The month of August in Thailand is the month of honoring our mothers, with Mother’s Day undoubtedly being one of the highlights. Mother’s Day in Thailand is on August 12th, falling on the same day as H.M. Queen Sirikit’s Birthday. The Queen Mother has dedicated her life to helping rural families earn additional income by initiating several projects of her own, many of which are worth visiting while exploring Thailand. These provinces under her royal projects allow travelers the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the Thai way of life.
BANGKOK
Thailand’s capital has a bustling atmosphere and endless activities, making it a destination worth spending time in. The Queen Sirikit Museum of Textiles showcases some of the most prestigious textiles dawned by Her Majesty, and works handcrafted by the Thai locals. Located within the grounds of the Grand Palace, the Queen Sirikit Museum of Textiles is one of the best places in the area to get out of the heat, cool down, and learn about the art of Thai textiles. Be sure to add this attraction to your list of activities before hitting the nearby must-see attractions, such as the piers along the Chao Phra Ya River or Khao San Road.
Nearby Province: Samut Songkhram
Located about 90 minutes from Bangkok, Samut Songkhram offers many Thai local experiences, as well as a wide range of delicious food to enjoy. Amphawa Floating Market is one of the top Samut Songkhram tourist attractions offering handmade crafts, local food, souvenirs and boat tours. An overnight trip to Amphawa is a one-of-a-kind experience you’ll never forget. Staying at a homestay by the Mae Klong river is ideal for tourists. As darkness falls and the fireflies appear, the scenery of the river in Amphawa becomes extraordinary.
AYUTTHAYA
Every travel itinerary to Thailand must include a visit to the famed city of Ayutthaya. The formal capital is an UNESCO World Heritage site filled with temple ruins dating back centuries.
Another hidden-gem attraction is the Bang Sai Royal Folk Arts and Crafts Center, serving as one of the most prominent cultural destinations. Bang Sai Royal Folk Arts and Crafts Center is well-known amongst the Thais. Visitors will learn various kinds of Thai crafts. H.M. Queen Sirikit’s main purpose for creating this center is to help locals build jobs and develop beneficial crafting skills.
Famous Food in Ayutthaya: Boat Noodle
The Boat Noodle dish is a must-try while in Ayutthaya. Another great dish is the Nam-Tok noodle, a variation of the hearty noodle soup with healthy ingredients that include Thai herbs.
Nearby Province: Ang Thong
Just an hour away from Ayutthaya is the Ang Thong province with several points of interest worth checking out. While there be sure to visit the Royal Palace Doll Center Bang Sadet and become captivated in the detail and artistry of the crafted exhibitions.
https://www.tourismthailand.org/Destinations/Provinces/Ang%20Thong/218
CHONBURI
Located in the southern tip of Chonburi Province, Sattahip is the eco-tourism paradise of eastern Thailand. The Sea Turtle Conservation Center is one of the most acclaimed of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit’s projects for saving numbers of sea turtles in Thailand and Southeast Asia. Observe the release of baby turtles into the ocean, and learn about conservation efforts. Visitors can observe the amazing experience of releasing baby turtles into the ocean, and learn more about the conservation efforts in Thailand.
Famous Food in Chonburi:Khao Lam
After visiting the Sea Turtle Convention Center, head on over Chonburi to get some Khao Lam. This amazing dessert is found all throughout Thailand and is a favorite amongst Thais as a quick, takeout dessert. The freshly roasted bamboo tube stuffed with sweet custardy sticky rice is a must.
Nearby Province: Rayong
Located in Rayong province, Man Nai Island offers volunteering opportunities to care for the sea turtles, and gain a deeper insight into their lifestyles.
KHON KAEN
Khon Kaen, is one of the four major cities in northeastern Thailand. Sala Mai Thai is part of the project established to celebrate the 60th birthday anniversary of Her Majesty the Queen. This project follows the Queen’s mission to promote silk and Thai silk products from Isan, such as the world’s most expensive Mudmee textile.
Famous Food in Khon Kaen: Laab
The northeast region of Thailand, also known as Isan, is renowned for dishes such as som tum papaya salad, sticky rice, and many more flavorful dishes. Among the varying Isan dishes, Larb is a dish not to be missed. It is made with mince meat, lightly poached and dressed with fresh chilis and herbs and topped with roasted rice powder. The minced meat salad is normally paired with sticky rice.
Nearby Province: Sakon Nakhon
Shop indigo-dyed clothing while enjoying Isan street food along the waking street of Sakon Nakhon. Read more insider tips on the local traveler blog here: The Local Traveler In Thailand
CHIANG MAI
The northern city of Chiang Mai is known as the “Rose of the North.” In addition to hiking up the famous Doi Suthep and shopping along Tha Pae Walking Street, Queen Sirikit Botanical Garden is another great place for those looking to relax and take a break from city life. The garden boasts gorgeous plants, giving visitors an opportunity to learn more about local Thai plants.
Famous Food Chiang Mai: Sai Ua
If you’re planning to visit Chiang Mai, don’t miss out on some delicious Sai Ua. This grilled pork sausage is a must when it comes to Thai northern cuisine. From street food stalls to upscale restaurants, this red curry sausage is a popular one.
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