Let’s face it – none of us are great at saving room in our luggage for souvenirs. Make the most of your extra space with the souvenirs worth shelling out some money – and some extra baggage fees – to bring home. Here’re our recommendations of what to get for your souvenirs of Thailand!

No matter how much time you spend on holiday in Thailand — and how many amazing photos you might have — few mementos are as lasting as a great souvenir. Taking home a little piece of the places you explore is an amazing way to remember your adventures and commemorate a life-changing journey to a foreign country. Plus, with the sheer amount of beautiful souvenirs in Thailand, its easy to find something you won’t mind sacrificing a little suitcase space to bring home.

But beyond just having something beautiful or unique to bring home with you, finding great souvenirs can also be a great way to travel responsibly. In Southeast Asia, and especially in Thailand, traditional arts and crafts are some of the most authentic testaments to culture, and are one of the few ways to take home a genuine piece of heritage and history. But with market stalls overflowing with dime-a-dozen souvenirs and mass produced copycat crafts, it’s hard to weed out the duds in a search for true arts and crafts gems that would make for great souvenirs.

In your search for souvenirs and gifts in the land of smiles, we’ve got your guide to finding what’s worth your baht, where to find them, and how they’re helping to support long-lasting craftsmanship and tradition in Thailand.
Coconut Shell Crafts

Why?

When it comes to coconuts, Thailand reigns supreme in Southeast Asia. Across Thailand’s serene white sand beaches and tropical hangouts is one of the largest concentrations of palm trees and coconuts in the region.

And although coconut juices, oils and foods are plenty popular in Thailand, crafty artisans for centuries have left no part of the coconut go to waste, and have established coconut shell crafts as a favorite souvenir for travelers. By sanding down and polishing the carved coconut shells, artisans create figurines of monkeys, elephants, palm trees and even kitchen utensils out of shells.

Where?

These coconut shell crafts are exceptionally common across all of Thailand, but some of the oldest coconut shell craft villages are located near the palm tree groves that they coconuts are harvested from. One very popular spot to find coconut shell crafts made by skilled artisans are at San Sai Village near Chiang Mai, where passers-by can even see artisans at work.

To this day, though, the most famous of all coconut craft villages is in Phatthalung, Thailand, where a famous coconut craft center is located.
Soap Flowers

Why?

Thailand’s color and vibrant culture is perhaps best illustrated with the country’s obsession with technicolor blooms, and Bangkok’s famous city flower market is just one testament to flowers’ cultural significance in Thailand. But since fresh flowers aren’t exactly great candidates for souvenirs, as they rarely survive the transport home (if they’re even allowed across an international border at all) and have a pretty limited lifespan, Thailand’s floral culture improvises. And in true Thai tradition, the improvisation involves artistic and intricate carving.

But carving soft and fragrant soaps into beautifully ornate flower designs, travelers can easily take home entire “bouquets” of Thai flowers that will last quite a bit longer than fresh flowers would. Plus, Thailand is famous for its penchant for art via carving (that even extends to fruit and vegetable decorative carvings), so these are perfect souvenirs with a little piece of unique Thai tradition, too.

Where?

Soap flowers are incredibly popular throughout Thailand, and you should have no problem spotting them in Thailand’s many street markets. To ensure that you’ve got a sustainably-produced piece, though, head to Chiang Mai or Bangkok’s NGO-run shops – these establishments ensure that their wares were created responsibly by well-paid and supported artisans.
Pottery

Why?

Pottery is a popular craftswork across Southeast Asia, with some of the world’s oldest pottery villages located through the region. But in Thailand, pottery is especially unique given its material, craftsmanship and centuries-old history. Perhaps the best testament to traditional pottery artisan culture is in Dan Kwian Village near Korat, where pottery is still made by hand (sans-pottery wheel) with the rust colored clay molded into ceramics with beautifully intricate floral etchings.

Where?

The pottery in Dan Kwian Village have supported its residents for nearly three centuries, and buying ceramic works of art here is a sure-fire way of supporting traditional arts and artisans. Its located only just outside of Korat, with plenty of travel groups making their way to the village from central Korat daily, including Absolute Asia Tours.
Handwoven Silks

Why?

If there’s anything that has established itself as the must-have souvenir for travelers to Southeast Asia, its silk. Silk production and weaving is common throughout Southeast Asia, including Vietnam and Cambodia, but Thai silk is distinct in its feel and design from its neighboring countries. The patterns and colors in Thai silk is unique based on its manufacturing process, with dyes made of natural ingredients found exclusively in Thailand used to create Thai silk’s unique range of colors.

Where?

Thai silk draws on centuries of artisan history, with many crafts families producing silk goods for generations, and using the same hand-weaving processes as their ancestors. The Pak Thong Chai silk village, for example, is still home to families who have created these hand-woven pieces for decades or more, and rely on craftsman within the family to create pieces by hand. Opting for these authentic pieces at a slightly higher price means higher quality and craftsmanshio.
Silver

Why?

