Thailand is a country that truly has it all – from vibrant cities and ancient temples to mountains and stunning beaches. Whether you're wandering through the bustling streets of Bangkok, exploring the Chiang Mai's temples, or relaxing on the white sands of Phuket, there's something here for every kind of traveler.
This 15-day itinerary is designed to help you experience the best Thailand has to offer, blending cultural exploration, natural beauty, and plenty of time to unwind.
Essential Tips to Know Before Traveling to Thailand
Transportation
Thailand has an extensive public transportation system, particularly in the cities like Bangkok. A fun way to get around the city is by taking a tuk-tuk. For convenience, ride-sharing apps like Grab and Bolt are also great options for getting from one place to another.
On the islands, hiring a driver for the day is an excellent way to explore, typically costing around 30 euros, depending on the duration and distance of your travels. For intercity journeys, both the train system and domestic flights are efficient and reliable choices.
The local currency is the Thai Baht (THB). ATMs are widely available, but most will charge a fee for foreign cards (consider using a Revolut card). It’s a good idea to notify your bank of your travel plans and carry some cash, especially in rural areas or for smaller purchases. You can exchange both dollars and euros.
Local Etiquette
Showing respect for the Thai monarchy is crucial. Always stand when the national anthem plays in public spaces, and avoid discussing the royal family negatively. It's also considered impolite to touch someone’s head or point your feet at people or religious symbols.
Dress modestly when visiting temples, and always remove your shoes before entering. Shoulders and knees should be covered.
Scams
Like in many tourist destinations, be cautious of common scams. Avoid accepting deals from strangers offering unlicensed tours or claiming tourist attractions are closed, and always negotiate fares in advance for tuk-tuks or longtail boats.
Visa requirements
To enter Thailand, you need a tourist visa, which you can apply for online; it's not necessary to go in person.
Required Documents:
-The original passport or travel document (must be valid within 6 months from the travel date)
-Photograph of the applicant, taken within the past six months
-A completed visa application form (you fill it out online https://www.thaievisa.go.th/ )
-A confirmation of transport tickets to enter and depart from Thailand
-Proof of accommodation for the whole period of stay in Thailand. (Must be matched with transport tickets).
-The applicant’s bank statement or bank book showing the account’s name and number, balance and history of transactions for the last 3 months (minimum closing balance equivalent of 30,000 THB/person) or proof of monthly income for the last 6 months.
Days 1-6: Phuket
Upon arriving in Bangkok, book a flight to Phuket and allow at least 3-4 hours between flights. You'll need time to collect your baggage and check it in again.
The Bangkok airport is large, so be prepared to navigate to your gate and pass through security.
Once you arrive in Phuket, you'll be ready to enjoy some of Thailand’s stunning beaches.
It has an outdoor swimming pool, shared lounge, a terrace and restaurant in Patong Beach. It's less than 1 km from Patong Beach, a 4-minute walk from Jungceylon Shopping Center and 1.3 km from Patong Boxing Stadium.
Meir Jarr Hotel Patong is a short 5-minute walk from Patong Beach and Jungceylon Shopping Mall.
The bustling Bangla Road is a 5-minute drive from Meir Jarr Hotel Patong, while Thai Boxing Stadium is a 10-minute ride away. A 45-minute drive takes to Phuket International Airport.
Situated in Patong Beach, 700 metres from Patong Beach, Bauman Residence Patong, Phuket features accommodation with an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a fitness centre and a terrace.
Situated in Patong Beach and with Patong Beach reachable within less than 1 km, La Vista Patong Hotel features concierge services, non-smoking rooms, a shared lounge, free WiFi and a restaurant. Boasting a bar, the hotel is close to several noted attractions, around 2 km from Kalim Beach, 600 metres from Jungceylon Shopping Center and 1 km from Patong Boxing Stadium.
Set in Patong Beach, a few steps from Kalim Beach, Oceanfront Beach Resort - SHA Extra Plus offers accommodation with an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a fitness centre and a garden.
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Kata Beach
Best For: A more relaxed beach vibe with good dining options.
Set on a hill, Orchidacea Resort - Kata Beach offers views of Andaman Sea and Kata Beach. A free shuttle service to Kata Beach is offered 3 times daily.
It is a 5-minute walk to Kata Beach and Kata Village Centre. By car, it will take 15 minutes' to lively Patong Beach, 25 minutes' to Phuket Town and 50 minutes' to Phuket International Airport.
Kata Beach is 1.4 km from the accommodation, while Kata Noi Beach is 1.8 km from the property. The nearest airport is Phuket International Airport, 45 km from Blue Palm Kata Resort.
This boutique hotel offers contemporary individually designed rooms with free Wi-Fi access. It houses a restaurant and provides a free shuttle service to Kata Beach, just 500 metres away.
The Color Kata is a 20-minute drive from Phuket Town and a 45-minute drive from Phuket International Airport.
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Bang Tao Beach
Best For: Luxury resorts and a tranquil atmosphere.
Just a 5-minute walk from Bangtao Bay Beach, Bangtao Village Resort - SHA offers private cottages with free Wi-Fi. It is nestled within tropical gardens and features an outdoor pool, massage services and a variety of water sports.
Arinara Beach Resort Phuket - SHA Extra Plusis a 2-minute walk from Bangtao Beach. Phuket FantaSea is a 10-minute drive from Arinara Bangtao Beach Resort, while Phuket International Airport is a 20-minute ride away.
Located just 100 metres from Bangtao Beach, Andaman Seaside Resort Bangtao Beach offers free Wi-Fi, free parking, a swimming pool and traditional Thai massage.
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Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation
A short flight of about 1.5 hours will take you from Bangkok to Thailand’s largest island. Arrive in Phuket, and check in to your hotel or resort. Spend some time at Patong Beach or Kata Beach to relax after your journey.
In the evening, explore Bangla Road in Patong for dinner and nightlife, or enjoy a quieter meal in Kata.
Bangla Road is the heart of Patong’s nightlife. After sunset, this street transforms into a vibrant hub with bars, nightclubs, go-go bars, and live music venues. It's known for its wild, energetic atmosphere and neon lights.
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All of the day trips I’ll share below typically last 7-9 hours, and most offer convenient pick-up services from your accommodation. A lunch is usually included in the price. The boat rides can be a bit rough, so to avoid seasickness, it’s a good idea to take motion sickness pills beforehand.
You’ll usually return from these trips in the afternoon, and after a long day, you’ll likely be pretty tired. Head to a nearby restaurant for a relaxing dinner—treat yourself to some Pad Thai and finish with a delicious serving of mango sticky rice.
Day 2: Phi Phi Islands Day Trip
Have you traveled to Thailand without visiting the Phi Phi Islands? Enjoy snorkeling, swimming, and exploring iconic spots like Maya Bay and Viking Cave.
The Phi Phi Islands are a group of six stunning islands in the Andaman Sea, located between Phuket and Krabi in southern Thailand. These islands are famous for their dramatic limestone cliffs, crystal-clear turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs, and picturesque beaches
Maya Bay is one of Thailand’s most famous and stunningly beautiful destinations, located on Koh Phi Phi Leh, a smaller island in the Phi Phi archipelago. The bay became globally renowned after featuring in the 2000 film The Beach, starring Leonardo DiCaprio, and since then, it has been a must-visit spot for travelers exploring Thailand's islands.
Monkey Beach, also known as Ao Ling, is a popular tourist destination located on Koh Phi Phi Don island in Thailand. The beach is famous for its population of wild monkeys that roam freely, which visitors can interact with (although it's advised to keep a safe distance). Here’s what you might like to know about Monkey Beach
Viking Cave is accessible only by boat, and while visitors are not allowed to enter the cave due to conservation efforts, boats often stop nearby so tourists can observe the cave's entrance and the bamboo scaffolding used by nest collectors.
