Travel guide to Thailand
| Language: | Thai |
| Currency: | Thai Baht |
| Time zone: | +6 hrs GMT |
A firm favourite on the backpackers' trail, Thailand is a country of enormous contrast - drawing thousands of people to South-East Asia. A predominantly Buddhist country with a fascinating history, this former kingdom is renowned for its hospitality and any visitor will be assured of a warm welcome.
Be sure to spend at least a day in the frenetic capital Bangkok, known by the Thais as the City of Angels. This exuberant city is full of hidden gems just waiting to be discovered: wild orchids thriving in the tropical climate, colourful markets where you can put your bartering skills to the test, beautiful temples and architecture, and so the list goes on. An eclectic mix of old and new, watch as saffron-robed monks wander the streets and then take a ride on the space-age Skytrain. Get right in amongst the hustle and bustle and see the city from a tuk-tuk, or for a more sedate approach hire a bike and explore the surprisingly quiet back streets and alleys. After a hard day's sightseeing why not treat yourself to a relaxing Thai massage?
However there is much more to Thailand than the buzz of Bangkok. Just off the Gulf Coast there are countless islands waiting to be explored - with self catering accommodation to choose from. Little pieces of paradise on earth, hop between the idyllic Phuket, Ko Samui, Ko Phi Phi to name just a few. Lie back on the sun drenched beaches as the warm waters gently lap at the golden shores and feel a million miles away.
Back on the mainland take in the Bridge on the River Kwai in Kanchanburi, or visit the historic city of Ayuthay. The former capital of Thailand is now a World Heritage Site and should be on any visitor's itinerary. This is a nation bursting with natural beauty - waterfalls, National Parks, not to mention the beaches. No visit to Thailand would be complete without tucking in to some authentic Thai cuisine. With its fusion of delicate flavours, Thai food is becoming a firm favourite worldwide, but there really is no better place for it than on home soil.
Accommodation links for your holiday in Thailand
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