Thailand is famous for its silver, and this becomes apparent the moment you stroll through a city or village market. Silver is a major part of culture in rural Thailand, will a whole host of Thai hill tribes, including the Karen hill tribe in northern Thailand. Silver is crafted in abundance in the region where the Karen tribes still reside, and much of the tribes’ income relies on their hand-crated silver products.

Where?

Karen Hill Tribe silver is sold in abundance throughout Thailand, including its major urban hubs like Bangkok and Chiang Mai, but keep a close eye on authenticity. Hill tribe silver is handcrafted, and will generally be more expensive than other lower quality silver, so don’t be afraid to sacrifice a bit more baht for higher quality.

—

Seeing where traditional arts and crafts in Thailand are produced with the same methodologies as for generations is one of the most illuminating experiences when visiting the land of smiles. Absolute Asia Tours visits the country’s most authentic craft villages and can even create a tailor-made journey for you to experience many different craft villages from north to south.

A major hub of southeast Asia, Bangkok is a mega city known for its bustle, temples and epic shopping. But, few travellers venture beyond the guidebook to the lesser known corners of the city. Here at Absolute Asia Tours, we love to go off the beaten path! These are some of our favourite hidden attractions in Bangkok.

————-

Bangkok, Thailand’s bustling capital city, is never short on attractions for visitors. Ancient temples, famous markets and tasty street food in the buzzing urban jungle lure hundreds of thousands of travelers to Bangkok every year. But after a few days exploring the guidebook destinations and following the tourist trail, there’s a few city spots that many overlook entirely. These hidden attractions are a different twist on the cultural landmark, and all of them give the few visitors that stumble upon them a rare glimpse into Thai culture and what makes Bangkok tick.

1. Pak Khlong Talat Flower Market

Pak Khlong Talat is one of Bangkok’s most recognized and famous flower markets, where hundreds come to buy and sell Thailand’s most colorful blooms in wholesale amounts. But beyond just flowers, the Pak Khlong Talat flower market has grown to also include stalls selling fruits and vegetables, too. The market is open all day, but it’s busiest right before dawn when boats and trucks arrive in troves to unload that days fragrant wares before returning to surrounding provinces outside of Bangkok. This central “flower hub” is a perfect chance to see a more colorful side of Bangkok lifestyles and culture, and probably one of the most fragrant destinations in the city, too!

2. Wang Lang Gourmet Market

Thai food is famous worldwide for a reason — the spices, tastes and creativity behind Thai food makes it one of the top reasons so many people end up in Bangkok during holiday in the first place. Perhaps some of the best ways to really get a taste of Thai culture is by digging into the country’s most iconic dishes with food tours and cooking classes, but for the truly culinary-inclined, a visit to the Wang Lang Cuisine Market should be at the top of the travel list. The market features open-air cooking stations with master chefs whipping up specialties while onlookers enjoy the show, and sell the finished dishes at remarkably affordable prices.

3. Khlong Thom Market

Bangkok is chock full of markets, with dozens nestled in nearly every corner of the city. The most famous is perhaps the Chatuchak Market, which invites troves of tourists to wander through its aisles of wares, but those looking to explore a Bangkok market (minus the massive crowds) should head to Khlong Thom Market in Chinatown, instead. Located in the heart of one of Bangkok’s most colorful districts, the market is a perfect starting point for a wander around the area which is a destination to see in its own right.

4. Sub-Zero Ice Skating Club

Bangkok is certainly a hub for the strange and downright extravagant, and those bizarre spots to see are usually within the city’s massive shopping malls. Unlike its Western counterparts, though, Bangkok’s shopping malls are home to more than just clothing stores and cosmetic counters — most of them are approaching theme park levels with their design. This includes the Esplanade Center at Ekkamai, which boasts a massive sub-zero ice skating rink on its fourth floor. This is a perfect place to beat the heat while enjoying a different side of Thai culture, since the rink often dims the lights and blasts the music for what can only be described as a super-cold nightclub.

5. Bangkok Center of Art and Culture

Bangkok has made big efforts in recent years to promote and highlight the culture and traditional arts in the country, and the 2008 opening of the Arts and Cultural Center in Bangkok is a perfect example of this focus. A visit to the center will differ depending on when you go, since many of the performances, exhibitions and events organized here are touring, and only stop for a few weeks a time. That said, the center is never short on entertainment, with dozens of coffee shops, bookstores and libraries woven in between music, dance and cultural performances.

6. House of Museums

Exploring Thai history goes far beyond just wandering around the city’s many temples and historic sights. Bangkok is also home to one of Southeast Asia’s most impressive collections of museums, each showcasing a strange corner of Thai culture and life. One of the most illuminating cultural destinations is the city’s House of Museums, which features thousands of items that have been collected from Thai homes over decades. The museum is one of the only places in the city to explore the genuine lifestyles and history of Thai locals, and is only just short of stepping into a local Thai home yourself.

