeably cooler than Bangkok, while still being humid.
  • The pace is much slower and not nearly as many people live here.
  • This would be a good place to visit if you appreciate the outdoors and you’re interested in a laid back vacation overall.

 

Region Three: PHUKET

The Beaches of Thailand

Population of Province: 537,900 (2017)

Region: Southern Thailand

 

  • This region is known for it’s beautiful beaches and many islands to explore.
  • You will notice a higher concentration of practicing Muslims so there are some places you may want to dress modestly, out of respect.
  • This would be a good place to party, like a Spring Break in Miami, or relax on the shore of a pristine beach.

 

 

***NOW THAT YOU UNDERSTAND THE REGIONS, BELOW IS A DETAILED 2 WEEK ITINERARY FOR YOUR PERFECT TRIP***

 

DAY ONE

Fly To Bangkok

With the long flight and time change, this will likely end up taking your entire day, unless you are coming from a nearby place like Australia. I advise that you focus on packing a great carry-on bag to make your flight as smooth as possible.

 

DAY TWO

Bangkok

You’ve finally made it! I would recommend staying at U Sukhumvit Bangkok, located in a great central location. The jetlag is setting in by now, and the perfect cure is a Thai Massage. There are many within walking distance, so they are as easy to find as a coffee shop in Seattle.  At night, go up to the hotel pool/bar which has a beautiful view of the city.

DAY THREE

Bangkok

Hopefully you feel somewhat well rested. Today is a perfect day for a city tour! There are so many wonderful sites to see, and it’s completely worth it to have a professional guide take you around. Make sure you visit the Grand Palace, Wat Arun, the Golden Buddha, Wat Pho, and the Wat Saket temples. The beauty of these buildings will take your breath away as you learn about Buddhism and Thai history. Make sure you bring something to cover your shoulders and legs when you enter the temples.  After all that sightseeing, you’re probably ready to relax. A dinner cruise on the Chao Phraya (river) is great for that, because you can wrap up your sightseeing on the water while eating yummy Thai food.

DAY FOUR

Bangkok

By now, you’ve started to get a little more accustomed to the hustle and bustle of Bangkok. Now is the time to do some exploring on your own. Today is less about planning, and more about discovering. Here are some places I would suggest you spend your time in:  Khao San Road, Chatuchak Market, Damnoen Saduak Floating Market.  Make sure you try the delicious street food along the way…it’s what Bangkok is known for!

DAY FIVE

Chiang Mai

Now it’s time to see what else Thailand has to offer. Today you will fly north 1 hour, 15 minutes to Chiang Mai, Northern Thailand. I suggest flying with AirAsia while an awesome regional airline with amazing deals. The hotel I HIGHLY recommend is The Rim. Staying here felt like a spa retreat, with the quiet surroundings and lush vegetation. Feeling hungry? Go to David’s Kitchen. The service is incredible here!

DAY SIX

Chiang Mai

Today is your spa day! Treat yourself to a life changing spa experience at Makkha Health & Spa. I personally did the package that included the body scrub, aromatherapy oil massage, mineral water+milky bath/herbal bath, and the facial treatment. At night, it’s time to see the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar where you can get a bite to eat, people watch, and barter for some unique souvenirs to take home.

DAY SEVEN

Chiang Mai

Today is all about elephants. If you want an unforgettable experience, spend your day at the Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary. You get to feed them, give them a mud bath, hike with them, and help rinse them off in the river.

DAY EIGHT

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai has no shortage of temples, so make sure you check out Doi Suthep and Wiang Kum Kam. At night, you can visit the local clubs and bars for a cheap beer. A lot of the bars have their own unique themes, like the Purple Rain bar I found.

DAY NINE

Phuket

Time to go to your last destination! Today you will fly 2 hours south to Phuket, the land of beaches. First, check into a hotel like Novotel Phuket Kata Avista Resort & Spa Hotel, if you are looking for familiar Western-style accomodations. Next, rent a scooter and head to SHUN Sushi for a refreshing bite to eat. The rest of the day you can dedicate to relaxing at the beautiful Patong Beach.

DAY TEN

Phuket

Today, go on a half or full-day Boat Tour where you will get to experience visiting monkeys, James Bond Island, and the Muslim Fishing Village of Koh Panyee Island. You may be feeling exhausted after a full day on the water, so it would be a great time to check out a dinner and a show.  Go to Phuket Fantasea, a Thai cultural center that includes a buffet style meal and an entertaining show.

DAY ELEVEN

Phuket

If you are a fan of the outdoors,  go on a quads tour to Big Buddha. After a shower (you’re bound to get muddy), rent a scooter and visit some nearby shops while you exercise your bartering skills.  At night, it’s time to visit the famous Bangla Road which I would describe as Vegas times TEN!

DAY TWELVE

Phuket

It’s your last full day in Thailand! If you want to do some more sightseeing, try a day trip to the picturesque Phi Phi Island. If you haven’t gotten a chance to eat famous Thailand street food, try Chillva Market. Looking to soak up some colonial history? Venture over to Old Phuket Town. At night, visit Bangla Road again for a perfect end to your crazy trip!

DAY THIRTEEN

Phuket

All good things must come to an end. It’s time to head back home, and you will likely have to deal with layovers and connecting flights. Before you head to the airport, get a much needed massage here. If you have time, head to One Chun Cafe and Restaurant for authentic Thai cuisine.

DAY FOURTEEN

Home

By Day 14, you should be home, back to reality. Today is the day for Rest and Reflection.

 

 

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Helpful Links:

Population

http://worldpopulationreview.com/countries/thailand-population/cities/

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