Are you thinking about visiting some of the national parks in Florida? Well, if your answer is a YES, then you have reached the right place!
Some people picture castles, roller coasters, and Mickey Mouse-shaped pretzels when they think of parks in the Sunshine State, but Florida’s national parks are just as well-known as its amusement parks. Amazing ecological and biological diversity can be found on protected lands from the panhandle to the tip of the Keys.
Florida is the only area on Earth where alligators and crocodiles cohabit; the mangroves here serve as kayak mazes, rockets blast off over lagoons, and alligators and crocodiles share the same territory.
Keep reading this article till the end to learn about the national parks in Florida that you must visit this year…
Top 12 National Parks In Florida That You Must Visit!
There are a number of things that Florida, the Sunshine State, is famous for, and one of them is the National parks. These are a blend of nature and the history that humankind has made. So, if that is something that you want to know, then you have reached the right place!
Here are the top 12 best national parks in Florida that you need to visit in 2023:
1. Big Cypress National Preserve
The majority of people only experience Big Cypress National Park as a parallax of sawgrass and cypress trees against the billowy clouds of the Florida sky as they speed along I-75 or U.S. 41 via the windows of their vehicle. Most people only attend the visitor center because of need. However, some do so out of curiosity.
Big Cypress is only one of two places on Earth where the ghost orchid may be found. It also serves as a refuge for the endangered American alligator, and Florida’s elusive but threatened panther population. Big Cypress was the first National Park Service unit east of Colorado to get this recognition as a Dark Sky Place, and it continues to be the southernmost Dark Sky Place in Florida.
This national preserve’s swamp waters flow softly, producing the ideal environment for the name-bearing cypress trees to grow tall and strong and create a maze beneath their canopy for tourists who are more interested in aquatic activities.
Big Cypress is one of the last remaining undeveloped areas in South Florida, where backcountry camps, swamp buggies, and airboats retain a traditional way of life that was developed by indigenous peoples and the pioneering spirit of early settlers. Big Cypress truly has something for everyone, so we are now challenging everyone to give something back to Big Cypress in exchange.
2. Biscayne National Park
The most amazing features of Florida’s seas are actually located below the surface. When people think of Florida’s shores, they typically picture gentle waves lapping at the soft sand under a bright sun.
Four separate ecosystems, covering about 173,000 acres, merge to form rich edge communities, or “ecotones.” These edges are home to an astounding variety of animals, including pelicans, manatees, sea turtles, hundreds of different types of colorful fish, and flora that are unique to the United States.
Over 600 native fish, neotropical water birds, migratory habitat, 20 threatened and endangered species, such as the Schaus’ swallowtail butterfly and Florida semaphore cactus, as well as the previously mentioned sea turtles and manatees, can all be found in the park.
It also includes the Florida Reef, the only live coral barrier reef in the continental United States, and the northernmost part of the third-largest coral reef system in the world. A number of shipwrecks along Biscayne National Park’s Maritime Heritage Trail have found their final resting places because of this reef, a project that was made possible with The Alliance’s assistance.
3. Castillo de San Marcos National Monument
Castillo de San Marcos National Monument preserves the oldest masonry fortification in the continental United States and interprets more than 450 years of cultural crossings. It was constructed by the Spanish in St. Augustine to protect Florida and the Atlantic trade route.
In case you are wondering about all the things that you can do here, I have you covered. You can engage with the park rangers that are eager to answer your questions. They also provide the tourists with several interpretive opportunities that are active and available throughout the day.
You can attend formal presentations where a thematic program that lasts 15 to 20 minutes will be played. You can interact directly with cultural artifacts, get answers to your burning questions, and spend as much or as little time as you like at ongoing informal stations.
The historic Cannon demonstration or Musket takes place on the weekends mostly. These are held at 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 01:30 p.m., 02:30 p.m., and 03:30 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. The volunteers and rangers also dress up in period costumes to give the tourists the best experience of traveling back in time. You can take pictures of them and with them to experience the lives of the colonists that lived here.
4. Canaveral National Seashore
Canaveral National Seashore is a unique location since it’s conceivably the only spot in the world where rocket ships, alligators, and nudist beaches coexist. On the east coast of central Florida, Canaveral preserves one of the state’s longest stretches of undeveloped coastline.
