Thailand Archives | Moss and Fog

Asia

Thailand Gives Your Skin Two Very Different Problems Before Noon

June 3, 2026 Asia

Thailand greets travelers with a sensory flood. Incense curls through open-air markets, monsoon rains arrive unannounced, and street food sizzles at all hours.

A woman runs through a rain-soaked street while holding an umbrella. The scene is dark and moody, featuring reflections on the wet pavement and blurred outlines of buildings in the background.

Photo by Naseem Buras on Unsplash

But beneath the allure lies a climate reality that operates like a two-act drama played out before lunch.

The equatorial location and tropical climate of Thailand result in hot weather and strong ultraviolet radiation, and by the time you finish your morning coffee, your skin has already dealt with opposing enemies. One is invisible. The other is constant. Both demand respect, and neither waits for you to adjust.

Understanding why these twin threats emerge so early in the day matters because prevention beats recovery.

Excess moisture in the air causes your skin to sweat more, making it feel greasy and prone to congestion, while humidity can prevent moisture from penetrating deeper layers of your skin, leading to dehydration beneath the surface. That contradiction defines the Thai dermatological experience for visitors. Your face feels slick yet thirsty. Meanwhile,

latitude factors describe the increase in radiation while getting closer to the equator from a purely geometric perspective, and the level of radiation differs significantly across different latitudes in a tropical diurnal climate.

A person wearing a hat and a backpack stands facing a beautifully ornate temple with golden decorations under a bright blue sky.

The Morning Humidity Trap

Humans perceive air as muggy from approximately 13.5 grams of water per cubic meter, and this limit is exceeded throughout the year in Thailand. Humidity levels remain relentlessly high, particularly during the wet season from May through November. The atmospheric moisture load creates a microcosm where sweat cannot evaporate efficiently, leading to what feels like a perpetual sheen across your forehead and cheeks.

The humidity in Thailand causes one to sweat excessively, thus leading to the sweat being trapped under one’s skin. This trapped perspiration becomes a breeding ground for bacterial growth, clogged pores, and inflammatory responses. The paradox is that while the air around you feels saturated, your skin struggles to retain internal hydration. Surface grease does not equate to deep moisture, and that disconnect leaves travelers confused about whether to moisturize or mattify.

The atmospheric weight presses down before 9 a.m. You step outside and immediately feel a film forming. This is not dirt. It is the humidity bonding with sebum, cosmetics, and particulate matter. Thailand offers so many possibilities for exploration, but those adventures exact a dermatological toll that begins within minutes of exposure.

A vibrant market scene showing a vendor in a straw hat grilling various types of seafood, including fish, shrimp, and crabs, on a charcoal grill. Fresh vegetables and seafood are organized on tables nearby, with flowers visible in the background.

The UV Radiation Reality

The tropical zone receives 2.4 to 4.7-fold higher values of UV radiation compared with the sub-tropical and temperate regions, with high values of erythemal UV radiation and a decline as we move to higher latitudes. Thailand sits firmly in this high-exposure band, where ultraviolet intensity does not follow the gentle seasonal curves familiar to northern hemisphere residents. Instead, UV bombardment remains aggressive and consistent year-round.

Exposure to ultraviolet B leads to epidermal barrier dysfunction and reduced hydration in the stratum corneum, and ultraviolet B radiation causes oxidative damage and inflammatory reactions in keratinocytes on the skin surface. The damage accumulates quietly. You will not feel it happening. By midday, the biological insult is already underway, setting off cascades of reactive oxygen species that degrade collagen, disrupt DNA repair mechanisms, and accelerate photoaging.

Cloud cover offers minimal reprieve. UV radiation penetrates thin cloud layers with ease, and the reflective properties of water near coastal areas amplify exposure. Bangkok’s urban environment adds another variable through air pollutants affecting skin, where

particulate matter and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons affect skin structure and function, with oxidative stress, skin barrier damage, microbiome dysbiosis, and skin inflammation as the pathogenesis.

