Thailand
From the vibrant heartbeat of Bangkok to the remote hilltribes of the rural north, the kingdom of Thailand is spectacularly rich and diverse. Colourful ancient temples reflect a wealth of history and vibrant blend of cultures. Verdant rainforests and idyllic islands provide a paradise for nature lovers as well as a playground for the adventurous.
Chiang Mai
Founded by King Mengrai the Great in 1296, Chiang Mai is popularly known as the “Rose of the North”. Nestled in the foothills of Thailand’s northern mountains, Chiang Mai has hundreds of finely decorated temples, great restaurants and a thriving night market. It is also the starting point for jungle treks to see the Lisu, Lahu and Karen hilltribes.
HIGHLIGHTS: Trekking, elephant rides, shopping, cookery classes, bamboo rafting.
Krabi and the Southern
Islands Krabi has pristine white sand beaches and towering, limestone outcrops that rise out of bright, turquoise waters. You can experience remote, unspoilt islands or luxury resort hotels. You can also take a boat trip to one of the nearby Andaman Islands; Krabi is ideal for either a relaxing or an adventure-based stay.
HIGHLIGHTS: Rock climbing, snorkelling, sea kayaking, diving, spa treatments, boat trips.
Bangkok
Bangkok, Thailand’s bustling capital, is an exotic city where gleaming skyscrapers and shopping malls stand alongside traditional markets and opulent temples. Two of the most popular sites to visit are the Grand Palace (the King’s official residence) and the reclining Buddha at Wat Pho. Also popular are the city’s klongs (canals), museums, parks and lively street markets.
HIGHLIGHTS: Rice barge and boat cruises, barter at markets, watch Thai boxing, cycling and tuk-tuk rides.
Kanchanaburi
Kanchanaburi is the site of the famous Bridge over the River Kwai and the Death Railway, built in 1943 by thousands of Allied prisoners of war. In contrast to its brutal history, Kanchanaburi is blessed with abundant natural beauty, including the mighty Erawan waterfall and the deep Lawa and Kra Sae caves, which have enormous stalagmites and stalactites.
HIGHLIGHTS: Rafting, boat rides, jungle treks, train rides.
Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai is the most northerly province of Thailand, bordering Burma and Laos at the infamous Golden Triangle. Chiang Rai is known as the “Crown of the North” - a relaxed base from which to visit some of the nearby hilltribe villages and appreciate the unique scenery of this mountainous region.
HIGHLIGHTS: Trekking, hilltribes, boat trips, elephant rides, temples and markets.
Khao Sok National Park
Covering an area of 739 sq km, Khao Sok National Park is home to elephants, leopards and more than 180 bird species. The landscape ranges from majestic limestone cliffs to waterfalls and dense native rainforest – and includes the oldest evergreen forest in the world.
HIGHLIGHTS: Elephant trekking, jeep safaris, canoeing in Cheow Lan Lake.
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