With Miss Universe 2018 being held at Bangkok, Thailand this year, some of you might be planning a trip out there. If you are, you might want to set an itinerary around the beauty pageant. Thailand is surrounded by so much culture from night markets to temples and elephant parks, there is so much to see.
Coincidentally, Miss Universe candidate Catriona Gray loves Thailand. She even considers it one of her favorite travel destinations. If you want to explore Thailand just like her later this year, here are some spots you can visit. You can even take inspiration from her photos for your own.
Chiang Mai
Before heading to Bangkok, you can make a stop at Chiang Mai. It is a city north of Thailand known for their misty mountains. Here you will see temples, antiques, and amazing shopping. Like Catriona, you will also come across the Long Neck Tribe. “The woman wear brass rings around their necks, wrists, and ankles as part of their culture.” You will also see the different woven fabrics that they make.
White Temple
The Wat Rong Khun or White temple is considered one of the most recognizable temples in Thailand. It is a white structure made of plaster and glass wherein the color represents the purity of Buddha. The glass, on the other hand, symbolizes Buddha’s wisdom. Looking at Catriona’s photos, you will see how beautiful this temple really is. In her caption she wrote, “Despite the gloomy weather, one of the most stunning landmarks I’ve ever visited.”
Sampeng Lane Market
Thailand is known for their night markets, so put this on your list. Here, you will get “the whole shopping experience of Chinatown—and to some extent, the surrounding Old City area.” If you can make your way through, you will see home items, clothes, and of course food. Catriona braved the market, “Excited to explore Chiang Mai over the next few days, but first I have to find my way out of this maze of a market.”
Mae Taeng Elephant Park
Elephants are also a must-see in Thailand. But, instead of just treating them like attractions, why not try to care of them too? Mae Taeng isn’t just an elephant park, it’s a clinic as well. Catriona shared, “Found ourselves in the Mae Taeng Elephant Park where elephants endangered by local development and deforestation are cared for.” Here, you’ll be able to feed them bananas and even prepare their vitamins.
Rod Fai Market
Once you’ve made your way to Bangkok, make a stop at Rod Fai Market or Train Market. It is a night market that opens at 5 p.m. Their colorful tents, food trucks, and quaint shops to look at. Keep your eyes peeled for vintage pieces, cool restaurants, and collectible items. Don’t forget to enjoy the food, which was what Catriona did.
Art by Marian Hukom
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