Thailand
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What is Ghost Month and the Hungry Ghost Festival?
Do you believe in ghosts? That’s always been the divisive question separating the non-believers from the sixth-sensers; the logical from the “open-minded”. In Taiwan, however, this question has a much more definitive answer. The sincere belief in ghosts and the spiritual world is so deeply rooted in Taiwanese culture that as many as 70-90% of Taiwanese citizens acknowledge at least acknowledge its cultural significance. Even those who might not consider themselves true “believers” still observe many customs and superstitions surrounding the idea. Though you may be picturing ghouls and goblins coming to haunt your dreams, it’s not quite as morbid as you might think. In fact, there’s an entire month…
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The Truth About Ethical Elephant Sanctuaries in Thailand!
Spending time with elephants in Thailand has topped the bucket list for many people across the globe. Having the unique opportunity to be in the presence of these magnificent creatures seems like a dream come true. The tragedy is that a significant proportion of these so-called “sanctuaries” are anything but. Hidden beneath the surface lays a darker truth and one that the world is gladly becoming aware of. Yet, some choose to bury their heads in the sands of ignorance to avoid the harsh reality of the horrific suffering that these poor elephants endure. In this article, we will delve into the reality of ethical elephant sanctuaries and the valuable…
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Food Travel Guide: Top 20 Must-Try Thai Dishes
Welcome, fellow culinary adventurers! Prepare your taste buds for a tantalizing journey through the vibrant and explosive flavours of Thailand. When you embark on a culinary pilgrimage to this Southeast Asian paradise, make sure to indulge in the following 20 mouthwatering dishes that will leave you yearning for seconds (and thirds… and fourths…). This article may contain affiliate links which I may be compensated for at no extra cost to you dear readers! Pad Thai A national treasure and one whose roots are quite mysterious. One theory is that it was a purposeful creation by the Thai government in order to promote a national identity! The perfect blend of chewy…
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The Ultimate Travel Itinerary: Bangkok in 4 Days
Bangkok – it’s a city that needs no introduction. Regarded as the pinnacle destination for any backpacker’s itinerary and a favoured spot amongst faithful Buddhists and ex-pats alike, Bangkok illustrates the splendid harmony between the country’s undeniable spirituality and complete mind-bending chaos! Never has there been a city with such polar extremes, and that’s the beauty of it! Among these streets, devout Buddhist monks walk alongside skimpily dressed prostitutes and ladyboys. Luxury 5-star hotels stand across the road from roach-infested hostels. It’s a city of total unpredictability! Though one thing is for sure, this Bangkok deserves a place on your travel itinerary! So in that case, let me show you…
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The Ultimate Itinerary: Chiang Mai in 4 Days
The ancient capital of Chiang Mai perfectly illustrates the spectrum of what makes Thailand so great. Spectacular natural landscapes and undeniable spirituality live hand in hand alongside vicious martial arts and vibrant red-light districts. There’s little wonder that so many ex-pats lay their foundations in this city! Though as much as we’d all love to spend months exploring this fascinating region of the world, few of us have that luxury! So, in that case, let me show you the perfect itinerary for exploring the spiritual haven of Chiang Mai! Day 1 Time to hit the road running and start your first day with some of Thailand’s biggest cultural icons. You…
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The 20 Best Highlights To See In Chiang Mai
Thailand is a country of diverse cultures and undeniable spirituality, all scattered amongst some of the most breathtaking natural landscapes anywhere in the world! Where Bangkok rules the centre, Phuket the south, the north of Thailand belongs to one very special city, Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai covers the cultural spectrum of Thailand better than any other city! The ancient Thai capital is home to countless spectacular temples, whilst also being home to a myriad of other iconic institutions, from Sak Yant tattoos to incredible Muay Thai fights! There’s plenty to fill your itinerary, so here are the 20 best things to see during your time in Chiang Mai! Doi Suthep …
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The Ultimate Guide to Muay Thai in Thailand
Thailand is known for many things, from elephants and temples to tattoos and pad thai, though many fans of combat sports know of Thailand for something else. From amongst these beautiful lands came the deadly art of Muay Thai, a martial art that is not only a piece of Thai cultural heritage but also a fighting technique that has become a valuable tool in the evergrowing market of modern Mixed Martial Arts. Whether you’re hoping to see a fight, to place a bet on one or even step into the ring yourself, there’s no better place to experience the exhilarating art of Muay Thai than from the country in which…
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The Milk Tea Alliance: An Online War of Democracy
A few things are capable of bringing nations together. It may be a common heritage or sharing cultural similarities, yet history has shown that nothing brings two countries together more than a hatred of a common enemy. For Asian countries, this dreaded bogeyman has always been the same, China, and more importantly, the lack of democracy that they inspire. In the past year, countries across South-East Asia have joined hands as a sign of solidarity in the face of adversity from both home and abroad. This unique union is symbolically represented by a common love that these nations share, milk tea. Who knew a nice cup of Yorkshire could be…
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The Ultimate Travel Plan: Visiting the Karen (Long Neck) Tribe
Travelling is all about experiencing new cultures! For years, documentaries and National Geographic magazines have opened our eyes to new societies and unique customs from all across the world. Even in today’s modernising world, some cultures still live the same primitive tribal life as they have for hundreds of years. Easily the most iconic of these tribes is the one that’s become notorious for their distinctive body modifications, the Karen Hill (Long Neck) Tribe. It’s one of the must-see experience for anyone travelling through Northern Thailand! So in that case, let me show you everything you need to know about visiting the Long Neck Tribes. Who Are the Hill Tribes…
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The Ultimate Travel Guide: Getting a Sak Yant in Thailand
Getting the obligatory tattoo has almost become a rite of passage for travellers in Thailand. Only a few countries are renowned for their skin-altering art form, and Thailand is the most famous of them all. The unique Buddhist form of tattooing known as Sak Yant has become a modern backpacker’s “I’ve been to Thailand” souvenir. Everyone wants to walk in the footsteps of Angelina Jolie and have their tattoos blessed by a Buddhist monk. So did I! Unlike a quick drunken trip to the tattoo parlours of Magaluf or Bali, Sak Yants have a much deeper meaning with their rich spiritual symbolism. It’s worth understanding a little more about the…
