Because Thais use such an assortment of flavors and tastes created by fresh ingredients and herbs, it is helpful if you can distinguish the different types of Thai cuisine. Thais break their varieties of food into six basic groups: snacks (such as stuffed dumplings, Satay, and spring rolls which are eaten alone), chili dips (usually either a main dish or a side dish), salads (also called yam, usually meat, seafood, vegetable, or fruit salads that taste sour, sweet, and salty), curries (the heart of Thai cuisine—made from fresh herbs and spices then cooked in coconut cream before adding meat and vegetables), soups (ranging from hot and spice to mild and clear—Tom Yum King and Tom Kha Kai are the most popular), and desserts (not as sweet as what you’re used to, usually sticky rice with fruit dumplings).

Another way to differentiate different Thai delicacies is by region. Most of these dishes have absorbed Eastern and Western influence but still maintain their own unique characteristics. Central Thailand is home to diversified dishes of foreign influences. Favorites of this region include green and Phanang curry, Tom Yam hot and sour soup, and Phat Thai noodles.  Northern Thailand’s cool climate offers a variety of vegetables and herbs that simmer nicely into local favorites such as Khao Soi egg noodles curry, Hang Le pork curry, and Sai-Ua spicy pork sausage. The flavors of Northern Thailand picked up some Myanmar, Laos, and Yunnan influences. Northeastern Thailand enjoys highly seasoned Laos inspired dishes including Som Tam green papaya salad, Lap spicy minced meat salad, and barbequed chicken. Lastly, Southern Thailand is well known for its distinct fragrant aromas and flavors. Favorite dishes, such as Satay skewered barbequed meat with spicy peanut sauce and Mussaman curry have a little help from Malaysian and Indian influences.

Whether you choose to save your ‘Baht’ (Thailand’s currency) by picking up local cuisine form a street vendor or drop some Bahts in a fancy Bangkok restaurant, the exotic mixture of flavors and textures offered by Thai cuisine made Bangkok the dining capital of Asia for a reason.

Crime in Thailand is another issue to be aware of while on a trip.  According to the State Department, crime rates in the capital, Bangkok, are lower than in many areas of the U.S., but pick-pocketing and robbery remain an issue.  Scams and con artists are also prevalent in the area and caution should be taken before accepting any offer for a tour or taxi ride.  Gem scams are also quite common, so be wary of purchasing such products from independent vendors.

Wherever you go, it is imperative that you remain aware of your surroundings and carefully guard any personal items.  No one wants their exotic vacation ruined by crime or theft.  Though the State Department encourages the exercise of caution while in this area, there are no official travel warnings or alerts.

Depending on how daring you truly are, Thailand beaches offer everything from rock climbing and bouldering to snorkeling, sailing and yachting.  Areas designated for snorkeling are found at almost any Thailand beach, but if you’re interested in one of the more unique adventures its best to research beaches offering these attractions.  The best rock climbing can be found on Rai Le Beach, while bouldering is better in Ko Tao, and for boating adventures, Phuket is a popular destination.

Another unique shopping experience you must try while in Thailand is the night shopping.  We’re very accustomed to stores closing after sunset, but here many markets don’t even get going until after dark.  The Suan Lum Night Bazaar is good for more than just spending money.  Once you’re all shopped out, you can enjoy local bands and have a drink in the beer garden.  The Klong Thom Market is a popular weekend, night market, which has earned the nickname the Flashlight Market because of its late hours.  The selling begins around 5p.m. Saturday evening and lasts through Sunday.  An abundance of electronics and second-hand items can be found here.

For a taste of Thai religion and history, visit the Grand Palace and the Wat Phra Kaew.  The latter is also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha and many Buddhist ceremonies take place within this structure.  There is an extremely strict dress code inside the Wat Phra Kaew and no shoes may be worn.  The nearby Grand Palace is the official residence of Thailand Kings.  The impressive, ornate architecture of these structures is worth the trip out to see them. The National Museum and The National Gallery are also both worthwhile trips for those interested in art and culture.

Though a less kosher topic, we can’t write about Bangkok without mentioning their famous red light district.  A range of bars with varying degrees of promiscuity can be found along the streets of Bangkok.  For a more wholesome evening out in the City of Angels, visit one of the many bars and pubs in the area. Chic upscale 87 + is perfect for a fine drink and a dance.  For something a bit more laid back and casual, try Molly Malones, the Thai version of an Irish pub.

The few things mentioned above only begin to scratch the surface of all that Bangkok has to offer.  Plan your trip carefully in advance in order to make the most of your time here.

The Grand Palace

Thailand’s number one tourist attraction, The Grand Palace in Bangkok is a timeless complex of Thai-style buildings from the 1700’s. Built by King Rama I, the ruler of the Thai monarchy in 1782, the architectural detail and magical splendor of the Grand Palace is awe inspiring. One of the many monumental buildings in the Grand Palace is the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaeo). The centerpiece of the Wat Phra Kaeo is the most sacred Buddha statue of Thailand. Carved out of one piece of beautiful Jade stone, Thais from all over Thailand flock to the majestic Buddha to pray every day. Witnessing this ritual provides a true glimpse into Thai culture.

Sukhothai and Ayutthaya Historical Parks

At Sukhothai (which means Dawn of Happiness), the first Siamese Kingdom and the birth of Thai language was developed in the middle of the 13^th century. This historic park isn’t your typical stroll through history. Instead, you can rent mountain bikes and cycle through the ruins of a classical Buddhist architecture and the remnants of Thai art. At the world heritage site of Ayutthaya Historical Park, you can cycle through what used to be the most glorious town and trading port in Asia.

Floating Markets

While in Thailand, be sure to visit one of the many river canals that truly showcase the Thai way of life. Here, farmers bring produce to sell by boat and the colorful array of fresh fruits and vegetables prove to be a sight you’ll never forget. Recommended markets include Damnoen Saduak, Taling Chan, Amphawa, and Tha Kha.