72 Hours in Thailand
Got 72 hours to spend in Thailand but don’t know how to make the most of this mini-break? Let us help you with a proposed activity-packed travel program encompassing the core specialties of two of Thailand’s most sought-after destinations. This includes two days in Bangkok and one day in Phuket. Surely, it gives you the best slice of this Southeast Asian country, brimming with culture, history, artistic gems, and unequaled natural beauty. This not only covers all must-experiences but also top recommendations for leisure, dining, and shopping in both Bangkok and Phuket.
DAY ONE
Morning: Set out to take in the region’s cultural landmarks including the marvelous wats or temples. Visit the 18th century Grand Palace which still serves as the royal residence. Immerse yourself in its grandeur and explore its diverse sections, mainly Wat Phra Kaew which enshrines an emerald figurine of Lord Buddha in meditating posture. Apart from these, don’t miss the mesmerizing Wat Po or the Temple of Reclining Buddha – the oldest as well as the largest shrine in Central Bangkok, and Wat Arun (Temple of the Dawn), where you can admire the best sunrise views.
Points to Consider
• Early morning is the best time to visit shrines and experience its sheer majesty and tranquility. This further allows you to beat the strong heat.
• Make sure that you avoid revealing attire and wear one that well covers your arms, shoulders and knees.
Afternoon: Following the morning temple hunting tour, you can choose to engage in a genuine Thai experience by signing up for a cooking class with BookCulinaryVacations.com. This begins with a local market tour where you can pick up the required ingredients. Under the guidance of an expert and friendly Thai chef, you’ll learn how to cook authentic Thai food with your choice of soups, salads, appetizer, curry, rice dishes, and desserts. This ranges from Khao Soy and Panang to Tom Kha Gai and Glass Noodle Salad to Stir Fried Vegetable in Oyester Sauce to Fried Bananas and Sticky Rice with Mangoes. Not to mention, you’ll have a great time as you savor your own freshly cooked multi-course meal. Alternatively, foodies can also join one of Taste of Thailand’s culinary tours infused with the region’s fascinating culture and history.
Evening: Venture out to explore the unseen Bangkok parts! You can consider a walking trip with TakeTours.com. Discover the lesser-known shrines like Wat Suthat with Giant Swing and see one of the region’s oldest shopping streets as you explore Bamrung Muang. Take a tuk tuk ride and further indulge in a pampering session of foot massage or Thai message. Finish off your first day with a dinner cruise along the historic Chao Phraya River or consider watching one of these spellbinding Thai performances: Siam Niramit Show, Calypso Cabaret Show, or Muay Thai Live.
DAY TWO
Morning: No trip to Thailand is complete without touring one of its floating markets. So today, take a short trip out of Bangkok to Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, roughly 105 kilometers away. Soak up the lush scenery and tranquility of the countryside as you make your way to this legendary market. Take a long-tailed boat ride to catch up with local vendors rowing their packed canoes and explore the overwhelming array of treasures on offer, from unique colorful souvenirs to fresh produces and flavorsome culinary delights.
Now if you wish to spend your day the most adventurous way or simply looking for an alternative option, consider an adrenaline-pumping zipline excursion to the rainforest which is surrounded by Chompoo Wildlife Sanctuary and just an hour away from Bangkok.
Afternoon: Back in Bangkok, wander through its vibrantly bustling streets with which you can dine on run and savor some delicious local treats. If you’re a shopping enthusiast, be sure to take some time to explore the city’s most popular and glamorous shopping destinations. Depending on the proximity to your accommodation, you can choose to shop at Siam Paragon, MBK Siam, Terminal 21 (Sukhumvit Road), and Asiatique the Riverfront. For alternative shopping experience with unbelievable bargain, head to the massive Chatuchak Weekend Market, Chinatown Market, Bangkok Flower Market etc.
Evening: If time permits, head to one of the city’s serene parks (like Lumphini Park / Benjakiti Park) or spend some relaxed time at attractions like Baiyok Sky RoofTop, before you take your flight to Phuket, which is approximately 75 minutes away.
DAY THREE
Morning: While there are plenty of choices to kick off your Phuket expedition, the best way is to begin by appreciating the magical sunrise views at the ever astonishing Promthep Cape which further offers the most spellbinding panorama of the surroundings. Besides exploring its wonderful beaches, you can go on an island hopping tour by a speed boat (refer to island hopping itineraries by TravelMomTom.net for more island hopping ideas.) This is definite to sweep you off your feet with its exquisitely untouched natural beauty and attractions like Phang Nga Bay and James Bond Island. You can also participate in such amazing water activities as kayaking and canoeing.
Afternoon: Post lunch at a local restaurant and return to Phuket, you’re in for great surprises if you can battle your pull to get back to your accommodation for a lie-down. And, we would recommend booking a guided tour with PhuketToursDirect.com which carries a license from the Tourism Authority of Thailand. Visit the region’s iconic landmarks like Wat Chalong – a highly revered Buddhist shrine which is outstanding for its mesmerizing architecture and spiritual ambience; and the massive structure of Big Buddha which sits atop the Nakkerd Hill, offering supremely majestic 360 degree views over the town and beyond. You can check out
Evening: Get a generous slice of art, culture and heritage by checking out a medley of old and new sights that abound in Phuket town. Enjoy souvenir shopping at Amulet Market, appreciate the region’s remarkable Sino-Colonial structures, and of course, do sample scrumptious street food. If you’re looking for absolute entertainment thrown in with Thai legends and myth, you can end your memorable day or Thailand vacation by watching the mesmeric Phuket Fantasea Show supported by high-end effects and a gorgeous cast of talented performers which even includes live elephants.