Mile after mile of pristine shoreline offers a tranquil haven for sunbathers, sea turtles, and the occasional nudist; Apollo Beach, at the northern end of Beach Road, is the alternative to the crowded Playalinda Beach right across the street.
If viewing rocket launches from the adjacent Kennedy Space Centre on the park’s beaches isn’t your thing, you can also go kayaking through Mosquito Lagoon, a sizable estuary that occupies two-thirds of the park (but remember the insect spray).
5. De Soto National Monument
Conquistador Hernando de Soto’s army of soldiers, paid mercenaries, artisans, and clergy arrived in Tampa Bay in May 1539. They encountered ferocious resistance from natives defending their homes. De Soto’s search for glory and treasure would be a four-year, 4,000-mile journey filled with mystery, conflict, disease, and discovery that would shape American history.
Today, there are a number of things that you can experience at the De Soto National Monument. You can try on the European armor that consists of helmets as well as breastplates. This is one of the most popular activities of the people or tourists visiting this national park in Florida.
Aside from that, taking a fishing class and bird viewing are additional popular activities in this national park. Numerous bird species, including gulls, great egrets, herons, as well as American white pelicans, can be found at DeSoto National Memorial. If you’re lucky, you might also catch a glimpse of bald eagles on the Manatee River scavenging for food! The De Soto Rancho Fishing Clinic is available in the park for adults and children aged 7 and older. Participants gain knowledge of fishing gear, casting, fish identification, and knot-making!
6. Everglades National Park
Everglades National Park, the most recognizable national park in Florida, is the Yellowstone of swamps, a 1.5 million acre subtropical wilderness teeming with terrifying species that makes Jurassic Park seem like a petting zoo and jet-black waterways and mangrove-lined coastlines.
This enormous park, the third largest in the contiguous United States, is too big to handle all at once. Alligator sightings are practically guaranteed along the Anhinga Trail, a leisurely 0.8-mile loop that leaves at the Royal Palm Visitor Centre.
You can rent kayaks and paddle up the Flamingo Canal on unnervingly quiet water while passing through deep forests and mangrove tunnels to Coot Bay by continuing to travel along the Main Park Road until it ends at the Flamingo Campground. Keep a watch out for American crocodiles and also manatees along the trip. They enjoy the brackish waters close to the shore.
7. Fort Matanzas National Monument
The next on the list of the best national parks in Florida is Fort Matanzas. From Fort Jefferson to Fort Barrancas, forts are as central to Florida’s national parks as gators as well as mangroves.
Chief among them is Fort Matanzas National Monument. It’s one of the oldest fortresses in the state and is also one of the first forts-as-national monuments in the nation, designated back in 1924.
Originally built by Spanish settlers in 1742 to fortify the Matanzas Inlet in St. Augustine, it remains a resolute structure that stretches 50 feet on each side and is 30 feet high. Today, the fort is accessible via ferry, with ranger programs that shed light on its storied history.
Other park activities include relaxing at a beach or following the boardwalk trail off the visitor center parking lot, which zigzags through a shaded hammock forest.
8. Dry Tortugas National Park
Seventy miles off the coast of Key West is Dry Tortugas National Park, an aquatic wonderland of 99 percent water. The only land out here, seemingly in the middle of the gulf, is a handful of tiny keys, including the main attraction: Garden Key.
After the two-to-four boat ride from Key West’s Yankee Freedom ferry terminal, dock at Garden Key to explore Fort Jefferson, an ironclad fortress built in the 1800s that looks like a brick Pentagon.
Originally built to defend the Southern coast of the U.S. after the War of 1812, the fort also served as a temporary prison before earning national park status. Today, the structure—and the surrounding keys and waters—tells the stories of maritime combat and marine wildlife, best observed from the Garden Key beaches or along the underwater snorkel trails that surround the fort.
9. Silver Springs State Park
For years, tourists have flocked to this location just to take glass-bottomed boat trips through the state’s breathtaking springs. In reality, Silver Springs State Park’s glass-bottom boat trips were introduced over a century ago, and they continue to be popular in this area of north-central Florida between Orlando and Gainesville.
