Our journey begins on the picturesque island of Koh Tao, home to one of Thailand's most impressive viewpoints - John-Suwan Viewpoint. This is the place to visit for a panoramic view of the southern part of the island and the surrounding ocean. The viewpoint is located on a hill and requires little physical effort to reach. Entrance costs 50 baht per person (as of 2023), which includes access to nearby Freedom Beach. The route to the summit is quite challenging and can be difficult for those with lesser fitness or mobility problems. It is advisable to wear appropriate footwear, as the path is steep and rocky in places. At the top, a breathtaking view awaits, which compensates for any hardships of climbing. This is the perfect place to take souvenir photos and admire the beauty of Thai nature. It is worth remembering that during rainy periods the path can be slippery, making the ascent even more difficult. It is best to go there early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the peak heat and crowds of tourists. John-Suwan Viewpoint is especially popular with photographers and nature lovers, offering unique shots at sunrise and sunset. Another spot on our list is Karon Viewpoint on Phuket Island, also known as the 'Three Beaches' viewpoint. This spot offers a panoramic view of three bays, Kata Noi, Kata and Karon. The viewpoint is easily accessible, located on the main road and offers ample parking, making it ideal for families with children or the elderly. Unlike John-Suwan Viewpoint, there is no climbing required here, making it a more accessible option for a wider range of visitors. There are also stalls selling drinks and souvenirs, as well as restrooms. Karon Viewpoint is particularly popular at sunset, when the sky shimmers in various shades of orange and pink, creating a magical atmosphere. It is worth remembering, however, that it can be quite crowded there at this time. Both of these viewpoints offer unique perspectives on the beauty of the Thai islands, each in its own unique way. John-Suwan Viewpoint impresses with a more unspoiled, natural landscape and requires some effort on the part of visitors, which may appeal to adventurers. Karon Viewpoint, on the other hand, is more easily accessible and offers a more expansive panorama, an ideal spot for those who appreciate comfort and spectacular views without the need for a demanding climb.

Our journey now takes us to Ko Chang Island, home to another breathtaking viewpoint. Viewpoint Ko Chang, located on the western side of the island, offers a panoramic view of the bay and surrounding islands. This spot is unique for its easy accessibility - it's located directly on the main road, making it an ideal stop while exploring the island. The viewpoint is free and offers ample free parking, making it attractive for families and groups. There is a cafe on site where you can relax and enjoy the view while sipping a cold beverage. It is worth noting the presence of monkeys that frequent the site - although they are an attraction for tourists, be careful and do not feed them. Viewpoint Ko Chang is particularly picturesque at sunset, when the sky shimmers in various hues and the sun hides behind the horizon, creating an amazing spectacle of color. Unlike more challenging viewpoints, this spot is accessible to people of all ages and physical abilities, making it a universal attraction. On the other hand, in the heart of mainland Thailand, in Khao Sok National Park, there is a lesser-known but equally fascinating viewpoint - จุดชมวิวเขาสก 2 (Khao Sok Viewpoint 2). This spot offers a very different kind of landscape than the views on the islands. Instead of turquoise waters and sandy beaches, here we enjoy lush tropical jungle and majestic limestone mountains. The viewpoint is located by the road and does not require a difficult climb, making it accessible to most visitors. It offers a panoramic view of the vast expanse of the national park, showcasing its wild and untouched nature. This is an ideal spot for nature lovers and landscape photographers who want to capture the essence of the Thai jungle. It's worth noting that unlike the more developed viewpoints on the islands, the infrastructure here is minimal. There are no restaurants or stores, but it is this simplicity that allows you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area. The best time to visit this place is early morning, when the fog rises above the forest, creating a magical, almost mystical atmosphere. Comparing the two viewpoints, there are clear differences in the nature of the landscapes and the experiences they offer. Viewpoint Ko Chang is an easily accessible place with developed infrastructure, ideal for families and those looking for a comfortable view. Khao Sok Viewpoint 2, on the other hand, offers a more rugged, natural experience, allowing for a deeper connection with Thailand's wildlife. Both places have their own unique charm and certainly deserve a place in your Thailand travel plans.

To conclude our tour of Thailand's most beautiful viewpoints, we move on to the lesser-known but equally charming island of Koh Yao Yai. Here you'll find Koh Yao Yai Viewpoint, a spot that offers a unique perspective on the surrounding islands and the Andaman Sea. This viewpoint, although less publicized than the previous ones, has its own unique charm and atmosphere that attracts seekers of authentic places unspoiled by mass tourism. Koh Yao Yai Viewpoint is located near the Krua Lan Mai restaurant, making it easily accessible to tourists. The road to the viewpoint is short, but quite steep, leading through a rubber plantation, which adds to its exotic feel. It's worth remembering to take mosquito repellent with you, as they can be a nuisance in this tropical climate. Although the route is relatively short (about a 5-minute walk), it can be demanding for those with less physical fitness. At the top, a beautiful view of the neighboring island of Koh Yao Noi and the sandy beach of Laem Haad awaits. It's the perfect place to contemplate the beauty of nature and enjoy peace and quiet, away from the hustle and bustle of popular tourist destinations. It's worth noting that unlike more developed viewpoints, here the infrastructure is minimal. There are no stores or restaurants at the top, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area. The best time to visit here is early morning or late afternoon, when the light is most favorable for photography and the temperatures are more bearable. When comparing Koh Yao Yai Viewpoint with the previously discussed sites, you will find that it offers a more intimate and authentic experience. Unlike the popular Karon Viewpoint on Phuket or the easily accessible viewpoint on Ko Chang, here we can enjoy peace and privacy. There are no crowds of tourists, allowing for a more personal experience of the beauty of the Thai landscape. At the same time, compared to the challenging John-Suwan Viewpoint on Koh Tao, the route on Koh Yao Yai is shorter and easier, making it accessible to a wider range of visitors. To sum up our tour of five breathtaking vistas in Thailand, it's worth noting that each site offers a unique experience and perspective on the country's beauty. From the popular viewpoints on Phuket and Ko Chang, to the challenging but rewarding trails on Koh Tao, to lesser-known but equally captivating places like Khao Sok Viewpoint 2 and Koh Yao Yai Viewpoint, each has its own unique charm. When embarking on a trip in Thailand, it's worth including these places in your itinerary to fully appreciate the diversity and scenic beauty of this fascinating country. Whether you're an avid photographer, nature lover or simply looking for an unforgettable experience, these viewpoints are sure to leave you with indelible memories of your trip in the Land of Smiles.