Thai massage

Thai massage appeared some 2500 years ago and is close to bodywork. The Southern school is represented by Wat Pho temple in Bangkok; the Northern school by Chiang Mai, where prices are lower and the mountain nature is beautiful.

Vipassana

“Vipassana” means to see reality as it is — one of the most ancient meditation techniques. Courses in Thailand are taught in Thai and English; register in advance.

Bangkok

A modern capital full of ancient and modern sights — the Royal Palace, Buddhist temples, Khao San Road. The airport is 30 minutes from the centre by metro. There is a contact improvisation community here too.

Ranong

A small, uncrowded provincial town worth a couple of days: the free Raksavarin hot springs, Namtok Ngao National Park, the green hills of Phu Khao Ya, the Kanyon Ranong lake at former tin mines, Khao Fa Chi viewpoint and Punyaban waterfall. Nearby Koh Phayam is a more developed sister island.

Surin Islands

Mu Ko Surin National Park in the northern Andaman Sea is a perfect place for snorkelling and freediving, reached by boat from Kuraburi (November–April).