The Kingdom of Thailand
Thailand, also called the Land of Smiles, is the most
popular tourist destination in South-East Asia due to its wealth
of natural beauty, culture and history, gorgeous islands and
beaches and the mouth-watering food. In the North you will find
breathtaking mountain ranges with waterfalls and fast flowing
rivers for trekking and rafting, ethnic tribal groups with
unique customs and clothing and people famous for their courtesy
and hospitality. The North-East, or Isan, is one of the
country’s most intriguing destination with many Stone Age and
Bronze Age dwellings and artifacts, and several significant
temples and national parks. The central plains and the east
coast are dotted with national parks, seaside resorts and
islands.
Bangkok city, also known as "Krungthep" [กรุงเทพ] meaning 'the City of Angels'. Bangkok is famous for its temples, the Grand Palace as well as some of Asia's largest shopping centers and Asia's largest outdoor week-end market (Chatuchak). All sites can comfortably be reached by Skytrain (BTS) or Underground (MRT). Bangkok is highly appreciated for its wide choice of restaurants, from authentic street-side eateries to a number of fine dining establishments. The wide choice of accommodation, from high end international hotels to guesthouses meets the demands of all travelers.
Koh Samui [เกาะสมุย] is the third largest island of Thailand after Phuket and Koh Chang and one of the most popular destinations for travelers. In recent years it developed to a tropical beach resort but still maintained its charm and has everything to offer - from coconut tree fringed beaches to tropical jungles to a vibrant nightlife. Popular beaches are Chaweng, Lamai, Bophut & Maenam. Accommodations range from bungalows and villas to 5 star boutique resorts and are suitable for all budgets. Day tours to the neighbor islands of Koh Phangan, Koh Tao and the Angthong Marine National Park are well worth to attend.
Phuket [ภูเก็ต] is Thailands largest island, approx. the size of Singapore. Phuket nestles in balmy Andaman Sea waters on Thailand's Indian Ocean coastline 862 kms south of Bangkok. Phuket is blessed with magnificent coves and bays, powdery, palm-fringed white beaches, sparkling island-dotted seas, sincerely hospitable people, superb accommodations and seafood, delightful turn-of-the-century Sino-Portuguese architecture; numerous sporting and leisure opportunities. Phuket and its islands are ideal for golfing and all kinds of sports & entertainment, There is plenty of accommodation available ranging from standard bungalow resorts to 5 star hotels.
Krabi [กระบี่] is the perfect getaway destination at the Andaman Sea with stunning limestone cliffs, beautiful beaches like Ao Nang and Railay and more than 130 islands including the most famous - Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta. Enjoy relaxing days at one of the tropical hotels and resorts available and visit the natural beauty of waterfalls and caves and other attractions. The more active ones can try some rock climbing, sailing, kayaking, diving and snorkeling or just spend a day or two for island hopping. Krabi has everything on offer for a fantastic and unforgettable holiday experience.
Pattaya [พัทยา] is 147 kms southeast of Bangkok, and faces the Thai Gulf. It is Asia's premier beach resort, and caters with equal appeal to families, couples and single visitors. Pattaya's relaxing tropical ambience is synonymous with every ingredient for memorable holidays. Accommodation ranges from luxuriously appointed backside hotels with superb convention facilities to simple guesthouses.
Koh Chang [เกาะช้าง] the largest among the 52 islands of Trat, is also the nation's second largest island, after Phuket. Most of the scenic beaches and bays are located on the western side, extending from the north to the south. They include Klong Son Bay, White Sand Beach, Klong Prao Beach and Kai Bae Beach. A road cuts through the western shore almost all the way to Kai Bae Beach. To the east are Sapparot Bay, where a ferry landing is situated, and Salak Khok Bay. Several waterfalls are available and easily accessible. There is plenty of Accommodation available on Koh Chang and most of the surrounding islands and ranges from 5 star hotels to simple bungalows.
Hua Hin [หัวหิน] is a district in Prachuap Khiri Khan Province located 295 kms south west of Bangkok. For the beach, on the Gulf of Thailand, is ideal for swimming, any water sports, as well as long walks or horseback riding in the breeze. A large range of hotels and resorts, excellent seafood dining, fresh markets and souvenir shops. Hua Hin are quiet relaxed coastal towns, perfect for family vacations, or golf holidays with many international standards courses. Hua Hin can be reached with a 2 hour drive from Bangkok, or by air-conditioned bus or railway.
Chiang Mai [เชียงใหม่] Province, some 700 kms north of Bangkok, often referred to as the Rose of the North, is a fascinating example of merging the city's 700-year tradition with modern development. The old city of Chiang Mai with its indigenous cultural identity such as diverse dialects, cuisine, architecture, traditional values, festivals, handicrafts and classical dances is a prime location in its own right. Visitors can find handicrafts of silk, silver and other jewels, umbrellas and wood produced locally as timeless souvenirs. For a few years one can find as well masterpieces of Thai contemporary art.
