How to make sure you make the most of your visit to Thailand

Considered among Asia's most captivating holiday destinations, Thailand is a land full of diverse charms. Home to some of the region's most pristine beaches and breathtaking natural wonders, the rich cultural heritage of the nation formerly known as Siam truly knows no bounds. From venturing beyond the capital to exploring lesser-known highlights, here are some tips on making your next Thailand holiday a memorable experience.

1. Go Beyond the Capital

Bangkok's status as Asia's finest playground will never be disputed but there's more to explore and experience in Thailand that the capital's main attractions. While Bangkok may be home to the Grand Palace, the Temple of Dawn and the best wholesale and retail markets in the country, the remainder of Thailand has a lot more to offer for those in search of authentic Thai culture and heritage. Exploring the mountains of Chiang Rai, the jungles of Kanchanaburi province where the Bridge on the River Kwai blockbuster was shot are just some of the adventures that await those who venture beyond the beaten path. Taking a trip back in time to the Ayutthaya Kingdom and marvelling at the marine wonders and spectacular beaches of the Angthong Marine National Park or Koh Samui should be in every Thai travel itinerary.

2. Avoid the Drama and the Scams

Tourist should be wary when travelling alone or independently in Thailand's most popular tourist hotspots as the country is just as well-known for its hospitality as it is for is many scams and acts of fraud. Dubious individuals hoping to cash-in on the large influx of tourists is especially noticeable in the country's big cities where pickpockets, men posing at guides and other fraudulent crimes are committed daily. Keeping tabs on your belongings and not allowing random strangers to derail your travel plans is the only line of defence tourists have against these duplicitous petty thieves.

3. Use Public Transport

Whether one is navigating the highways and byways of bustling Bangkok or going sightseeing in Chiang Mai, relying on public transport is the best way to travel from Point A to Point B in Thailand. Offering travellers one of the most efficient and sophisticated public transport networks in Asia, travelling by subway, trains and buses are a breeze in Thailand. Tourists should be wary of unmetered taxis and three-wheelers when exploring the outer reaches of the country as drivers are known to quote high charges for short transfers sighting that their meter is broken.

4. Follow the Dress Code

While Thailand does not impose strict rules on attire when it comes to travelling around its landscapes, foreigners should take care to dress conservatively when visiting Thai state institutions and religious attractions. Those heading to the Grand Palace or any other cultural and spiritual highlight in Thailand should refrain from wearing revealing clothing that does not cover the knees and shoulders. Some temples go so far as to charge visitors for cover-ups that are forced upon them for being indecently clad do be careful when visiting landmarks that command great respect in Thailand.

5. Respect the Royals

It may be perfectly acceptable to criticize the dress sense or the behaviour of the British royal family in the tabloids or among citizens in the UK but the Thais revere their royal family so much that insulting their persons carried legal penalties. Avoid criticizing the monarch at all times as there are local laws that can imprison tourists for offending the king.

6. Learn Something Valuable

Whether it's lessons in scuba diving or preparing Thai delicacies, learning a useful skill is a great way to memorialize your holiday in Thailand. Those based at Avani Khon Kaen Hotel & Convention Centre or any other hotel in Khon Kaen will find that culinary classes and water sports lessons are available through a plethora of private tour operators and instructors.