How I wish I could spend the rest of my life just lazing around on a beach. How I wish I could spend my days wondering at the just-born sun and later watching it slowly disappear in the distant sky over the pristine blue waters. How I wish I could sleep under the stars… I am in love with Thailand, for this and so much more!

The “land of the free” is my go-to destination whenever I feel the urge to experience life up-close and be just “me”. So if you are an avid traveller like me, try Thailand!

If this is your first trip, Thailand’s stunning scenery, mesmerising beaches and heavenly street food will add an extra zing to your most-awaited vacation. Thailand, in its diversity, has a little something for everyone, that’s why more than 16 million tourists flock the country each year (Happy to be one of them). From Chiang Mai in the north to Krabi in the south, you will be fascinated by the beauty of this place. There are a number of popular places to visit in Thailand, but when you are here, you can’t afford to miss these five from my list:

1) The Grand Palace: Situated in Bangkok, the spectacular Grand Place is the most famous landmark of the city. Once the home of Thai King and the administrative seat of government, it is now known as the spiritual heart of Thai kingdom. It features The Temple of the Emerald Buddha, which is the most sacred site in Thailand and has a strict dress code. You will be amazed by the Royal Reception Hall that is now used for ceremonial occasions like coronations. It has an impressive interior, European style reception and antique throne that make it one of the finest architectural buildings of this style.

2) Floating markets: Have you ever shopped in a boat and tried food cooked in floating kitchens? Floating markets in Bangkok provide you the best chance to enjoy traditional Thai food and get a flavour of the local life. There are four floating markets in Bangkok – Taling Chan Market, Tha Kha, Bang Khu Wiang Market and Damnoen Saduak. It is fascinating to see tropical fruits/vegetables and local food prepared in floating kitchens on a boat tour. Here, you get away from your hectic schedule and step into the laid-back village life. It is noisy, colourful and a fun place to be in, so when in Thailand, going to the floating markets is a must.

3) Khao Yai National Park: Apart from sky-high buildings and rich cultural heritage, Thailand is also famous for its flora and fauna. Khao Yai is Thailand’s third largest national park and an ideal place for wildlife enthusiasts to explore wildlife including a variety of bird and animal species, nestling in its rich biodiversity. Pounding waterfalls, mountainous landscape and valleys attract visitors from all over the world. If you are an adventure enthusiast, this is a perfect place for you to visit. You can go for night-time wildlife spotlighting, water sports like rafting and kayaking as well as hiking. You will be awed by the beauty of waterfalls like Haew Suwat Waterfalls, Haew Narok waterfalls, Haew Sai Waterfalls and Haew Pratoon Waterfalls in the park.

4) Railay Beach: My favourite and one of the most sought-after beaches of Thailand, this one is situated on the south of Ao Nang Beach and can only be accessed by boat. It is connected with mainland, but there are no roads. Once on the beach, you will be adrift from everyday noise and hassle. Such a blessing! Its serenity adds to its scenic beauty and makes it a perfect spot to relax with family and friends. There are stunning white sand beaches, caves, viewpoints, soaring limestone cliffs and lagoon under the cliffs that give you an extraordinary experience.

5) Chinatown: No trip to Thailand is complete without trying the local delicacies and Chinatown provides you the perfect opportunity to have a wonderful dining experience. It has some of the finest Chinese restaurants along with the best food stalls that open at night. As the name suggests, this place has a Chinese influence which also dominates the menu with noodles and seafood. From the priciest food at the bustling Yaowarat Road to cheaper options at the little ‘sois’, you will find everything here. Whenever I feel homesick, I gorge on Indian food and Thailand never disappoints me. For western restaurants, you can head to the Old Siam Shopping Centre.

Well, I am off to skimming across calendar. You too go and convince your friends to explore Thailand, the land that awaits you with its multi-faceted offerings on display.

Author: This post is written by Manuj, a travel writer who has written above 2k article on various travel topics. Recently he is writing travel tips & topic related Thailand.Follow him on G+ and FB to know more about Manuj