A scenic view of a traditional Thai temple complex featuring ornate architecture, lush greenery, and decorative statues. The pathway leads through vibrant plants and palm trees, with a prominent statue in the foreground.

What to Pack Specifically for Skin

Preparation tops reaction. Your standard skincare routine from home will not translate effectively to Thai conditions. The products you pack must address both hydration retention and barrier reinforcement while remaining lightweight enough to avoid suffocating your pores in oppressive humidity.

Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen

Non-negotiable. Select formulations rated SPF 50 or higher with both UVA and UVB protection. Mineral-based options containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide provide physical blocking rather than chemical absorption, which is preferable under intense tropical exposure. Reapplication every two hours is essential, particularly after swimming or excessive sweating. Water-resistant claims only hold for 40 to 80 minutes of immersion.

Lightweight Hydrating Serum

Hyaluronic acid serums deliver deep hydration without occlusive heaviness. These humectants draw moisture into skin layers, counteracting the dehydration that humidity paradoxically causes. Apply on damp skin immediately after cleansing to lock in surface water before it evaporates.

Antioxidant Protection

Vitamin C, niacinamide, and ferulic acid formulations neutralize free radicals generated by UV exposure and urban pollution. Morning application under sunscreen creates a defensive stack against oxidative stress. Environmental air pollutants affecting skin research shows that

ambient air pollutants trigger or exacerbate a range of skin diseases through various mechanisms, and air pollution elicits an oxidative stress response on the skin that can activate inflammatory responses.

Gentle Cleansing System

Use a gentle, non-stripping cleanser to remove impurities without disrupting the skin’s natural moisture barrier, and consider double cleansing in the evening to ensure thorough removal of sunscreen, makeup, and environmental pollutants. Oil-based first cleansers dissolve sebum and waterproof sunscreen, while water-based second cleansers remove residual debris without stripping.

Travel Kit

Curating a comprehensive travel kit eliminates guesswork and ensures you have climate-appropriate formulations ready. Compact, TSA-compliant sets for skincare designed for travel conditions include cleansers, moisturizers, and targeted treatments that address dehydration, environmental stress, and barrier repair. These kits prevent the common mistake of overpacking heavy creams unsuitable for tropical humidity while ensuring you maintain consistent skin protection throughout your trip.

After-Sun Repair

Aloe vera gels, centella asiatica extracts, and ceramide-rich lotions support barrier recovery after daily UV exposure. Evening application allows active ingredients to work during cellular repair cycles that peak during sleep.

A woman in traditional attire is having her makeup enhanced with a spray while illuminated by a ring light.

Daily Skin Hygiene Routines

Consistency matters more than complexity. Establish morning and evening protocols that address the specific challenges Thailand presents without overwhelming your skin’s adaptive capacity.

Begin mornings with lukewarm water cleansing followed by antioxidant serum application. Allow the serum to absorb for 60 seconds before applying sunscreen. Avoid layering multiple heavy products that will slide off in humidity. Midday touch-ups should involve blotting papers to remove excess oil without disturbing sunscreen, followed by sunscreen reapplication.

Evenings demand thorough cleansing to remove the day’s accumulated pollutants, sweat, and sunscreen residue. Double cleansing prevents buildup that leads to congestion. Follow with hydrating toner and repair serums containing peptides or retinol alternatives suitable for compromised barriers.

Drink water constantly. Internal hydration supports skin moisture from within, and

drinking lots of water will keep you hydrated and help you avoid headache, nausea and dizziness, and if you come from a cooler climate you will find yourself needing to drink at least twice as much as you did before.

Bangkok’s Urban Pollution Factor

Bangkok’s dense air quality can have a profound impact on skin, and with pollution levels consistently high, skin may be exposed to harmful particles that can lead to premature aging, breakouts, and dullness. The metropolitan concentration of vehicle emissions, industrial output, and construction dust creates a particulate soup that settles on skin surfaces throughout the day.

Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) damages collagen and elastin in the skin, which are proteins responsible for keeping skin firm and youthful, resulting in fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of skin elasticity. This pollution-accelerated aging compounds UV damage, creating a synergistic effect worse than either factor alone. According to public health research, environmental exposure monitoring increasingly recognizes skin as a significant exposure route for airborne contaminants.

Face masks offer partial protection, though they trap heat and moisture against your lower face, potentially causing maskne breakouts. Balancing respiratory protection with dermatological comfort requires strategic timing and thorough evening cleansing.

Long-Term Implications

Brief visits to Thailand rarely produce lasting skin damage if proper protection is maintained. However, extended stays without adequate UV defense accumulate risk. Dermatological studies document that

overexposure to sunlight during long stays in tropical countries can reveal short- and long-term harmful effects on Caucasian residents’ skin, especially for fair-skinned subjects.

The inflammatory load from combined humidity, UV radiation, and pollution can trigger or worsen chronic conditions including rosacea, melasma, and seborrheic dermatitis. Genetic predispositions matter less than consistent preventive behavior. Your skin type matters far less than your protection strategy when facing tropical environmental stressors.

The Reality Check

Thailand’s morning assault on your skin is manageable but not optional to address. The combination of crushing humidity and penetrating UV radiation creates a challenging environment that demands proactive defense rather than reactive treatment. By noon, the biological processes are already in motion. Prevention means starting protection the moment you wake, maintaining it throughout the day, and supporting repair in the evening.

The country’s beauty and cultural richness make it worth the effort. Your skin will thank you for treating the climate with the respect it demands, allowing you to focus on the experiences that drew you there in the first place rather than nursing sunburns or battling breakouts in humid hotel rooms.

Travel

Why Thailand is a Top Destination for English Teachers

June 21, 2025 Travel

How many words can you think of to describe a smile in your own language? Maybe four, five…or 13–like in Thai! Smiling must be a big deal in Thailand, and that’s how you know that there’s something very special about this country.

Known as the “Land of Smiles,” it’s not just the friendly faces that attract thousands of short- and long-term visitors each year, but also the sense of adventure, affordable costs, and range of opportunities. This appealing mix makes Thailand one of the top destinations for English teachers looking to move abroad.

A beautiful view of traditional Thai temples with intricate golden architecture, surrounded by lush greenery and palm trees under a bright blue sky with fluffy white clouds.

Why Thailand is so appealing to long-term travellers

Right in the heart of Southeast Asia, Thailand is the ideal starting point–and base to return to–for exploring the rest of the region. From there, you can conveniently make short trips to places like Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar. But before you venture further afield, don’t forget to explore Thailand itself with its jungle-covered mountains in the north and Instagrammable beaches in the south.

The climate in this country is tropical and clearly divided into hot, rainy, and cooler seasons, contributing to stunning scenery all year round. As a result, there’s no room for disappointment in Thailand: any visitor can find one–or many!–things to do in their free time.

What makes this country even more popular is that Thailand is one of the most affordable places to live in Asia, especially if you avoid the typical tourist sites. Rent, food, transport — it’s all very budget-friendly. A tasty local meal costs around $4, and a simple apartment costs less than $200 USD a month. This country can be as affordable as you want to make it, but if you want to splash out, you can always plan your luxury holiday complete with limousine rides–or private jet charters, if that’s your thing, boutique hotels with personalised service, and individual tours.

Salaries for English teachers usually range from $800 to $1,200 USD per month. While that may sound modest for Western standards, it goes a long way in Thailand. This is the kind of salary that allows you to live comfortably and save a bit for weekend getaways or trips during school breaks. Many schools even help arrange housing, so you don’t have to worry about finding a place straight away.

Thai culture is a memorable experience in its own right–rich in traditions, colorful festivals, and delicious food. The best part of it is the local people, known for their kindness, hospitality, and relaxed approach to life. Most locals are genuinely excited to welcome foreigners into their communities, so don’t be surprised if strangers go out of their way to help you.

A young woman sitting cross-legged at a wooden table, focused on her laptop, in a cozy and well-lit space with plants visible through the window.

