Asia Hotels - Thailand Travel Guide


Overview

Thailand is an extraordinary country of contrasts and surprises with glittering temples, tropical forests, idyllic beaches, modern shopping malls and friendly hospitable people.

From the high mountains in the north, to the soft sand beaches in the south, the scenery will take your breath away. Jungle covered mountains, deep mist covered valleys, island seascapes, beaches and coral reefs, all part of Thailand’s rich tapestry. And, it’s easy to get around. Add a vibrant capital city, bustling with activity with a modern sophisticated “Skytrain” rail system and superb hotels and you have a unique holiday experience.

Nestled between Laos, Burma and Cambodia in the north, and bordering with Malaysia in the south. Major northern cities are Chiang Mai and Khon Khen. In-between the north and south is a long coastline lapped by the Andaman Sea to the west (with Phuket, Krabi Phi Phi) and the Gulf of Thailand to the east (Ko Samui, Pattaya, Ko Samet ).

Why Visit?

People

Friendly, smiling, charming, polite and graceful, reflecting a Buddhist philosophy. A major reason why visitors return. Thais also have an infectious sense of fun and humour.

Food.

Simply fantastic. Hot spicy curries, fresh seafood, crisp salads, fresh vegetables, tropical fruit. World renowned cuisine. You'll never go hungry.

Superb Value Accommodation.

It's no accident that the Oriental Hotel in Bangkok consistently wins awards. It's part of a long tradition of hospitality that is as renowned as the Thai smile. Whether you stay in a modest family run resort, or an international hotel - everyone will do their best to serve you.

In the beach areas, the range of accommodation is growing with Villas and six star hotels now adding to the list of quality places to stay.

Endless Activities

Laze on pristine beaches, go scuba diving, snorkeling fishing or island hopping. Take an eco-adventure into a tropical forest. Trek to hill tribe villages, shop till you drop, absorb the culture and visit shimmering temples.


Attractions: Beaches and Islands

Gulf of Thailand – Ko Samui, Pattaya, Ko Chang,
Andaman Sea - Phuket, Krabi, Ko Lanta, Phi Phi Island

Expect the kind of paradise beaches you see in the ads. Soft white sand, coconut trees, warm crystal clear water...It really is like that!! Take a dive course, or a snorkelling trip. Charter a yacht, go island hopping or simply laze on the beach.

Attractions: Adventure

Northern Thailand - Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Mae Hon Son, the Golden Triangle. . Go elephant trekking, white water rafting, trekking to hilltribe villages or cycling through mist covered mountains.

Southern Thailand - Krabi, Khao Sok National Park.
Trekking, white water rafting and sea canoe trips through incredible limestone scenery dotted with tiny islands, interior lagoons and caves.

Attractions: Culture

Thailand's ancient capitals of Sukothai, Ayuttaya and the old Lanna kingdom of Chiang Mai offer a wealth of treasures.

Attractions: Shopping

From local handicrafts, gems and jewellry to international designer labels. You'll find it all. Bangkok, Chiang Mai and even the beach resort areas like Phuket and Ko Samui offer super shopping bargains.

When to Go

Best season – November to March – warm and sunny, but good hotel deals and offers during April – October – when it rains intermittently and provides welcome relief from the tropical sun.

Official language:

Thai, English and other languages spoken in the main tourist areas.

Currency

Thai Baht