It’s understandable, given that the park is home to surreal, crystal-clear water and a variety of animals, including otters, manatees, alligators, rabid rhesus macaques, and monkeys. Despite the fact that swimming is prohibited (due to the aforementioned alligators), Silver Spring is a kayaker’s and paddle boarder’s heaven, and there are 15 miles of shady hiking trails circling the 4.5-mile Silver River.
10. Point Washington State Forest
Point Washington State Forest on Florida’s panhandle is a refuge of tall trees and hiking trails. Located seemingly miles away from the state’s more well-known parks, you will find the longleaf pine as the main attraction. It is a tree that is so tall that it resembles a hybrid of a redwood and a palm.
The Eastern Lake Trail System, which supports the park’s recreational options, is surrounded by these pines for miles. The trail system here contains several unpaved trails for cyclists and hikers despite being as flat as a pancake.
The nearby Grayton Beach State Park, which follows the coast as well as offers coastal forest trails, swimming chances, and kayaking on dune lakes, is definitely worth exploring.
11. Bahia Honda State & National Park
Bahia Honda State Park is a pastoral pit stop on the road to Key West out in the Keys. Calusa Beach, off Big Pine Key, serves as the park’s focal point. Its turquoise waters entice swimmers, snorkelers, as well as kayakers alike (equipment for both activities is available for rent).
At the summit of the iconic Bahia Honda Bridge lies a truly picturesque setting. It is a historical structure dating back to the early 1900s. This was originally a crucial component of Henry Flagler’s ambitious Overseas Railroad to Key West.
A little route along a portion of the bridge will lead you to one of the Keys’ highest spots. Here you may enjoy panoramic views of the bay below. Stay for a photo-worthy sunset and afterward stargazing if you want to remember it forever.
12. Apalachicola National Park
A stone’s throw from the state capital of Tallahassee, Apalachicola National Forest is a natural haven. Florida’s largest national forest clocks in at a whopping 633,000 acres. This park has two main sections. They are Bradwell Bay Wilderness and Mud Swamp/New River Wilderness.
Between the two, visitors can paddle, swim, hike, fish, and go off-roading or horseback riding. The park also exhibits striking biological and ecological diversity. It goes from longleaf pine sandhills and pine flatwoods to coastal plain hammocks, basin swamps, and floodplain forests.
The area teems with wildlife, like woodpeckers, bobcats, gray foxes, as well as alligators. Drink in the diversity on a one-mile loop at the Camel Lake Trail. You can also enjoy by kayaking to Owl Creek from Hickory Landing. You can also take a two-mile route along the Apalachicola River. This gets paddlers up close and personal with that classic Florida river swamp terrain.
Wrapping It Up!
In case you were searching for the best national parks in Florida, I hope that this blog has been of help to you. If there are any other queries related to the same, feel free to let me know. All that you need to do is scroll down till you reach the bottom of the page. Then leave your comments and queries in the box below. And I will be there to answer them all for you!
Ankita Tripathy loves to write about food and the Hallyu Wave in particular. During her free time, she enjoys looking at the sky or reading books while sipping a cup of hot coffee. Her favourite niches are food, music, lifestyle, travel, and Korean Pop music and drama.
The City of Angels has it all, and some! Nothing comes close in terms of unique experiences; a curious blend of old and new, Bangkok has something for everyone. This is a place that has been on everyone’s bucket list, and that is not without reason.
The food here is amazing, and the prices here are also reasonable. There are plenty of places that will catch your eye with numerous things to do. Everything together makes it a popular destination.
However, for first-time travelers, it may seem intimidating, as the place presents you with numerous must see attractions in Bangkok. Additionally, if you have visited before, you will find something new to explore.
Must See Attractions In Bangkok
Bangkok has something for every traveler. No matter if you are traveling solo, with your partner, or with friends, the place has a lot to offer. The list of must see attractions in Bangkok can be extensive, but here are the top 5 places that you should not miss.
1. Safari World Zoo
Situated in Khlong Sam Wa, this place covers an area of 170 acres, and the zoological park is segregated into two parts, the Safari Park and the Marine Park.
The Safari Park is home to numerous animals like bears, tigers, lions, zebras, birds, deer, and giraffes. The Marine Park is known for hosting events like dolphin shows.
