THAILAND: Where urban dreams meet island whispers

Thailand offers a vibrant blend of urban excitement, natural beauty and rich cultural experiences. From bustling Bangkok to tranquil islands and lively night markets, the country invites travellers to explore diverse landscapes, savour unique cuisine and create lasting memories at every turn.

- GARIMA SHARMA

There is a moment in every traveller's life when the world suddenly feels much bigger and infinitely more inviting. For me, that moment arrived at midnight on April 17, standing at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai, passport in hand, heart pounding with anticipation.

This was not just any journey, it was my very first international trip and I was about to experience Thailand on a whirlwind FAM trip organised by Thai Vietjet, a low-cost airline of Thailand, to mark their newly launched Mumbai-Bangkok flight. I was part of a group of media professionals and travel influencers, all eager to discover, document and delight in the wonders of Thailand.

Boarding the plane felt surreal; the cabin hummed with quiet excitement and as we took off into the night, I watched the city lights fade beneath the clouds, marking the beginning of my first international adventure.

Bangkok: Where urban buzz meets wildlife wonders

Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, welcomes visitors with a fusion of classic charm and modernity. Golden temples whisper tales of faith and history, while skyscrapers pierce the sky. Bangkok, however, has some truly amazing areas of wildlife and nature for those who can see past the urban sprawl. This dichotomy is demonstrated by Safari World, a vast outdoor zoo where animals roam in environments that are similar to their natural habitats. Here, safarigoers can immerse themselves in a living, breathing wild kingdom as they travel through lush landscapes where giraffes, tigers and lions roam freely.