Only four months to go and it will be the end of the year again. The year-end is always the peak season for travel, so it is best to plan your trip in advance to ensure you get the best offers both for flights and accommodation. Traveloka is a travel application that will help you secure cheap flight tickets and good value hotels worldwide.
According to the 2016 vacation survey conducted by the Tourism Authority of Thailand, over 80 percent of Bangkokians (15 years old or above) go on vacations an average of four times per year. Most of the trips they take are overnight stays. The most popular provinces Bangkokians visit on overnight vacations are as follows:
1. Chiang Mai (12.27%)
It is no surprise that Chiang Mai is the favourite destination for Bangkok residents. It is one of few places where you can travel all year round. Whether it be the New Year festival, Songkran festival, or Loi Krathong festival, Chiang Mai always has something special to offer visitors.
2. Chonburi (9.33%)
Only an hour-and-a-half drive from Bangkok, Chonburi offers a variety of destinations, from mountains to waterfalls and zoos. Meanwhile, Ko Lan, an island located off the coast of Pattaya, is a popular destination for beach lovers with its clear water and sunset views.
3. Prachuab Khiri Khan (8.32%)
The narrowest province of Thailand took third place in this survey. The province’s most famous destination is none other than Hua Hin, with its numerous attractions from beaches and hills to night markets and palaces. It is also home to the largest statue of Luang Pu Thuat in Thailand at Wat Huay Mongkol.
4. Nakhon Ratchasima (7.81%)
The gateway to the northeast of Thailand, Nakhon Ratchasima, or Khorat, is known for ecotourism. Popular destinations in the province include Khao Yai National Park, Phimai Historical Park, Wang Nam Khiao, and dairy farms.
5. Rayong (6.39%)
Rayong is growing as a tourist destination due to its beautiful beaches, delicious seafood, and varieties of tropical fruits. Ko Samet, a popular weekend getaway, is located just off the coast of Rayong.
6. Kanchanaburi (5.88%)
A province with historic stories. One of the favourite destinations for tourists is the World War II Bridge over the River Kwai and the Death Railway. If you’re traveling on the Death Railway, don’t forget to stop by Krasae Cave, the most breath-taking – and dangerous – scenic viewpoint along the line. Additionally, Kanchanaburi has several waterfalls and national parks for nature lovers.
7. Phetchaburi (4.87%)
Perfect for a family vacation, Phetchaburi is only a two-hour drive from Bangkok. The province is known for ravishing beaches, most famously Cha-am and Puek Tian. Another must-visit destination is The Matter Initiative, or “Chang-Hua-Mun Royal Project”, whose primary aim is to teach farmers about sufficiency agriculture and economy.
8. Ubon Ratchathani (4.46%)
The best time to visit Ubon Ratchathani is during the Candle Festival which is held around Asanha Puja and the beginning of the Buddhist Lent. It is the most elaborate of the traditional parades of giant candles to temples. With its 3,000-year-old rock art and natural habitats for flora and fauna, Pha Taem National Park is another must-see destination.
9. Chiang Rai (3.96%)
Chiang Rai is the northernmost province of Thailand and also one of the most popular winter holiday destinations, particularly during the New Year festival. On the last day of the year, a large group of people gathers atop Phu Chi Fa to see the first light of the New Year. Chiang Rai is also home to two legendary Thai artists, Chalermchai Kositpipat and Thawan Duchanee, who have designed and constructed two famous attractions, Wat Rong Khun (White Temple) and Baan Dam (Black House Museum).
10. Phetchabun (3.96%)
Tourists love to visit Phetchabun during winter to enjoy the chilly weather. The most famous spots to visit are Khao Kho and Nam Nao National Park.
Is your favourite destination one of the above? Wherever you intend to go this New Year, don’t forget to book a flight and reserve accommodation in advance with Traveloka. The best travel application for cheap flights and travel bookings.
