Mario Maurer could very well be the hottest star in Thailand but now he’s adding Ambassador to his resume.
With his disarming boy-next-door charm, it’s no wonder that he’s been chosen by the Tourism Authority of Thailand to be the face of their Amazing Thailand campaign, enticing more tourists to explore, experience and fall in love with the Land of Smiles.
Thailand is a place full of “beautiful destinations”, Mario described his home country with fondness at a recent press conference at the Dusit Thani Hotel in Manila.
In his eyes, each of the five provinces has its own characteristic and culture. “Actually Thailand can be visited all year round. If you’re a first timer I recommend you visit the major cities such as Bangkok because in Bangkok, you have many things to explore like the old temples, the food, the people there,” Maurer said.
Thai people, he believes, are much like pinoys; he describes them as “smiling, happy, and friendly.”
The similarities don’t end there.
The Thai heartthrob lists ‘being respectful to elders’ and ‘incredible hospitality’ as common, admirable traits both Pinoys and Thais possess.
If you’re planning a trip to Thailand with your family. Here are things you should not miss, according to Mario.
1. Ride a boat shop
“I know a lot of you love Ban but I think you should go to Amphawa, the floating market,” he gushed. “You can get anything there. Things are very cheap.”
2. Get a massage on a boat
“When you take a boat tour, you can get a massage while on the [boat ride] until you reach your next destination. When I tried it, there must have been 10 girls getting a massage,” teased the Thai hottie.
3. Get your thrills at Chiang Mai
“Go to Chiang Mai and try the zip line. It’s very good, I tried it and it’s exciting,” he recounted.
Chiang Mai may be a one hour plane ride from Bangkok but considering how Mario’s eyes lit up as he described his experience, it will be worth the effort.
Next page: Mario Maurer suggests more family fun activities to do in Thailand
4. Don’t forget about the elephants
“Of course, take an elephant ride. You’ll find yourself on the elephant with 10 other elephants with you and at the end, there’s a little show where the elephant can draw with its trunk.”
5. Try Tom Sam!
The hottie also turns out to be a foodie. He professed his love for Pad Thai but also had other recommendations prepared.
“Other than Pad Thai, you should try Som Tam. It’s a Thai salad WITH papaya. Just be careful of the chili in it. It can be very spicy,” he cautioned the press.
Learning how to cook Thai food would also be something he’d recommend. What better place to learn, right?
6. Spend a leisurely beach day at Pattaya and Hua Hin
“Thailand’s Pattaya and Hua Hin are the perfect spots to go to,” suggested Mario. Another stunning destination is Maya Bay, in Koh Phi Phi, which boasts of crystal blue waters sheltered by towering cliffs.
7. Learn how to do Muay Thai
Even though this martial art is taught all over the world, Mario believes tourists will enjoy learning its basics where it all began.
He even demonstrated how Thailand’s national sport is done, much to the delight of the press. You can watch the adorable clip here.
8. Ride a Tuk-Tuk
Whether you’re a first timer or a frequent visitor to Thailand, riding a Tuk-tuk never loses its appeal. This unique form of public transportation, which is like a cross between the Pinoy jeepney and tricycle, has become the unofficial symbol of the country. It's also super fun and exciting!
Learn more about the Amazing Thailand campaign by visiting their facebook page.
READ: 5 Family fun activities at Camp John Hay and The Manor for an unforgettable family vacation
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