Travel Destinations

Thailand provides a unique collection of experiences for the visitor, offering a wide variety of attractions that cannot be equaled anywhere in the world. With glittering temples, turquoise seas and chequered rice fields, Thailand is like a dream. It is an oasis of calm blended with vibrant cities and bustling markets. The ‘Land of Smiles’ certainly lives up to its name. It is simply a beautiful country where people live to the full and where past and present are in harmony.

Central

Bangkok

Thailand's capital well known as the City of Angels, Krungthepmahanakorn (Bangkok) is the focal point for Thailand. It is a vibrant city where the visitor can expect an endless choice of sightseeing and entertainment opportunities. In addition to the many temples and historic buildings, such as The Grand Palace and Wat Arun, the list of interesting places to visit includes the numerous canal (klong) networks, the Chaophraya River and the many markets. For those who are avid shoppers, Bangkok offers shopping centers as well as many interesting markets and areas in which to search for your treasures.

Kanchanaburi

Situated approximately 129 kilometres west of Bangkok. It is located at the point where two tributaries, the Khwae Noi and Khwae Yai meet and form the Maenam Mae Klong. This is the location of the notorious Death Railway and the Bridge on the River Khwae one of the worlds famous World War II sites which have been immortalized in the film with the same name. The magnificent landscape and charming beauty of Kanchanaburi include several well-known waterfalls, caves which were once inhabited by Neolithic man, pristine national parks, tranquil rivers, virgin forests, reservoirs and the railway. Together, they offer an intriguing experience for first-time or repeat visitors.

Nakhon Pathom

is a small province located just 56 Kms. from Bangkok. The province features an ancient religious structure called “Phra Pathom Chedi”, the first religious landmark that signified the influx of Buddhism into Thailand. Nakhon Pathom is also renowned for its abundant fruits varieties and the famous Floating Market of Damnoen Saduak and the Rose Garden, a stylish riverside resort and golf course. These fertile lands provide agricultural area for people, thus most of the residents earn their living from agriculture; plantations, farming, growing food crops, and fruit orchards.

Ayutthaya

is one of Thailand's historical and majestic highlights. Serving as the Thai capital for 417 years until 1767, it was once glorified as one of the biggest cities in Southeast Asia. During the 17th century, most foreign visitors to Ayutthaya, traders or diplomats alike, claimed Ayutthaya to be the most illustrious and glittering city that they had ever visited. The Kingdom of Ayutthaya reached its apex in terms of sovereignty, military might, wealth, culture, and international commerce in the 16th century when the Kingdoms territory was extended far beyond present-day Laos, Cambodia, and Myanmar. Ayutthaya even had diplomatic relations with Louis XIV of France and was courted by Dutch, Portuguese, English, Chinese and Japanese merchants. Today visitors can explore the architecture and the Thai history at the Ayutthaya Historical Park, an extensive historical site that has been included in UNESCO's World Heritage list since 13 December, 1991.

Chai-Am

Situated on the Gulf of Siam next to the Royal resort of Hua Hin, this charmingly, low key resort is approximately two hours drive South of Bangkok. The beautiful stretch of soft sand beach is ideal for swimming and those lazy days of soaking up the sun. Cha Am hotels made dramatic changes in the last years. Today there are some of the most stylish hip hotels in Thailand. The resort itself is famous for its local beach restaurants, especially in nearby Hua Hin.

Hua Hin

On Thailand’s beautiful Gulf of Siam, Hua Hin was first discovered in the late 1920’s. Hua Hin is an active bustling fishing port with plenty of colourful local life and a superb night market with a mind-boggling choice of handicrafts, textiles or the latest DVD’s. Golfers will appreciate the several 18 hole courses in the area, while other points of interest include the picturesque railway station, a winery, the beach promenade and the old palace on the outskirts of town.

East

Pattaya

A bit more that one hours drive from Bangkok lies Thailand’s evergreen resort. Apart from the fine beaches and colourful nightlife, Pattaya offers excellent dining and shopping opportunities, not to mention the best water sports facilities in Thailand. There are some lovely beaches and quieter areas to enjoy too, especially in the Jomtien area where there are a number of new and stylish resorts. It truly has all the ingredients to make your stay a memorable one.

Rayong

This uncommercialised resort together with the island of Samet has seen a dramatic increase in popularity in the last years. These beautiful beaches can be reached in two hours from Bangkok. Lying on the Gulf of Siam, all the hotels are in an area of unspoilt beaches and idyllic offshore islands with mountains and plains, forests and fruit plantations at its back.

