THAILAND DESTINATIONS

THE CITY - BANGKOK

A curious blend of the traditional East with the modern West, Bangkok's every street has a surprise in hold for the visitor. Ramshackle buildings crouch next to exotic temples surrounded by delightful gardens, which are in turn overlooked by modern hotels and offices. Bangkok has emerged as a major world city with the traffic jams to match, as well as the all-pervasive mobile phones and designer clothes that are a prominent feature on the streets.

The chaos on the roads is mirrored by the busy traffic on the Chao Phraya River, which dissects the city and is regularly crisscrossed by long-tailed boats, river taxis and small rowing boats, all miraculously missing each other. But traditional Thai life is never very far away. Weaving among the nose-to-tail traffic in the morning rush hour, saffron-robed monks can still be seen collecting alms, while just moments from the city centre whole communities live in stilt houses by the river, eking out a living using skills that have not changed in centuries.

Thailand is a tropical country so it is hot throughout the year, but the best time to visit is between November and March, during the dry season. During the rainy season, humidity is very high and the downpours are short but violent and the streets of Bangkok often flood.

CENTRAL THAILAND

Savvy travelers wanting a truly cultural experience should take a hard look at Central Thailand. For here in the heartland, the Chao Phaya Valley, was where Thailand's soul was forged. Outstanding temples, 18th century ruins, museums and natural vistas make Central Thailand a must see for the serious traveler.

AYUTTAYA

Ayuttaya served as Thailand's capitol from 1350 to 1767. The golden city fell after a prolonged military assault by the Burmese. You can see parts of Ayuttaya as it looked after the Burmese sacked and burned it.

Unlike Sukhothai, Ayuttaya is one of hose places where thriving business and residential communities prosper among the spectacular ruins. Only 75 km by boat, car, train or minivan, a visit to Ayuttaya is highly recommended.

Kanchanaburi is a paradise for golfers, lovers of nature, and trekkers. The province has beautiful waterfalls and a number of National Parks.

Suphanbur - Get off the tourist track and visit some of the places that are revered by the Thai people. Suphanburi happens to be one of those unique places with historical significance as well as beautiful temples and appealing nature areas.

KOI SAMUI

This verdant island in the Gulf of Thailand was virtually unknown to travelers in the early '80s. Koh Samui lies off the coast of Surat Thani province in the gulf of Thailand.

Samui Island has developed into an international destination unto itself. Koh Samui hotels, resorts, bungalows and guest houses rival any destination and suit all budgets and offers

PATTAYA

Beaches in Pattaya are urban beaches, mere steps from hotels, guest houses, restaurants and food stalls. On Pattaya's beaches you can soak up the sun, get a massage, rent watercraft and relax.

Golf around Pattaya is pretty close to golfer’s heaven for high and low handicappers alike. Twenty or more international standard golf courses are within an hour’s drive of Pattaya. The courses, designed by such names as Nicklaus, Dye and Faldo, offer the golfer a rare opportunity.

Many visitors to Pattaya don't realize there are idyllic islands and shipwrecks in nearby waters which offer beautiful scenery for those wanting to go deep sea diving.

Pattaya's Attractions range from tropical gardens to Buddhist temples to Ripley's Museum and elephants. There are plenty of family style activities in Pattaya involve more than chilling out on a beach. There are go-karts to race, horses to ride.

PHUKET

Phuket The verdant island nestled along the western side of Thailand's southern peninsula and surrounded by the Andaman Sea may be the most popular tourist destination outside Bangkok.

Phuket's green hills, turquoise water, long stretches of sandy beach and lively nights attract sun worshipers, divers, sightseers and revelers.

From humble guest houses to 5 star resorts, Phuket has a bewildering variety of accommodations.