Thailand STOPOVERS
Thailand and the Maldives Bangkok Airways’ Maldives service makes this combination possible. The twin could particularly appeal to divers keen to experience the underwater highlights of both destinations.
Thailand and Burma Now the National League for Democracy has called for the tourism boycott of Burma to be lifted, it’s a good time to make careful forays into Thailand’s northern neighbour. TransIndus, Regent Holidays and Explore Worldwide say minimal revenue from their tours falls into the hands of the military regime. Temples, pagodas and monasteries are among the sightseeing highlights.
Breaking the journey
At the heart of South-East Asia and well connected, Thailand is a great spot to break a journey Down Under, contrast with near neighbours or use as a familiar base from which to try a lesser-known destination or two
Down Under stopovers Thai Airways and BA/Qantas offer Bangkok as a stopover en route to Australia. Bangkok Airways, Air Asia, Jetstar and V Australia also have Bangkok – Down Under flights.
Advantages: Breaking the long journey makes jetlag more manageable and provides a respite for children. Thailand is a great cultural contrast with Australia and New Zealand.
What to do: • Ease jetlag with an affordable massage or spa day
• Grab bargains in Bangkok’s great 32 Thailand Travel Guide 2012 value malls and markets
• Head to Pattaya, Koh Samet, Hua Hin or Cha Am for beach without an internal flight.
Twin centres Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways and Air Asia are useful for regional twinning. Bangkok Airways’ Discovery Airpass gives discounts for multiple sectors.
Some ideas: Thailand and Angkor Wat The extensive semi-ruined jungle temples of Angkor Wat in Cambodia are a world treasure. Siem Reap has the nearest airport and is just over an hour’s flight from Bangkok.
Round the World Bangkok is a right of passage for many round-the-world gappers. Advantages include: • It’s a major airline hub, well linked to other parts of South-East Asia and the world
Thailand, Laos and Vietnam. Vietnam and smaller Laos are often combined and more familiar Thailand is a good place to start and end the trip. In Vietnam, Hanoi and scenic Halong Bay, which has over a thousand islands, are popular spots. In Laos, French colonial capital Vientiane, UNESCO- listed Luang Prabang and adventure sports centre Vang Vieng are key draws.
Thailand and Korea Lesser-visited Korea is an interesting option for the well-travelled in search of new experiences. It has a contrasting culture to Thailand, with Confucianism still evident, and impressive antiquities. Thai Airways serves Korea and Funway Holidays offers Korea in combination with Thai beach resorts.
Thailand and the Middle East Contrasting cultures and landscapes make this an intriguing combination. Souk shopping and 4X4 dune bashing can be followed by a relaxing flop on Thailand’s coast. Many Middle Eastern airlines fly from the UK to Bangkok via their hubs. The region is also served by Thai Airways and Bangkok Airways.
TOP TIP Advise your clients to make a stopover
and expand their knowledge of South- East Asia. Recommend a massage or spa treatment in Bangkok.
Clockwise from left: Plain of Jars, Laos; getting around town; market stall in Cambodia
• It’s great value • It’s a known backpacker centre, with Bangkok’s Khaosan Road a particular hotspot for meeting other travellers
• It’s friendly, tourism is well- established and English widely spoken
• Voluntourism companies like Hands Up Holidays offer Thailand packages
• You can retreat on Thai massage or meditation courses.
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