James Bond Island, officially known as Koh Tapu, is one of the most famous tourist destinations in Phang Nga Bay in southern Thailand. It gained international fame after being featured in the 1974 James Bond film The Man with the Golden Gun, which starred Roger Moore as James Bond.
Suwan Khuha Cave, commonly referred to as Monkey Cave, is a popular tourist attraction located in the Phang Nga Province of southern Thailand. It is part of the Wat Suwan Khuha Temple, a significant cultural and religious site, and is known for its large reclining Buddha statue, ancient cave system, and the troop of wild monkeys that live around the entrance.
The park is famous for its hongs (Thai for “rooms”), which are hidden lagoons inside the limestone cliffs. These lagoons can only be accessed through sea caves, which are often only passable during low tide.
Kayaking through the caves and into the lagoons is one of the most popular and unique experiences in Ao Phang Nga.
Ko Panyi is a fascinating floating village located in Phang Nga Bay, southern Thailand. It is one of the most unique cultural attractions in the area, as it is built almost entirely on stilts over the water. The village is home to a small Muslim fishing community.
The Big Buddha is an imposing structure, standing 45 meters tall and 25 meters wide. Made of white Burmese marble, the statue shines in the sunlight and is visible from much of Phuket’s southern coast.
The statue represents Gautama Buddha seated in the Māravijaya posture (victory over Mara, the demon of temptation), a pose commonly seen in Thai Buddhist iconography.
Known for its well-preserved Sino-Portuguese architecture, vibrant street art, and cultural landmarks, Phuket Old Town offers a different vibe from the island’s famous beaches and resorts. The area reflects the island’s rich history, shaped by Chinese, Malay, Indian, and European influences.
Thalang Road is the heart of Phuket Old Town and one of its most famous streets. Lined with colorful shophouses, this street is filled with cafes, boutique shops, art galleries, and traditional eateries.
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Day 5: Similan Islands
Take a day trip to the Similan Islands for snorkeling and beach time.
The Sarasin Bridge is a well-known landmark in Phuket that connects the island to the mainland of Thailand, specifically Phang Nga Province. Originally built in 1967, it was the first road link between Phuket and the rest of the country.
Comprising nine islands, this national park is famous for its incredible biodiversity, crystal-clear waters, and coral reefs, making it one of Thailand's top destinations for diving and snorkeling.
Your final day in Phuket can be as relaxing or as adventurous as you choose. Spend the day on the beach, engaging in water sports such as jet skiing, and parasailing, or book a Thai massage. Also, do some last-minute shopping for souvenirs before departing from Phuket.
Day 7-11: Chiang Mai
After enjoying the beaches and the nightlife in Phuket, your next step is to take a short flight to Bangkok. From Bangkok, you can easily catch a domestic flight to Chiang Mai, where you’ll be greeted by mountain landscapes and many temples.
Situated about a 10-minute drive from Chiang Mai Old Town and 500 metres from Thanin Market, it has a year-round outdoor pool, sun terrace and free WiFi in all areas.
It is located within a 7-minute walk from Chiang Mai Airport. There is an outdoor swimming pool and a sauna.
It is a 10-minute drive from Wat Chedi Luang and a 15-minute drive from Wat Phra Singh and the Sunday Walking Street. The city’s iconic landmark, Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, is a 20-minute drive away.
Look at this amazing pool! Wow!
The Astra Sky River Chiang Mai can be found in Chiang Mai, close to Chiang Mai Night Bazaar and 2.8 km from Tha Pae Gate.
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Day 7: Arrival in Chiang Mai and Old City Exploration
Check in to your hotel in Chiang Mai and relax for a bit. If you aren't tired of all the traveling, go and explore the Old City.