7. Batcat Toy Museum

Thailand and Bangkok specifically has a certain love of all things childlike and playful, and the Batcat Toy Museum is a perfect illustration of that urban personality. Throughout its interior, the Batcat Toy Museum houses over 50,000 toys, trinkets and playthings spanning over decades and even centuries. Its size and scope makes it the largest and most impressive toy museum in Southeast Asia, as well as one of the largest in the world.

8. Rama IX Park

To say that Bangkok is bustling is an understatement, and visitors to the capital city will find themselves craving peace and quiet at least once or twice during a visit. Thankfully, Bangkok’s Rama IX Park is a perfect green getaway right in the heart of the city, with over 200 acres of greenery and park land that features gardens, benches and most of all, quiet! Built in 1987 to commemorate the Thai King’s 60th birthday, the park is a great spot for a walk or a picnic to escape the hustle and bustle for a few hours.

—

Thinking of exploring Bangkok and beyond? Check out some of our in depth itineraries, or if you’re feeling creative, consider requesting a custom-designed tour and discover Bangkok’s best hidden attractions along the way.

Heading to Thailand? Our local Thailand expert knows a thing or two about making the most of your first trip. This grand line-up of Thailand travel tips gives you everything you need to know before you arrive!

————-

Thailand might be one of the world’s favourite travel destinations in Asia, but there’s plenty to know before touching down in this Southeast Asian nation. As locals, we’d say that our team knows more than the average Joe about arriving, travelling in and enjoying this beautiful country I call home. From our team of locals to you, these are my top tips and insider answers to those burning travel questions!

“Visa or no visa?”

Good news! Thailand allows passport holders from 48 different nations to enter the country without a visa – but there’s a catch. If your trip is under 30 days, you won’t need to get a visa before entering. More than that, and you’ll need to plan on getting yourself set up for a visa.

The no-visa list includes: Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden, UK, USA and many more. For a full list of countries and their Thailand visa requirements, check this list.

“What should I pack?”

That depends a bit on you, and what your travel plans are. Make sure you’re considering what activities you’ll get up to in the country. Thailand is a tropical country, so that means it’s damp and warm. Make sure your footwear, clothing and attitude is ready for it!

For all travellers to Thailand, though, your suitcase should include these top-priority things:

– Casual clothing suitable for 28-33 Celcius degree weather, and certainly a swimsuit or two

– An umbrella in the likely chance of scattered rain

– Personal medicines, a toothbrush and some toothpaste, as only five-star hotels will provide them

– Flat shoes and sandals you’re used to wearing – new shoes means painful feet

– Landmarks like the Grand Palace and Golden Pagoda require conservative clothing, so be prepared with clothes that cover your shoulders and knees and shoes that cover your whole foot

– Bring a small bag for storage of passport and cash, since you won’t want to leave them in your hotel in case of theft

– Have a few 20 Baht notes handy, since it is common courtesy to tip this amount to those that carry your luggage in and out of the hotel

– Smaller carry-on sized bags for domestic flights in Thailand, since they will have different luggage allowances than international carriers

“What’s the deal on smoking and littering?”

Unlike some of Thailand’s neighbouring countries, Thailand takes littering and smoking seriously in areas where it is banned. Signs will mark areas where smoking is not allowed (even if it’s outside), and littering is not permissible anywhere on the road. Find a rubbish bin instead!

“What should I know about shopping in Thailand?”

Hardly anyone makes it out of Thailand without enjoying a little bit of retail therapy. Shopping here is a bit different than in the West, though, so there are some things you should know:

– Bargaining is allowed when buying at shops or in the market, but if the seller has an employee ID card, it is not allowed.

– If you have a calculator on your phone, this makes a very convenient tool for bargaining to avoid the language barrier!

– In Bangkok, home appliances and household items can be bought at a suitable price, but watch out! Electrical items are very expensive, so maybe save these purchases for your home country.

– Almost every store and supermarket in Thailand opens at 10 or 10.30am, and very few open at 9.30am. Be prepared to wait a bit if you’re an early riser!

– Shopping in Thailand is entertaining but you should visit different stores to compare prices, especially when buying jewellery and precious gems. All stores have price tags, but you should bargain! You can bargain from 10% up to 40% cheaper than the original price.

– You should always take the receipt and check it carefully before leaving the store. Stores with a good reputation will give customers the ability to return unwanted items up to 90 days, and if a store does not have this policy, you should look for another place to buy!

– Thai people value politeness and a sense of humour. With patience and a friendly smile, you can buy items at a cheaper price, even if you’re not a Thai speaker! Most sellers speak a good level of English in the cities, and shopkeeps will usually try to stay friendly with other shops (no forcing or stealing customers from each other!). You can relax and bargain until you make a purchase you’re happy with.

Pro tip: For many higher-scale stories, if you make a purchase of over 3,000 Baht, tourists will be given a VIP card from the store, which usually entitles you to a 5% discount for every following purchase within 2 years!

“Where should I shop in Bangkok?”

Stand almost anywhere in Bangkok, and there will be some kind of shop, market or street seller within arms’ reach. That said, some shopping districts are better than others, and these are the tried-and-tested favourites for locals and visitors alike!

Central Chidlom

This is a very large shopping centre in Bangkok, with items ranging from cheap to expensive, including all kinds of clothing, jewellery and electronics… plus some great spots for entertainment, too!

Central World Plaza

This is one of the most developed centres in Thailand. With more than 500 stores, 50 restaurants, 21 cinemas, a bowling alley, a playground of kids and two big shopping sites and the biggest supermarket in Asia, Central World is by-and-far the top spot to shop in the city. You can find many popular brands here like Rolex, Adidas and Calvin Klein.

Siam Paragon

Siam Paragon has the widest shopping area in Bangkok, the biggest stores and the largest gathering of cinema complexes – simply put, it is the heaven for shopping in Bangkok! There is also a large food court with a huge variety of international dishes with fairly affordable prices, if you find yourself hungry during your shopping excursion.

Charn Issara

Charn Issara is well known for clothing, cosmetics and consumer goods – and less well-known than Siam Paragon and Central World.

Maboonklong

There are many types of items in this older shopping centre, with reasonable prices that are less likely to break the bank.

Pratunam

This market mainly focuses on selling clothes, so this can be a great place to shop if you’re on the hunt to beef up your travel wardrobe.

“How does this tax return work?”

For foreign visitors shopping in Thailand, you can have a tax return in airports within Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Hat Yai and Phuket when purchasing a minimum of 5,000 Baht in one day. This total can be calculated from multiple receipts purchased on that day, so make sure you have these saved and organised to redeem!

But remember, you should ask the shop to give you the tax refund form, which should be filled in by the seller within the day of purchase. When leaving Thailand, visitors need to get custom stamps on the tax refund form before checking in. After passing the passport check point, visitors can get their tax money back by showing this stamped form.

“How do I make international calls?”

You should buy an international phone card of Thailand (hint: it’s yellow) and use public phone booths to make calls, which is much cheaper than doing so on your mobile phone. The cheapest card costs 300 Baht.

An alternative is to purchase a Thai Sim card to use with your mobile phone, which costs about 200 Baht. There is a small amount of credit included, and you will have an option to use 3G service as well. This can be bought in any convenient store such as 7 Eleven, where you can also top up the card should you run out of credit.

“What should I know about the exchange rates?”

Thailand’s currency is called Baht. 1 USD is equivalent to roughly 32.5 to 32.7 Baht, and 1 Euro is equivalent to around 40 Baht. 1 GBP is equivalent to 47 Baht. Since these can fluctuate, downloading an app on your phone to quickly and easily find exchange rates is recommended for shopping.

“What are the biggest ‘Do’s’ and ‘Don’ts’ in Thailand?”

Thailand might be a popular tourism destination for people from around the world, but it is still a Southeast Asian country with a very different culture. It’s important to remember that not all things acceptable in your country will be acceptable in Thailand. These are the biggest yes’s and no’s in the country.
Do’s

– Wear polite clothes (no shorts or tank tops) when visiting pagodas and temples.

– Do not climb onto Buddha statues to take photos.

– Do not offend the king and queen of Thailand as they are highly respected by Thai people.

– Always respect those who are older than you.

– Be polite with those who you bargain with, and don’t forget to smile!

– Leave your footwear outside before entering a house. If you aren’t sure if this is customary at a home, just keep an eye out for other shoes left outside.

– Be patient in the post office or in a bank, where calm is highly valued.
Don’ts

– Don’t use your foot to point towards a person or object. In Thai culture, this is very impolite!

– Don’t touch a child’s head! The head is a sacred part of the body for Thai people, and though patting on the head might be a sign of friendliness in the West, it is not so in Thailand.

– Avoid public displays of affection in Thailand, where couples are usually more reserved.

– Avoid yelling in public, as this is considered very rude.

– Beware cat-calling! Making inappropriate noises to catch a woman’s attention is a big no-no.

– Never accept a request from a stranger for a tour or service. These almost always turn out to be scams!

– Never buy jewellery or antiques on the streets. There’s a good chance they’ll be fake, so make these purchases in larger stores or malls to be safe.

– Never use a gesture with your fingers faced upward when communicating with a waiter. This is equivalent to a particular offensive gesture in Western countries, so make sure you close your hand or face it downwards.

—

First time heading to Thailand? Let our local travel experts in Thailand design a customised Thailand tour perfect for the kind of traveller that you are.

