THAILAND 

Thailand offers an unbeatable combination of Eastern exoticism and Western modernism that brings ten million people a year to the country's gorgeous beaches and magical countryside.

The Thai people are renowned for being friendly and hospitable, in spite of the massive influx of foreign visitors over the last few years. Billed as the "Land of Smiles", Thailand has an extraordinary diversity of flavours and sights to experience.

TIME:

Thailand is 1 hour 30 minutes ahead of India.

VISA : Thai Visa is also issued on arrival at the Thai Airports.

CURRENCY: Thai Baht (THB)

Banks or legal moneychangers offer the best rates. For buying Baht, US dollars are the most readily acceptable currency, though travellers' cheques get a better rate than cash. Credit cards are becoming increasingly acceptable in quality shops, hotels and restaurants. Visa is the most useful, followed by MasterCard. ATM's which accept Visa and other credit cards are easily found in the larger cities, and many exchange booths will give you cash advance on your credit card.

Tipping is not customary in Thailand, although Thais are getting used to the idea in upmarket hotels. Bargaining is common practice in markets and tourist shops, and when catching non-metered taxis. Treat it as a form of social discourse rather than a matter of life and death.

CLIMATE 

Thailand can best be described as tropical and humid for the majority of the country during most of the year. The area of Thailand north of Bangkok has a climate determined by three seasons whilst the southern peninsular region of Thailand has only two.

In northern Thailand the seasons are clearly defined. Between November and May the weather is mostly dry, however this is broken up into the periods November to February and March to May. The later of these two periods has the higher relative temperatures as although the northeast monsoon does not directly effect the northern area of Thailand, it does cause cooling breezes from November to February.

The other northern season is from May to November and is dominated by the southwest monsoon, during which time rainfall in the north is at its heaviest.

The southern region of Thailand really has only two seasons -- the wet and the dry. These seasons do not run at the same time on both the east and west side of the peninsular. On the west coast the southwest monsoon brings rain and often heavy storms from April through to October, whilst on the east coast the most rain falls between September and December.

Overall the southern parts of Thailand get by far the most rain with around 2,400 millimetres every year, compared with the central and northern regions of Thailand, both of which get around 1,400 millimetres.

SHOPPING

Thai silk is of a very high quality and can be bought woven and dyed from markets and shops throughout the country. Thai silk sarongs make an ideal gift.

Ratten and wickerwork may not fit in your suitcase but this handcrafted furniture is a popular export product for European homes. Most dealers will be able to ship your purchases home for you.

Gemstones are exceptionally good value whether bought uncut, or set in fine jewellery. You may be offered gemstones on the street at a "discount" rate - our advice is stick to licensed shops and retailers in Bangkok. Silver jewellery is produced in Chiang Mai to ornate tribal designs.

Opening Hours: Shops are generally open from 10h00-22h00 Mon-Sun.

 The Major Cities / Tourist Places of Thailand is described below:

BANGKOK

To the Thais, Bangkok is "Krung Thep" - City of Angels. While there is little angelic about this frenetic, vibrant city, there is certainly a heavenly combination of flavours, sights and experiences that seduces everyone who visits here.

The capital of Thailand since 1782, Bangkok balances its exuberant modern development with a reverent celebration of traditional Thai culture - most evident in the glorious wats and the extraordinary food. The nightlife is legendary, ranging from an evening of kickboxing to a peaceful walk on a warm evening taking in the fascinating street life.

The city is justly famous for its traffic jams and its noisy, uncompromising style. And for European visitors the summer heat can be quite difficult to adjust to. In the end, though, such inconveniences are a small price to pay for the experience of this endlessly intriguing and exciting city.

HOW TO GET THERE:

By Air: Thai Airways (TG), Indian Airlines (IC), Air India (AI), Jet Airways (9W) fly directly into Bangkok.

Most International Carriers like Emirates, Cathay Pacific, Sri Lankan, Singapore Airlines etc fly into Bangkok etc.

GETTING AROUND IN BANGKOK

TO & FROM AIRPORT

Bangkok Suvarnabhumi International airport lies 35km south-east from the city centre in the Samut Prakarn province.

Taxis

Taxi fares from the airport to the city centre are approximately THB200, and journey time 45 minutes. It's also worth considering that public taxis picking up customers at the passenger terminal collect a THB50 service fee on top of the meter fee.

Airport Express

A direct bus service operates from the airport to the following districts: Banglamphu, Silom, Sukhumvit, and Hualamphong costing a fare from THB150 per person.

Public Buses

There are seven bus routes from the airport heading to key districts in the city. The most useful routes are: 551 stopping at Victory Monument BTS Sky train station, and 552 which stops at Onnuch BTS Sky train station. The fare is from THB35.

Limousines

The most luxurious option is the airport limousine service costing from THB1200. Contact the limo service counter at the arrival hall (level 2).

Buses

City buses are not air-conditioned, and routes can be difficult to understand at first. However, coverage of the city is extensive and prices very cheap (THB4 per journey). Air-conditioned buses cost more (THB8-20) and are very crowded during morning and evening rush-hours. Tickets are bought on board from the conductor, who, along with other passengers, is usually quite helpful in giving advice on your destination. You should note that if you catch a bus you will be at the mercy of Bangkok traffic. If you can get where you're going by Skytrain or better yet, ferry, then you should do rather than potentially spending hours in queued traffic. At rush hour it is seriously quicker to walk.