Visit Wat Phra Singh, one of the most famous temples in Chiang Mai, known for its Lanna architecture and beautiful murals.
Wat Phra Singh, or the Temple of the Lion Buddha, is one of Chiang Mai’s most iconic temples.
Established in the 14th century, it is located within the Old City and is known for its stunning Lanna-style architecture and significant historical importance.
Lanna architecture refers to the distinct architectural style that developed in the Lanna Kingdom, which existed in northern Thailand from the 13th to the 18th centuries. This style is characterized by its unique blend of local traditions, influences from neighboring cultures, and adaptations to the mountainous landscape of the region.
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Stroll through the Old City, stopping at smaller temples like Wat Chedi Luang or Wat Chiang Man, where you can observe monks in prayer.
This iconic landmark marks one of the main entrances to the Old City and is a popular spot for photos. It is a remnant of the original city walls that once protected the area.
Held every Sunday evening, this vibrant market features local artisans, food stalls, and live performances. It’s an excellent place to pick up handmade crafts and sample local delicacies.
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Be sure to try local dishes like Khao Soi (a traditional Northern Thai noodle dish).
Day 8: Doi Inthanon National Park
Day 8 is dedicated to exploring the natural beauty surrounding Chiang Mai. Take a day trip to Doi Inthanon National Park which is famous for being home to Thailand's highest peak, Doi Inthanon, which stands at an impressive 2,565 meters above sea level.
The summit of Doi Inthanon offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. There is a short walking trail at the summit, leading to a viewpoint and a monument marking the highest point.
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Established in 1972, the park spans over 1,200 square kilometers and is part of the Himalayan mountain range. Hike through lush trails, visit breathtaking waterfalls, and take in the views from the King and Queen Pagodas.
It is time for an unforgettable experience in an ethical elephant sanctuary. Spend the day learning about elephant conservation efforts and their importance in Thai culture. This experience usually takes around 4-6 hours.
Participate in feeding and bathing the elephants in a natural setting, ensuring that the experience is both respectful and responsible. This experience will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for these gentle giants.
After returning from the sanctuary, head to Doi Suthep (about a 30-minute drive). Visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a golden temple with incredible views of Chiang Mai. The view is particularly stunning at sunrise and sunset.
The temple can be reached by songthaew (red truck taxis), private car, or guided tours. Many visitors go for a hike to the temple from the base of the mountain, which takes about 1-2 hours.
Visitors ascend the temple via a striking staircase flanked by two magnificent Naga (serpent) sculptures. The staircase consists of 306 steps, making the journey to the temple both an adventure and a spiritual experience.
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Day 10: White Temple, Blue Temple & Baan Dam Museum
Depart early for a day trip to Chiang Rai (around a 3-hour drive from Chiang Mai). Hire a private driver or join a guided tour for convenience.
Upon arrival, visit the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), an iconic contemporary temple known for its intricate white design.
Designed by artist Chalermchai Kositpipat, this unique temple is not only a place of worship but also a work of art that reflects the artist's vision of modern Buddhism.
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Head to the Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten), famous for its vibrant blue and gold decor.
The most eye-catching feature of Wat Rong Suea Ten is its deep blue exterior, which symbolizes the sky and water, representing peace and tranquility.
The blue is complemented by gold accents that add a touch of elegance and richness to the temple's overall design.
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Visit the Black House (Baan Dam Museum) in Chiang Rai. This dark and artistic installation offers a deep dive into Thai culture and artistry.
Created by the late Thai artist Thawan Duchanee, the museum is a collection of over 40 structures that feature a striking contrast to traditional Thai architecture, characterized by their dark color schemes and intricate designs. Established in the 1990s, Baan Dam serves as both an art installation and a cultural commentary, exploring themes of life, death, and spirituality.
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Explore the Karen Long Neck Hill Tribe or other indigenous hill tribes in the region. Learn about their unique cultures and traditions during your visit.
