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. With sixteen million foreigners flying into the country each year, 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 of Koh Tao, jungle trekking in the North, or discovering the ancient cities of Chiang Mai, Thailand is filled with attractions to satisfy any interest.
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.
Dubbed 'The Rose of the North', Thailand’s northern capital is far smaller and more serene than Bangkok. Despite this, the city has seen extensive development in the last decade that has transformed it from a low-key, old-world city into a modern hub, complete with top-notch restaurants and five-star hotels. A walk around the inner-city moat will take you past the array of glittering temples, aromatic food markets and eclectic shops of Chiang Mai’s downtown, while just five minutes away is the popular Night Bazaar – a shopping Mecca for tourists. Other highlight attractions include a visit to the trendy Nimmanhemin district, with its upmarket bars and shopping outlets, and a trip up Suthep Mountain, to see the hilltop temple and take in panoramic views of the city below.
One of Thailand’s most famous and popular island destinations, Phuket draws scores of tourists each year to its sand-fringed shores, inviting them to bask in the tropical sun, swim and snorkel in its azure bays, and revel in the endless leisure and adventure activities on offer. Phuket’s refurbished old town is one of its trendiest areas, where the diverse cultural and architectural influences of the past have been fused and immortalised – vivid red and gold Chinese temples stand side by side with Indian roti restaurants and antiquated colonial buildings. Patong is the hub of Phuket nightlife, with scores of bars and pulsing nightclubs lining the streets, while more relaxed beachside bars and restaurants dotting the coast. Those who prefer nature and serenity should head to the secluded beaches of the north, or to Promthep Cape, a rugged peninsula that forms Phuket’s southernmost point, providing dramatic scenery and breathtaking sunset views.
Krabi is the capital city of Krabi Province, set on a river mouth on the Andaman Sea. The bustling fishing town boasts a colourful weekend night market and plenty of bars, restaurants and nightclubs. Krabi is the kickoff point for some of the province’s most beautiful coastal destinations, including Ton Sai, Railay Beach and Phi Phi Island. The scenery at these locations is characterised by turquoise waters and striking limestone karsts jutting out of the ocean. The main attractions in and around town are the ‘Dog’s Ears’ rock formations and cave, Koh Klang, a traditional fishing village on an island in the river, and the mangrove swamps along the estuary. Rich in birdlife, they are best seen from a longtail boat tour. The legendary Tiger Cave Temple lies five kilometres away.
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 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.
