It’s one of the world’s most popular destinations for backpackers, and one that we talk to travellers about 100s of times a day.
Thailand is almost a rite of passage for travellers of every kind; whether you’re shuffling along the street stalls, saving dimes where you can, or rising the elevators to the upper floors of a palatial Bangkok hotel, Thailand has you covered.

This week on the STA Travel Blog, we’re taking a closer look at Thailand, and uncovering some alternative ways to get to grips with this incredible destination.
We’ll be introducing you to exciting regions, often overlooked by moonstruck travellers, and opening your eyes to myriad experiences to be enjoyed in the Kingdom of Thailand. What are you waiting for?
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Ah, the Philippines. The world’s second largest archipelago (just behind Indonesia, fact fans) is famed for its white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and incredibly friendly people. Sound good? Well it’s about to get even better, because this beautiful country has so much to offer.
Often overlooked by backpackers on the Southeast Asia trail, the lack of other travellers is actually all part of what makes the Philippines brilliant.
We think the Philippines deserve a massive High Five. So much so, that we’ve rounded up five of our favourite things to do there.
Warning: this Blog post will probably make you want to grab your passport and book some flights.
Now get over there before everyone else does.
Have you been to the Philippines? We want to know all about your experiences in the comments thread below!
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How many times have you heard, “There’s nowhere like New Zealand”? Guess what: there really isn’t. New Zealand is one of the most creative and forward-thinking destinations, and currently ranked on the Global Peace Index as the second most peaceful country in the world (it was number one in 2010, but someone sneezed).
But what is it that makes New Zealand so unique? Is it the steaming thermal landscapes of the North Island? Is it the thrusting coastline? The perfect mountains? Perhaps those cool looking glaciers…

Perhaps it’s their can-do spirit, that’s spawned innumerable champions: from land speed records to mountain climbers; wood choppers to heroines of women’s rights.
Today, we’re taking a look at five of our favourite experiences in New Zealand that, as far as we know, are not available to enjoy anywhere else in the world.
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Our Aussie road trip rolls on, over the border from Western Australia and into the country’s most enigmatic region, the Northern Territory.
Often described as “real Australia”, the Territory provides travellers with some of the the nation’s most iconic sights, many of which we’ll pass by on this episode of our great Australia road trip.

Canoe the Katherine Gorge in Australia's Northern Territory
Whatever season you visit NT, you’re sure to be face to face with some raw adventure. The deep red deserts of the Outback fall away to the lush Top End; a carpet of wetlands that breathe life into the national parks of Kakadu and Litchfield, and beyond the border to the truly amazing landscapes and aboriginal cultures of Arnhem Land.
Follow the Stuart Highway south, via the mysterious Devil’s Marbles and character-filled stations, before arriving in Alice Springs, and looping west, to the undeniable allure of the Uluru Kata-Tjuta National Park.
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As we wind down after another hectic week at STA Travel Towers, our Experts are still full of beans and ready to tackle your toughest travel predicaments!
Remember, they’re here each and every week to answer your questions, so don’t be a stranger, email us with your travel quandaries, and we’ll put them to the team.
This week’s question comes from Doug in Leeds, who’s looking for a short escape…
I’m looking for a weekend getaway abroad that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg – any suggestions, Experts? Doug in Leeds
A very good question indeed, Doug. Let’s see what our Travel Experts have for you…
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