How to start your TEFL career in Thailand

The good news is you don’t need years of experience to teach in Thailand. A great attitude and the ability to connect with students go a long way. Still, there are a few requirements:

A bachelor’s degree (in any subject)
If English isn’t your first language, you’ll need an IELTS score of 5 or a TOEIC of 600
A police background check from your home country
A basic health check
A valid visa*

If your degree isn’t related to education, you’ll also need to apply for a teaching license, which is pretty straightforward and can last up to six years.

A smiling woman holding a small white dog, sitting in a cozy setting decorated with Christmas lights.

*Visa Info You Should Know

You must have the right visa to teach legally in Thailand. Working without one can get you in trouble and strip you of your employee rights.

Most teachers start with a “non-immigrant B visa,” valid for 90 days. Once your school applies for your work permit, the visa will usually be extended to match your contract. Some people arrive on a tourist visa first and switch once they’ve landed a job — that’s also a common route.

What you’ll need for the B visa:

A passport (with at least 6 months left and 2 blank pages)
Passport-sized photos
Authenticated copies of your degree and qualifications
Police background check
Job offer letter
Visa application fee

A young girl with glasses and a woman are studying together at a table, looking at notebooks and textbooks.

Teaching life without frills

Most teachers in Thailand have a 40-hour work week, but only about 18 of those hours are spent actually teaching. The rest is for lesson planning, grading, and admin. You might work in a school with an “international staffroom” or one where foreign and local teachers mix — either way, making friends with your colleagues is a great way to settle in.

Outside of work, there’s always something to do, whether you’re grabbing dinner at a night market or spending the weekend on an island. You might feel a little lost at first, but there’s a supportive expat community across the country. It makes it easy to meet people and get insider tips on everything from where to get good coffee to how to renew your visa.

With so many amazing places in Thailand, choosing where to live can be tricky. In a nutshell, here are some teacher-friendly hotspots:

Chiang Mai: This laid-back and cultural city in the north of the country is ideal if you prefer the mountains to the beach. It’s surrounded by nature and doesn’t attract as many tourists, making it even cheaper to live.
Udon Thani: Life is slower and quieter here. The convenient border location is great for those weekend trips to Laos.
Ayutthaya: Travelling just north of Bangkok to visit the ruins of this ancient capital might feel like time-travelling in the past. It is ideal if you want to take a short break from the hectic city life.
Bangkok: Here you’ll find anything you’d expect from a buzzing capital city: endless job opportunities, great public transport, an energetic international vibe, and higher prices, of course.
Hua Hin: In this chilled-out beach town with a festival-friendly atmosphere, you’ll find the coastal life you dream of without the chaos.
Koh Samui: This is your destination if you dream of a flashier lifestyle. Here, island living offers all modern comforts. It’s more expensive, but international schools pay accordingly.
Krabi: Head to this island if you want to live by the beach without the price tag. Take advantage of a welcoming expat community to make yourself feel at home.
Phuket: Famous for its gorgeous beaches and a great diving scene, this island is extremely popular, and as a result, the cost of living there is very high. Jobs here are competitive, but the lifestyle is top-tier.

A brightly lit street scene in Thailand at night featuring a blue tuk-tuk taxi with a 'TAXI' sign, surrounded by neon signs in Thai, capturing the vibrant atmosphere of Thai nightlife.

Classroom & Culture

Being culturally aware doesn’t mean walking on eggshells—it just means being open, observant, and respectful. It will earn you better relationships with your students, colleagues, and the wider community.

Understanding Thai culture isn’t just polite—it’s crucial to being an effective and respected teacher. The Thai way of life is deeply rooted in respect, especially for age and status, and that spills into the classroom.