Phuket is Thailand’s biggest and busiest island and has long been considered the quintessential ‘beach vacation’ in the country. As tourism in Phuket has grown and the beaches are taken over by big name resorts, many believe it has lost some of that Thai island magic along the way. However, at Absolute Asia Tours, we pride ourselves in finding the new, unique and often hidden gems of all our destinations. Phuket is no different.

So, what is there to do beyond the beach and outside of your 5* resort package? For gastronomers, history-lovers and adventure fiends alike, there are plenty of unique things to do in Phuket.

Sealand Phuket Camp

Close to Phang Nga City, Sealand Phuket Camp is reached via a breathtaking drive through jungle and beside sheer cliffs. Here, you will find an adventure camp with an interesting story to tell. As well as their adventure packages, that include exhilarating white water rafting trips, the camp is home to a family of elephants.

Absolute Asia Tours are extremely passionate about responsible wildlife tourism and in 2015 audited elephant camps across Asia. Sealand camp did not pass our intensive audit. However, with the help of our expert team of responsible tourism champions, we helped Sealand understand how they could offer responsible activities- that focus on the overall well-being of the elephants- while continuing to bring clients and revenue to the camp.

If, like us, you are fascinated by these gentle giants, make the effort to find an elephant camp that is fully qualified in leading responsible activities. As tourists, your choices are what could really change the face of wildlife tourism in Thailand. For more information on this issue and the other qualified camps, head to the Forbes Asia feature on Absolute Asia Tours initiatives.

Rum Distillery Tour in Phuket

If you are looking for unique activities for after the sun goes down, avoid chaotic Patong and head to Chalong Bay. You can discover all there is to know about small batch rum distilling on our Phuket Master Class experience. Chalong Bay Rum is crafted with 100% Thai sugarcane, sustainably sourced from local farmers, and processed using traditional French machinery. It is smooth, pure and tastes a little like paradise.

What better way to appreciate it than seeing how it’s made, before trying your hand at cocktail creation alongside the experts? These guys are seriously passionate, and you will be too after spending an evening of rum sampling with them.

Phang Nga National Marine Park

The picture perfect beaches of Phuket are not the only natural beauty in the area. Nearby Phang Nga National Marine Park hosts some of the most breathtaking scenery in all of Southern Thailand. The best way to see the park is by taking a cruise through the mangrove forests and jungle clad karst islands. This gives you the opportunity to take in a vast area of the bay while stopping along the way to snorkel, kayak and explore hidden caves.

For an extra cultural element, visit Koh Pannyi. This is a small fishing village famous for its traditional stilted and floating homes. The locals that live in this area are known as “Sea Gypsies”, as they live almost their entire lives on water. Most locals make their living off of fishing or other seafaring trades.

Phuket Town

Phuket’s Old Town is well worth a day away from the beach and is a surprise to many visitors. Wander through quaint streets lined with Sino-Portuguese shop houses and grand mansions – a legacy of the island’s booming tin trade. Each building here tells the story of how the British, French and Portuguese descended upon Phuket island to seek their fortune in tin mining. Most are beautifully preserved testaments to this significant period in Phuket’s history. Today, the buildings have been turned into charming cafes, galleries, restaurants and boutique shops. It’s easy to spend a few hours perusing here, stepping in every now and again for a refreshment, souvenir or respite from the heat.

Street Food

While all the major resorts have high-class eating options, we encourage you to get out onto the streets at least once on your Phuket trip. After all, Thai street food is arguably the best street food in the world!

A great street food tour will take you to markets and street corners, as well as restaurants, to help you find the best local foodie spots. On the bustling streets of old town Phuket you may just discover a life-long love of Thai cuisine.

Are you intrigued by all that Phuket has to offer? Is there anything we have missed? Talk to one of our travel experts today to see what you could discover in Phuket.

Southeast Asia on your holiday to-do list? These are the most memorable destinations to spend the winter holidays, all from our team of destination experts!

————————————————————————————-

One of the best things about travel is its ability to make even the most every day experiences extraordinary. Eating breakfast? It can be an adventure on the streets of Hanoi. Going shopping? A lot more exciting in a Luang Prabang market. Going for a bike ride? Try it around Angkor Wat in Siem Reap, Cambodia.

And since the joy of the winter holidays is sometimes lost in the stress of shopping, planning and spending in the months before the big day, it’s no wonder that more and more people every year opt to spend their winter holidays in far away exotic destinations to make an otherwise stressful season an experience to remember.

And as it turns out, there’s few corners of the globe that are as idyllic during the winter months as Southeast Asia. With most of the region enjoying year-round warm weather — and some of the region’s best festivals and cultural holidays in those same months, too — Southeast Asia is fast becoming a top pick among holiday jetsetters worldwide. If you need some convincing to mix up your winter holidays with some once-in-a-lifetime travel experiences, perhaps these incredible spots and events will help.

Kanchanaburi, Thailand

When?

November 28 to December 7, 2018
Why?