This is a perfect place if you are traveling with families and kids. You get to numerous rare and endangered species here.
2. Maha Nakhon Skywalk
This is something you definitely can’t miss as you get to see Bangkok from a bird’s eye view. This is the highest observation point, and it is an architectural masterpiece.
They have introduced a new digital experience to the building, and the skyrides offer virtual reality experiences as well. The observation deck is on the 74th floor offering a panoramic view of the skyline from the comfort of the glass walls.
3. Erawan Museum
This is located in Samut Prakan Province and is known for the huge three-headed elephant statue on the pedestal. The museum is extended over three floors and represents the entire universe as per Hinduism, which is Heaven, Earth, and the Underworld.
The top floor is inside the elephant’s belly while the other two floors are inside the pedestal. This is your chance if you want to look into the history, religion, craftsmanship, and art of the nation.
4. Ancient City
The ancient city is known for the three friendly elephants, and people visiting here can feed them and make them a part of their travels. You can just see the place for peace and tranquility and to spend some time away from the chaos.
This is a good place to visit if you are visiting with your partner. Moreover, you get some amazing Thai costumes here if you want to rent them and take some pictures.
5. The Grand Palace
This is one of the must see attractions in Bangkok, one of the most popular landmarks, and zillions of people come to visit the place all through the year.
Constructed back in 1782, this has been the home to the king of Thailand, the Royal Court, and administrative seat of government for almost 150 years now.
The architectural design, intricate details, and old marvel are the main attractions of the place. The creativity and craftsmanship will captivate you.
Top 5 Things To Do In Bangkok
If you are planning a short stopover from Australia, here are the top 5 attractions you simply must see.
1. Rooftop bar
There are quite a few; Google can help you find the best sky bars in Bangkok. Enjoy the city skyline by night with your favourite cocktail.
Prices reflect the unique vista; you can usually find a happy hour 2 for the price of one from 5-7 pm. Stay in a top hotel in Bangkok and you can see your room from any of the top-rated sky bars.
2. Chao Phraya River Cruise
There are a few big hotels along the river, and each has its own dinner cruise boat that gives you a 90-minute ride up and down the main section of the Chao Phraya River.
A delicious buffet awaits, and a traditional Thai dancing show is included in the ticket. The boats usually depart at around 5 pm, so make sure you are there at 3 pm and you can explore the hotel before the trip of a lifetime.
3. Khao San Road
Socialise with the young backpackers in this lively district of the city, where cars and tour shops, and great street food can be found.
This place comes alive at around 7 pm local time, when the neon lights shine and the beer Leo flows! Walk around the area and visit Sanam Luang (the King’s Park) where traditional Thai festivals are held.
4. Ramayana Water Park
The best water park in Thailand by far, Ramayana has the best water slides, and foam shows are great fun; they even have adult foam evenings!
A grand total of 21 water slides gives something for all ages, two huge kid zones, three pools, and a long river make up the attractions at this top water park. Click here if you plan to rent a motorcycle in Phuket.
5. Chatujak Weekend Market
Only on Saturdays and Sundays, this is the best place to buy all your souvenirs; you can haggle to get local prices. This market is very popular with Thais, because they sell everything and prices are low.
It would take a couple of weekends to see it all; you can get a free map from the main office. Everything from Thai silk to teak furniture; resident shipping agents can deliver teak furniture to your door via container, and they handle everything.
Be careful with your purse/wallet inside the market, which is always heaving, even in the low season.
When Are You Visiting?
For the best experience, move away from the regular tourist areas and discover the authentic Thailand, of which there is plenty; see how the locals live life! Bangkok waits to be discovered by foreigners, and the canals are the way to get around.
However, these are some of the must see attractions in Bangkok that you should never miss when you visit. It might be a bit crowded, but in the end you will know that it was worth it.
Read More:
5 Best Temples To Visit In Bangkok
The Ultimate Business Traveler’s Guide To Bangkok
Temples, Markets, and More: Your Ultimate Bangkok Itinerary
SnapTravel is an online booking website (and app!) that combines the ease of use and cost-free nature of online booking platforms with the advantages of a travel agent. Like any other online booking website, SnapTravel is essentially an online travel agent that allows you to enter dates and a location to find hotel and flight deals.