Skytrain

Bangkok's skytrain was opened in late 1999 and promises to revolutionise commuting in the inner city. There are three main routes radiating from the central station: north to Chatuchak market; south to the Chao Phraya river at Saphan Taksin; and east to On Nut, near the Eastern Bus Terminus. Tickets for single journeys cost between THB10-40 depending on distance travelled with fares charged on a zonal system. The key advantage of using the skytrain is speed, with journeys often four-times as fast as taxi or bus.

You buy tickets from machines, which have maps of the network displaying what fare is payable to every station from your current location. You press the appropriate number, pay the displayed fare and receive a credit-card type ticket for use in the automatic gates. If you don't have change the people at the counter will give you stacks of coins in return for notes.

Subway

Bangkok's newest mass transit system, the subway, opened in July, 2004. Running from the main railway station, Hua Lamphong, it connects 18 stations in the city, connecting stops such as Sukhumvit, Silom and the Queen Sikrit Convention Centre, passing under two of the city's main (and most congested) thoroughfares of Rama IV Rd and Ratchadaphisek Rd. With park and ride schemes and integration with the bus and skytrain networks it is hoped that the subway will relieve some of Bangkok's chronic traffic congestion.

Tickets cost approximately between THB14-36 depending on length of journey, based on a zonal system. Unlike the skytrain the automated ticket machines at stations will accept notes or coins and will dispense change.

Ferries

Express boats travel the length of the Chao Phraya river and are Bangkok's most pleasant and expedient form of public transport. There are clearly marked piers (tha) dotted on both sides of the river; these are also marked with route identifiers on most Bangkok maps. The fare is starts from THB10. You pay on board. The conductor walks up and down the boat shaking his money tin and dispenses tickets. Although there is some way of working out the fares, commonly the conductor seems to decide for you how much you pay, so you may or may not get a couple of Baht change.

Taxis 

Metered taxis are a recent innovation offering the unprecedented potential for a barterless transaction. A minimum of THB35 is charged, while a 5km journey will cost THB50.

The two-tone green and yellow taxis are generally the best. To call a taxi by telephone, dial 1661 and order one to pick you up (THB50 surcharge).

Tuk-tuks: The ubiquitous tuk-tuk is a Bangkok icon. They are in fact customised motorbikes with a canopied two-seater bench in the back. They will take you anywhere and at anytime, although skilled bartering is required to avoid paying too much.

MUST SEES IN & AROUND BANGKOK

The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaeo  

The Royal Palace complex with its gleaming golden spires and roofs is the magnificent centrepoint of Bangkok's cultural attractions. There are numerous buildings and museums to view, and at least half a day is required to do them justice.

The Palace is no longer inhabited by the Royal family, and several rooms are open to the public, including the European style main hall and more traditional Dusit Hall.

The adjoining Wat Phra Kaeo contains the well-travelled Emerald Buddha (made of jasper) which has healing powers attributed to it and consequently has been stolen several times over the centuries. In the gallery are murals depicting the Ramayana and at the gates, huge multi-coloured demon guardian statues protecting the temple from evil.

Throughout the Grand Palace, and indeed in all wats (temples), you must dress modestly, wearing long trousers or skirts, covered shoulders, and enclosed shoes (no sandals). Location: Na Phralan Rd, Phra Nakhon District.

Open: daily 09h00-16h00

Wat Pho

The oldest and largest of Bangkok's 400 wats, Wat Pho is best known for its celebrated 46m-long reclining Buddha. The mother-of-pearl inlay on the feet is particularly beautiful. Tourists and the devout alike can be seen walking around the interior perimeter dropping coins in to prayer bowls. Located next to the Grand Palace.

Open: daily 08h00-17h00

Wat Trai Mit  

The Golden Buddha resides here in all its five-tonne, 18-carat glory. The 700-year-old statue's true identity was only revealed in 1954 when a large (and mysteriously heavy) plaster Buddha statue was dropped from a crane to reveal the golden luminosity of the current figure. It is believed that the Buddha was originally covered in plaster as a disguise to prevent its being stolen by the Burmese army.

Once again dress appropriately, and observe decorum when taking photographs because this is considered an extremely holy place by Thais, many of whom make pilgrimages here. Location: Wat Traimit, Traimit Rd.

Open: daily 08h00-17h00

Thai Massage  

Traditional Thai massage can be a relaxing, indulgent and invigorating experience - without any of the salacious undertones often associated with the Western or Patpong Road equivalent. Massage is seen as a healing art and is both practised and instructed with great skill. You can learn the techniques for yourself but most people are content to leave it to the professionals, and indulge themselves in a bit of pampering.

Wat Pho has a massage school open to Westerners and offers a superb traditional massage for roughly THB200 for an hour. Thai herbal saunas can be a great precursor to a massage - try the facilities around Thanon Surawong such as the reputable Marble House and Eve House (which only serves women).

Chatuchak Weekend Market  

This intense and impossibly varied market is a highlight for shoppers looking for a bargain or something unusual, and cultural voyeurs looking for a glimpse of Thai life without the tourists. Among the multitude of local products on sale, you will find venomous snakes, cheap Levi's, deep-fried insects (delicious), and quite frankly, anything you can think of.

The market is opposite the Northern Bus Terminal and at the end of a Skytrain route, a convenient 30-minute journey from the centre of town.

Open: weekends only.