Return to Chiang Mai and enjoy a leisurely evening, perhaps visiting the Saturday Walking Street Market (if it’s a Saturday) or relaxing with a traditional Thai massage.
Day 11: Cooking Class and Local Markets
Dedicate your final day in Chiang Mai to exploring local markets and cooking classes. Start with a visit to Warorot Market, where you can find a wide array of local produce, snacks, and crafts. Another great option is to take a Thai cooking class and master the art of preparing delicious Thai dishes! Enjoy the delicious meal you’ve created and perhaps even bring home some new culinary skills.
And saving the best for last, we have Bangkok, the capital of Thailand. This city truly has it all: street markets, expansive shopping malls, floating markets, and stunning temples that reflect its rich cultural heritage.
Conveniently situated in downtown Bangkok, features an outdoor pool and an on-site restaurant. It is located between Phloen Chit and Nana BTS Skytrain Stations.
Modern apartments and outdoor pool. It is within walking distance of Sukhumvit Subway Station.
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Day 12: Fly from Chiang Mai to Bangkok
From Chiang Mai, catch a flight back to Bangkok (approximately 1.5-hour flight). After arriving at Suvarnabhumi Airport, take a taxi or airport shuttle to your hotel and take some time to relax.
Take a stroll to soak in the unique vibe of Bangkok and get a sense of what makes this city so distinct from Phuket and Chiang Mai.
Head to the Chinatown Night Market for dinner and shopping.
A visit to Chinatown is a must for food lovers. The streets come alive, especially in the evening when food vendors set up stalls serving an array of delectable dishes. Sample traditional Chinese delicacies such as dim sum, roasted duck, and crispy pork belly, or dive into local favorites like pad thai and mango sticky rice.
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If you're not ready to call it a night yet, head over to OpiumBkk for some fantastic cocktails!
It was one of the best cocktails I've ever had, and the bar is ranked 224th on the list of the Top 500 Bars in the world!
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Day 13: Cultural Exploration in Bangkok
We will dedicate this day to discovering some of the most renowned and beautiful temples in Bangkok. Be sure to dress modestly, as these are sacred sites. Both men and women should wear clothing that covers their shoulders and knees.
Start your exploration at Wat Traimit. This temple is home to a stunning 5.5-ton statue of the Buddha made entirely of solid gold, making it the largest gold Buddha statue in the world.
Upon entering, you can take your time to admire the breathtaking statue, and you may also find local monks offering blessings to visitors. The temple also features a small museum that provides insights into the history of the statue and Buddhism in Thailand.
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From Wat Traimit go to Wat Pho, known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha.
Here you can see the 46-meter-long statue of the Reclining Buddha, which is covered in gold leaf and symbolizes the Buddha’s entry into Nirvana.
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From Wat Pho go to the Grand Palace. Notable structures within the palace grounds include Wat Phra Kaew, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, which houses Thailand's most revered religious artifact—a small statue of the Buddha carved from jade.
This complex served as the official residence of the Thai monarch for over 150 years and continues to be a significant site for royal ceremonies and state functions.
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From the Grand Palace, visit Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn). Take a ferry across the Chao Phraya River to reach it.
Beautiful mosaics made from colorful porcelain and seashells.
One of the best times to see Wat Arun is at sunset, when the temple’s towers glow as they reflect the golden light of the setting sun. In the evening, the temple is beautifully illuminated, creating a picture-perfect view from across the river.
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In the afternoon or evening, take some time to explore Bangkok's shopping malls. Even if you're not in the mood to shop, it's worth visiting—the experience is completely unlike anything you'll find in Europe.
You'll witness a colorful display of vendors selling fresh fruits, vegetables, and local delicacies from their wooden boats.
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Take your time to explore the market, sampling delicious snacks like boat noodles or coconut pancakes while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and unique photo opportunities.
Then, head to the Maeklong Railway Market, where vendors set up shop on the train tracks. Be sure to catch the train passing through!