River Kwai Bridge Festival

Kanchanaburi is one of Thailand’s most incredible and culturally magnificent destinations regardless of the time of year, but in the winter months, the historic city is home to one of the country’s most incredible festivals, too. The River Kwai Bridge is one of the most iconic spots in the city, and it’s no wonder why — the bridge has a long and sorted history of being one of the central locations of the “Death Railway”, where thousands of WWII P.O.W.’s lost their lives constructing the stretching rail line. But despite its dreary history, the River Kwai Bridge is now the centre of the Bridge Festival, which remembers the bridge’s past with a parades, light and sound performances and simulated explosions and warlike special effects. And when not enjoying the festival’s processions and events, visitors here can wander through its many artisan villages and idyllic countryside.

Our River Kwai and Kanchanaburi tour is the perfect way to experience the magic of this Thai city during holiday season!

Bangkok, Thailand

When?

New Year’s Eve
Why?

NYE Countdown in city centre

Just because you’re away from the West during the holidays doesn’t mean that you have to give up the time-honored New Year’s traditions altogether. In the bustling streets of Bangkok, the international New Year is celebrated just like the lunar New Year, with some of the region’s biggest countdown festivals in its glittering downtown. The biggest events in the city are usually held at CentralWorld Square, a major shopping mall and the centre of plenty of the city’s biggest events. Expect the usual party hats, fireworks and lights of the New Year’s festivals in your home country along with a unique Thai twist — traditional performances and festivities are often on showcase, too.

With some clever planning, it’s easy to make a stop in Bangkok for the New Year part of a holiday Classic Thailand getaway, too!

Ngapali Beach, Myanmar

When?

Throughout December
Why?

Beat the crowds

Not everyone wants to spent the holidays with events and parties. Sometimes, the best way to beat the stress is with some sand and sun, and Ngapali Beach is the perfect spot. Since it’s avoided the heavier tourism in some of Thailand’s popular beach spots, Ngapali Beach is a great place to spend time relaxing during Southeast Asia’s otherwise busy high months. And, since the country is predominantly Buddhist and still far enough off of the tourist trail, spending the holidays here will be a matter of spending it how you want, while the rest of the country enjoys their days like any other.

The best way to get there? With a lengthy adventure through Myanmar and kicking back at the end of the trip at Ngapali Beach – the itinerary for our Classic Myanmar tour!

Luang Prabang, Laos

When?

January 20 – 24 (First three days of the 12th lunar month)
Why?

H’mong New Year

Although the H’mong New Year is celebrated throughout Southeast Asia’s H’mong communities — including northern Vietnam — Laos is certainly one of the best places to experience H’mong New Year at its very best. And since the UNESCO World Heritage site of Luang Prabang is such a central point for Laotian tradition and culture, its also the most colorful spot to enjoy the festivities. With plenty of traditional dance, performances and food, Luang Prabang is a perfect spot to experience something different for the holidays, and to get a glimpse at what the winter months mean for cultures on the other side of the globe.

Read up on everything that the festival has to offer by reading our 5 Things to See for H’mong New Year blog post!

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

When?

Christmas Eve
Why?

Christmas and Tet on Nguyen Hue Boulevard, District 1

Despite Vietnam being a predominantly Buddhist or non-religious country, the Christmas season is treated as one of the country’s best reasons to start celebrating the Lunar New Year early. The most illustrious festivities almost always converge on Ho Chi Minh City’s downtown area and along the wide boulevard of Nguyen Hue. It’s here that massive displays of lights and color weave up the walls of the street’s buildings and through the branches of trees, with silk lanterns to add a Vietnamese twist to the otherwise-recognizable Christmas imagery. And since the Christmas season is so close to Vietnamese New Year, the festivities and decorations usually carry on until early the following year. The best time to enjoy the best of the festivities, though, is certainly Christmas Eve, when the lights and music are in full swing.

Don’t settle for just a visit to Ho Chi Minh City. Make a holiday getaway to Vietnam with our Vietnam Highlights tour!

—

Ready to experience a once-in-a-lifetime holiday season? Let us create a custom holiday itinerary in some of Southeast Asia’s most incredible winter destinations, including these top holiday spots.

Absolute Asia Tours Q&A: (Way) Off the Tourist Track in Halong Bay

Beyond the boat deck, what things to do in Halong Bay are perfect for adventurous travellers? We caught up with our rock climbing and kayaking specialists at My Way Travel to get the answers.
—
When we take adventure-seekers to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Halong Bay, we love to help them get off of the beaten track. That’s where our partners at My Way Travel come into play. As our preferred adventure travel partners in the bay, some of our best Halong Bay tours feature their experiences. To get an insider’s look at the bay and its best-kept secrets, we sat down with My Way Travel manager Rich Fergus to chat kayaking, secret lagoons and unforgettable experiences in northern Vietnam’s scenic gem.
How’d you end up in Halong Bay? Tell me a little bit about your background.

