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Southeast Asia is a treasured region of the world full of vast wonders. Going country to country and experiencing new cultures, jaw-dropping scenery, and pristine beaches makes for a trip of a lifetime.
You can spin a globe and eeny-meeny-miney-mo where to go in Asia and will surely make lasting memories just about anywhere.
Thailand may stand out the most, however. One of the sunniest destinations in Asia has it all – affordability, immense cultural sites, stunning landscapes, and so much more.
While travelers often stick to the names they're familiar with, the world is constantly growing. There is one lesser-known stunning beach destination in Thailand ready to make leaps and bounds in terms of tourism growth.
As more travelers seek new experiences, 2024 is surely the year to embrace Asia's newest tourism hotspot – the province of Nakhon Si Thammarat.
Avoid The Chaos
First-timers often visit Asia wide-eyed with fascination with every step they take. Each Asian country has its own unique feel.
Some, like Japan, are a mix of vast crowds but seemingly under control. Others, not so much. The vast city of Bangkok stands out as one of the most action-packed cities not only in Asia but the planet.
There are multiple household names when it comes to Thailand's destinations. While Bangkok is probably the most recognizable, Phuket is a close second.
What do they have in common this winter season? Frustrated travelers!
Bangkok is always busy, but Phuket is seeing 2024 as the year of “carmaggedon”. Traffic and crowds are expected to only intensify as the high season unfolds, adding to this phenomenal country's allure of lesser-known destinations.
The congestion in the hotspots of Phuket, Pattaya, and Hua Hin are all expected to stick in travelers' craw this season with no immediate solution other than to explore further into Thailand.
A Rise In Tranquil Tourism
It might be a stretch to say Thailand's most popular destinations have their appeal, but it's safe to bring up the ‘O word'.
Over-tourism is a real thing, and it's bound to happen in places such as the third most visited country, for example.
Fortunately, Thailand is a vast country with plenty of lesser-known escapes to venture off to as an alternative.
With the country seeing a rise in “silent travel”, the coastal province of Nakhon Si Thammarat tops the list this year as the next best thing for serenity, sustainability and just simply a new adventure.
New International Terminal
Some unknown destinations aren't worth the trip with the multiple connections and jet lag you'll experience just to get there.
The new international terminal at the Nakhon Si Thammarat International Airport was recently revealed, which will bring travelers to this pristine beach getaway with ease.
At least 4 million passengers can be accommodated yearly at the new terminal with expected connecting hubs through Singapore, Malaysia, China and Taiwan.
The beauty of flying into Nakhon Si Thammarat is you won't be greeted by gridlock traffic; you'll have open roads, incredible beaches, lavish resorts and historical sites all within reach.
What To See In This Untapped Region Of Thailand
Those in the know consider Sichon as the highlight of the region, not that you can really go wrong at any of the beaches in this province.
While the region is growing, Sichon is the most developed and ready to immediately embrace tourists with open arms.
Beach resorts line the coast up and down along Sichon's white sand and crystal clear waters, offering seclusion and exclusivity, unlike other resorts lacking elbow room.
Sichon was named one of the best beaches in the world by Lonely Planet, but other beaches are well worth visiting, too, such as Seava Beach, Hummingbird's Beach, and Khanom Beach, to name a few.
Further inland are even more unexpected gems for nature lovers, such as wondrous caves and picturesque waterfalls.
Those who love historical sites will surely fall in love with the 13th-century Wat Phra Mahathat Buddhist temple, which is an absolute must-see.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
Rupert
Monday 22nd of January 2024
I wouldn't hold my breath for those international flights. Surat Thani "International" Airport is about 2 1/2h North, has been a budget alternative to Ko Samui for many years and has exactly 0 international flights... There just are not enough Hotels in the area to fill those international flights...
Bishonda
Monday 22nd of January 2024
We're already tired of Thailand. Anything more remote?
Matt
Friday 19th of January 2024
There do not seem to be any direct flights from Malaysia…. Yet in your article you say there are…. Am I missing something?
Tyler Fox
Saturday 20th of January 2024
Currently there are only flights from Bangkok. The flight from Malaysia is expected to be a connection soon along with Singapore, China and Taiwan. All resulting from the new international terminal at Nakhon Si Thammarat International Airport.
STL
Friday 19th of January 2024
Nicest least visited coast in Thailand. Also Khanom. I vlogged both on sidetriplife and will be visiting again to update soon.
Bob
Friday 19th of January 2024
It won't be like that for long now you've mentioned it.
Dai
Monday 22nd of January 2024
@Gforce, so true. Bloggers are ruining places faster than they can be found.
Gforce
Saturday 20th of January 2024
I was going to say the same thing. The blog is called "Travel off Path" yet ironically, with every post they hasten the demise of a location's off path status.