Here are a few quick cultural tips:

Respect the hierarchy. Thai schools are structured, and senior teachers and administrators are shown high respect.
Wai often. That prayer-like gesture is called the wai, and it’s how people greet each other and show thanks or respect.
Dress smart. Even in hot weather, teachers are expected to dress modestly and professionally. Think button-down shirts, skirts below the knee, and closed-toe shoes.
Be patient. Thai students might be shy or reluctant to speak up at first, but with a bit of encouragement and fun activities, you’ll get them to open up.
Avoid confrontation. Saving face is big in Thai culture, so remember to handle any issue calmly and discreetly.

A person lifting a child joyfully on a beach with clear turquoise water and rocky green islands in the background.

Teaching in Thailand isn’t just a job—it’s a lifestyle shift. Besides the warm weather and scenic views, the experience opens doors to personal growth and new perspectives. You’ll learn to adapt, to communicate beyond language, and to appreciate life’s simpler pleasures.

Many teachers find themselves picking up bits of Thai, learning to ride motorbikes, cooking with local ingredients, or even participating in festivals like Songkran or Loy Krathong. And when the school term ends, you’ll have the freedom to travel: Bali, Singapore, and Japan are all just a short flight away.

If you’re just starting out, Thailand is one of the most welcoming places to dip your toes in the TEFL industry. Take a look at this English teaching jobs in Thailand post from The TEFL Org. The demand for teachers is high, the entry requirements are manageable, and the support system is strong.

Schools don’t expect perfection—they value teachers who show up, engage, and care. That makes it a great place to build experience, experiment with your teaching style, and develop your classroom management skills. You’ll learn on the job, grow quickly, and gain confidence with each passing semester.

Final thoughts

Thailand ranks as one of the top places in the world to teach English, and it’s easy to see why. With affordable living, friendly locals, incredible travel opportunities, and plenty of teaching jobs, it offers the perfect mix of work and adventure. Why not start your TEFL life there?

Animals

A Stray Dog’s First Hug

December 16, 2024 Animals

A compassionate citizen in Thailand goes out of his way to give love and hugs to stray dogs – dogs that have never experienced physical kindness before.

We’ve witnessed dogs in many countries before that may have collars, but no actual homes, and no real owners. They get by on scavenging, and the occasional scraps from people.

But compared to our often pampered and love-showered pets, these dogs aren’t used to the emotional or physical act of a hug.

A few of the dogs are wary, but most of them are overcome with joy, even pleasure, when hugged. It’s a touching video, and an example of kindness and love we should emulate. Via LaughingSquid:

Adventure

Your Itinerary For Traveling To Thailand

August 2, 2024 Adventure

Planning your trip to Thailand is essential for a smooth and enjoyable experience. Start by deciding the best time to visit; the cool season from November to February is ideal, offering pleasant weather across the country. Book your flights and accommodations well in advance to secure the best deals and availability. Consider purchasing travel insurance for peace of mind.

Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months from your date of entry and check if you need a visa. Research the destinations you want to explore and create a rough itinerary to ensure you make the most of your time.

Arrival in Bangkok

Your adventure begins in Bangkok, Thailand’s vibrant capital. Upon arrival at Suvarnabhumi Airport, arrange transportation to your hotel. The Airport Rail Link and taxis are convenient options. Spend your first day acclimating to the city, exploring local markets, and experiencing the bustling street life. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Grand Palace and Wat Pho, home to the famous Reclining Buddha.

Discover Bangkok’s Culinary Scene

Bangkok is a culinary paradise, offering a diverse range of dining experiences. For an authentic Thai meal, head to Jay Fai, a renowned street food stall awarded a Michelin star. Indulge in her famous crab omelet and other seafood delicacies. For a more upscale experience, dine at Mami Rose, a restaurant specializing in international cuisine. Don’t forget to explore the city’s night markets, like Rot Fai Market, where you can sample a variety of street food, from mango sticky rice to spicy papaya salad.

Explore Chiang Mai

Next, fly to Chiang Mai, a city known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning temples. Spend a few days visiting Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, perched on a mountain with panoramic views of the city. Explore the Old City’s temples, like Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh. Don’t miss the chance to participate in a traditional Thai cooking class, where you can learn to make dishes like Pad Thai and green curry.

