Thailand’s geography and terrain are quite diverse: from the lush, jungle covered peaks of the northern mountains to the turquoise hues of the Gulf of Thailand. Exploring Thailand by air, whether skydiving or riding aboard a hot air balloon, glider, helicopter, or small aircraft allows visitors to have an exhilarating experience while getting a unique perspective on Thailand’s spectacular countryside.

Thai culture features a number of performing arts including Thai dance, drama, and sport, all of which have a number of intriguing variations. Variety shows that feature a number of different theatrical arts are common in Chiang Mai, Bangkok, Phuket, and Pattaya. There are also venues that feature Thai culture shows that specialize in particular arts.

Perhaps the most popular among visitors is classical Thai dance, which is typically accompanied by live classical Thai music. Thai dance performances in Chiang Mai, which are typically arranged in conjunction with a dinner of traditional Thai food, also feature dances from various hill tribes living in Thailand. Thai theatre includes performances by masked dancers as well as puppet shows, either performed by similarly masked dancers, or from behind a curtain using the shadows of the puppets to recount tales from Hindu and Buddhist lore.

Other Thai culture performances include wedding ceremonies, theatrical performances of ancient Muay Thai boxing matches, and of course exhibitions of Elephants, either showing off their working skills or even playing musical instruments.

Without question, Bangkok is one of the world’s premier shopping destinations. Shopping in Thailand is world class, featuring 21st century shopping malls, such as Siam Paragon; multi-story electronics malls including Panthip Plaza; expansive local markets, such as the JJ weekend market; and local markets from Chiang Mai to Udon Thani that sell everything from clothes and household goods to food and flowers.

Nearly every city and town has a central market that is a fascinating way to spend a few hours and a great way to pick up toiletries, clothes, or local handicrafts. In the larger, touristier towns like Chiang Mai, weekend markets and night markets feature all variety of handicrafts both modern and traditional, including t-shirts and dresses made by inspirational young artists and puppets and jewelry crafted by hill tribe communities.

Bangkok’s night markets on Patpong and Sukhumvit Roads are ideal places to pick up souvenirs or gifts for those back home, while more impressive gifts can be procured from retailers such as certified antiques dealers, gem and jewelry shops, or Jim Thompson, the famous silk pioneer. In regards to gems and antiques, it should be noted that there are numerous occurrences of scams involving antiques and gems, and restrictions on the export of Buddha images. Otherwise, with the right guidance there are genuine opportunities to make some brilliant shopping discoveries.

Getting clothes tailor made in Bangkok is a top priority for many, though boutique shops in Siam Square feature the latest ready-to-wear designs from the city’s chic young designers. Meanwhile, in Chinatown, almost every conceivable knick-knack and trinket is for sale in the myriad mazes of back alleys, while those shopping for gold can do so along the district’s Yaowarat Road.

Thailand’s diverse terrain includes both developed and pristine areas that allow for a variety of outdoor land activities. Extreme activities such as paintball and bungy jumping exist closer to the centers of tourism, such as Samui and Pattaya, but there are many outdoor land activities that utilize the protected and still unspoiled regions of Thailand. Activities such as horse riding, elephant trekking, cave exploration, and rock climbing allow visitors to have fun while exploring the beautiful Thai countryside. 4x4 off road driving, mountain biking, and jungle trekking can take visitors into the most remote areas of Thailand in order to visit hill tribe villages and spot exotic and endangered wildlife. No matter what your level of activity, there are many opportunities for you to experience the great natural attractions of Thailand.

With idyllic tropical beaches, majestic temples, fascinating culture, and world class service and accommodation, Thailand is undoubtedly a romantic kingdom. Consequently, it’s a top destination for those looking to marry in an exotic land or experience the ultimate honeymoon. In fact, many of Thailand’s finest hotels and spa retreats offer wedding and honeymoon packages specifically designed to ensure you have the ultimate romantic getaway. Whether you are looking for a private beach-side swimming pool, an outdoor tub overlooking the jungle, a romantic riverside candle-lit dinner, or the ultimate his and her pampering at a Thai spa, Thailand has innumerable options to make your special date the most memorable experience of your lives.