Khao San Road (Banglamphu) 

The main artery running through young Westerners' experience of the East, Khao San has been described as a decompression chamber for those entering or leaving Asia. The image is accurate as this is an energetic blend of East and West, of Buddhism and dissolute materialism, of wonderful exoticism and the utterly familiar.

The area is good for cheap accommodation, shopping and Western food, and the streets are lined with discount travel agents, tailors and secondhand bookshops.

Vimanmek Palace

The world's largest golden teak building is also beautiful and serves as an ideal refuge from the heat and madness of a Bangkok day.

The three-storey palace has 81 rooms, halls and anterooms. Near the entrance is a unique collection of 13 royal horse-drawn carriages from the reign of the much-revered King Rama V. Built in 1901, the palace has been lovingly restored to its former glory, displaying opulent treasures from its heydey. Location: Rajavithi Rd, Dusit.

Open: daily 09h30-16h00

Wat Arun

Make sure you set aside one late afternoon to see and photograph this imposing sight at sunset with the Chao Phraya River in the foreground. These photographs will bring back beautiful memories of Bangkok. The temple was built during the Ayutthaya period and was originally called Wat Makok after the name of the local village Tambol Bangmakok. It means "Village of Olives". Wat Arun gets its name from Aruna, the Indian god of the dawn, hence its common name The Temple of Dawn. The location of the temple is in the area that used to be occupied by the palace of King Taksin who re-established the Siamese Kingdom after the fall of Ayuttaya more than two hundred years ago. The main Buddha image is believed to have been designed by King Rama II.

Wat Arun, often called The Temple of Dawn, is one of the most remarkable visual identities of Bangkok. The imposing Khmer-style prang or tower is 104 metres tall and decorated with bits of porcelain that was used as ballast by boats coming from China. It is surrounded by four smaller prangs. The central balcony is an ideal spot for looking across the river to The Grand Palace and The Temple of The Emerald Buddha. Each year at the end of the three-month lent period for Buddhist monks, H. M. The King or his appointed representative travels down river in a Royal Barge Procession to present new robes to the monks. This ceremony is called Royal Tod Kathin. How to get there: Bus routes 19, 57, 83

Open: daily from 7.30 am. to 5.30 pm

The National Museum 

Within walking distance of the Royal Palace, the National Museum is a wonderful introduction to Thai culture and history. With thousands of exhibits ranging from Neolithic times to the present, this ranks as one of the most comprehensive museums in Southeast Asia.

Originally built in 1782 and surrounded by brightly-hued pavilions, this is a veritable Thai treasure trove. Highlights include a gallery of Thai historical artefacts, ornate gold jewellery belonging to former royalty and a bright red wooden house dating from the 18th century and housing all sorts of period ornaments. Location: Naphra That Rd.

Open: Wed-Sun 09h00-16h00

Siam Ocean World

A new attractions in downtown Bangkok. Open in December 2005, Siam Ocean World will be the largest aquarium in Southeast Asia.  With world-standard exhibits and features, the aqaruim comprises a 270-degree acrylic under ocean tunnel, a panoramic oceanarium with a 360-degree view through a 10.5 metre diametre fishbowl, an 8-metre deep reef tank and a rainforest display. More than 400 species or 30,000 marine animals including Penguins, Blue Ring Octopus, Gray Nurse Sharks, Elephant Nose Sharks, Leafy Sea Dragons and Giant Spider Crab can be seen.  To get there, one can take a BTS sky train and get off at Siam Station.

Open: daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

Safari World

This 170 acre park offers many opportunities for fun and excitement as you get close to wild animals roaming free or see others performing tricks.

The main attraction is as the name says traveling through the open spaces where wild animals can be seen in their natural habitat from the windows of a tour coach or your own car. The journey is 8 kilometres and takes about 45 minutes. On the way you will have close encounters with rare and endangered species. One highlight you should not miss is feeding time for the lions and tigers. It will send a chill down your spine. There are many animals in the underwater world too. Some are very playful and mischievous. They will split your sides with laughter as the sea lions and their friends perform in the Sea Lion Show at Lighthouse Cove.

Add more excitement to your visit on a boat ride through the tropical jungle where hungry crocodiles await and head-hunters have their eyes on you. Beware of the gorillas lurking in the forest. You had better hold on to your seat as the boat moves through the mangroves and thick reeds and shoots down a heart-stopping flume.

All this adventure will probably build up an appetite so you head to the restaurants and kiosks spread throughout the park.

Open: Daily from 8 a.m. - 5.30 p.m.

Ayuthaya  

Until it was comprehensively sacked by the Burmese in 1767, Ayuthaya was Thailand's glorious capital, rated by Western observers as the most magnificent city of its day, its gilded monuments rivalling anything back home.

Today, visitors come to see the numerous temple ruins and the revered Buddha figures scattered over the wide area that was home to over 30 successive royal rulers. The most popular way to see the complex is by renting a bike and peddling your way around.

Only 85km from Bangkok, there are several ways to get to Ayuthaya. The two best options are either by train or riverboat, up the Chao Phraya.

Nakhon Pathon  

Regarded as the oldest city in Thailand, the town of Nakhon Pathon is best known for its 127m-high Buddhist monument - the tallest in the world.

An increasingly popular excursion from the town itself is the authentic floating market at Klong Damnoen Saduak - a less touristy and more satisfying alternative to the largely overrated Bangkok floating market.

Nakhon Pathom is 56km west of Bangkok; get there from Bangkok from the Southern Bus Terminal (every 10mins; 1hr journey, THB16 approx); or by rail (THB16-40 approx).

