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.
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.
The borders of Myanmar, Thailand and Laos meet at the confluence of the Ruak and Mekong Rivers to form the tropical area known as the Golden Triangle, with the quaint town of Sop Ruak at the centre. Boat-rides along the mighty river currents offer an incredible way to fully absorb and admire the breathtaking landscapes of folding earth covered in thick green forest. Famously known for its criminal past as the biggest opium-producing destination until the 21st century, this unassuming destination pays homage to its illicit history with two intriguing opium museums. On a lighter note, Thailand’s northernmost town of Mae Sai is renowned for its bustling market, legendary Scorpion Temples, astonishing Tham Luang Cave, and its lush wild areas inhabited by various animals. Memorable excursions include exploring the remote Shan State of Myanmar and meeting the hill-tribes-people of the sleepy Laos village, Xieng Kok.
