Thailand hotels and travel guide. Hotel reservation for Bangkok, Phuket, Koh Samui, Krabi and Pattaya.

Golf in the Northeast is centered around the Khao Yai area in Nakhon Ratchasima, gateway to the region, about three hours' drive from Bangkok.

Khao Yai, the largest protected area in the country, enjoys the status of a National Park. The area is at a pretty high altitude, so the weather is pleasant all year round, with temperature averaging 7-8 degrees Celsius lower than in Bangkok.

It is possible to drive to Khao Yai, enjoy a round of golf and then return to Bangkok within the day, but there are first-rate accommodations in the area if you choose to stay for a few days. And if you do, there's much to see and do. The Northeast is the seat of ancient civilizations, with Khmer temples and historic ruins believed to be older than Angkor Wat. Northeasterners are also skilled craftsmen, their most famous products being fine silk and pottery. At least a full day is needed to explore the major historical landmarks and the villages.

Three-Day Itinerary

Depart Bangkok in the morning for the Thai Country Club course, located an hour out of the city on the main Bangkok-Pattaya Highway. After golf, transfer by air-conditioned coach to the beach resort of Pattaya. In the evening visit the spectacular Alcazar Cabaret.

After an early breakfast, go on a 30-minute drive to Laem Chabang course, one of the region's most attractive. After a late lunch, spend the afternoon at Mini Siam, where some of Thailand's most famous historical buildings and structures have been created in miniature. Alternatively, visit Ripley's Believe It or Not! in Central Pattaya. Enjoy a seafood meal on Pattaya's beachfront in the evening.

A day at leisure at the beach, beside the pool, shopping or exploring local attractions. Alternatively, play a round at a nearby course, such as Siam Country Club, some 20 minutes from Pattaya. Return in the evening to Bangkok.

One-Week Itinerary

After an early morning breakfast, transfer by air-conditioned coach to the compact but spectacular course at Bangphra Golf International, an hour's drive away along the main Bangkok-Pattaya Highway. Afterwards, travel on to Pattaya. After an evening meal at a seafood restaurant, enjoy a cabaret show.

After an early breakfast, a quick 20-minute drive to the Siam Country Club, one of Pattaya's oldest and most popular. Late afternoon transfer to Nongnooch village, some 20 minutes' drive away, to see a potted cultural history of Thailand plus a mini zoo and local handicrafts. Dinner in Pattaya.

A day at leisure. Enjoy Pattaya's numerous sporting activities, or shop for local products.

Short transfer to Eastern Star Golf Course, set beside the sea at nearby Rayong. Sample local cuisine at dinner before returning to Pattaya.

Another day at leisure. Visit the offshore islands and enjoy a beach lunch followed by an afternoon of scuba diving. Alternatively, enjoy a round of golf at one of the courses located in and around Pattaya.

Today's golf is at Plu Ta Luang Golf at nearby Sattahip, owned and run by the Royal Thai Navy. Return to Pattaya for dinner.

Return to Bangkok stopping en route at the Bangpakong Riverside Country Club, a relatively new course with lots of character. Afterwards drive on to Bangkok, just an hour away.