Steamy, frenetic, and exhilarating, Thailand’s capital city, located in the Chao Phraya River Delta, is a legendary travel destination. This metropolis is equally famous for its rich cultural offerings, effervescent nightlife, superb shopping, and diverse dining options. Bucket list items include a visit to the mind-boggling Reclining Buddha at Wat Pho, a morning boat trip down the canals to immerse oneself in the floating markets, and a walk around the opulent Grand Palace. The tourist hub of Khaosan Road, the MBK Centre, Siam Square, or on weekends, the vast Chatuchak market, offer further excellent shopping opportunities, while restaurants span every style, from incredible street food to five-star haute cuisine. The SkyWalk at King Power Mahanakhon is a great spot for couples and photographers, while the Siam Society and Kamthieng House provide an in-depth introduction into Thai culture and folklore.
Ao Nang is a bustling beachside resort town in Krabi province - known for its aquamarine waters, golden shores and striking limestone karsts, which provide excellent rock climbing. Ao Nang is the departure point for the more remote destinations of Railay and Tonsai, which can be reached via longtail boat, as well as picturesque Koh Phi Phi, which was immortalised in the blockbuster movie, The Beach. Besides soaking up the sun and sea air, visitors to the area can enjoy a host of ocean-based activities, such as swimming, kayaking and scuba diving, or alternatively, head inland to experience the area’s jungle trails and hot spring waterfall.
Named for both its turtle-like shape and its history as a turtle breeding ground, Koh Tao is the little sister to the world-famous islands of Samui and Pha Ngan, Koh Tao has made a name for itself as a diving and snorkelling hotspot, due to the profusions of coral reefs that lie within easy access of its coast. Favourite dive sites around the island are Chumpon, where divers have the chance to glimpse feathery scorpionfish, giant barracuda, underwater pinnacles crusted with brightly coloured sea anemones, and on occasion, even whale sharks; Shark Island, with its proliferation of corals frequented by stingrays, moray eels and nudibranchs; and ‘The Twins’, home to a family of rare and elusive saddleback clownfish. When you’re not immersed in the pleasures of Koh Tao’s underwater world, you can explore the island’s terrestrial attractions, including its lush trekking routes, stunning viewpoints and burnished beaches.
Koh Samui is one of Thailand’s most popular holiday destinations, by virtue of its idyllic sand beaches, azure waters, spell-binding vistas and easy accessibility from the mainland. The last decade has seen extensive development on the island, bringing with it a flood of luxury hotels and resorts – often featuring their own private beaches. The coastline is the main drawcard here, but other attractions on Samui include the Big Buddha temple with its 12-metre effigy, the 30-metre Na Muang Waterfall, and the array of world-class spas and restaurants, as well as more laid-back beachfront bistros and bars. Don't miss the opportunity to snorkel in the clear waters, rent a scooter and explore the island and kayak to hidden coves and beautiful beaches.
Cha-am is Hua Hin’s sleepier sister, located less than 200 kilometres from Bangkok. This bustling and festive resort town is a popular vacation spot for Thai visitors from the capital city, providing plenty of beachfront action based around bars, restaurants, banana boat rides and food vendors. Don’t miss out on sampling the area’s renowned seafood cuisine - particularly during the annual the Crab Pulling Festival in February, which makes up one of the area’s social and culinary calendar highlights.
