During the long holiday, many people may plan to celebrate the New Year by using their remaining leave days to relax and recharge, preparing themselves for the work that awaits in the coming year. However, for those who find themselves overwhelmed with work even during the New Year, finding time to prepare for New Year travel destinations can be challenging. With only 3-4 days off, staying home and relaxing might seem appealing.

Nevertheless, the New Year only comes once a year, and if you don't travel now, when will you? For those of us with limited time, we can explore nearby destinations. If you're unsure where to go for New Year travel, just get your body, mind, and wallet ready, because the following recommendations are New Year travel spots near Bangkok that can be visited in just one day!

New Year Travel Near Bangkok: 'Ko Kret'

Starting with the first destination, New Year travel spots near Bangkok that are less than 30 km away. You can take a boat across the island for just 2 baht to enjoy the beauty of the leaning pagoda at Wat Paramaiyikawat, pay respects to the reclining Buddha at the Reclining Buddha Hall, explore the pottery of the locals, and savor famous dishes like fried flowers, banana heart fritters, and various desserts that are guaranteed to be delicious. For those who prefer not to walk too much, bicycles are available for a scenic ride around Ko Kret. If you're unsure where to go for the New Year, I recommend visiting on a Saturday or Sunday when the atmosphere is lively and shops are open all around.

New Year Travel Near Bangkok: 'Klong Suan 100-Year Market'

'Klong Suan 100-Year Market' is one of the markets that exudes the charm of architecture from the reign of King Rama V, with a history spanning over 100 years. Even on weekdays, there are shops open for tasting and shopping, and it's located less than 100 km from Bangkok.

The charm of this market lies in the wooden bridge that connects Samut Prakan and Chachoengsao. Although Klong Suan has withstood the test of time, its allure has only increased. It offers both savory and sweet foods, allowing visitors to enjoy the atmosphere along the canal that reflects the lifestyle of the market's people. This is another New Year travel destination worth visiting at least once.

New Year Travel Near Bangkok: 'Mahachai @ Umbrella Market'

Famous for the image of vendors negotiating prices with customers, the Umbrella Market becomes a spectacle when the train passes by, causing the umbrellas to fold down and then open again. This has become a significant symbol of the Umbrella Market, attracting both Thai and foreign tourists to witness this wonder.

Getting there is easy; just take a train from Wongwian Yai Station to Mahachai Station, then take a boat to Chalerm. This is another New Year travel spot near Bangkok that is accessible even for those without a car.

New Year Travel Near Bangkok: 'Koh Si Chang'

For a change of scenery, I recommend visiting 'Koh Si Chang', a beautiful island in Chonburi province, which is a popular destination for tourists. You can observe the large crowds during long holidays, including the New Year travel period. If you're looking to switch from lounging on the beach to snorkeling, consider visiting the former summer palace of King Chulalongkorn, paying respects at the shrine of Phra Phutthachai, and taking photos at the viewpoint. I assure you that Koh Si Chang will be a delightful New Year travel destination for you.

New Year Travel Near Bangkok: 'Khao Ngu Stone Park'

For photography enthusiasts and nature lovers, don't miss the chance to enjoy the scenic views surrounded by hills and lakes at Khao Ngu Stone Park in Ratchaburi province. Originally a site for stone blasting and crushing, the area has been developed into a tourist attraction and public park. The park also features archaeological sites within caves, and you might encounter monkeys around the area. If you're in Ratchaburi for New Year travel, be sure to check it out!

New Year Travel Near Bangkok: 'Sam Chuk Market'

This famous century-old market in Suphanburi is known for its delicious food, both savory and sweet, that everyone loves. For those interested in conservation, there is the Khun Jamnong Museum where tourists can learn about the lifestyle of the Sam Chuk people, and the Bodhi Tree Square, which serves as a community activity hub. Don't miss the iconic photo opportunity at the bridge crossing the Tha Chin River. This market remains vibrant no matter how many times you visit, even during New Year travel.

New Year Travel Near Bangkok: 'Sattahip'

Where to go for New Year? The answer lies in 'Sattahip', another naval base city in Chonburi province with many New Year travel attractions. These include Bang Saray Beach, Tieng Nam Beach, Nang Rong Beach, Nang Ram Beach, Ban Ampher Beach, So Beach, Nam Sai Beach, Sai Kaew Beach, Koh Kham, Dong Tan Bay, clownfish farms, or the newly popular Thai Marine Natural History Museum, where you can stroll along the white sands and clear waters of Koh Sam Sarn. Alternatively, you can visit the first aircraft carrier in Thailand, the HTMS Chakri Naruebet. Sattahip is a district with diverse attractions, making it perfect for a long holiday like the upcoming New Year festival.

New Year Travel Near Bangkok: 'Erawan Waterfall'

If you want to play in the water but avoid the sun at the beach, this New Year you can visit the beautiful and clear Erawan Waterfall in Erawan National Park, Kanchanaburi province. The waterfall has seven tiers, covering a total distance of about 1,500 meters. The park offers both rooms and tents for tourists to stay and experience nature as they wish. The higher the tier, the clearer the water. If you've been before but haven't reached the seventh tier, it's worth conquering Erawan Waterfall again.

New Year Travel Near Bangkok: 'Kaeng Krachan'

Change the atmosphere by enjoying the mist and jumping into the water at Kaeng Krachan National Park, where tourists can experience beautiful views along the Kaeng Krachan Dam. You can camp or rent accommodations to enjoy the mist and sunrise at Phanoen Thung. After that, you can play in the water at the dam's base. If you visit during the cool season like the New Year festival, you'll enjoy the refreshing breeze and lush greenery. If you come between April and June, you'll witness thousands of butterflies feeding during the summer. This park offers a different atmosphere depending on the time of year.

New Year Travel Near Bangkok: 'Pranburi'

Finally, we conclude with another New Year travel destination filled with tranquility and natural beauty, including Sam Roi Yot Beach, Sam Phraya Beach, and Koh Nom Sao. Enjoy the views of Pranburi at Ta Ko Sa National Park (Khao Kalok), breathe in the fresh air amidst the forest at Pranburi National Park, or shop for souvenirs and taste traditional food at the old market in Pranburi. Pranburi is another great place to relax.

There are many more New Year travel destinations to celebrate, but wherever you go, remember to travel mindfully, be cautious of fellow travelers, and help keep the places you visit clean so that they remain enjoyable for future New Year travels.

SOURCE:  www.estopolis.com