THAILAND is for FAMILIES
Orchids, noodles, cilantro, tuk-tuks, scooters, bikes, pork, colorful festivals, turquoise waters, long-tail boats, karst, Buddhas…
These are just a few things that come to mind when thinking back on a recent trip to Thailand with the family. If there ever was a country made for hosting families it is Thailand. People could not be more warm, receptive and hospitable when it comes to traveling with kids. There is a special connection between Thai people and children,a certain interest and obsession unique to the people of Thailand.
We began our trip hesitantly in Bangkok and quickly moved North to Chang Mai ( Thailand’s 2nd largest city but nothing in comparison to Bangkok) for the Loy Krathlong festival marking the end of the monsoons. Three days of celebrations in which parades, street food, and beautiful lit lanterns fill the streets and air. Once we’d had our fill of festivities and tuk-tuk rides, yes kids LOVE zipping through the street in these little contraptions, we headed out into the countryside to the laid back town of Pai. Over the past few years Pai has crept on to the tourist radar but still remains a nice escape from the Chang Mai, if you can handle the curvy ride ( 724 curves in all) to get there.
In Pai we tracked down a bike with a child’s seat( an adventure in itself) giving us the freedom to explore the surrounding countryside at our own pace. We cycled past rice fields, temples, monks, pigs, water buffalo and through small communities stopping for anything or anyone that caught our eye.
Moving on from the hills of the North to the Southern Peninsula and it’s pristine, postcard beaches.First stop, Railey beach. A trip to Thailand for climbing enthusiasts would not be complete without a sojourn at what might be one of the most beautiful beaches on earth. The dramatic karst outcroppings that flank both end of the beach as well as the bay in which it sits is difficult to put into words. You have to go there to feel it. The climbing is world-class and not to be missed. Our little 2yr old had fun rock hopping and trying to clamber up the beach front bolted routes. Alas this wasn’t a climbing trip for us but we did manage to sneak in a few fun climbs.
From Railey beach we ventured further into the Phang Nga Bay to a lesser known island Kho Yao Noi. Home to a few thousand locals, this mostly Muslim inhabited island, offers those willing to sacrifice beautiful beaches a chance to experience a Thailand most tourist will never see. A small, emerging climbing scene and tranquil sea kayaking out the front door as well as endless chicken satay and spicy green papaya salad were a welcome escape from the hoards of island hopping tourists.
As we sped away from Kho Yao Koi , Remie, our dynamic 2 yr old, blew kisses to the shores and shouted “a tout bientot!” There is no denying Thailand is an amazing countries on many levels full of contrasts and jaw dropping beauty but most of all the warm and caring people make it a special place. Thailand truly is a gem of a destination for families.