I have been working in Adventure Tourism for close to ten years now. I have worked in 16 countries across 3 continents, and Vietnam was high on my list. Cat Ba is by far my favourite place, thanks to its diverse culture and incredible adventure opportunities. I came here directly for the job and haven’t looked back since.

What makes Halong Bay a great place for adventure seekers?

Its the eerie mist that can sometimes creep through the bay swallowing the limestone cliffs, painting a picture that is a cross between Jurassic Park and Lord of The Rings. The 400+ islands make any person into an adventurer, be it by kayak, stand up paddle board or climbing high to get panoramic views of Halong Bay. This place has got what any adventurer needs to keep them happy!

For adventurous travellers, what things to do in Halong Bay are a must?

The best way to get out and really experience the bay is by kayak. When you’re at the foot of a huge 100+ foot tower of rock, you really are blown away. Kayaking through caves that open into huge lagoons with the possibility of seeing native monkeys and even eagles fishing for lunch is a must do in Halong.

For the best views, rock climbing is by far the best activity. It means a bit of elbow grease and conquering of your fear of heights, but the views alone are worth the effort ten-fold. We always use qualified and insured guides, so this is a safe and fun way to face a fear or follow a love.

Though lots of people don’t even know it can be done in Halong, stand-up paddle boarding is an incredible way to get around, too. Cruising through arches or solid rock only hearing the water drip from your paddle is a very special, very surreal experience that is great for adventure travel novices.

But, all this said, the ultimate adventure seeker activity is deep water soloing. This form of climbing is not for the faint-of-heart. This means climbing high above the water on some of the limestone faces … but with no ropes! This high-adrenaline activity is a must if you’ve got a bit of climbing experience. Like always, we use qualified guides and boat crew that have been sailing these waters for their entire lives.

Last but not least, trekking in and around Cat Ba is beautiful, with a wide range of distances and ability levels. This is something nearly everyone of every fitness level can enjoy, which makes it a great activity to try for anyone looking to try something unique off of the boat’s deck.What do you think is missing from most travellers’ experience of Halong Bay?

Halong Bay is truly beautiful and anyone who does any kind of touring here will love it. That said, most of the boat tours visit areas that nearly every other boat goes – partly because of the strict regulations around environmental protection.

So some of the most beautiful spots in the bay have lots of ships that “park” there, which sometimes can make it hard to enjoy the beauty of the bay without feeling a bit claustrophobic. Sometimes, for those looking to experience the true beauty of the bay and the people who call it home, the cruising experience alone isn’t enough.

We try and craft our experiences around doing the things few others will do, and seeing the places few others will see. Obviously this requires a bit of effort and adventure, but we always find that no matter how experienced the traveller, it’s always worth it!

Personally, what’s your favourite place in Halong Bay?

My favorite part of the bay has got to be the “secret lagoon”, which is a stop on our kayak tour. This journey travels by kayak through a small cave which opens into a huge lagoon. It has vines hanging onto the water with native wildlife such as Giant Squirrels, Osprey and some monkeys all living there! It’s one of those places that feels as if time forgot. If you’ve got a bit of adventurous spirit in you, this extended kayak tour is really, really special and unique.
What are your top five tips for adventure seekers heading to Halong Bay?

First and foremost, it’s important to stick with a reputable tour operator. There are lots of Halong Bay “cowboys” who don’t put safety as a top priority – and in a place like Halong Bay, that’s important! The good tour operators will be happy to share their experience and qualifications, since we hold these as a point of pride. A good rule of thumb is this: you get what you pay for, so cheap doesn’t always equal a good value!

Secondly, I always tell visitors to pack a waterproof camera. You’ll absolutely want to take photos while you’re out in the bay, but as with all water adventures, you’re likely to get a bit wet in the process! Bring along some plastic bags or better yet, some waterproof equipment or cases to make sure your electronics survive the journey.

Lastly, do your research and remember that there are experiences beyond just a cruise. If you want something a bit more challenging, go with the guys who can get you to the best-kept secrets!

—

My Way Travel are our preferred adventure travel partners in Halong Bay! Ask our travel experts how to make a kayaking, rock climbing or stand-up paddle boarding experience part of your Vietnam tour with us. We’ll help you get off-the-beaten-track and into the heart of Halong Bay.

What could be more enjoyable than a relaxing holiday in a secluded lodge, surrounded by fascinating wildlife and spectacular scenery? If you can have world-class luxury accommodation, that is both eco-friendly and supports animal conservation at the same time, then we think you are off to a good start. That is why we have prepared a selection of some of the best nature lodges and eco-resorts in Asia, perfect for adventurous couples, nature-loving families, honeymoons or romantic getaways.

These lodges provide excellent accommodation with an eco-friendly philosophy, preserving the breath-taking beauty of their natural surroundings by blending in seamlessly with the environment around them. They also offer a wide range of animal related activities, which are both educational and entertaining, while helping to support and promote wildlife conservation efforts. If you love nature and animals, then you should definitely consider visiting one of these amazing nature lodges and eco-resorts.

