Destinations in Thailand
-
Bangkok
Bangkok, or Krung Thep as it is known to locals, is an urban capital that pulses with excitement, making a sensual impression at every turn. Founded in 1782, Bangkok is now a city of 10 million. It is a bustling, modern metropolis, a paradise for shoppers and a favorite destination for nighttime revelers, yet Bangkok manages to retain its historic and cultural heart. It is still a city of temples and palaces, of golden spires and orange tiered roofs, of saffron-robed monks and serene Buddha images. Classis sights, most famously the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, remain as magnificent as ever.
Suggested Trip Ideas:
-
The North
Beyond the cities where you truly experience Lanna culture and heritage, the North offers some of the most picturesque scenery in the whole kingdom. The upper north is an ideal base for visiting ethnic tribes, soft adventure activities including trekking, elephant-back riding, and rafting. The lower north is essential for all those wishing to discover more about the history and culture of Thailand. Popular destinations are the cities of Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, and Sukhothai, a former capital of the Thai Kingdom and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Suggested Trip Ideas:
-
The Northeast
The Northeast of Thailand, commonly known as “I-San”, is one of Thailand’s most intriguing destinations with many Stone Age and Bronze Age dwellings and artifacts, and several significant temples that are a legacy of the Khmer empire. With its strategic position bordering Laos and Cambodia, I-San has in recent years risen to become a starting point for adventurous journey along the mighty Mekhong River. Here you will also find UNESCO World Heritage sites of Ban Chiang, a lost civilization dating back some 5,000 years, and Khao Yai National Park, an unbeatable natural beauty.
Suggested Trip Ideas:
-
The East
The east coast of Thailand draws huge numbers of holiday-makers from around the world every year. It offers 250 miles of coastline from Chonburi to Rayong with some of the finest beaches in Asia. To the basic ingredient of a superb coastal location, Pattaya adds just about every amenity one can think of for recreation, entertainment, sightseeing and fun. To get away from it all and leave your troubles on the mainland, travel further down the coast to the lovely islands of Mu Ko Chang National Park.
Suggested Trip Ideas:
-
The Central
The Central region has a dramatic history, and its heritage of ancient temples, ruins, and two capitals, Ayutthaya and Bangkok, are a continuing fascination for visitors. It is one of the world's most fertile farming areas with colorful traditional culture and way of life. Major destinations include Ayutthaya, home to one of the most popular UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Hua Hin, and Kanchanaburi.
Suggested Trip Ideas:
-
The South
Southern Thailand extends southward along a narrow peninsula lying between the Andaman Sea on its west side and the South China Sea on the east. Visit the South if you are looking for a beach holiday with an exotic Thai twist. The east coast on the Gulf of Thailand always seems to be more relaxed, with long, wide bays and calm seas; the Andaman Sea coast tends to be more rugged and exhilarating, with its unique limestone rock formations and cliffs. Popular destinations include Ko Samui on the gulf coast and Phuket, Phang-nga, and Krabi on the Andaman coast.
Suggested Trip Ideas:
