Reasons To Visit Thailand
For some Thailand is synonymous with beaches and there is no debating that many of the islands and beaches in the south of the county are truly stunning with a dramatic backdrop of limestone casts which literally erupt out of the water. Many of the islands are still relatively undeveloped and the crystal clear water and abundance of marine life make for some stunning diving and snorkelling.
An absolute paradise for food lovers, from the spicy soups of the north to the sublime creamy green curries in the south, Thai food is adored by visitors and locals alike. For those who wish to broaden their palate Bangkok is one of the cuisine capitals of the world with food from virtually corner of the planet represented in the various stalls and restaurants.
"Mai pen rai" is a common expression used by the Thais which means "it's all right". This sums up their approach to life and is reflected in their warm smiles and genuine love for giving warm and friendly service to the farangs (friends) who visit their country. Many people say their main reason for repeat visits is down to the warmth of the people. This warmth permeates through all levels of Thai society from city dwellers to the many ethnic hill tribe people living in the north of the country.
Nowhere does the natural beauty of Thailand shine through more than in the national parks dotted around the country. Thailand has one of the highest percentages of protected land of any nation in the world. Whilst today the larger species such as the Asiatic bear and Asian tiger are rather elusive, there are still great viewing opportunities available including hornbills in Doi Inthanon, wild elephants in Khao Yai and giant manta rays in the Similan Islands.
The majority of Thais are devout Buddhists and this devotion manifests itself in the ornate and wonderfully sculptured temples, or wats, which can be found in every part of the country. The two most famous examples are Wat Pho in the capital, Bangkok and the magnificent Doi Suthep in the northern town of Chiang Mai which is perched on a hill overlooking the city. However a typical journey through Thailand will throw up an array of more subtle but no less interesting wats where the locals can be seen paying their respects to Buddha.
Often Paired With:
Request a Brochure
Southeast Asia
Bangkok is Southeast Asia’s main hub, around which the entire region revolves; it is a big, working city where you will see real Asian life. Highlights include the Grand Palace and the reclining Buddha at Wat Pho.
Travelling by train is a charming way of getting between major hubs in Thailand and although the standard of accommodation is relatively basic it is hard not to fall for the romance of a rail journey as you leave the city lights behind and head north through the lush jungle to Chiang Mai.
This is a delightful family-run hotel tucked away down Soi 1, Sukhumvit and is far enough from the main road to provide a peaceful retreat. It is situated a 10 minute walk from the Ploen...
Situated in a quiet side street within easy walking distance of Chong Nonsi skytrain station and the popular tourist area of Patpong, this boutique hotel offers very good accommodation and represents superb value for money.
The Chatrium Suites has an enviable views over the city and the enormous pool has stunning river views so you can swim a few lengths while watching bustling river life unfold in front of you, a truly unique experience.
The Shangri La Hotel is a wonderful hotel in an excellent location with all the facilities you could ever ask for.
The Siam Kempinski is in the heart of bustling Bangkok with easy access to sky train stations and within walking distance of the exclusive Siam Paragon shopping mall. The property...
Located in the heart of the city’s financial, shopping and entertainment district, the Sofitel Silom is a great base for exploring Bangkok. The hotel has 422 contemporary-styled rooms and...
Recapturing the elegance and style of the Twenties and Thirties, the Eastern and Oriental Express is Asia's premier luxury train, travelling from Bangkok through the glorious, sweeping countryside of Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore.
Bangkok is a city of experiences and a stay at its most prestigious hotel is one of them. Counted amongst the many distinguished landmarks in Bangkok, the Mandarin Oriental has been offering...
Without doubt one of the finest hotels in the world, the 37-storey, 370-room Peninsula has rapidly overtaken some more traditional choices as the best address in Bangkok. Its...
16 days from £2,720pp
19 days from £13,895pp
14 days from £1,455pp
41 miles away
51 miles away
68 miles away
89 miles away
102 miles away
Other countries in Southeast Asia:BorneoBurmaCambodiaIndonesiaLaosMalaysiaPapua New GuineaThe PhilippinesVietnam