Koh Chang

This island is about 315 kilometers South-east of Bangkok. Ko Chang is incredibly mountainous and lush. With mostly of undisturbed rainforest, it is perhaps the best-preserved island in Southeast Asia. There are spectacular waterfalls, a rich evergreen forest, idyllic scenery, clear blue waters, crystalline sand and dazzling coral reefs, indeed an ideal place for beach and nature lovers. For snorkelling and scuba diving enthusiasts, Koh Chang National Marine Park, is famous for its incredible corals and aquatic life.

North-East

Khorat

Nakhon Ratchasima, commonly known as Khorat, is the gateway to the Northeast. It is an excellent starting point for excursions to Thailand's finest Khmer ruins which can be seen here next to Mon and Lao sites. In addition, Khorat has an abundance of natural attractions in its forests, hills, wildlife and waterfalls that are easily accessible in locations such as Khao Yai National Park.

Surin

Surin is best known for its elephants. The gigantic animal of Surin impresses everyone and creates unique character of the province. The people of Surin have a long relationship with the elephants which goes back for more than two thousand years. The area is dotted with ancient Khmer ruins built during the Angkor Empire. Some of the most beautiful silk comes from Surin which is also very famous fragrant jasmine rice.

Ubon Ratchathani

Ubon Ratchathani has been a well established community for hundreds of years. Relatively unknown to the most tourists, the province boasts a number of natural wonders, cultural and historical attractions as well as national parks. The province is renowned for its strong Buddhist tradition, particularly the practice of forest-dwelling monks and the ancient Buddhist temples, which can still be seen throughout the province today. The province is unique in its folk culture, which is expressed in the indigenous cuisine, handicrafts, such as silk and cotton products, basketry, and bronze-ware, and traditional events such as the Candle festival held every July. Ubon is famous for its Isaan food especially for the spicy duck salad and the grilled chicken. The local markets offer a lot of local handicrafts including fabrics and silverworks.

Khon Kaen

The city of Khon Kaen is the commercial, administrative an educational centre of the Northeast,which is often used by travellers as a base for visiting many parts of upper Isan. The National Museum houses objects from the Dvaravati period and bronze sculptures from Ban Chiang. Kaen Nakhon Lake in the centre of town is a popular spot for picnics and dining, while Wat That on its bank features typical Isan spires. Khon Kaen is the centre of the northeastern silk industry with numerous villages producing their own mudmee designs. Chonnabot is noted for its quality silks. A dinosaur is the provincial symbol ever since remains of these great beasts were unearthed in Phu Wiang National Park, an area also famous for its flora, fauna and waterfalls.

Nakhon Phanom

This ancient city is located on the right bank of the majestic Mekong River. The lovely setting of the provincial capital is enhanced by the rugged beauty of jungle covered mountains which lie beyond the Laotian town of Tha Khaek , located on the opposite bank of the river. With a history that dates back many thousands of years, the province is a melting pot of diverse ethnic cultures and traditions. However, the culture with the strongest influence on the architecture, customs and cuisine of the province is the Lao culture. Nakhon Phanom is renowned as a great place with beautiful scenery and relaxing ambiance by the Mekong River.

North

Chiang Mai

The capital of the North with its fascinating indigenous cultural identity such as diverse dialects, cuisine, architecture, traditional values, festivals, handicrafts and classical dances is a prime location in its own right. In addition, the presence of hill tribes and their wealth of unique cultures enhance Chiang Mai's distinctive diversity. Chiang Mai is also blessed with pristine natural resources of mountains, waterfalls, and other nature-based tourist attractions. At the same time, Chiang Mai residents are warm, gracious and congenial providing authentic hospitality making visits memorable and meaningful. Moreover, visitors from all walks of life can collect handicrafts of silk, silver and wood produced locally as timeless souvenirs.

Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai is the northernmost province of Thailand, situated on the Kok River basin. The province, which is located within the renowned Golden Triangle area where Myanmar, Laos and Thailand converge, is also known as the gateway to Myanmar, Laos and Southern China. Chiang Rai is a travellers paradise endowed with abundant natural tourist attractions and antiquities. The province itself is evidence of past civilization. Attractions range from magnificent mountain scenery, ruins of ancient settlements, historic sites, Buddhist shrines and ethnic villages as the province is also home to several hill tribes who maintain fascinating lifestyles. These ethnic minorities began to arrive in Thailand at the end of 19th century and some groups may have been here much longer. They were forced out of their native countries, such as Myanmar, China, and Tibet by civil war and political pressures. Each hill tribe has its own customs, culture, religion, clothing and language.

Sukhothai

Thailand’s first truly independent capital is located on the lower edge of the Northern region. This kingdom flourished in the 13th and 14th century, which is considered as classic era of the Thai religious art and architecture. The superb temples and monuments of this great city have been lovingly restored in Sukhothai Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see for all travelers.