Relax on the Islands

After the hustle and bustle of Bangkok and Chiang Mai, head south to Thailand’s beautiful islands. Choose from popular destinations like Phuket, Krabi, or Koh Samui. Enjoy relaxing on pristine beaches, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, and exploring the islands’ natural beauty. Take a boat tour to the Phi Phi Islands or the Similan Islands for breathtaking scenery and excellent diving spots.

Immerse in Thai Culture

Throughout your trip, immerse yourself in Thai culture. Attend a traditional dance performance or a Muay Thai boxing match. Visit local markets to buy souvenirs, such as handcrafted silk, jewelry, and ceramics. Respect local customs and traditions, such as removing your shoes before entering temples and dressing modestly when visiting religious sites.

Concluding Your Journey

Conclude your Thailand journey by returning to Bangkok for any last-minute shopping and sightseeing. Visit the Chatuchak Weekend Market, one of the largest markets in the world, offering everything from clothing to antiques. End your trip with a relaxing dinner cruise along the Chao Phraya River, enjoying views of the city’s illuminated temples and skyscrapers.

Thoughts

Traveling to Thailand offers a unique blend of cultural experiences, culinary delights, and natural beauty. By planning ahead and exploring the diverse regions of this captivating country, you’ll create unforgettable memories and a deep appreciation for Thailand’s rich heritage.

Animals

6 Places to Visit to Experience the Serenity of Nature

January 26, 2022 Animals

Living in a city, you might be used to the constant rush of everyday life where you juggle responsibilities of job, family, and social life. Even though technology is here to make things easier, you may feel the burden of being constantly connected and bombarded with information from all directions. In such a stressful environment, you might feel disconnected from yourself and experience anxiety.

That’s why it’s crucial to take a moment to stop and take a deep breath surrounded by the serenity of nature. While planning your next trip, it would be an excellent idea to look for places untouched by modern civilization, where you might reconnect with nature and yourself. When faced with majestic mountains, booming waterfalls, and deep woods, you will be able to put everything into perspective.

The world is full of beautiful natural places where you can escape from the city buzz. With you in mind, we have prepared a list of 6 beautiful destinations such as American Prairie Reserve, Tuvalu, Loch Loyne Highlands, Kata Bay, and more. Read on and embark on a journey to soothe your soul!

American Prairie Reserve, Montana

Perched on the northern edge of the Rocky Mountains, (APR) is an area of protected land where people can experience the roaming wildlife of nature. The ever expanding 3,000,000-acre reserve is home to bison, wolves, prairie dogs, and many other species of wildlife that are native to the region. The reserve is surrounded by the grassland prairies of Montana, where you can go on a hike and escape from civilization.

The reserve was founded in 2005 to preserve the native flora and fauna of the region. It was created as a collaboration between APR, The Nature Conservancy, and the federal government. The goal was to save the grasslands in the area while also creating a space for people to experience nature. So if you fancy the trips offered by sites like kandooadventures.com but don’t want to travel too far, then make your way to APR!

Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, Wales

Located along the beautiful coastline of Wales, Pembrokeshire Coast National Park offers a gorgeous view of the ocean. The park includes over 100 miles of beautiful coastline that is perfect for walks and hikes along the beach and through the bogs, dunes, and cliffs of the region. Come here and experience nature at its finest!

There are two main types of landscape within the park – coastal and inland. You will be able to see spectacular limestone cliffs, beautiful beaches, grassy bogs, and high mountains. Another reason why this place makes our list is because it’s home to an incredible array of birdlife including puffins, shags, fulmar, and gannets. If you’re lucky enough, you might spot dolphins or whales swimming nearby.

Tuvalu

Tuvalu is a Polynesian island nation located in the Pacific Ocean. With an area of 10 square miles and a population of almost 12,000 people, Tuvalu is one of the world’s smallest countries. This tiny island nation is situated between Hawaii and Australia in the South Pacific region and boasts a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round.

