"I like that it feels like home, and this is an honest truth. Especially to Filipinos, it doesn't feel different, and for the women, it's very safe—you can travel alone if you want. That's what I did. It really has so many to offer," says Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach when asked about Thailand, a country she has traveled to and from before, during and after her Miss Universe reign.
Thailand is a haven for Pia, a go-to destination she has constantly returned to for work and leisure. In fact, Thailand played a significant role in her journey to the crown; she sought peace and blessings in Thai temples when she lost for the second time to be the Philippines' Miss Universe representative. Coming back from her Thailand trip, Pia took on the Binibining Pilipinas pageant for the third time—and she bagged the right to represent the country in Miss Universe. The rest is a well-known history.
Pia, along with other influencers around Asia, want women travelers to know how Thailand is the perfect place for travel. The beauty queen serves as the Philippine representative to the Tourism Authority of Thailand's (TAT) Women's Journey Thailand 2017, a tourism campaign that promotes travel for women in the country.
Returning to Thailand last July, Pia experienced the best of what it's like for women to travel there. Here what's in store for ladies who want a quick getaway in the sunny country:
1. Thailand is a beauty and wellness capital.
Discover what it means to be truly on vacation: Thailand is home to the best spas and resorts, and no one should go home without experiencing a proper Thai massage, one of the best services the country has to offer. According to Pia, two hours of Thai massage is enough for her to feel like she has had a full night's sleep.
2. You'll go crazy shopping in Thailand.
From novelty finds at the Chatuchak Weekend Market to stylish looks at the Platinum mall, the country boasts various cheap buys and—if you search hard enough—unique pieces that only you will be in possession of.
3. There are peaceful spaces for prayer and meditation.
Pull a Pia Wurtzbach and pray to the gods for inner peace as you meditate in Thailand's ornately beautiful temples.
4. Learn how to cook exquisite Thai food straight from the source!
While cooking is an interest both men and women can enjoy, Thai cooking lessons are a fun and interactive experience for women traveling alone or together.
5. Kick off your new fitness regimen with an authentic Thai boxing session.
Popularly known as Muay Thai, the national sport of Thailand is an intense combination of boxing, kicking, and elbow combat, practiced by people all over the world. There's no better way to experience this full-body workout than where it originated? Brace yourself, though—it's not for the weak-hearted!
Enjoy more of Thailand by visiting www.tourismthailand.org or following www.facebook.com/TATPhilippines.