If you’re like a lot of divers, Thailand is probably close to the top of your list of places to visit – whether for the first time, or for a subsequent trip. Consider coming to the annual Thailand Travel and Dive Expo in conjunction with a dive vacation, or enjoy the expo on its own. Either way, you’re certain to have an enjoyable time.
Thailand Travel and Dive Expo - When
Since 2004, this international dive event has been held sometime during the middle of May; this year’s show takes place May 14 – May 17. As you might know, Thailand’s peak dive season begins in May; and if you’re visiting from a colder climate, visiting a fantastically warm place like Thailand after a cold winter is certain to be a treat. The expo usually begins on a Thursday and runs through Sunday; this gives participants plenty of time to really relax and spend time enjoying themselves. Expo hours are typically 10 am to 8 pm.
Thailand Travel and Dive Expo - Where
This event is typically held at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center in Bangkok. The convention center is easy to access by taxi, MRT subway, Skytrain, bus, or car. The Suvarnabhumi airport is about 45 minutes away, and mass transit between the airport and city destinations including hotels and the convention center is readily available.
Thailand Travel and Dive Expo - Event Highlights
The Thailand Travel and Dive Expo attracts exhibitors from all over the world, including well-known scuba gear manufacturers and up-and-coming companies with new items to offer. Dive shops and dive resorts are well represented at this show, and many of them have promotional dive and travel packages to offer attendees.
There are many seminars each year; expect to hear from DAN, PADI, NAUI, and other organizations. Special tech diving presentations are usually on the menu, along with special presentations on underwater photography and videography.
Activities such as a photo contest for participants encourage everyone to participate fully. Past photography contests have included categories for amateur and professional photographers, along with underwater categories and general travel photography categories, so even if you’re not the greatest with your underwater camera, you can participate in the photo contests.
Thailand Travel and Dive Expo - Places to Stay and Things to See
There are many wonderful hotels in Bangkok, and as you may know, the service tends to be top-notch. If you can stay in Bangkok for at least a few days, you’ll want to take in a few museums, landmarks, and cultural attractions during your visit.
The Grand Palace is a good place to begin. Here, you’ll find the famous Temple of the Emerald Buddha, which dates all the way back to the 14th century.
At the Ananda Samakhom Throne Hall, you can bask in the splendor of one of the most incredible palaces in the world. The Suan Pakkad Palace Museum offers a different view; here you’ll find an interesting collection of Thai houses to explore, plus a wonderful art collection. The Bangkok Folk museum offers an interesting contrast to the many palaces available to tour, and provides a view into the lives of ordinary people. These are only a few of the many places to see while in Bangkok; whether you get to see many sights, or if you decide to stay put and take in every minute of the expo, the experience is certain to be an enjoyable one.