Thailand Archives - Rachel's Ruminations

Sunset over the sea framed by palm trees.

Promthep Cape: Breathtaking sunset viewpoint in Phuket

Promthep Cape, the southernmost point of Phuket Island in Thailand, is best known for its sunset views. Read here all about visiting Promthep Cape and what there is to do and see there!

Three gold-painted figures of buddha holding their hands together as if in prayer.

The Bangkok National Museum: Art and history of Thailand

The National Museum Bangkok, housed in a former palace, holds a well-displayed collection of art and historical objects, many related to the royal family. It’s worth a visit!

A bird with a long dark tail, bright yellow belly and bright red face and chest.

Where to go birdwatching near Chiang Mai, Thailand

Thoughts on 3 places for birdwatching near Chiang Mai: Doi Inthanon National Park, Doi Suthep National Park, and Huay Tueng Thao Reservoir, with birdwatching tips and other things to see near each one.

Large hotel room with a big bed facing a wall that is entirely a window.

10 Places to stay in Bangkok (where I have actually stayed)

A list of places to stay in Bangkok in a variety of star and price categories, all of which I can recommend because I’ve actually stayed at them all.

Stairs up the structure show how high it is.

A Si Thep tour with Thailand Journeys

A review of a tour organized by Thailand Journeys of historical sights north of Bangkok: Si Thep and several other lesser-known sights.

A bed, a lounge chair and behind the chair a large window showing lots of skyscrapers.

Carlton Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit: A review

A thorough review of the Carlton Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit including its rooms, restaurants and facilities, plus honest recommendations.

A pool with lounge chairs and palm trees at Sea Sand Sun Resort & Spa.

Sea Sand Sun Resort & Villas: A review

Looking for a luxurious beachside resort not too far from Bangkok? Read this review of the 5-star Sea Sand Sun Resort & Spa on Jomtien Beach.

Blue water in an irregularly-shaped infinity pool, with the darker blue of the sea beyond, and a tall apartment building as well.

Bayphere Hotel Pattaya on Jomtien Beach: A review

An in-depth review of Bayphere Hotel Pattaya, Thailand – its location on Jomtien Beach, our room, the rooftop pool, and its restaurants.

A metal bridge - a pretty typical metal railroad bridge over a river.

A compelling WWII tour of the Thai-Burma Railway

The building of the Thai-Burma Railway in WWII is a story of resilience, heroism, cruelty, and tragedy. Read this review of a tour visiting the railway line and honoring the forced laborers who built it.

Looking up at the Metal Castle temple in Bangkok: white walls, golden spires.

16 best temples in Bangkok, Thailand

This extensive list of Buddhist temples in Bangkok, Thailand includes advice to help you choose and plan your visit.

large Buddha statue, sitting in Subduing Mara pose, enclosed by walls very close by and only a bit taller than the statue is.

Sukhothai Historical Park in Thailand

Sukhothai Historical Park was the capital of Siam centuries ago. Read all about what to see in this UNESCO site in central Thailand.

Traditional single-story Chinese temple with a central entrance and typical Chinese roof lines. Ornate carving along the peak of the roof and some faded painting on the exterior walls.

Chinese Temples in Bangkok

Chinese Temples in Bangkok, Thailand, are different from traditional Thai temples. With plenty of photos to help you choose which to visit.