Thailand is among the most popular destinations for international travelers. The temples, warm weather, beautiful beaches, and cheap massages will have anyone sold on buying a plane ticket ASAP.

Per usual, when searching for my flights, I opened multiple browsers on my laptop and searched for Thailand flights via different search engines! Being your own travel agent is time consuming but will save you a lot of money. Fortunately, I found a flight deal for the dates that I wanted through China Eastern airline for $500. From San Francisco (SFO) to Bangkok BKK, with a layover in Shanghai (PVG).

The trip consisted of myself along with some close Bay Area California friends. We were there late January and the weather was decent; hot and very humid!

Our first stop in Thailand was in Bangkok and we did a lot of temple tours, visited floating markets, and tasted different street food. Prior to arriving one of my friends had pre-arranged a tour guide for the days were going to be in Bangkok. Her name was Kitty and she had the coolest personality and very laid-back vibe. Comment below or email me if you need her contact information.

My favorite temple visit was at the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. One thing to keep in mind is that you must dress appropriately/conservatively before visiting. No sleeveless tops, crop tops, shorts, and skirts must be passed our knees. I have seen people get turned away for not dressing properly, like wearing shorts and sleeveless tops. Please do your research before you book a trip to any new culture you will be visiting. It is the least you can do to avoid disrespecting any culture or country you plan to visit.

Like many placed in Asia, almost everywhere we went there was at least a couple or a family that wanted to take pictures with us. I took it as a compliment, but it gets exhausting after a while.

The food in Thailand was so fresh, full of flavor, and cheap. The dollar goes a long way there. We used cash because some places we went to did not accept credit cards.

Up Nexr….Phuket!

We stayed at Novotel Phuket Resort, nicely located facility within walking distance to Patong Beach. We rented a swim up room and it was a unique experience.

Stunning hotel with gorgeous views right out of our balcony.

Our tour guide arranged a tour of Phi Phi islands for us starting the morning we arrived in Phuket. Our transport from the airport to the hotel was prearranged as well.

Our Thai massages in Phuket was less expensive than the massages we received in Bangkok. 250 Thai Baht for a one-hour massage, which is equivalent to around $7.5 total. Make sure you stay hydrated during your entire trip to Thailand. Especially if you will be spending a lot of time outside of your hotel room; weather you’re lounging by the pool or sightseeing.

Must have items for Thailand; hand wipes, hand sanitizer, folding hand fan, small umbrella, and a small scarf to carry in your purse just in case you wear short sleeves to a temple and they ask you to cover up your arms or shoulders.

Thailand don’ts: do not ride the elephants. I have learned after this trip the extent of abuse elephants endure to be trained for riding by tourist, and they are not well taken care of by their so-called owners. Tip your waiter/waitress staff because its basic dinning out etiquette. Thailand is not one of those countries where they get offended when you tip. Use eco-friendly, ocean-friendly, and coral reef-safe sunscreens. Finally, be respectful towards the locals, and respect their environment. You are a guest in their land so be sure to leave their home as it is or better.

Bangkok and Phuket, Thailand

Up Nexr….Phuket!