These Gorgeous Spots in Thailand Belong on Your Travel Bucket List

From Cosmopolitan

I love being the ~most~ extra when it comes to Instagram (#NoShame). So when it came to my honeymoon extravaganza through southeast Asia in December, I held back nothing and dropped it all on the 'gram. My husband and I also traveled to some of the most stunning places across Thailand and documented every inch of our epic journey. Luckily for you, my extra-ness shines bright like a diamond when in vacay mode, so I'm here to tell you the best resorts and spots to check out in Chiang Mai, Krabi, and Bangkok-and how to take the best photos when you're there.

Our first stop in Thailand was Chiang Mai, and if you're traveling to Chaing Mai, staying at the Four Seasons is pricey but worth it. When you arrive, go directly to the pool-do not pass go, do not collect $200! You'll immediately spot tons of photo ops that should be living on your 'gram. Walk to the edge, and have a friend or your SO snap some wide-angle pics to truly capture the essence of the breathtaking property, which is awash in lush greenery. And no, it doesn't matter on which side of the pool you stand or sit-any of 'em will boast a stunning backdrop.

BOOK NOW Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai

Once you've gotten your share of the pool, it's time to walk, run, or frolic through the glittering jade rice paddy fields surrounding the property. No matter what time of day you choose to go, walking around this entire property is a must. Make sure whomever is snapping pics of you stands a good 15 to 20 feet away so they can capture a wide view of the fields.

Now that you've lounged by the pool and explored the jungle garden, unwind at Ratree Bar and Lounge. Sprawl out across the infinity swings while sipping a glass of rosé or a craft cocktail, like the vanilla margarita. I always like to snap a birds-eye view of my food, because that angle captures the full essence of the moment. If that's not your thing, opt for selfie mode, or have a friend take a pic of you lounging and eating on the daybed living your best life.

If you want something snackier, another beautiful place to grab a bite is the Four Seasons restaurant, Khao, which serves scones, mini pastries, and more. Overlooking the paddy fields with a view of the mountains, the setting is just as yummy as the tea and treats. Step back from your table, and capture your three-tier dessert selection with the gorgeous backdrop.

Our second destination in Thailand was the beautiful province of Krabi, where we stayed at Rayavadee on Railay Beach, which is accessible only by boat. Instead of a standard room, you'll stay in what looks like a miniature treehouse that sits on the ground.

After you settle in, follow the map, and explore the beaches lining both sides of the property as well as the gorgeous pool, which overlooks one of the beaches. To get the best shot of both *at the same time*, stand near the pool area and snap from multiple angles-point your camera upward to capture the diverse landscape, including the rocks, beach, and pool.

BOOK NOW Rayavadee Resort

Railay Beach is a major tourist hub, and the beaches get very busy during the day, especially during high season. Pro tip: Wake up super early one day, and take a stroll along the shoreline-you'll have the whole beach to yourself, and it's the best time to get pics without tons of travelers in the background. (And, hello, who doesn't want to see a gorgeous sunrise?!) And don't miss the sunsets, even though the area will be more crowded at that time.

We stayed around our hotel and surrounding beaches while we were in Krabi, but many people take a day to go island-hopping, especially to places like Hong Island and the famous Phi Phi Islands, which are often splashed across the 'gram. Although we didn't go on one of these amazing boat tours, I still wanted a long-tail boat pic that would scream, "I'm in Thailand!" Hundreds of them pull up to Railay Beach all day long, so find an anchored one that nobody's using. Stand in front or on top of it, and snap away!

If you're staying at Rayavadee, definitely have lunch at the Grotto, where you'll dine in a literal cave overlooking the beachfront. Sit further back if you want a quiet meal, but if you don't mind a little commotion, stay toward the front-it's ideal for people-watching as you nibble on a mezze platter. For the best pic, step back into the cave, and shoot horizontally so you capture the rock walls as well as the beachfront.

Our third and final destination was Bangkok, a buzzing city rich in history with an eclectic nightlife. We spent most of our time exploring the beautiful and monumental temples. The Grand Palace topped our list, and it didn't disappoint. To beat the tourists, get there by 8:30am, and remember to dress modestly (otherwise, you won't be let in). When shooting for the 'gram, aim high: You'll still capture the temple's magnificence, but you'll avoid all the people running through your shot.

Another must-see is Wat Arun, which is a five-minute river-taxi ride from a spot near the Grand Palace. Once you disembark, the temple's entrance is nearby, and the detailing-which includes blues, greens, yellows, and browns in floral-like patterns-is mesmerizing. Wat Arun isn't as crowded as some of the other temples we visited, but it's definitely still busy. Again, aim high, and look for areas where there are fewer people so you can snap a quick pic without interruption. May the odds be ever in your favor!

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