Tuvalu has several small islands where each host its own unique culture and traditions. You will certainly be impressed by the friendly locals who are willing to show you around their homeland. The country boasts sandy beaches, stunning lagoons, and colorful coral reefs – it’s a perfect place to relax.

Loch Loyne Highlands, Scotland

Loch Loyne Highlands is a beautiful Scottish region located in the western highlands. Not only does it boast breathtaking lakes and rivers but also lush green forests that are frequented by birds like eagles. If you’re looking for a relaxing hiking trip surrounded by majestic nature, then this is the place for you!

The highlight of a trip to Loch Loyne Highlands is walking along the Loch itself where you can enjoy the stunning views of mountains towering above you. Make sure to visit it during spring when there are many blossoms on trees along the lake. You will certainly be amazed by how much life there is in such a small area!

Lake District National Park, England

The Lake District National Park is a vast region in northwest England covering 912 square miles. It was declared as a national park in 1951 which helped preserve its natural beauty while allowing limited farming and tourism in some parts. If you have never experienced what it feels like to walk among mountains covered with heather then this place should be on your bucket list!

Lake District holds several lakes which are joined together by rivers stretching across the region. The lakes are popular spots for fishing while they also offer excellent opportunities for sailing with many companies offering boat trips along these waterways. Lake District National Park attracts millions of tourists every year who come here to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in nature’s beauty for a week or even a month at a time!

Kata Bay, Phuket, Thailand

If you’re planning your next trip to Thailand, then you should consider visiting Kata Bay. Located on the western coast of Phuket Island, Kata Bay is a popular tourist destination that offers a variety of activities for people of all ages. You will be able to experience the natural beauty of the region while also relaxing on the beach with a book in hand.

The main attraction of Kata Bay is the crystal clear water where you can swim and sunbathe with friends or family. There are several resorts around the area that offer excellent accommodation facilities. If you want to get away from it all, then this is the perfect place to go.

Krabi, on Thailand’s southwest coast is another fantastic destination, with so much to see and do. See all about Krabi here.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a place to unplug yourself from the daily hustle and bustle of life, then you should consider going on a trip to one of these beautiful destinations. You will be able to enjoy the serenity of nature while also getting in touch with yourself.

While planning your trip, it’s important to do research on the destination to avoid any unpleasant surprises. One of the best ways to find out more information about a location is to read online reviews and feedback from people who have already visited the place. Also, you should make sure that you have all the required documents in order such as passports and visa requirements. That way, you can focus on enjoying your trip without worrying about unnecessary things.

Architecture

Apple’s New Bangkok Store Soars Like a Tree

August 9, 2020 Architecture

It must be very nice for a company like Apple to build retail environments, as they have just about the deepest pockets on the planet. They can be about as expressive and exacting with their designs as they’d like.

The company has always cared about design, and their retail stores have shown this lately, with a slew of truly gorgeous architectural landmarks. More than just a shop to buy a computer, they feel like important additions to the built environment. Lead by Foster + Partners Architecture, each store has a different look and feel, but all of them adhere to a clean minimalism that the brand is known for.

The newest is Apple Central World in Bangkok, created with a huge cantilevered Tree Canopy roof. Visitors use a circular staircase that wraps around a timber core. Thee exterior is entirely clad in glass, bringing in ample natural light, and showcasing the building’s key feature.

Architecture

A Dramatic and Organic Bamboo Basketball Court in Thailand

March 15, 2020 Architecture

This remarkable bamboo basketball court in Thailand is unlikely, which makes it even more intriguing and beautiful.

Designed by Chiangmai Life Architects, it’s a tasteful open air venue meant for all manner of sports, events and gatherings. And despite it’s lightweight appearance, it’s been designed to withstand high-speed winds and earthquakes.

