Thailand
Why go?
Did you know that every year, from Britain alone, half a million
people travel halfway round the world to holiday in Thailand? Quite
impressive. But the astonishing thing is that the vast majority
have been several times before. So what draws them back time and
again?
The attractions are obvious enough. Firstly, the beaches:
soft white sand, bright turquoise waters, astonishing marine life,
and a backcloth of swaying palms and dramatic cliffs. Secondly, the
cities: colourful temples, bustling markets, funky bars,
mouth-watering food-stalls and swish boutiques. Thirdly, the lush
hills and rainforests of the north are prime trekking
terrain, with hill-tribes, elephant rides and rafting on
offer.
These three in combination make Thailand a something-for-everyone
paradise. But there's more to it than that. Perhaps it's the Thai
people – unrushed, helpful, calm and they really can
smile. Or meeting other travellers and swopping life-stories
en route. And let's not forget the food: achingly fresh fish
and prawns, spicy curries, exotic fruit, veggie stir-fries. Plus,
of course, it's still ridiculously cheap - though some parts
are going upmarket.
Whatever it is, it's certainly addictive. We spent two months
combing the country from top to bottom in search of the funkiest,
friendliest
places
to stay – a gruelling task, you will agree – and
now we can't wait to go back. Join the club!
Any Downsides?
Tourism in most areas continues as normal, though there is an
ongoing threat of terrorism in the extreme south.
It can be hot and humid in dry season, and wet in
monsoon season (see
When
To Go). Some coastal areas have succumbed to mass
tourism, with tacky resorts, boozy bars and sex shows. Beware
opportunistic theft, and scams, where strangers
promise cheap jewellery, free taxi rides etc. With 12-hour
jetlag, unintelligible language and complete change in
climate, it takes a while to adjust from Europe. Some
mosquito-borne diseases, but only the Ko Chang is malarial.
What's where?
- Bangkok: A dizzying blend of colours, traffic and people, it's buzzy and bright in spades. Fabulous Wats, jewel-studded palaces and eclectic shopping Read More >>
- Chiang Mai: The main city in northern Thailand, a great base for hill-tribe treks. Visit the famous night market, Doi Suthep and take a cookery or massage course Read More >>
- Chiang Rai & Golden Triangle: The 'Golden Triangle' where Burma, Laos and Thailand converge. Famous for the now-defunct opium trade, hill people and stunning views. Read More >>
- Hua Hin & East Coast: Known as the royal region, this coast has long sandy beaches lined with resorts, and Khao Sam Roi Yot, a national park full of migratory birdlife Read More >>
- Koh Lanta & Koh Kradan: Gorgeous beaches, sensational sunsets, and far fewer crowds than other islands. The laid-back vibe means it's a great first or last stop in Thailand Read More >>
- Koh Pha Ngan: Less commercialised than neighbouring Samui though the host of wild Full Moon parties... Tranquil beaches, pretty coconut groves and buzzy Haad Rin Read More >>
- Koh Samui: Turquoise waves lap white-sand beaches; visit tropical rainforests and thunderous waterfalls then head to Chaweng for a lively party scene Read More >>
- Koh Tao: A tropical paradise with white-sand beaches and incredible diving (turtles, whale sharks, glorius corals), plus a lovely laid-back pace Read More >>
- Phang Nga: Impossibly clear seas and fabulous diving in the Similan islands plus sheer limestone cliffs jutting vertically from the sea in Phang Nga Bay Read More >>
- Phuket: Thailand's biggest island; beautiful sandy beaches with a huge range of watersports and magnificient diving Read More >>
Current Weather – Time
In Bangkok: