Thailand is back on the bucket list. The country reopened to vaccinated visitors on November 1st, and travelers who are quick to the punch can go see a rare, quieter side of this heavily-touristed country, as well as the relief in the eyes of a tuk-tuk driver who can finally make a transaction. Masks may be covering up the famous “Thai smile,” but a friendly crinkle around the eye still communicates the kindness there.
What hasn’t changed are the shocking cliffs jutting vertically out of the ocean, giant flowers floating on turquoise waters, and temples nestled in jungles on top of mountains, glittering with gold and spires. Here, street food is just as incredible as the Michelin-starred, with spices cooled by coconut milk and tinged with a sour, acidic hit of lemon grass. Vendors ladle food from steaming vats on wooden boats in floating markets. Festivals range from lantern…
