These Thailand Destinations are Worth the Long Flight

As the largest island in Thailand, Phuket offers everything from luxurious spas and beachfront resorts to remote hiking trails through the jungle. The beaches here are just as beautiful as you'd expect them to be, and although are many often crowded, it's still possible to find a secluded stretch of sand away from the hustle and bustle. There's also accommodation options to suit almost every taste; the party town of Patong is the largest and busiest city on the island, but visitors looking to experience art and culture should consider staying in the beautiful Phuket Town.

Best known for its gravity-defying limestone karst formations and its crystal-clear waters, Ao Phang Nga National Park encompasses roughly 155 square miles of the Andaman Sea in southern Thailand. There are more than 40 islands in the park, but the most famous is Khao Phing Kan, which appeared in the 1974 James Bond film The Man with the Golden Gun. Most visitors find that the best way to explore the park is by canoe or kayak; 1-day tours are the most popular, but some companies also offer multi-day trips that include camping on the islands.

The capital of Thailand and one of the most-visited cities in the world, Bangkok is a cosmopolitan hub that truly offers something for everyone. Elaborate ancient temples sit alongside modern high-rise buildings, while shopping options range from luxurious high-end malls to the bustling Chatuchak Weekend Market. Of course, a visit to the city wouldn't be complete without sampling some of the delicious local cuisine or checking out the vibrant nightlife scene; many tourists flock to Khao San Road and Sukhumvit, but excellent bars, clubs, and restaurants can be found in almost every part of the city.

Despite being Thailand's second largest metropolis, Chiang Mai has little in common with the bustling southern capital of Bangkok. Tucked amongst the forested foothills of the northern mountains, Chiang Mai makes a great base for exploring the lush rainforests of the north and the city itself boasts a historic walled center full of cozy cafes and restaurants that are perfect for unwinding after a busy day of exploring. In fact, the entire city encourages you to relax; thanks in part to the hundreds of beautiful Buddhist temples scattered throughout the city, a peaceful atmosphere prevails even in the busiest tourist destinations.

Located in the very north of Thailand, the province of Chiang Rai is home to the country's most dramatic mountains and some of its most beautiful rainforests and rivers. It's also one of the most ethnically diverse areas in Thailand; there are plenty of opportunities for visitors to learn about the cultures of the indigenous hill tribes, particularly if they are willing to trek into the remote mountain villages. However, the province is perhaps most famous for being the location of Wat Rong Khun (known in English as the White Temple), a stunning Buddhist temple with an intricate white exterior.

Sometimes called "the Roof of Thailand", Doi Inthanon National Park is one of the most impressive jewels of the country's northern region. The biggest attraction in the park is Doi Inthanon itself; at 8,415 feet, the mountain is the highest in Thailand. However, visitors can also enjoy a small network of hiking trails, several beautiful waterfalls, and a limestone cave with two chambers. The park also features bungalows and a campground for anyone who would like to spend the night; tents, sleeping bags, and other camping gear can be rented at the entrance to the campground.

Founded in 1975, Erawan National Park in western Thailand encompasses 212 square miles of deciduous forest and limestone hills riddled with fascinating caves. The highlight of the park is Erawan Falls, a 7-tiered waterfall whose emerald-green pools are teeming with tiny fish. Six of the tiers can be accessed by a series of trails and bridges, but reaching the seventh tier requires climbing up several cliffs. Amenities at the waterfall include a visitors center, a variety of shops, bungalows, campsites, and restaurants, but visitors should be aware that food is not permitted past the second tier of the waterfall.

Not far from the Malaysian border, Hat Yai is southern Thailand's urban hub. The city is quite popular with Malaysian tourists, but it remains off the beaten path for those from the West. As one of the most important business centers in the south of Thailand, the city offers excellent shopping in the form of both Western-style malls and busy local markets. A visit to the city also isn't complete without taking a ride in the cable car at Nakhon Hat Yai Park, sampling the delicious Cantonese and Thai street food, and experiencing the vibrant nightlife.

Hua Hin is one of Thailand's original beach resort towns, but it's a much more cosmopolitan destination than some of the remote southern islands. It's also easily accessible from Bangkok, making it a great choice for anyone who wants a quick beach getaway but doesn't have enough time to travel all the way to the south. The primary draw for tourists is the beautiful beach that runs from one side of the city to the other, but visitors should also make time to visit the water parks, stroll through the lively night markets, and indulge in a fresh seafood dinner.

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991, the Huai Kha Khaeng Wild Life Sanctuary is part of the largest protected wildlife area in mainland Southeast Asia. The sanctuary has the honor of being home to Thailand's largest tiger population, and it also provides refuge for many rare and endangered species. Animal sightings are not guaranteed, but visitors on day trips can usually expect to see long-tailed macaques, Asian palm civets, boars, and several different species of deer. The park has a good network of well-maintained hiking trails, but some are only open to visitors if accompanied by a ranger.