Via Curbed:

You don’t have to be an athlete to appreciate the gorgeous new open-air sports pavilion at the Panyaden International School in Chiang Mai, Thailand. From the outside, the 8,417-square-foot building looks something like a shingled turtle shell—featuring a three-tiered, curved roof with undulating edges. But inside, bamboo steals the show. The structure boasts impressive interior spans of more than 55 feet—supported entirely with prefabricated bamboo trusses.

chiangmai-life-architects-bamboo-sports-hall-panyaden-international-school-thailand-des

chiangmai-life-architects-bamboo-sports-hall-panyaden-international-school-thailand-designboom-02

Basketball’s popularity is growing around the world, as seen here in Southeast Asia, and basketball court construction elsewhere.

chiangmai-life-architects-bamboo-sports-hall-panyaden-international-school-thailand-designboom-03

chiangmai-life-architects-bamboo-sports-hall-panyaden-international-school-thailand-designboom-04

chiangmai-life-architects-bamboo-sports-hall-panyaden-international-school-thailand-designboom-05

chiangmai-life-architects-bamboo-sports-hall-panyaden-international-school-thailand-designboom-06

chiangmai-life-architects-bamboo-sports-hall-panyaden-international-school-thailand-designboom-07

chiangmai-life-architects-bamboo-sports-hall-panyaden-international-school-thailand-designboom-08

chiangmai-life-architects-bamboo-sports-hall-panyaden-international-school-thailand-designboom-11

chiangmai-life-architects-bamboo-sports-hall-panyaden-international-school-thailand-designboom-1800

Anantara’s Jungle Bubbles Give You an Incredible Safari Experience

January 14, 2020

Anantara is known as a luxury lodge in Thailand, bringing the very best experience to travelers wanting to explore the wilds of the continent. They’ve now taken things a step further, and possibly more surreal with their Jungle Bubbles, which give you a stunning yet protected bubble, amazing views of the starry sky, and all the amenities that you’d expect from a five star experience. And no need to worry, the attached bathroom is not transparent. From $585, via Uncrate:

Food & Drink

Some Asian Grocery Stores Return to Wrapping Produce in Leaves

April 21, 2019 Food & Drink

Long before plastic, markets and food stalls were resourceful with their packaging, using natural materials to bundle and hold things together. Now that the global plastic epidemic has resonated, we see some grocery stores in Asia starting to revert to these clever, eco-friendly methods of packaging produce.

Take this grocery store in Chiangmai, Thailand. It has started using banana leaves to wrap produce, eliminating the need for bagging or packaging. Smart, creative steps like these may seem small, but if we see markets worldwide start to adopt eco-friendly methods, it will make a huge difference to our planet. Via BP:

Architecture

The Keemala Hotel

April 6, 2017 Architecture

The Keemala Hotel in Thailand looks too good to be true. Set high in the jungles of Phuket, this idyllic paradise retreat is as striking as can be, with a myriad of amazingly designed bungalows tucked all throughout the giant property.

Designed by Pisit Aongskultong of Pisud Design Company, the hotel’s grounds are like walking through a fairytale, and they’ve been designed around four fictitious “clans of Phuket settlers”, with four distinct styles of stay. Pretty magical. Via Design Milk, H/T J.M.

Leaders

Malayan Tapir’s Lovely Stripes

March 26, 2012 Leaders

Via Zooborns:

Belfast Zoo’s recent baby boom has continued with the birth of Marjorie, the Malayan Tapir. Marjorie was born on March 4 to parents Gladys and Elmer.

Zoo Curator Andrew Hope said, “Malayan tapirs are a beautiful but slightly unusual looking species. They are related to horses and rhinoceroses. The adults have a distinctive coat pattern and are black on the front and white on the back. However, when the calves are born they have beige spotted and striped markings, which make them look incredibly like ‘watermelons on legs’. Marjorie will begin to lose her markings after a few months. When she is six months old, she will look like a miniature adult!”

Malayan tapirs are the only tapir from Asia and are found in Indonesia, Burma (Myanmar), Malaysia and Thailand. This incredible species faces a high risk of extinction, with studies estimating that the population could decline by up to 50% over the next 30 years. The main reasons for their decline are the destruction of their forest habitats and they are also hunted for meat and sport.