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Thailand, often called the ‘Land of Smiles,’ is tucked away in Southeast Asia and has a unique mix of the old and the new that makes people fall in love with it. Imagine bustling city streets with towering skyscrapers and then, not too far away, peaceful villages with wooden homes. And the people? They are as warm as the tropical weather. Here's what Thailand's all about and why you might want to pack your bags.

KOSIN SUKHUM, Wat Pho Bangkok Thailand, CC BY-SA 4.0

Stunning Beaches and Diving Spots

If you love the beach, Thailand's the place for you. Picture yourself lounging on soft white sand, with a coconut in hand, listening to the waves. But if lying around isn't your thing, how about diving into the crystal-clear waters? Places like Phuket and Koh Tao are renowned for scuba diving, and you'll find yourself in a world filled with colourful fish and beautiful coral. It's like stepping into a postcard.

Comfy Accommodation

Finding a place to stay in Thailand is no challenge whatsoever. You have everything from five-star resorts with every luxury imaginable to little guesthouses that feel like a home away from home. The staff? They are usually friendly and eager to help, making you feel welcome the moment you step in.

The accommodation sector in Thailand is served by international hospitality brands like Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas. More importantly, the Thai accommodation sector pays attention to sustainable hospitality – something to keep in mind if you are someone who only wants to leave footprints and not negatively impact the environment.

Religion

You'll soon notice that religion is woven into the fabric of daily life in Thailand. Most of the country follows Buddhism, and you can feel its calming presence in temples like Wat Pho in Bangkok or the breathtaking White Temple in Chiang Rai. Join the locals in a peaceful meditation or watch monks going about their day – it's all part of the spiritual journey that you can experience here.

Elephants

Elephants in Thailand are not just animals; they are a symbol of the nation. You can actually spend a day with these gentle giants in ethical elephant sanctuaries. Walk with them, feed them, or even bathe them. It's an experience that'll tug at your heartstrings and give you stories to tell.

Cuisine

Ever tried Thai food? It's a flavour fiesta! Whether you are diving into a spicy curry or savouring a sweet mango sticky rice, your taste buds are in for a treat. Don't miss the chance to eat where the locals eat –sometimes the best meals are found at street vendors and local markets.

Affordable Travel Costs

Think travelling has to be expensive? Not in Thailand. Here, you can find a comfy place to stay, catch a ride on local transport, and enjoy a hearty meal, all without spending a fortune. It's what makes exploring Thailand such a breeze, even if you are watching your pennies.

History and Culture

If history is your thing, Thailand has plenty of stories to tell. Visit ancient ruins like the Ayutthaya Historical Park, and you'll be stepping back in time. Traditional arts, dances, music – there's a rich cultural heritage here that's alive and well, just waiting for you to explore.

Festivals

Thai people know how to celebrate. Have you ever been part of a countrywide water fight? That's Songkran, the Thai New Year. Or how about watching thousands of lanterns float into the night sky? That's the Lantern Festival in Chiang Mai. These aren't just events; they are experiences that you'll carry with you long after you've left.

Massages

If you are in Thailand, you simply have to try a Thai massage. Whether you are on the beach or in a fancy spa, there's something special about how they can make all the stress just melt away. You'll walk out feeling like a new person altogether.

Shopping

Love to shop? Thailand has you covered. From bustling markets filled with knick-knacks to high-end malls with the latest fashions, you'll find what you are looking for. Even if you are not much of a shopper, the lively atmosphere and the bartering are all part of the fun.

Dubbed the most beautiful city in the UAE, it isn’t hard to understand why swarms of tourists commune in Dubai for most parts of the year. Given its air of modernity that merges outstandingly well with a wonderful heritage, Dubai is a cultural cauldron that must be explored. Provided below is a detailed take on how you should approach travelling in Dubai as a foreign national and tourist.

cyclonebill from Copenhagen, Denmark, Shawarma (8503517413), CC BY-SA 2.0

When to go

The period beginning from November through March is the most favourable time to vacation in this section of the Middle East based on the fact that the weather will be far more accommodating and manageable. With daily temperatures not known to exceed 30 degrees Celsius or drop down below 12 degrees Celsius, this timeframe ought to be factored in before reserving any form of hotel or resort. Additionally, the months of April to October are humid and thus, you will be relegated to spending time inside shopping malls and other air-conditioned areas if you choose this time of the year to come over.

What to pack

On top of your trusty wardrobe that must not contain too revealing clothing items when considering Dubai as your next holiday escape, do not ever forget to bring along sunscreen for the duration of your time here for the weather is known to be hot. Further, a hat, sunglasses, walking shoes, face/body wipes, deodorant and a water bottle would serve as ‘essentials’ whenever you decide that Dubai is next on your list of travel destinations that warrant ticking off. Importantly, have copies of your travel documents on you when you opt to step out and explore the city and be sure to keep your passport under lock and key back at your hotel.

Decide on where to stay

To be depicted as bought over by ridiculously low prices about accommodation facilities would be to one’s own folly and a practice that must be avoided at all costs. Of special mention are the summer months when costs tend to plummet in expectation of attracting travellers who seek affordable yet luxurious times. However, always work with a rough budget in mind and invest as much time as necessary in reading through the available options and what they offer you for the price that you pay. Keep in mind that the city has something for all whims and fancies and parallel to this thought, do factor in the possibility of being accommodated at Anantara World Islands Dubai Resort. As one of the luxury resorts in Dubai, you will have access to a slew of leisure and rewarding pastimes.

Blend in and never be seen standing out

Of course, one would be encouraged to sport fancy swimwear when at a local beach but overall, understand that Dubai follows a strict code of conduct with regards to Islam with many traditional values very much part and parcel of how life is lived in these parts. Therefore, as a word of advice, never shy away from covering up and particularly, your shoulders and knees or that matter as to be seen revealing too much skin will have you facing the full brunt of the law. Thus, showing respect to those around you will win you, friends, at a drop of a hat and in turn, ensure that your time in Dubai goes off well with no hiccups along the way.

Get out into the streets and head for the food

An integral component of a country’s identity is its food culture and in this regard, Dubai sure does serve up a fine array of mouthwatering fare that would complement a multitude of palates. Snack on shawarma, bursting in flavour, colour and aroma while out on the streets but be mindful that the popular Global Village would need visiting in order to sample a slice of tradition in more ways than one. International cuisine is never in short supply given that Dubai boasts of a wide range of restaurants and eateries that pack a punch and will have discerning foodies asking for seconds no sooner they polish off their first serving.