Kanchanaburi

Most famous as the location of the infamous bridge over the River Kwai, Kanchanaburi is 130km west of Bangkok. As you might expect most of the points of interest in and around the town concern World War Two.

This black iron bridge in a remote corner of Asia has become one of the best known symbols of World War Two and is still a draw for tourists. It is an incredible sight to see the huge construction, brought in to the territory by the Japanese army and reassembled by POWs during the war.

The bridge was a vital link in Japan's supply and transport chain, dubbed the "Death Railway", and was bombed heavily by Allied airforces towards the end of the war. Across the bridge there are caves, waterfalls and a Neolithic burial site that also survived the onslaught on the bridge.

Damnoen Saduak

100km from Bangkok lies Damnoen Saduak and its famous floating market. Authentic and rural, the market is a fabulous sight as small boats, laden with produce, fill the river.

You have to take to the water yourself to experience the organised chaos from the midst of it all - an unforgettable experience. The Rose Gardens en route shouldn't be missed either. Although they're located in Nakhon Pathom an organised tour will often incorporate them in a visit to the floating market.

The flowers make a colourful backdrop to displays of Thai culture including traditional dance and amazing martial arts.

Chao Phraya River  

Every great city has its main river and in Bangkok the Chao Phraya has been integral to people's lives for centuries. A good way to experience the river, and to see all the sights along its course, is to catch a river taxi from Tha Wat Ratchasingkhon pier (many buses go there) all the way to Nonthaburi. From the boat, you'll be able to gain a real insight into Bangkok life by seeing people's wooden houses precariously perched over the water, children swimming in the murky depths and a riot of sounds, sights and smells.

The trip takes around three hours one-way and costs approximately THB15.

Thai Boxing  

Kickboxing is known as muay thai and is very popular among Thais. There are regular bouts at two main stadiums: Lumphini (Thanon Rama IV) and Ratchadamnoen (Thanon Ratchadamonoen Nok). Your attention will be equally divided between the exuberant spectators and the remarkably limber fighters. Admission prices vary according to proximity to the ring.

Chinatown 

This fascinating district has a flavour all of its own and makes for a rewarding walking excursion. On the periphery there is the Thieves Market and an Indian Quarter. Sampeng Lane is one of several main streets through which you will find numerous market stalls and cheap eateries in an area that once thrived on opium dens and prostitution.

Wat Mahathat (Temple of the Great Relic) 

This temple houses a university and the headquarters of the country's Vipassana meditation school. Information, instruction and meditation are offered on a daily basis, depending on the availability of suitable monks.

On Buddhist holy days there is a thriving market on the temple grounds selling Thai medicines in root or powder form. Located on Thanon Na Phrathat.

Open: daily 08h00-17h00. Admission: free. Tel: +66 (0)2-222-7984.

PATTAYA

In the last 30 years Pattaya has grown into Thailand's most developed resort town, with all the attendant advantages and problems that such a growth spurt can bring. In the early 90s Pattaya was infamous for its littered beaches and lurid sex scene, so much so that the traditonal domestic tourists, mostly families from Bangkok, stopped coming, leaving Pattaya to Westerners living out the GIs' legacy with admirable though dissolute enthusiasm.

GETTING THERE:

It is around 1 ½ hours by road from Bangkok

MUST SEE & DO

Pattaya Beach

The focal point of this resort town is quite naturally Pattaya's beach. The northern part is quieter while the southern end has a reputation for being lively and sociable, with lots of shops, restaurants, bars and nightclubs. The water is perfectly clean for swimming and aqua sports, although if you are looking for privacy you are better served by the private resort beaches. Jomtien Beach, 4km south of Pattaya, is the least congested public beach and is a popular place for windsurfers.

Outlying Islands

There are some wonderful islands dotted just off Pattaya's shore. Ko Lan, the largest and most developed of the archipelago, is only 15 minutes away by speedboat and offers visitors crystal-clear water with vibrant coral and some of the country's best seafood restaurants. A further 45 minutes away is Ko Phai, where deserted beaches await for those wanting to get away from it all for a day (there are no accommodation facilities).

Watersports

Pattaya is a haven for watersports enthusiasts. Scuba diving, deep sea fishing, water skiing, jet skiing, sailing and surfing attract experts and beginners alike. However, king of the watersports in Pattaya is undoubtedly parasailing. Take offs and landings occur in the sea, providing you with an experience that is both safe and exhilarating. Just about every hotel has a paragliding service or least can arrange one for you.

Mini Siam & Mini Europe

More than a hundred of the world's most famous buildings are recreated here on a scale of 1:25 allowing the visitor to bestride the globe like a colossus. For the Pattaya resort goer with no intention of visiting Thailand's culturally rich cities, this spacious park provides the opportunity to view Bangkok's Royal Palace, and the atmospheric ruins of Ayuthaya, among other landmark structures.

Cabaret

Cabaret is a Pattaya speciality and there are several thriving operations along the Strip that are well worth a visit. Shows incorporate song, dance and comedy and the performers are celebrated for their feminine beauty and multi-faceted skills. Nevertheless, they are all men. Try the legendary Alcazar or Tiffany show which has delighted over a million visitors in the last 20 years.