Mae Hong Son

This charming small town is nestled in a deep valley hemmed in by high mountain ranges. It has long been isolated from the outside world. Today, Mae Hong Son is one of the dream destinations for visitors. The Thai Yai culture has had a strong influence on the province, as can be seen in its architecture. Although a part of the Lanna region, the indigenous Thai Yai people living in Mae Hong Son have developed their own architectural style which is different from other Lanna communities for example in Chiang Mai. Daily flights into its small airport bring growing numbers of tourists, attracted by the spectacular scenery, numerous hill tribe communities and soft adventure opportunities.

Nan

A quiet and tranquil town, Nan nestles in a verdant valley in northern Thailand. The people of Nan descend from the Laotians. Their forebears moved here to settle around 700 years ago at the time when Sukhothai was becoming the kingdom of the Thais. Nan's history is deeply involved with its neighbours, in particular Sukhothai which played an important role in both political and religious terms before Nan became a part of Lanna, Burma and Thailand in that order. Today Nan is still the home of numerous Thai Lue and other hill tribes who retain highly interesting customs and traditions.

South

Koh Samui

Just one hours flight from Bangkok, off the east coast of Thailand lies this beautiful island. Many people say this charming private airport is one of the nicest in the world, and helps to put the tourists in a holiday mood as soon as they arrive. Most hotels are situated on Chaweng and Lamai beach. There are many shopping facilities here, and many restaurants. Bophut beach has become very trendy as it is quieter than other beaches. The local fishing village, which is easily accessible on foot from this beach and the hotels, has remained nearly unchanged. It is worthwhile going for an evening stroll here, to enjoy the sunset and to soak up the atmosphere, and then go for a meal in a romantic seaside restaurant. Livelier than some of the other Thai resorts, Koh Samui is an ideal island for active relaxation.

Phuket

Phuket is Thailand's largest island and one of the most popular holiday destinations in Southeast Asia. The main attractions of Phuket are the lush tropical landscape and the wonderful beaches. On the coast facing the Indian Ocean is a string of long beaches with fine white sand. The best known and liveliest is Patong beach. If you want it a bit quieter you stay at the beach resorts of Bangtao, Kamala, Karon, Kata, or Kata Noi. With its spectacular beaches, sparkling crystal-clear blue waters, picturesque landscape, historical and cultural sights as well as endless offers of all imaginable entertaining amenities, Phuket truly is a "dream-come-true" destination. The sightseeing tours are an excellent way to get to know the sights of Phuket and its surroundings. Such tours which take you through virgin forest to the most interesting places in Phuket and to the islands offer the visitor an unforgettable experience.

Khao Lak

The enchanting beaches of Khao Lak with their tropical surroundings are unquestionably one of the paradise destinations. Khao Lak is the premier beach resort for visitors who value unspoilt nature and a beach that stretches as far as you can see. For those who like a restful holiday but with a little activity, this long beach is ideal as it offers walks as far as you wish along the sands, or perhaps you prefer jogging. The snorkeller and diver find their eldorado on the wonderful Similan and Surin islands nearby. The National Parks of Khao Sok and Khao Lak are easily reached and offer the coolest experiences of the jungle on foot, on an elephant and on a bamboo raft. There is an 18 hole golf course in Thai Muang which can be reached in ten minutes. The quietness of the resort is not just the absence of noise, but an atmosphere of wellbeing, the friendly welcoming service, the lush vegetation, the calming sounds of the sea - a luxury which has insufficient words to describe it. The hotels in Khao Lak have been very carefully designed so that the buildings harmonise and complement with the natural landscape. This resort becomes more and more popular with our guests, especially in the off season. Khao Lak has none of the hustle and bustle of some other resorts. But there are a lot shopping facilities and some cosy restaurants. Having dinner next to the beach, with the sea breeze, the sound of the waves on the shore and with a spectacular sunset, gives a romantic atmosphere which is an unbeatable experience.

Krabi

Krabi has clear waters and glorious sandy beaches framed by incredible limestone scenery. On Phra Nang Beach you find many hotels, a big selection of shops and restaurants to enjoy when you are feeling sociable. From here you can reach many of the surrounding beaches by long-tail boat, and the paradise islands, for example Railay, Ko Poda, or Phi Phi. Rather quieter is the area of Klong Muang near Tup Kaek. Here you find hotels of the luxury class or small places with ambiance, where the visitors enjoy a spectacular panorama of the islands, with a wonderful beach too.

Island Hideaways

Undoubtedly one of the most beautiful experiences of Thailand is to escape to one of the smaller islands, that offer some of the best and most unspoilt beaches as well as clear waters and a laid back pace of life. Despite being a little more off the beaten track, you do not compromise on standards at all. Some of the finest hotels are located on the islands and offer stunning views and a relaxed and peaceful environment.