Thailand is a land of subtle balances: between ancient traditions and modernity, spiritual fervor and daily smiles, jungle and turquoise sea. I traveled through its temples, bustling streets, peaceful mountains, and sunlit islands. Each place is a fragment of this vibrant puzzle: the Buddhas of Ayutthaya, the roofs of Chiang Mai, the beaches of Koh Samui, night markets, candid looks. This journal is a visual tribute to Thai gentleness, silent generosity, and its ability to slow down time.
Thailand, formerly known as Siam, has a rich history dating back over a thousand years. The country was home to several ancient kingdoms and cultures, including the powerful Sukhothai kingdom in the 13th century, followed by the Ayutthaya kingdom in the 14th century. These kingdoms played a crucial role in the spread of Buddhism and the construction of magnificent temples and monuments.
In the 18th century, Thailand emerged as a modern kingdom under the Chakri dynasty. King Rama I founded the current capital, Bangkok, in 1782. Over the following centuries, Thailand resisted European colonization, becoming one of the few Southeast Asian countries never colonized by a Western power.
In the 20th century, Thailand experienced political instability periods but succeeded in preserving its independence. The country is now a constitutional monarchy governed by a constitution.
Thailand is a country located in Southeast Asia, sharing borders with Myanmar (Burma) to the west and northwest, Laos to the northeast, Cambodia to the east, and Malaysia to the south. It is also bordered by the Gulf of Thailand to the east and the Andaman Sea to the west.
Thailand’s geography is varied and consists of several distinct regions. The northern part of the country features mountains and hills covered with tropical forests. This region is popular for trekking and exploring tribal villages.
Central Thailand is dominated by the vast Chao Phraya River plain, one of the most fertile areas in the country. This region contains the ancient capitals of Sukhothai and Ayutthaya.
Southern Thailand is famous for its beautiful white sandy beaches, tropical islands, and clear waters. Popular destinations like Phuket, Krabi, Koh Samui, and Koh Phi Phi attract millions of tourists annually.
Thailand has a primarily tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. The country typically experiences three seasons: the hot season, the rainy season, and the cool season.
In summary, Thailand is a country with an ancient history and diverse geography, offering travelers a blend of culture, natural adventure, and coastal beauty. Its vibrant culture, majestic temples, and paradisiacal beaches make it one of Southeast Asia’s most sought-after destinations.
I will list here some photographs, films, points of interest, and ideas.
A short trailer film of our 2017 trip, from Chiang Mai to Bangkok, passing by the Kwai River
Sukhothai – The Birth of a Kingdom
Sukhothai is the historical cradle of Thailand, a peaceful site where ruins reflect in lotus-filled ponds.
The River Kwai – History Along the Water
The River Kwai evokes one of the darkest chapters of World War II history, set in a peaceful natural environment.
Wat Phra That Lampang Luang – Northern Fortress Temple
One of the oldest wooden temples in Thailand, with a timeless atmosphere rich in history.
Our Guides
Our Guides in Thailand During our last trip in April 2017, we had the chance and pleasure to meet two French-speaking guides, Dolly and Adisorn.
Both greatly enriched our journey, allowing us to communicate and discover many little things that make such a trip magical!
In Chiang Mai Dolly Bacque Duchanee You can reach her:
by email at wadtanee@gmail.com by phone at 080 128 1907 (from Thailand), or +66 80 128 1907 (international), or on her Facebook page https://facebook.com/bacqueduchanee In Bangkok Adisorn To contact him: adisorntoh6992@gmail.com
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Photography by Themes
Photography by Themes A series of photographs by themes on Thailand.
Fauna Crab-eating Macaques at Wat Tham Suwan Khuha, Phang Nga district, July 2013 Crab-eating Macaque
Crab-eating Macaque
Crab-eating Macaque
Crab-eating Macaque
Insects Aristobia horridula A rather unexpected encounter!!!! Found by the poolside at JW Marriott Khaolak.
Beetle, Aristobia horridula
Rhinoceros beetle
Rhinoceros beetle
Rhinoceros beetle
Nautilus Nautilus pompilius Found on the hotel beach while walking…
This is a species of nautilus, a marine cephalopod. Living in the open sea, they are very numerous at 400 meters deep. Well okay! Here we only see the shell, but it’s still pretty good!
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Points of Interest
Points of Interest Points of Interest in Thailand Thailand is full of iconic places throughout the country, from nature, temples, beaches, markets to historical ruins. This page offers a selection of must-see or lesser-known sites to explore by region.
Northern Thailand Chiang Mai: temples, markets, nature, crafts. Chiang Rai: the famous White Temple (Wat Rong Khun) and the Black House. Doi Inthanon National Park: the country’s highest point, waterfalls, and forests. Pai: bohemian village in a peaceful valley. Central Region Bangkok: palaces, temples, floating markets, modern museums. Ayutthaya: royal ruins and historic parks. Lopburi: Khmer temples and monkeys. Kanchanaburi: River Kwai bridge, nature, memory. South and Islands Phuket: beaches, old town, excursions. Krabi: karst formations, Railay, sea kayaking. Koh Samui: temples, yoga, diverse beaches. Koh Tao: diving, snorkeling. Similan and Surin Marine Parks: exceptional underwater life. Cultural and Natural Sites National Parks (Erawan, Khao Sok, Doi Suthep-Pui…). Famous temples: Wat Arun, Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Rong Suea Ten (Blue Temple). Markets: Chatuchak (Bangkok), floating markets, night markets. Conclusion Whether seeking spiritual fervor, wild nature, the perfect beach or urban chaos, Thailand offers an impressive diversity of points of interest. Each region has its own character, climate, and rhythm.
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Wat Tham Sua
Wat Tham Sua On the way back towards Bangkok, there is a beautiful temple atop a hill, Wat Tham Sua. It houses a magnificent golden Buddha protected by a half-dome.
Wat Tham Sua at Tha Muang
Worth the detour! Wat Tham Sua (Tha Muang) Located a few kilometers south of Kanchanaburi, Wat Tham Sua — literally “Tiger Cave Temple” — overlooks the fertile Tha Muang plains. It is remarkable for its spectacular architecture, its immense Buddha statue, and panoramic views over the rice fields.
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