Pattaya Elephant Village

The elephant has long been a working animal in Thailand and the village provides compelling demonstrations of how elephants are trained and used by their keepers. The animals are well kept and all ticket proceeds are poured back into maintaining the impressive natural environment of the park. Visitors have the opportunity of riding an elephant on a half-day safari through portions of rainforest and a thrilling stretch of river.

Million Years Stone Park and Crocodile Farm

This is a genuinely unusual and deeply interesting park that will enthrall the whole family. There are thousands of crocodiles on view, presiding over a lake that is home to several species of rare fish. The park also contains a host of different animals, including a tame tiger, bear and lion that allow you to pose for photographs. The other main feature of the park is the enormous unusually shaped rocks and petrified trees, many twisted by nature into grotesque shapes.

Suan Nong Nooch (Nong Nooch Garden)

Located approximately 18 kilometers south of Pattaya, the Garden can be reached by taking a left turn from Sukhumvit Road at the Km. 163 marker. The Garden is a sprawling recreation park in a typical Thai setting. A group of traditional Thai pavilions and gardens of different flowering plants are positioned around the beautifully landscaped site. Daily cultural and elephant shows are available for tourists with show times at 10.15 a.m. and 3.45 p.m.

PHUKET

One of Thailand's best known holiday destinations, Phuket is indeed a magnet for tourists, The greatest attraction for all are the beaches, and the island certainly has more than its fair share of fabulous swathes of golden sand, which can easily compete with any around the world. The underwater world surrounding the island should not be missed either: there are some beautiful coral reefs, home to tropical fish of various kinds, providing some excellent snorkelling and diving opportunities.

GETTING THERE:

Flights to Phuket are available from Bangkok & all major South East Asian hubs and is serviced by low cost carriers as well as regular carriers. It takes approximately 1 hour & 20 minutes from Bangkok by flight.

MUST SEE & DO

Beaches 

The highlight - and indeed the main reason why most people come to Phuket - is its beaches. Relaxing on these magnificent swathes of golden sand can feel like paradise, as long as you manage to get away from the crowds.

If you want unadulterated heaven, you might want to escape the frenetic areas around touristy Patong. A 15-minute tuk tuk ride north along the coast from Patong will take you to the sleepy fishing village of Kamala with its unspoiled beach. Alternatively, if you head south, you will find the wide expanse of Karon and picturesque Kata beaches.

One of the cleanest and most beautiful beaches on the island is just south of here, in Nai Han. Activity junkies may prefer to stay in the Patong beach area to go paragliding or to hire a jet-ski for around THB500. For surfers, Karon, Kata and Nai Harn beaches are the places to be between June and November.

Snorkelling and Diving  

With its beautiful coral reefs and clear blue sea, you can see why many people are attracted to Phuket for its diving and snorkelling opportunities.

Kata Beach offers some of the island's best underwater scenery, as does the nearby island of Koh Poo. The northern end of Kamala Beach also boasts an impressive coral reef close to the shore. The whale sharks are one of the most exciting species which divers come to see. From mid-October to May, the conditions are optimal for diving.

Favourite diving spots are Ko Kaew Noi, Ko Rajali Yai, Shark Point, and the relatively unspoiled Khao Lak. For day trips, the Rajah Islands south of Phuket boast the clearest water. Shark Point, in the east, has the most marine life. Otherwise venture to the Phi Phi Islands (koh Phi Phi) where the scenery and coral gardens are magnificent.

There are numerous dive courses offered in various languages both in Phuket and Koh Phi Phi. You can shop around for a good deal once you arrive. You can book at many of the major hotels on the island, including the Sheraton Grande Laguna.

On Phi Phi, you can organise day trips or live aboard cruises with the Barakuda Diving Centre. Ton Sai Bay, Koh Phi Phi

Khao Phra Taeo National Park 

Away from the beaches, one of the most interesting places to visit is the Khao Phra Taeo National Park. Set in dense virgin forest, this large national park is a centre for conserving plant and animal-life.

The park is a fantastic place to hike, with walking trails taking you into the lush rainforest and to the cascading waters of Bang Pae Falls, next to the Gibbon Centre, and the clear pools and watercourses around Ton Sai waterfall.

The walk to Bang Pae is relatively hard going, so make sure you know what you're letting yourself in for in advance. The best time to visit the waterfalls is from Jun-Feb, at other times you may find that they have dried up into a mere trickle. Talang district, north end of island, approximately 20km from Phuket Town. There are also some nice waterfalls at Kathu on Kamala Mountain, a few kilometres from Patong Beach.

Open: 06h00-18h00

Speed Boat Tours to near by Islands

By far the best way of seeing these areas of stunning beauty is by taking one of the regular speed boat tours to places like Phang Nga Bay or the Phi Phi Islands. You should have no trouble finding someone to take you on a tour, especially if you're around Patong, where people are queuing up to sell you things. But you could also try Phuket Adventures, which runs a number of tours. Price of one-day tour: approx. THB2900 per person approximately.

Temples 

Though the island is not famed for its Buddhist architecture, there are a couple of temples on Phuket that are well worth visiting. Behind Chalong Bay in the south, vibrant Wat Chalong, with its hues of red and gold, is the best known and most elaborate of these. With a long and varied history, it attracts Thais from far afield who come to pay homage to a monk who was believed to have restorative powers.

Equally interesting is the temple and museum of Wat Phra Thong in the Thalang District. The temple contains a half-buried Buddha statue emerging from the floor. Legend has it that this statue was originally completely buried except for the tip of its topknot, which a boy tied his buffalo to, thinking it was a post. The boy died shortly afterwards, leading the villagers to investigate, and hence discover the Buddha. They managed to dig up only half of the statue and built the temple around it. Anyone attempting to unearth it further has allegedly fallen prey to some disaster.

