corneredglobe

Thailand is one of the most popular destinations in South East Asia and a cornerstone in the backpacker's trail through this part of the world. It's a country that offers so much to its visitors, from a rich textured history represented in its many spectacular wats, temples and Buddha statues, to its stunning landscapes and wildlife to vibrant cities like Chiang Mai and Bangkok.

This is a country you could comfortably allocate months to and still feel like you need more time to continue exploring it.

My itinerary will presume you have two weeks to travel and will serve as a high-level guide. Thailand shouldn't be explored with a checklist in hand, you just need to go with an open mind and see what surprises unfurl in front of you.

The ferry finally arrived into Ko Phi Phi. As we neared the main island we pass smaller islets that are stunningly beautiful. Their tall rocky cliffs tower over the sea and are covered with green canopied forests. I stare out of the boat window mesmerized. I feel like I'm at the pearly gates of heaven and I'm about to step into paradise.

One the great joys from my visit to Thailand was being able to witness the lantern lighting festival. To see it in person, was more stunning than any picture I've seen online.

Truly, if there's ever been a window into Thailand's soul, it's the many festivals it holds each year. These festivals range from solemn religious ceremonies to events that feel like large outdoor parties.

There's no better way to tap into a country's traditions than to attend a festival. Below is my list of festivals you must experience in Thailand.

Thailand is simply amazing.

It's a magnet for backpackers, families and the rich, all looking to escape their mundane lives. In Thailand they can explore pristine islands, visit amazing cities and immerse themselves in stimulating cultural experiences.

This is a country that doesn't discriminate based on budget. Rich or poor, you're guaranteed an incredible vacation. Be warned, you may have such a great time that you'll never leave. That happens a lot. I was shocked be the large number of expats I met who came to Thailand and decided to make it their home.

Here are my ten top reasons of why you need to start planning your vacation to Thailand right now!

Below is a primer on Thailand covering visa requirements, accommodation, food and transportation.

I have deadly fear of heights. It's an irrational fear that I've struggled with all my life. I've frequently tried to face it head on, hoping to cure myself of this neurosis (like my paragliding experience in Bavaria). Nothing really helps.

Traveling through Thailand, one of my goals was to try ziplining. Probably the single most famous zipline in Thailand is the "Flying Gibbon" in Chiang Mai. For whatever reason, while in Chiang Mai, I wasn't able to schedule a time to try it. So after landing in Phuket and googling for activities, I came across the website for the "Flying Hanuman". I was intrigued. I knew I had to do it.

This year I was lucky enough to attend both the US and Australian Tennis Open events. Attending all the Grand Slams has always been high on my bucket list. Hopefully I'll make it to Wimbledon and the French Open, so that I can check this item off my list.

For those of you attending the US Open for the first time, below is everything you need to know to make the most of your experience at Flushing Meadows.

Smorgasborg, Brooklyn's weekend foodie market, is held during the Spring & Summer seasons. It should be on everyone's must do list, as it serves some of the most mouth watering food I've ever tasted. Thank God I don't live in Brooklyn, otherwise I'd be at this fair every weekend. That would dangerous to both my waistline and wallet.

Don't believe me? Below is my list of 10 things I tried that really rung my bell (in no particular order):

Ko Phi Phi is an archipelago in the province of Krabi. The main island (Ko Phi Phi Don) is the only island with permanent inhabitants. Surrounding Phi Phi Don are secondary islands (the biggest being Ko Phi Phi Leh) which serve as popular tourist attractions. Phi Phi is arguably the most well known island in Thailand. Its fame can be attributed to the movie "The Beach", which was shot on Maya Bay.

People living in New York are definitely spoilt for choice when it comes to annual festivals and events. This city knows how to have a good time -- all year long.

And the variety is just ridiculous:

Want food festivals? Check.
Interested in music events? Double check.
Love art and culture? Triple check.

Below is my list of some of the top events you should consider experiencing in the Big Apple.