The 5 Best Ways to Experience Thailand According to Mario Maurer

The Thai superstar Mario Maurer visited the Philippines once again, but this time as a Tourism Ambassador of his hometown.

Just like the Philippines, Thailand is known for having a diverse culture and rich nature, indeed a place with beautiful destinations. Mario is on a mission to share just that as he travels to different countries, including the Philippines. During his visit, Mario gave a number of tips on how to make the most of your visit to Thailand when you’re a first timer or only have a limited time to explore.

The 5 Best Ways to Experience Thailand According to Mario Maurer

5. Visit Bangkok.

One of the most vibrant cities in Thailand is Bangkok. “If you’re a first timer, I recommend you visit the major cities, such as Bangkok. You will have many things to explore, like the old temples, the food, the people…” Mario says. Did you know there are more than 400 temples that you can explore in Bangkok alone? Aside from the temples, the night life in Bangkok is also something you should definitely experience.

4. Go on a food trip.

Another way to make your Thai experience memorable is to try Thai cuisine. Mario suggests a number of Thai delicacies to try, including the ever famous Pad Thai, Tom Yum, and Som Tam. Som Tam is a papaya salad that you might be familiar with, but it is much spicier in Thailand.

To make Thai cuisine more interesting, Mario suggests cooking them yourself. It’s part of the local experience in Thailand. You’ll not only learn how to cook them; you’ll even see the locals’ authentic recipes straight from Thailand. If you’re not very fond of spicy food, though, Mario suggests telling the cook to lessen the spice; otherwise, it will be extremely spicy!

3. Explore Chiang Mai,

Once you’ve seen the city and tried the food, you should enjoy nature. Chiang Mai is about an hour away from Bangkok. According to Mario, you’ll see lots of elephants there. You can even ride them with the help of the trainers and stroll around the area while on top of an elephant. He says you can even cross a river while you’re at it and see the elephant keep its trunk high while heading to the other side.

Once you get tired of strolling, you can also watch the elephants make art. “Our elephants can draw,” Mario shares. Aside from the elephants, you can also experience adventurous activities, like ziplines. It may seem scary at first, but the view from the top definitely makes ziplines worth a try.

2. Visit the Amphawa Floating Market.

A floating market exists 90 minutes away from Bangkok that isn’t as big or as popular as the Damnoen Saduak floating market. However, its authenticity and culture is something you should definitely check out. You can also shop for cheap items for pasalubong there.

One thing you might not know is that you can also get a very good Thai massage at the Amphawa Floating Market, so you can shop all you want while relaxing. Who wouldn’t love that, right?

1. Ride a tuk-tuk.

Last but definitely not the least, ride a tuk-tuk, a jeepney-slash-tricycle type of transportation vehicle. You’ll be able to go around Thailand with the wind blowing in your face and seeing the nature around you. It’s like experiencing our own little jeepney, but in another country.

Have you been to Thailand before? If so, do you agree with Mario’s list of things to do whilst there? Share your thoughts with us!