Be sure to stay alert, as the train passes through the market several times a day, and watch in amazement as the vendors quickly retract their awnings and move their goods to make way for the train.
It is a striking 17-story pink cylindrical tower, which is dramatically encircled by a giant dragon sculpture that appears to be climbing to the top.
Wat Samphran is a lesser-known attraction, making it perfect for travelers looking to escape the usual tourist crowds. The temple is not widely advertised, which means you’ll have a more serene and personal experience when visiting.
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A grab (ride share) to Wat Sam Phran from Bangkok costs around 12 $ each way and takes about 45 minutes, there is no entrance fee to the temple.
Another day trip that you can do is Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of Thailand.
Located just 80 kilometers north of Bangkok, this once-thriving kingdom (1350-1767) is now an open-air museum of magnificent ruins, including temples, palaces, and statues.
Highlights include Wat Phra Si Sanphet with its iconic chedis, the famous Buddha head entwined in roots at Wat Mahathat, and the riverside Wat Chaiwatthanaram.
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Day 15: Departure from Bangkok
Start your day with a relaxing breakfast at a cafe in Thonglor or Ekkamai. This area is known for its trendy restaurants and coffee shops.
Depending on your flight time, you might want to do some last-minute shopping or visit any sites you missed earlier. Head to the airport for your departure.
If you have extra time, relax at the airport lounges before your flight.
Final tip
How to avoid Bangkok belly?
"Bangkok belly" it's another expression for food poisoning or stomach flu. Here are some tips to help avoid it:
-Drink bottled water: stick to bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth.
-Avoid ice. Ice cubes may be made from tap water, so it's best to avoid them in drinks. Before ordering, I am always asking about the source of the water used in making it.
Avoid eating washed fruits and vegetables: better safe, than sorry. While you can enjoy fruits, especially exotic ones in tropical places, it's best to skip fresh vegetables and stick to fruits that need peeling before eating.
-Choose reputable restaurants: eat at established restaurants with good hygiene practices to minimize the risk of food contamination.
-Avoid street food: while tempting, street food may not always be prepared in hygienic conditions, so it's best to avoid it if you are concerned about getting sick. However, there are exceptions: in Zanzibar, I was advised against street food, but in Bangkok and Bali, it's a must-try experience. The key is to select a vendor with a lot of customers, indicating freshness, and go for the dishes that are cooked at high temperatures.
-Drink probiotics: taking probiotics before and during your trip might help prevent stomach issues.
My name is Tea 🫖, a Macedonian expat who has been calling Ljubljana, Slovenia, home for the past nine years. With a passion for traveling and a heart full of wanderlust, I am always on the move, ready to explore new places and try delightful cuisines —truly a self-proclaimed hedonist at heart. 🗺️
My mantra? La vita è bella" or "Life is beautiful." The joy hides in life's tiny treasures, in those simple, magical moments we often overlook. Whether it's trying a new dish, exploring a hidden gem, or simply sharing a laugh with friends, I believe that happiness lies in the everyday moments. 🧸🎀
I really enjoy organizing trips. My friends often joke about how much I plan every little detail, but when you're visiting a place, you want to make the most of your time, right? My travel expertise spans from curating detailed itineraries to recommending must-visit spots. So, if you don't like planning but love traveling, I can help you out. Just ask me for advice on museums, good places to eat, wine bars, or even secret bars!
I know Ljubljana and its surroundings intimately, but my recommendations extend beyond Slovenia. I can offer my expertise from experiences in Europe (Slovenia, Croatia, Serbia, Macedonia, Greece, Italy), Asia (Thailand: Bangkok and Phuket; Bali, Kuala Lumpur), and Africa (Egypt, Tunisia, Zanzibar).
Follow me on TikTok, Instagram & Pinterest @thecreationofus for recommendations, tips, and more. Let's make your next journey extraordinary!
