Page 39 - Waterfall City Issue 3 March 2024

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

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