Phuket Town 

You might be tempted not to bother stopping in Phuket Town, as your first impression will probably be of a noisy, dirty settlement with little to offer the tourist. The town is worth exploring, though, if only to see a more "real" side to the island away from the beaches. And, on closer exploration, there are some very attractive Sino-Portuguese colonial buildings and Chinese temples dating from the 19th century.

The majority of the colonial mansions with their bright tiles and latticework are along Krabi, Dibuk and Thalang Roads, which you can easily walk around in a morning. There are also some small galleries and shops selling Thai and Chinese arts and crafts in this area. Just by the bus station, you can experience the colours and smells of a real Thai market on Ranong Road and visit the nearby Chinese and Thai temples which provide yet another insight into the mixed cultural heritage of Phuket.

CHIANG MAI

The second largest city in Thailand, Chiang Mai in the north of the country is usually the next port of call for visitors after Bangkok. But many find the city a lot more amenable than the frenetic capital, and Chiang Mai is emerging as the destination of choice for the more discerning visitor. Chiang Mai is also the perfect jumping off point for exploring the atmospheric north of the country, the side of Thailand that visitors to Bangkok just don't see. The jungle-covered hills north of the city hide numerous settlements of so-called Hill Tribes, mysterious and disparate peoples who have their own culture, religion and outlook on life.

GETTING THERE:

Flights to Chiang Mai are available from Bangkok & all major South East Asian hubs and is serviced by low cost carriers as well as regular carriers. It takes approximately 1 hour & 20 minutes from Bangkok by flight.

MUST SEE & DO

Doi Suthep Temple 

Doi Suthep Temple is located about 15 km form the city. There is a saying that "If you haven't visited Doi Suthep Temple, you haven't visited Chiang Mai". Set high up on a hill that overlooks the city, the temple is a site of pilgrimage for all Thais, so a visit here is an ideal way to get a sense of the importance of Buddhism in the Kingdom.

As when visiting all temples respectful dress is required (no shorts or sleeveless shirts), and shoes must be removed before entering the inner sanctuary to see the gleaming golden stupa. If the weather is clear, the panorama over the city is spectacular.

Open: 09h00-17h00.

Phra Singh Temple 

In the heart of the old city, Phra Singh Temple occupies a large area and features some of North Thailand's most renowned architecture. It was originally intended as a repository for the remains of King Kam Fu, who reigned 1328-1337 but has since expanded.

As you enter the main gate, take a look at the beautiful scripture library to your right, which stands on a base surrounded by bas reliefs of angels. The main assembly hall is directly in front, and to the left is the Viharn Lai Kham, an elegant structure that contains the city's most revered Buddha image - the Phra Singh. This 14th-century icon is unusual in that it employs a different design to most images of the deity that you find in the region. The statue on display is a copy of the original, which was moved to the National Museum for safety. The Viharn Lai Kham also contains other sights of interest, there are some fine murals depicting Buddhist fables, and the exterior gold decoration is exquisite.   

Wat Chedi Luang 

Wat Chedi Luang was originally built in the 14th century as a mausoleum for King Saeng Muang Ma's father. Although today the structure is severely damaged, it is easy to imagine what a magnificent building this once was.

According to records, when the wat was enlarged in the 15th century it was 90m in height at its apex, which would have easily made it the largest structure in the city. An earthquake in 1545 was responsible for most of the damage seen today, although much work has been carried out to preserve what remains.

The temple stands in its own grounds right in the middle of the city, and a restoration project has made the courtyard one of the most pleasant parts of Chiang Mai to wander round at your leisure. Guides are available should you want to learn more about the various chedi contained within the site.

Chedi Luang is also now home to the Inthakil pillar, formerly at Wat Sadue Muang - the geographic centre of the city. The Inthakil is regarded as the embodiment of the spirit of Chiang Mai and is the focus for many ceremonies and festivals through the year.

Arts & Cultural Centre 

In the heart of the old city, behind the Three Kings Monument, this centre gives a good overview of Northern Thai history and culture.

It is set in a rambling old colonial-style building that was once the city hall. Inside, the building's two floors are divided into thirteen different rooms that focus on such aspects as prehistory, the city's rulers, the last 100 years of development in the city and the hill tribes. The large site that the centre covers is located on top of what was once Wat Sadue Muang. Remains of the temple can still be seen within the compound, including the sacred well. This is considered the spiritual heart of the city, sadue muang translating to "navel of the city".

Open: Tue-Sun 08h30-17h00.

River Trip 

Chiang Mai is situated on the River Ping, one of the main tributaries of the country's main river, the Chao Phraya. At 540km long the Ping is the most important river in the region, and along its banks both up and downriver from the city you'll find centuries-old settlements that maintain their traditional appearance and agricultural way of life.

Taking a short river trip from the city is an excellent way to see some of the otherwise less accessible sites in the locale. The average tour lasts between 90 minutes and two hours and there's plenty to see in that time. Upstream there are many riverside houses, some of them restaurants and bars that are worth exploring after your cruise. Further north, outside the city you head into the nearby countryside, passing some palatial riverside properties, and traditional villages. There are several operators.

Standard cruise boats leave from the east bank of the river, just north of Nawarat bridge, every hour on the hour and charge around THB300 for a two-hour cruise on an old rice barge.