Borneo Rainforest Lodge – Malaysia

Nestled deep in a remote rainforest valley, the Borneo Rainforest Lodge offers unique wildlife experiences in the heart of Sabah. The Danum Valley Conservation Area is home to orangutans, gibbons, mousedeer, clouded leopards, elephants and what is thought to be the last surviving Bornean rhinoceroses left in the wild. The Borneo Rainforest Lodge boasts a comprehensive green policy and is especially active in orangutan conservation and research.

Some of the highlights on offer include a range of spa treatments and fine-dining experiences, as well as wildlife treks, night safaris and the spectacular Tree Top Canopy Walk. The Borneo Rainforest Lodge offers the perfect blend of comfort, relaxation and excitement. For the truly adventurous, you can combine a trip to the Danum Valley Conservation Area and Borneo Rainforest Lodge with a wilderness tour of Borneo, visiting the famous Kinabalu Mountains and Kinabatangan River.

Misool Eco Resort– Indonesia

This exclusive dive resort is located on a private island surrounded by a 1220-square-kilometer protected marine area in southern Raja Ampat. The resort runs its own conservation centre, which is registered as a charitable organization under the name Misool Baseftin. This organization has dedicated its resources to several marine life conservation efforts, including reef restoration and the creation of a “No-Take” zone, monitored by its own Ranger Patrol. In 2011, the funds from the resort were instrumental in the creation of a shark and manta ray sanctuary.

This resort offers the ideal accommodation for diving enthusiasts and lovers of marine life, cottages built out of reclaimed wood on stilts, with direct access to the dive centre. The reefs of Raja Ampat are home to over 1400 different species of fish. Besides their work with marine conservation, the resort is very active in socially responsible efforts. Misool Eco Resort employs almost exclusively locals from the nearby villages and their community involvement includes funding school libraries throughout the region and sponsoring school teachers for remote villages.

4 Rivers Floating Lodge – Cambodia

This lodge has to be seen to be believed. It is comprised of white tents perched on the banks of the Tatai River and located deep in the heart of the Cardamom rainforest. This floating lodge must surely be the ultimate luxury “camping” experience, providing of course that your idea of camping involves tents equipped with designer furniture, flat-screen televisions and a minibar. The 4 Rivers Floating Lodge also offers fine-dining of exquisitely plated Cambodian delicacies, made from fresh local ingredients, as well as providing excellent services and amenities in general.

The Cardamoms are literally teeming with wildlife, with over 100 mammal species and a staggering 553 varieties of birds. Gibbons, sun bears, elephants, leopards and tigers, all call this tropical paradise home. Guests at the 4 Rivers Floating Lodge can participate in diverse activities, such as kayaking, trekking, fishing and sunset cruises along the Tatai River. There are also many opportunities to learn about the local cultures, beliefs and traditions of the indigenous people who live along the river. This is the perfect lodge for luxury travellers with a taste for adventure.

Six Senses Con Dao Resort – Vietnam

The Con Dao archipelago is an area of outstanding beauty in the Southeast of Vietnam. Formerly used as a prison colony during the French occupation, the islands are relatively untouched and undeveloped. Today, the only inmates are high-end travellers and luxury resort guests, who either refuse to leave or keep returning of their own volition. The Con Dao National Park is home to several endangered species, including a few rare species of turtles, dolphins and dugongs.

The Six Senses Con Dao Resort is particularly dedicated to the preservation of the dugong, working in close cooperation with the National Park Authorities to create the best possible conditions for this rare and much loved marine mammal. The resort also actively supports the local community, especially in regards to child safety and education. A concerted effort has been made to provide clean water supplies to schools, as well as free swimming lessons to local children who are not traditionally taught how to swim.

Anantara Golden Triangle Resort – Thailand

The Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp and Resort works tirelessly to promote welfare for elephants in captivity and rescue mistreated animals. The camp provides a home for around 30 rescued elephants, that cannot be returned to the wild, and is one of our preferred Buffalo Tours audited elephant camps. Besides their work with elephant welfare, Anantara is extremely active in social responsibility initiatives and provides scholarships to some 449 disadvantaged children every year through the Heinecke Foundation.

The resort offers a wide range of activities including spa treatments, yoga classes, cooking classes and even Muay Thai kickboxing. Among some of the more unique animal related experiences are an elephant picnic and elephant yoga. Guests can trek through the jungle alongside the elephants and witness them playfully bathe in the river. However, our absolute favourite has to be dining with baby elephants as pictured below.

You can read more about our work with elephant camp auditing and responsible animal tourism here.

We hope this article has inspired you to consider supporting responsible travel by visiting a nature lodge or eco-resort as part of your next holiday. If you are interested in incorporating a stay at any of these amazing locations into your vacation, you are welcome to contact us at email: info@halongbaytrips.com