Page 48 - Intra Muros April 2024

TRAVEL

Explore Michelin starred restaurants August: One for the shoppers November: Time for festival fever
in May August is typically regarded as the The Loy Krathong festival is set to take
South Africans love good food, and if beginning of the off-peak season in place in November this year. As one
there is one reason to visit Thailand, Thailand, which makes it the best of Thailand’s most enchanting and
exploring its culinary gems should be time to cash in on cheaper flights and visually stunning festivals, it celebrates
one of the reasons. Michelin Guide, accommodation prices. With heavier lights, water, and spirituality. The
the internationally acclaimed culinary rainfall, most tourists head indoors festival holds deep cultural and
authority, has once again celebrated over this period to experience some religious significance, as it is a time for
Thailand’s vibrant and diverse culinary local cuisine and the bustling shopping Thais to pay respects to the goddess
scene by showcasing a total of 447 food malls in urban areas such as Bangkok. of water, Phra Mae Khongkha. At the
establishments in Thailand. The 2024 Popular shopping destinations include heart of Loy Krathong is the tradition
edition of the Michelin Guide Thailand Siam Square Bangkok and the expansive of crafting and floating krathongs,
has recognised outstanding culinary Chatuchak Weekend Market. You’ll intricately decorated floating baskets,
establishments nationwide, with six new find amazing finds here, including silk onto rivers, lakes, and other bodies
shining stars and two additional Michelin products, aromatic Thai spices, coconut of water. The festival is celebrated
star restaurants. oil products, jewellery, curious trinkets, nationwide, but specific locations,
high-end accessories, and artisanal such as Chiang Mai, Sukhothai, and
June: The month for a good hike handicrafts. Ayutthaya, are renowned for their
Although Thailand is best known for its elaborate festivities.
pristine beaches and marine biodiversity, September: The month for culture
it also has a lot to offer in the way of September is long-boat racing season in Dive into December
natural vegetation and towering hills to Thailand – fast-paced races are held in four Thailand comes alive in December,
be explored. June is the perfect time for country regions to celebrate the Buddhist with the month being the beginning
a hike in the Northern Hills. Some of the Lent. Each year, the races draw large of the peak season, so it’s a great time
most popular hikes include the one to the crowds of enthusiastic locals and tourists to get stuck into some of the country’s
summit of Doi Chiang Dao, from where who cheer on the participants and enjoy most popular watersports. It’s the
the views stretch all the way to Myanmar the cultural activities that surround the ideal time to do some island-hopping
(Burma). Hikers could also consider going events. This is the ideal time to participate and visit hotspots like Phang Nga Bay,
on guided walks through terraced rice in the action in various locations, including with its intricate series of breathtaking
paddies and visiting some surrounding Ayutthaya, Phitsanulok, and Nan. mangroves, lagoons, and caves. Many
villages. tour operators around Thailand offer
Shopping under the stars in October services such as exploring by boat, as
Hit the jungles in July Regarding the weather in Thailand over well as snorkelling and scuba diving
In July, Thailand’s north and south regions October, it’s usually a bit of a mixed bag. at various spots along the coast.
typically experience high rainfall, but that The rainy season draws to a close over the For those needing speed, there are
doesn’t stop nature lovers from hitting the month, but occasional showers are still to many opportunities to jet ski and
jungles for a truly authentic experience be expected. This month is the best time wakeboard. For something slower, you
of the tropics. Some of the most popular to see a few of Thailand’s night markets. could consider boarding a sailboat off
jungles are in Khao Yai, Umphang, and Nan. Each town has its own night market and the coast of Kho Phi Phi or the Similan
Fortunately, heavier rainfall brings heavier large versions, such as the Patpong and Islands for some sightseeing and
waterfalls, which are a breathtaking Mahadthai Night Markets, offer an open- sundowners.
experience. The rainy season is also the air shopping experience that will cater to
best time to see the best fauna and flora, your curiosity to try local delicacies while For more travel inspiration and ideas,
which thrive during this time of the year. stocking up on some real bargains. visit www.fanclubthailand.co.uk

46 | INTRAMUROS APRIL 2024