Night Bazaar

Chiang Mai's Night Bazaar at the northern end of Chang Klan Road is justifiably famous all over the nation and even beyond. Over a kilometre's worth of stores and stalls open nightly until 23h30 and within them you can find just about everything, from fake labelled clothing to genuine antiques.

Best items to look out for include crafts and decorated fabrics from the hill tribes, pottery, glassware, jewellery, wall hangings and rugs. You can afford to be a bit more wary of the numerous fake Rolexes and designer gear that you'll be enthusiastically hawked.

Haggling is expected but you are not expected to drive too hard a bargain. The atmosphere is as much part of the experience as the actual shopping. The area surrounding the market is always lively and upbeat, with plenty of places to eat, drink or be entertained.

The Handicraft Highway  

If the Night Market is a bit too much tat for too much baht for you, head for the so-called "Handicraft Highway" to the east of town along San Khampaeng Road.

A series of handicraft villages demonstrate Northern Thailand's prodigious manufacturing talents. Goods on offer range from small (silverware, jewellery) to large (fine furniture). For more serious shoppers, or indeed for anyone interested in the local crafts, a trip down here is a must.

Old City Walk 

Chiang Mai's old city still has remnants of the walls and moat that protected it in bygone days. The best-preserved sections are what were originally the four corners of the city (Kga Tumm, Goo Rueng, Hua Rim and Seepoom) with their formidable defensive bastions.

Well-preserved original sections or reconstructions of the city defences are also located around the five gates to the inner city. Take a map (there are plenty available free at hotels and tourist offices) and set off down the narrow lanes, where people go about their business in an unhurried manner.

KOH SAMUI

Until being developed as a major tourist destination in the 1990s, Koh Samui was a little-known island inhabited by a small population of coconut and rubber farmers, offering nothing except swathes of white sand with turquoise waters lapping at its shores.

Fortunately, the beaches remain unchanged, albeit rather more crowded than they were 15 years ago, and though tourists possibly outnumber locals in peak season, the island has managed to retain a modicum of rural charm.

GETTING THERE:

Flights to Koh Samui are available from Bangkok & all major South East Asian hubs and is serviced by low cost carriers as well as regular carriers. It takes approximately 1 hour & 05 minutes from Bangkok by flight.

MUST SEE & DO

Beaches 

The beaches of Koh Samui are among the best in Thailand, or anywhere else for that matter, and are the main reason for the island's popularity. The main beaches - and the most developed - are Chaweng and Lamai on the island's east coast. At the north end of Chaweng, white sand beaches slope gently out to a narrow reef which protects the beach and makes the water very good for swimming.

Along the island's north coast is a series of more intimate beaches, Mae Nam, Bophut and Bangrak. None of these beaches are particularly good, and Bangrak in particular can be a muddy mess in the rainy season. However, Bangrak is where you'll find the tiny islet that is home to the Big Buddha Temple. While the size of the statue is impressive, the pavilion lacks the grace and beauty of most Thai temples.

Beyond Big Buddha beach, a wide cape juts out at the north-east corner of the island. This is home to what many think is the island's most charming beach, Choeng Mon. There are a few high-end bungalows and many restaurants with good reputations here.

Snorkelling and Diving  

Koh Samui offers some of the best coastal water in Thailand, and is understandably popular with divers and snorkellers. The very best diving is around the small island of Koh Tao ("Turtle Island") about 90 minutes by boat from Samui, where you'll find superb coral reefs and a vast array of aquatic life in the calm blue waters. Dive companies on Samui will arrange day trips to here, however, many serious divers are now choosing to stay in one of the resorts cropping up on Koh Tao itself.

There are a number of dive schools with qualified English speaking instructors around Samui, which is also home to the only decompression chamber in the region. A five-day course should cost about THB8000. A day trip to the dive sites around Koh Tao can cost up to THB3000. Easy Divers has offices in all the major tourist centres on Samui.

Angthong National Park 

The prime "must see" attraction that doesn't involve a beach is the Angthong National Marine Park. This collection of 42 tiny limestone islets 31km west of Samui, contains virgin tropical rainforests and coral reefs, preserved within a national park. If you must, there are some stunning beaches here as well. The park is normally visited as a day trip from Samui.

Your hotel is sure to have a tour desk or nearby agency that can book a trip. There are a number of operators of tours to Angthong. Tours costing from approximately THB800 to THB1000, excluding the THB200 entry fee to the park.

Hin Ta and Hin Yai 

At the south end of Lamai beach are some rock formations that are standard, if a bit puerile, stops on any tour of Samui. The "Grandfather" and "Grandmother" rocks have been shaped over millions of years by wind and water to resemble certain key parts of the human anatomy. A short narrow alley lined with souvenir stalls leads from the main road to the rocks.

You actually end up on Grandmother's belly, where a crevice has been worn into the rock to form her legs. The Grandfather Rock, a phallic pillar, is about 25 metres to the south. Despite the silliness that the stones induce, the spot is actually rather beautiful, with turquoise waters in pools among the rocks.

Waterfalls 

Away from the heavily developed coastal fringe of the island, its interior is still a mixture of coconut and rubber plantations as well as small patches of tropical rainforest. Some tour operators offer four-wheel drive day trip safaris into the rainforest, but most people settle for a visit to one of the waterfalls in the island's interior.

