Bangkok is like a magnet to many different types of people because of its incredibly varied attractions. Gleaming skyscrapers, glittering temples, colourful street markets, sophisticated shopping malls, bustling nightlife, and an energy which reflects the incredible economic growth of the last few years. But in spite of this growth, the capital of Thailand still retains its spirituality and the ci
ty's many 'wats' or Buddhist temples are an integral and charming part of its personality. Phuket: For many, the main incentive to spend a holiday in Phuket is the incredibly wide reach of activities the island has to offer. Not only that, but with an encyclopaedia-long list of hotels and accommodation as well as startling scenery and seascapes, Phuket is a dream destination. The island's west coast has long been the 'tourism side' of the island, but nowadays the east coast and even some inland districts have been developed with new resorts springing up all the time. In spite of this, Phuket never feels crowded because of its size and pockets of tranquillity can easily be found. Koh Samui is the country's third biggest island and lies in the Gulf of Thailand. It is surrounded by 60 other islands, mostly within the Ang Thong National Marine Park. Koh Samui has a population of about 50,000 people and the island's popularity makes certain parts a busy place to be but it still has some quiet, secluded beaches. Krabi Province has long been a favourite destination for discerning travellers wishing to get away from the crowds. In fact, Krabi has everything that other destinations trumpet, albeit delivered in a more discreet manner. Krabi's stunning coasts have a double whammy in that they are lined with impressive limestone outcrops ideal for rock climbing and the sea is a translucent green, unique to this area. Phi Phi : People come for the beauty, stay for the party then find themselves missing the island for months afterwards. Phi Phi is at once seductive, vibrant and fascinating with its colourful scenery and prolific nightlife. Located roughly halfway between Phuket, Thailand's biggest island, and Krabi Province, Phi Phi Don, the largest of the five-island Phi Phi island group and the only permanently inhabited one is the centre of tourist-related activities. The bright turquoise of the water in Ton Sai Bay contrasting with the rich hues of the vertically rising limestone cliffs makes for an unforgettable first impression. (Read more...) Khao Lak : Some 100km north of Phuket Island, Khao Lak is the tourism centre of Phang Nga Province. The area luxuriates in beautiful untouched beaches, lush national parks and wonderful scuba diving options. It's subdued atmosphere means it's a place to go to get away from it all. Pattaya is a place where fun, excitement, and adventure come together at a tropical seaside hot-spot with more than 35,000 hotel rooms at its many resorts. Located less than two hours (150 km) from Bangkok, this high-rise beach city is a top destination for many tourists. It boasts expansive beaches, a variety of dining choices, exciting water and land sports, surprising attractions, high-end shopping, and a thoroughly wild and famous nightlife. Indeed, Pattaya has it all. Hua Hin :One of Thailand's few mainland beach destinations, Hua Hin has long been a favorite resort of Thai royals and high society, many of who have built weekend holiday homes here due to its close proximity to Bangkok (under three hours by car). Consequently, the crowd is a mix of foreign and Thai tourists. Renowned for its balance between provincial coastal town and high-end resort area, over recent years it has become Thailand's premier wellness retreat, home to world-renowned spas and becoming something of a rehab destination to stars and health junkies. Hua Hin is also Thailand's premier golf destination with many world-class golf courses. Koh Chang: With over 70% of the landscape consisting of preserved and virgin rainforest, Thailand's second largest island is a tapestry of adventure waiting to be had. Whether its elephant trekking, diving amongst the colourful coral or some well-deserved pampering at one of the island's many spas, Koh Chang offers the perfect fusion of recreation and relaxation. Thought to be Thailand's best conserved tourist destination, visitors are spoilt for choice with a rich landscape consisting of pristine sandy beaches, secluded beach coves, and rainforest with an abundance of tropical wildlife. Chiang Mai is a land of mist-covered mountains, ethnic hill-tribe villages, rolling rivers, historic temples, and elephants in their natural habitat. These are just some of the charms Thailand's northernmost city is famous for. It offers something for everyone; nature lovers, adventure seekers, shopaholics, people who cherish culture and art, and those who just wish to be spoiled at an exclusive spa. Chiang Mai is located some 700 kilometres north of Bangkok. At 300 metres above sea level, the city is somewhat cooler than others part of Thailand, and also the centre of the country's well-known handicraft industry. It's your gateway to explore northern Thailand and beyond…