Sometimes SnapTravel offers amazing deals because, similar to a travel agency, it has access to airline and hotel discounts that it can pass along to you. You are not charged for using SnapTravel's services. Additionally, using SnapTravel's product doesn't require downloading any apps, in contrast to many others.
Instead, just like with any other booking platform, you input information straight into their website. Using various messaging apps, you can choose to converse with a bot as well. I looked into booking hotels, flights, and customer service through SnapTravel. My experience is as follows.
Overview
To begin with, SnapTravel recently underwent a rebranding and is now known as Super. Booking hotels is now a part of their Superbrand. In this article, I'll continue to refer to it as SnapTravel because Super Travel hasn't quite taken off yet.
Hussein Fazal and Henry Shi, two tech entrepreneurs, founded SnapTravel in Canada in 2016. SnapTravel is a legitimate business with investors such as Steph Curry (I doubt he spends hours searching the internet looking for deals on flights for under fifty dollars!).
It searches for the greatest hotel and flight offers for clients by fusing cutting-edge chatbot technology with an online travel agency's business plan. SnapTravel doesn't charge users for these services; instead, it accepts commissions from bookings made by users.
Furthermore, SnapTravel occasionally sends sponsored messages to its customers, which may be paid for by partners, though I haven't seen this in any of our chats. Naturally, SnapTravel highlights this as a benefit by offering recommendations to clients for places to visit or accommodations.
SnapTravel Reviews: My Experience And User Opinion
SuperTravel is the new name for "Snaptravel Hotels." They are only using Messenger to make hotel reservations. SnapTravel has since added a more recognizable method to display their deals. SnapTravel hotel deals can be found by scrolling to the bottom or using a search engine.
But I was unable to begin looking right away. They wanted to make sure I wasn't a robot when I first hopped on to look for a hotel. Okay, all right, I get it. However, SnapTravel approached this peculiarly. I needed to have a code texted to my cell. They can now send marketing messages as a result, which was a bad experience for me.
SnapTravel User Interface
You don't use a search engine to find the best hotel deals when you use SnapTravel. Rather, you use their AI chat to speak with them after searching to see what options are available. I found Travel Lodge when looking for the greatest hotel deals in Mill Valley. This search's first screen displayed a $6 off discount in pink at the top of the image.
When I searched for the savings for three nights, I discovered that it was $11. Snaptravel ultimately revealed to me that I had saved $17.85. In contrast, I saved almost $9.88 when comparing this offer with the hotel's website. This still represents a 3% savings, which is excellent! The savings might be negligible if you only stay with one hotel chain and take into account other reward programs. Nevertheless, these vacation offers validate SnapTravel!
The SnapTravel website is undergoing maintenance as I write this in order to make the switch to their new name. When you visit Super's website, you may be wondering where the flight deals are. Up until recently, SnapTravel was the only place to see the flights.
Things have changed once more in the brief period of time since I tested SnapTravel. You will now receive a notification when you click that link stating that they no longer have a third-party carrier associated with them and that the third-party carrier they formerly worked with has ceased operations.
Previous Setup Experience
In any case, I had a bad experience with their prior setup. My flight search left me feeling let down for a few different reasons.
Firstly, their website loads incredibly slowly! The last time I tried to use it, the page took more than 30 seconds to load. Perhaps that is why their website is currently undergoing maintenance. And it doesn't end there. Actually, SnapTravel wasn't offering low prices—quite the contrary! I had to confirm that they were accurate by checking again.
When I entered my ideal travel dates from Los Angeles to Omaha into SnapTravel, they displayed a $440 round-trip ticket. On Google Flights, the same route cost $237! Additionally, these flights took place a week and six months in advance. I would like to discuss these flight costs with the support staff. It appears that they only do that for their hotel packages right now.
What To Expect From New Setup
Everything will eventually fall under the "Super" umbrella. With any luck, all of this work will be worthwhile and their prices will drop. I would have preferred to find fewer negative reviews on SnapTravel, but I did find some.
Nevertheless, SnapTravel has an A+ rating from Better Business Bureau reviews! Not all of it was awful. There were some useful flight features on SnapTravel, such as the option to search for multi-city flights. They must, however, improve in this area or stick to hotels because there are numerous SnapTravel substitutes.
I want you to benefit from my SnapTravel shopping experience. The best hotel booking experience comes from finding a good deal on SnapTravel and then checking other websites. Verify that the availability and price correspond with what you are seeing on SnapTravel. SnapTravel offers some deals, but they usually go through the messenger.
As I previously mentioned, SnapTravel uses AI to assist you in finding these offers. They will send you these deals if you quickly message them on Messenger with your travel dates and destination. You can check out after you locate the reservation you like. You can even add a purchase to SnapTravel's VIP program at this time.
User Experience
"The good thing is how much you get these credits. When using them for the next ones, this is the cheapest booking site out there. Used snaptravel for some 15 bookings now, I will keep using this as long as they give that USD30/10% credits after booking."
- mod3mkorv
"We used it a couple of times with no issues. Planning to use them again. A lot of these 1 star reviews on the sites sound like people who paid for a non refundable room and then got mad when they couldn’t get a refund lol seems legit enough to me. We always book our hotels in advance though so I can’t attest to any issues that could come from booking last minute with them. We even had to cancel a trip we booked with them and they refunded right away. Only commenting because of all the bad reviews I see."
- jfritz7915
"I only used them a couple times but got a great price and didn't have any problems."
- crackanape
VIP Program
Free Upgrades
Expedited Customer Support
Free Booking Modifications
24/7 Concierge Service
All of this is yours for just $30 for the first six months, with additional monthly payments of $5 after that!
Wrapping Up
SnapTravel can help you find amazing hotel deals and has its uses. Having said that, there are some disadvantages. Super, once they fix their SnapTravel flight deal page, is going to be a valuable addition to my collection of the best travel deal websites for trip planning. It's a simple feature that can save you a lot of money to use their messenger to find the best hotel deals! SnapTravel's hotel deals are what really set it apart.
Amazing savings can be achieved when using their SuperCash card to book hotels through SnapTravel. It's something that ought to be considered by all when making travel plans.
Hotels.com is my preferred SnapTravel substitute. This is mostly because of their excellent hotel rewards program. You'll frequently receive a fantastic deal along with a one-night stamp.
You can get a free night's stay worth up to the average of the ten hotels when you collect ten stamps!
Read Also:
This Is My Experience With Play Airlines!
Here’s What I Found Out About Aha Airlines!
Condor Airlines: Is Booking Tickets On Condor Worth It?
Journey To The Skies: Exploring The Legacy Of Northwest Airlines!
Thailand is planning a major tourism boom with the government offering 200000 free domestic flights for international tourists. It will make traveling more convenient and affordable for them.
It is important for Thailand as tourism is a major economic contributor to the country, and it has always been a global tourism hotspot with its beaches, rich culture, food, scenic beauty, and bustling markets. With warm, hospitable people, Thailand is also the land of affordable luxury.
Furthermore, from the ancient temples to the water sports hotspots, Thailand offers diverse attractions for its tourists. So, if you are a first-timer in the country, finding the key attractions or making an itinerary can be difficult for you.
So, in this Tour and Travel Blog, we will talk about the must-see places in Thailand on a short trip.
What Are The Must-See Places In Thailand? Enjoy The Diversity The Country Offers
From the bustling city of Bangkok to the ecotourism hotspots in Chiang Mai, Thailand caters to all types of travelers.
Here are our favorites.
1. Bangkok: Offering The Perfect Blend Of Heritage And Modern Life
Bangkok is about a mash-up of crazy traffic, golden temples, shopping malls, and little alleyways where people are grilling skewers right on the sidewalk.
The Grand Palace is probably the first stop for most people, and it’s where the Emerald Buddha is. And honestly, it’s more impressive in person than in any photo. Just a short walk away, Wat Pho features a reclining Buddha that occupies an entire hall.
If you’re more into daily life, the markets are wild. Chatuchak Weekend Market is like a maze. You’ll think you’re going in circles, but then suddenly you’re eating something you can’t even pronounce.
At night, don’t bother going to bed early. Rooftop bars offer skyline views that remind you why the city never stops.
