Fondly known as 'the land of smiles', Thailand is commonly associated with gorgeous golden sand, palm-lined beaches, warm aquamarine waters, glorious temples and verdant jungle-clad mountains. Thailand is the primary travel hub of Southeast Asia, offering a diverse range attractions and activities to suit all tastes and budgets. Whether exploring the teeming metropolis of Bangkok, relaxing on the tropical beaches of the southern islands, scuba diving in the underwater wonderland off the coast, jungle trekking to hill tribe villages in the North, or discovering the ancient capitals, Thailand is filled with attractions to satisfy any interest.
Bangkok, the “City of Angels,” is a spellbinding study in contrasts—one of the world’s most exhilarating capitals, forever reinventing itself while honouring centuries of royal heritage. Home to Thailand’s grand palaces and many of its most sacred temples, the city pairs deep tradition with a bold, forward-looking spirit. It offers some of Asia’s finest hotels, a constellation of glamorous rooftop bars with sweeping skyline views, and a culinary landscape that effortlessly spans award-winning restaurants and some of the most irresistible, affordable street food on earth. A paradise for shoppers, Bangkok delivers everything from high-end luxury malls to curated designer markets, and it has secured its place on the global touring circuit, drawing major international acts and hosting large-scale live performances throughout the year. Its legendary Muay Thai stadiums add a powerful dose of cultural intensity. Yet beyond the glittering high-rises lies a more intimate city: quiet canals, atmospheric Chinatown lanes lined with Michelin-plate eateries, and the tranquil sanctuary of Bang Krachao—Bangkok’s “Green Lung”—where shaded cycling paths and leafy gardens offer a welcome escape. Vibrant, creative and endlessly multifaceted, Bangkok remains one of the most compelling urban destinations in Asia.
Chiang Mai, the storied “Rose of the North,” stands as the cultural soul of the former Lanna Kingdom, where centuries-old heritage blends effortlessly with contemporary refinement. Within the ancient moat and crumbling city gates lies a walkable old town filled with gleaming Lanna temples, fragrant food markets and curated boutiques showcasing northern craftsmanship. Nearby, the fashionable Nimmanhemin district offers chic cafés, design-led galleries and elegant cocktail lounges, while the Night Bazaar continues to draw visitors with its lively evening atmosphere. Chiang Mai is also a gateway to northern Thailand’s landscapes: forested mountains, rivers and national parks lie only moments away, with Doi Suthep’s revered hilltop temple providing sweeping views over the valley. Anchored by distinctive Lanna cuisine, world-class hotels and easy access to nature, Chiang Mai delivers a refined yet soulful northern Thai experience.
Phuket stands as one of Thailand’s most iconic island destinations, celebrated for its sweeping arcs of soft sand, shimmering turquoise bays and a lifestyle that effortlessly blends tropical ease with refined indulgence. Days unfold in the sun—swimming, sailing or snorkelling in crystal-clear waters—while world-class resorts, private pool villas and award-winning wellness retreats cater to travellers seeking exceptional comfort and privacy. One of the island’s most compelling surprises is its beautifully restored Old Town, now a creative and cultural hub. Here, Sino-Portuguese mansions, colourful shophouses and ornate Chinese shrines line picturesque streets filled with boutique cafés, contemporary galleries and elegant restaurants. The neighbourhood’s architectural blend—Chinese, Portuguese, Malay and European—reflects centuries of maritime trade and lends Phuket an identity unlike anywhere else in Thailand.
Beyond town, the island’s western and northern shores reveal a more serene side of Phuket. Secluded beaches such as Layan, Nai Thon and Mai Khao offer tranquil stretches of coastline, ideal for travellers seeking space, calm and exclusivity. For dramatic panoramas, Promthep Cape at the island’s southernmost tip delivers unforgettable sunset views over the Andaman Sea.
Set at the mouth of the Krabi River on the Andaman Sea, Krabi is the administrative and cultural centre of Krabi Province in southern Thailand. The town is known for its lively weekend night market, local restaurants and relaxed waterfront atmosphere, and serves as a practical hub for accessing the region’s major coastal destinations. From Krabi, travellers can easily reach Railay Beach, Ton Sai and the Phi Phi Islands, all renowned for their clear waters and striking limestone formations. In and around the town, notable points of interest include the “Dog’s Ears” rock formations and nearby caves, the mangrove forests along the estuary and Koh Klang — a traditional Muslim fishing village located on an island opposite the town. These areas are best explored by longtail boat, especially for birdwatching. The Tiger Cave Temple, an important Buddhist site, sits approximately five kilometres from the town centre and offers insight into the area’s cultural heritage.
Paradise awaits on Koh Phi Phi Don, a tropical island easily accessible by 90-minute ferry boats from Phuket or Krabi. This exotic getaway forms part of the Phi Phi Island archipelago and enchants with its stunning beaches, clear turquoise waters, majestic rock formations and vibrant marine life, providing the perfect backdrop for unforgettable memories and experiences. Breathtaking Tonsai Bay is the location of the island's main port and is alive with dozens of beach bars, restaurants and hotels. From there is a path to Loh Dalum Bay, a beautiful cove with clear, shallow water warmed by the sun and suitable for swimming. Unmissable is the leisurely 30-minute stroll to the Phi Phi Viewpoint, where travellers can soak in the sweeping vistas from the exquisite summit.
Koh Samui is one of Thailand’s most beloved island destinations, renowned for its sweeping sandy beaches, clear turquoise waters and easy access from the mainland. In recent years, the island has welcomed an impressive collection of luxury resorts—many with private beachfronts—giving travellers a wide range of refined stays to choose from. While the coastline is Samui’s greatest allure, the island offers much more: the iconic Big Buddha temple with its 12-metre statue overlooking the bay, the dramatic 30-metre Na Muang Waterfall set deep in the jungle, and an excellent selection of spas, fine-dining restaurants and relaxed beachside bistros. Exploring the island by scooter reveals quiet palm-lined roads and secluded stretches of sand, while the calm surrounding waters invite snorkelling, kayaking and leisurely swims in sheltered coves. With its blend of natural beauty, sophisticated comforts and laid-back island atmosphere, Koh Samui provides an experience that is both easygoing and effortlessly refined.
