Photo by SAHLIE P. LACSON

Be involved, get real. 

This is the message that the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), now on its 50th year, wants to impart to its visitors.  Simply put, the TAT would like to deviate from mass tourism which is purely traditional and adapt to the evolving lifestyles and interests of travelers.

It simply wants travelers to experience and see something different; to seek places off the beaten track, to connect to the environment and to experience something authentic.

The term ‘experiential tourism’ applies here as it refers to the emotional response through time and space.  This form of tourism shows and involves rather than describes.

In today’s trends, destination-based traditional way of tourism has been outgrown by activity-based tourism. The activities involved therein have now become the selling point rather than the mere location. And in Thailand’s case, the purpose of experiencing these activities can be achieved without much effort.

Owing to its geographical setting, Thailand boasts of diverse natural resources, from the mountain ranges in the north, the central plains with its rivers, endless paddy fields and orchards, to the beaches, islands, plantations and limestone rock formations in the south, not counting the rich cultural heritage reflected in countless communities and stunning locations which leaves incredible room for exploration and seclusion.

In my case, a four-day Thailand city tour, its outskirts included, is sufficient to achieve what could be described as a perfect “Thailand tourism experience.”

The Krabi Experience

Located approximately 814 kilometers from Bangkok, Krabi is widely known as Thailand’s premier rock climbing destination, with its imposing jungle-tipped cliffs.  It comprises the islands of Ko Phi Phi – the Phi Phi Le and Phi Phi Don.

Here, almost all of the –ing tours, which form part of the activity-based tourism are attainable — canoeing, kayaking, rock climbing, meditating, skydiving, snorkeling, abseiling, fishing, trekking, rafting, bird watching, wind surfing, etc.

Famous spots for canoeing and kayaking include Ko Hong, Ko Karot, Ko Phak Bia, Ko Ku Du, and Tha Len, while Tham Phra Nang and Hat Rai Le have attracted many climbers.

Phi Phi Leh boasts of classic beaches like Maya Beach, for one, where “The Beach” by Leonardo Di Caprio was filmed.

Phi Phi Don, with its relaxing, long, wide bays and calm seas, is popular among European honeymooners.  Nightlife could also be the island’s byword, with its glitzy bars, restos, convenience stores, spas, shopping and souvenir stores.

The Phuket Experience

Considered as Thailand’s premier holiday resort, it is also Thailand’s largest island. It is internationally renowned for its picturesque landscapes, fresh seafood, architecture, culture, and welcoming climate. 

Phuket’s surroundings are what holiday dreams are made of — turquoise seas, crescent bays, powdery white beaches, vibrantly rich reefs teeming with interesting marine life and several beautiful islets. 

Among the must-see attractions include Laem Promthep — referred to as the island’s iconic image. Another is Hat Patong beach, cited as Phuket’s most stunning beach.  Hat Kata and Hat Karon, on one hand, are quieter and less crowded beaches. The Hat Surin is nevertheless one of Phuket’s best spots to watch glorious sunsets. Hat Nai Yang, Hat Bang Thao, Hat Nai Thon , Hat Sai Kaeo, and Laem Sing offer utmost relaxation and privacy.

For a sample of Thai cultural performances, the Phuket Fantasea show at Kamala Beach offers a “Las Vegas Style” entertainment. Ecotourism is also being promoted at Island Safari, which offers exciting expeditions on foot by elephant, and in canoes. 

The Bangkok Experiences

They say that when you’re in Thailand or in Bangkok, self - pampering is a must.  And this actually means a Thai massage experience.  Thailand has become the fountainhead of spa business in Southeast Asia.

Hotels and resorts have spas that offer various kinds of service, with prices depending on quality and reputation.  You will find modest day spas at almost every corner, with prices surprisingly low for such a rejuvenating indulgence.

What’s more, plenty of people come to Thailand to get their teeth done (yes, there’s even a dental spa in Bangkok, too) where they can enjoy quality dentistry.

Since Thailand is one of the most strongly Buddhist countries in the world, visitors, too, can learn the fundamentals of this practice at several centers in Bangkok.

A walk to Khaosan Road (considered the backpackers’ place) is also a delight. This is also considered Bangkok’s Little Bohemia due to its proximity to Phra A-thit, where artsy restaurants, chic bars and a riverfront park are located.

And once you’re in Bangkok, you could literally break your budget with its bazaars, night and weekend markets. Also popular are the floating markets where goods are sold by itinerant vendors who ply rivers and canals in their boats, delivering to people’s homes or meeting to exchange goods. 

Department stores and a number of shops in Bangkok have fixed prices where bargaining is acceptable and expected. One can end up getting as much as 30 percent discount depending on his/her bargaining skill.

Blooms are also all over Pak Khlong Talat. Here, travelers buy a special flower box, spray the flowers before boarding, put moist tissues around them, and carry them on as hand luggage.  It’s actually a great way to make a stunning arrival.

Finally, savoring the true spices of Thai life somewhat completes a Bangkok, or Thailand - for that matter, experience.

Thai food is known for its enthusiastic use of fresh herbs and spices. Often, Thai food is served with a variety of spicy condiments to embolden the dish.  This can range from dried chili pieces, sliced chili peppers in rice vinegar, to a spicy chili sauce. For dessert, Thailand offers a cornucopia of tropical fruits.

With all of these, Thailand has a great potential in the field of experiential tourism.  Add to this its one unique selling point, that is, Thainess — the people, culture, traditions, values, architecture and food, all the things that are typical Thai and that possess the aesthetics and ideals of an exotic and exciting destination.