2. Phuket: The Largest Island In Thailand
Phuket’s the big island, the one everybody’s heard of. And yeah, it’s touristy, but there’s a reason people go. Patong Beach has people everywhere, music blasting, jet skis buzzing. Fun if that’s your thing. But if not, Kata and Karon beaches are way calmer.
Food-wise? Fresh seafood everywhere, plus night markets that are fun just to wander through. And the nightlife in Patong… let’s just say you’ll either love it or hate it.
For a day trip, take a boat out to the Phi Phi Islands or Phang Nga Bay. The water’s almost too blue, and those limestone cliffs? Unreal. And for a stunning holiday, book the best Thailand holiday packages.
3. Chiang Mai: The Ecotourism Hotspot Of Thailand
Now, heading north changes the whole vibe. Chiang Mai is surrounded by mountains, slower paced, and feels way older. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is the big one here—it’s up on a hill, and once you finally get there, the view makes the climb worth it.
Nights are for wandering through the bazaars. Crafts, food, random souvenirs! You’ll end up buying something you didn’t plan on.
Oh, and cooking classes are big here too. They’re fun, messy, and you’ll leave thinking you’ve mastered Thai curry (spoiler: you haven’t, but close enough).
If you’re into animals, visit an ethical elephant sanctuary. Spending time with elephants up close is unforgettable, honestly.
Furthermore, Chiang Mai is the ecotourism hub of Thailand, with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) identifying and promoting two ecotourism destinations in Chiang Mai.
Royal Park Rajapruek. Chiang Mai
Royal Park Rajapruek is a botanical garden with international acclaim. Local and foreign tourists gather here to explore the 198 acres of area with rare plants and winter flowers of more than 1000 species.
The gardens here have plants from various countries such as Japan, India, Bhutan, and China. Furthermore, the Ho Kham Luang Royal Pavilion, or a Lanna-style structure, is the main attraction of this botanical park, and it stands for the rich heritage of Thai architecture and the morale of King Rama IX.
Moreover, this botanical park is a Net-Zero Carbon Park, and it aims to reduce carbon emissions and promote low-carbon tourism.
Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden
The Mae Rim district of Chiang Mai is home to the Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden. Spanning over an area of 2,574 acres, it has more than 10 glasshouse zones.
Furthermore, it has a canopy walkway with an elevation of 400 meters. From there, you can enjoy a 360-degree view of the natural forests and trails around.
4. Ayutthaya: A UNESCO World Heritage Site
An hour or so from Bangkok and you’re basically stepping into another century. Ayutthaya used to be Siam’s capital, and now its ruins and temples are everywhere. The kind of ruins that make you stop and go, “Wow, people actually built this hundreds of years ago.”
Easiest way to see it? Rent a bike. Just ride around the historical park, stop whenever something catches your eye.
Don’t miss Wat Mahathat. It has the Buddha head wrapped in tree roots, which is the photo everybody takes, but it really is cool in person.
Wat Phra Si Sanphet shows off how grand the city must’ve been back in the day.
5. Krabi Province: Home To Over 100 Islands And The Thai Adventure Hub
Cliffs, turquoise water, beaches! Everything is so perfect in Karabi.
Railay Beach is the spot most people talk about. You can only get there by boat, and it’s a mix of rock climbers scaling cliffs and people just lying in the sand doing nothing.
Island-hopping is easy here. The Hong Islands are perfect if you want snorkeling or kayaking in quiet lagoons. Ao Nang’s where most travelers stay. It has enough hotels, restaurants, and bars to keep you busy without being overwhelming.
Phuket Vs Krabi Beaches: Which One Is Better To Visit?
It’s a tough task! Can you pick a favorite? All the beaches of Phuket and Krabi are beautiful. However, Phuket is more accessible than Krabi. So, for a family holiday, these beaches will be ideal.
On the other hand, if you are traveling with friends or with your partner and you want a more adventurous experience, Krabi beaches are the places to visit.
Similarly, the beaches of Phuket are more crowded than those of Krabi. So, for better privacy and exclusive experiences, Krabi is a better destination.
Moreover, if you want to experience the nightlife of Thailand, Phuket Beaches, especially Patong Beach, are the ultimate destination. Mī khwām s̄uk̄h nı kār dein thāng!