The largest and most interesting is Na Muang Falls, located about 10km from Nathon. Alternatively the smaller Hin Lat Falls are only 3km from Nathon. Both waterfalls are quite popular at the weekends, when they can be very crowded with picnicking locals.

"Real" Samui 

The major beach resorts, such as Chaweng and Lamai, are so heavily developed that they could be just about anywhere. However, it is still possible to get a glimpse of what the first Westerners saw when they visited the island, back when coconut farming was the major industry. The southernmost area of the island is still relatively undeveloped, and a drive to the Thong Krut district will take you through some still-working coconut plantations and country homes.

As a final destination, Laem Sor Pagoda is a good spot to head for, situated as it is on the island's southernmost point. Next to the pagoda is a small "meditation forest" where monks gather on important Buddhist holidays, and on the other side of the forest is a small pond.

The seafront near the pagoda is quite wild looking, with large chunks of coral and driftwood having been thrown up on the exposed rocks at the island's tip, but a little further to the east is a pleasant stretch of beach, which is almost always completely deserted. It is arguably the most beautiful spot on Samui.

Koh Tan 

Snorkelling and diving are of course popular in Koh Samui as a whole; the crystal clear waters and coral reefs that surround the island provide a perfect setting for exploring the underwater world.

Nowhere is this more true than the aptly-named Koh Tan, or "Coral Island", a 20-minute boat ride from the main island. The reefs here are home to countless colourful tropical fish and are perfect for snorkelling. It's easy to while away a few hours swimming in this sublime environment.

KRABI

Located approximately 814 kilometers from Bangkok is Krabi Province, one of most attractive destinations in southern Thailand. Encompassing an area of 4,708 square kilometers, the western border of Krabi is the Andaman Sea, the northern borders are Surat Thani and Phang-nga Provinces, the southern borders are Trang Province and the Andaman Sea and the eastern borders are Nakhon Si Thammarat and Trang Provinces. Krabi is an ideal getaway destination teeming with natural attractions including white sandy beaches, fascinating coral reefs, numerous large and small islands and verdant forests with caves and waterfalls.

GETTING THERE:

Flights to Krabi are available from Bangkok & all major South East Asian hubs and is serviced by low cost carriers as well as regular carriers. It takes approximately 1 hour & 20 minutes from Bangkok by flight.

MUST SEE & DO

Beaches

Krabi is the location of two world class beaches Ao Nang and Hat Rai Le which offer numerous diving trips, restaurants, shops etc. Additional attractions in the province are stunning limestone cliffs and rock formations which make it a heaven for rock climbers and a National Park located approximately 40 kilometers outside of town with lakes, caves and spectacular natural scenery

Khao Khanap Nam

Regarded as the symbol of Krabi, Khao Khanap Nam are two mountains that are roughly 100 meters tall, separated by Maenam Krabi and located at the entrance to Krabi city. Khao Khanap Nam has beautiful caves with amazing stalactites and stalagmites worth exploring. In addition to natural attractions, a large number of human skeletons have been found here. It is theorized that they are the remains of people who came and established a home at Kanab Nam, but were cut off by an inundation and quickly perished. The mountains can be reached by taking a 15-minute long tail boat ride from Chao Fa Pier. For visitors interested in a more extensive excursion, it is possible to tent a boat can be rented at 300 baht per trip to visit Khao Khanap Nam, mangrove forests and Ko Klang fishing village.

Wat Tham Suea

Wat Tham Suea, which literally means tiger cave temple, is located in the Khiriwong Valley amidst lush forests and mountains with large trees over a hundred years old approximately 9 kilometers northeast of Krabi Town. Aside from being the site of a meditation center, the compound is also a place of archaeological and historical interest as excavations have uncovered stone tools, pottery remains and Buddha footprint crafting molds. In addition, a cave in the compound has what appears to be tiger paw prints in the stone.

Tham Sadet

This beautiful cave adorned with stalactites and stalagmites is located at Ban Nong Kok, Tambon Sai Thai, 7 kilometers from town on Highway No. 4034. "Sadet" means visit, and the use of the term in the name of the cave refers to the royal visit to the site in 1909 by the King Rama VI (at that time that Crown Prince).

Tham Chao Le

A beautiful cave adorned with stalactites and stalagmites as well as prehistoric cave paintings depicting people, animals and various geometrical shapes. These paintings are assumed to have been painted after those of Tham Phi Hua To. The cave is located to the west of Laem Sak in a bay surrounded by mountains and picturesque islands. The cave can be reached by taking a 10 to 15-minute boat trip from Laem Sak.

HUA HIN

The oldest and most traditional Thai resort combines the attractions of a modern holiday destination with the charm and fascination of a still active fishing port. And while most other Thai holiday destinations cater mainly to foreign tourists, Hua Hin is a holiday resort for foreigners and Thais.

GETTING THERE:

Flights to Hua Hin are available from Bangkok and is serviced by low cost carriers. It takes approximately 50 minutes from Bangkok by flight.

MUST SEE & DO

Beaches

As Hua Hin is located on the western side of the Gulf of Thailand, it's hardly surprising that it is well-endowed with some great beaches. Most are wide and long, whilst depths are generally shallow with very mild currents. As a result, they are safe for all the family

Temples

The main temple is Wat Hua Hin (or Wat Ampharam) that is located in the centre of town.

Other notable ones include Wat Bor Fai that is around 5km north of Hua Hin and where you can feed the large, sacred catfish for a small donation to the monks.