by Daryle Rico | Aug 17, 2026 | Ayutthaya, History, Temples, Thailand
One of the things I enjoy most about exploring Thailand’s ancient cities is discovering that every crumbling stone seems to have a story to tell. Few places tell those stories better than the ancient capital of Ayutthaya. Founded in 1350 by King Ramathibodi I,...
by Daryle Rico | Jul 28, 2026 | Bangkok, Favorite Tours, Temples
By now, you would think I’d have had my fill of Buddhist temples. After all, I’d already wandered through the ruins of Angkor, climbed to the lofty heights of Doi Suthep, marveled at the legends of Wat Khao Kalok, and stood beneath more golden spires than...
by Daryle Rico | Jul 15, 2026 | Chiang Mai, Favorite Tours, Temples, Thailand
High atop a mountain overlooking the ancient city of Chiang Mai sits one of the most sacred and recognizable temples in all of Thailand: Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Or, as most people simply call it, Doi Suthep. Founded in 1383, the temple was built to enshrine a sacred...
by Daryle Rico | Jun 18, 2026 | Hua Hin, Temples, Thai Smiles, Thailand
If you’re into monkeys, mountains—or ideally both—then Khao Takiab (Monkey Mountain) has your name written all over it. Figuratively speaking, of course. The monkeys don’t need any more ideas. Approaching from Hua Hin Beach, you’re greeted by a towering Buddha statue...
by Daryle Rico | May 17, 2026 | Cambodia, Favorite Tours, History, Temples
For many travelers, a visit to Angkor Wat is the beginning and end of their Cambodian adventure. And fair enough — it is one of the most extraordinary places on Earth. But just a short distance away lies the ancient walled city of Angkor Thom, the former capital of...
by Daryle Rico | May 13, 2026 | Cambodia, Favorite Tours, History, Temples
If you’re an action movie fan, you may remember the 2001 film Lara Croft: Tomb Raider. Beyond launching a thousand questionable Halloween costumes, the movie also introduced much of the world to one of Cambodia’s most unforgettable places: Ta Prohm. Located...
