The best way to experience the true essence of a destination is on foot. By walking through a town or city, you can feel the urban energy, meet local people and uncover hidden gems. In line with the UNWTO’s Walking Tourism initiative, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) recently unveiled plans to encourage more visitors to take a stroll through the kingdom’s most inspiring and intriguing districts.
Now, Marriott Bonvoy® is delighted to reveal the best places to embark on a rewarding walking tour in the “Land of Smiles”.
Bangkok
The Thai capital’s colorful street life is famous all around the world. But while many travelers choose to explore via tuk-tuk or skytrain, this bustling city offers a wealth of opportunities for pedestrians.
Bangkok’s commercial heart and soul, Ratchaprasong is a shopper’s paradise with a series of world-class lifestyle malls connected via the R-Walk – an elevated walkway that is blissfully shaded from the sun. This pulsating part of the city can be experienced from a choice of design-led hotels that reflect the dynamic spirit of the district: Moxy Bangkok Ratchaprasong and Renaissance Bangkok Ratchaprasong Hotel.
With its chic boutiques, stylish bars, creative restaurants and see-and-be-seen nightlife, Thong Lor is one of Bangkok’s hippest districts. This makes it a great place to stroll and shop by day, or mingle with Thailand’s trendiest crowd after dark. Immerse in the Thai-inspired elegance of the boutique at Madi Paidi Bangkok, Autograph Collection, or enjoy additional space and comfort at Marriott Executive Apartments Bangkok, Sukhumvit Thonglor.
Guests can discover the city’s heritage and feel a refreshing breeze with a walk through Bangkok’s historic riverfront neighborhood. Take a trip to the River City antiques center, bustling Talad Noi, and arts & crafts attractions such as Warehouse 30. Bangkok Marriott Hotel The Surawongse is a jewel in this culture-rich district, and Royal Orchid Sheraton Riverside Hotel Bangkok offers views of the Chao Phraya River from every room.
Bangkok is one of the world’s great street food cities and keen foodies can embark on a multi-sensory walking tour through some of its most enticing enclaves. These include vibrant Silom, Yaowarat, the city’s Chinatown, and Ban Tad Tong, which was recently named as one of the “world’s coolest streets” by TimeOut. The art-inspired Le Méridien Bangkok and ultra-chic W Bangkok provide the perfect places to stay and dine in style.
Hua Hin
With its relaxing beachside vibe and captivating cultural attractions, Hua Hin is a compelling setting for walking tourism. By day, head to Hua Hin Beach, which is long, flat and perfect for a stroll and a splash in the shallow sea. Then, after dark, Hua Hin Night Market is a lively place to shop for souvenirs, savor local cuisine, or simply sit back and soak up the atmosphere. Sheraton Hua Hin Resort & Spa and Hua Hin Marriott Resort & Spa are both nestled in the heart of this seaside town, just steps from the beach.
Chiang Mai
The ancient walled city of Chiang Mai is one of the world’s most culturally-rich destinations, and an enchanting option for urban explorers. Head out on foot and take a relaxing walk along the banks of the Mae Kha Canal, with its waterside market stalls and ornate bridges. Or wait until sunset and head to the iconic Chiang Mai Night Bazaar or weekend Walking Street markets, which burst with life and showcase an amazing array of sights, sounds, flavors and fragrances. Chiang Mai Marriott Hotel is perfectly located just footsteps from the markets and historic city center.
Phuket
Phuket is not only one of the world’s best beach resorts; it is also rich with Sino-Portuguese heritage, colorful shophouses and mouth-watering cuisine. Step away from the sand and uncover the Phuket Old Town on foot, with century-old buildings, museums and more. Every Sunday, a 360-meter-long stretch of Thalang Road is transformed into Lard Yai Market, a haven of music, shopping and street food. Located in the heart of the action, opposite the famous clock tower, Courtyard by Marriott Phuket Town is the ideal base for an immersive walking tour.
Alternatively, beach lovers can soak up the island’s seafront spirit of Patong, the lively tourism enclave with a vibrant beach scene and street life. Patong Beach is a stunning setting to unwind by day, while bustling Bangla Road comes to life after dark. Four Points by Sheraton Phuket Patong Beach Resort and Courtyard by Marriott Phuket, Patong Beach Resort are both in the heart of the action, just steps from the beach.
Koh Samui
This idyllic island is a dream destination for sun-seekers and party-goers. But guests who want to discover the neighborhood spirit of Samui will be rewarded for their curiosity. As its name suggests, Fisherman’s Village was once a small, local fishing community in Bophut. Today, it retains that authentic charm with a collection of wooden shophouses and a casual, family-friendly vibe. This makes it a great place to stroll at any time of day, but especially after the sun sets where the street turns into a vibrant night market. Just 3km from Fisherman’s Village, W Koh Samui lets visitors unwind in luxury and style.
For more information and to start planning your walking tour in Thailand with Marriott Bonvoy, please visit www.marriott.com/en/destinations/thailand.mi.
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