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Thailand is acknowledged to be one of the most enjoyable countries in the world in which to spend a vacation. It is a fairly large country,
approximately the size of France, with a predominantly buddhist population. Thailand’s topographical variations and regional distinctions are considerable and yet there is nowhere that is difficult to access or that is lacking in facilities for the visitor.

Within its area of 513,115 square kilometres, Thailand comprises four distinct geographical regions, each with its own character: The mountainous North, with its profusion of multicoloured orchids, colourful native handicrafts and winter temperatures cool enough to cultivate temperate fruit and vegetables; the high Northeast Plateau with its striking archaeological and anthropological sites; the Central Plains, the nation’s rice bowl with Bangkok at its southern limit, watered by the Chao Phraya River.
The South is different again, a narrow peninsula with the Andaman Sea on its western side and the Gulf of Thailand to the east. Both coasts are lined with white sandy beaches and many offshore islands.
The country is blessed with a tropical climate that is neither too hot, too dry nor too wet in the monsoon season and travel in Thailand is comfortable at any time of the year.
The experience of generations of tourists and travellers places Thailand firmly amongst the world’s most visitor-friendly travel destinations. A safe and welcoming environment where the legendary Thai smile is one of the pleasant realities of life.
Even in the busy metropolis of Bangkok, the Thai characteristics shine through the international bravura. The uniqueness of the food, the social customs, the temples and the buddhist aura all provide an eternal appeal. The Thai people themselves are perhaps the country’s biggest asset.
Whether in Bangkok, on white sandy southern beaches by emerald seas or in the green mountain forests of the North, visitors will always feel that they are amongst friends.

THAILAND HIGHLIGHTS:
BANGKOK: A vast mixture of 21st-century sophistication and ancient Thai tradition and culture, The city has come of age over the last decade.
The endless traffic jams still exist and pollution is a major concern but modern transportation systems, great shopping, temples galore, night markets and some of the most exciting nightlife in Asia provide Bangkok with an undiminished allure and appeal.
HUA HIN: Thailand’s oldest resort and a popular Royal retreat. With over three kilometres of unbroken beach and excellent hotels and resorts the emphasis is very much on quiet relaxation, although the town possesses more than its fair share of bars, eateries and entertainment outlets as well as one of the best night markets in the country.
CHIANG MAI & CHIANG RAI: Two peaceful and rejuvenating Northern retreats. Chiang Mai, Thailand’s second city, seems almost village-like after the hustle of Bangkok. Tourist attractions and excellent nightlife exist in profusion along with a range of superb antiquities. Chiang Rai is the semi-remote regional gateway to the Golden Triangle region, home to hill-tribes, trekking, stunning vistas and working elephants.
PHUKET: Arguably Thailand’s most popular beach destination and an island of contrasts. The busy streets and exhilarating nightlife of the capital, Patong, quickly give way to more relaxed resort areas, quiet, idyllic beach locations and some stunning scenery. Heavily developed in parts, Phuket still offers some of the finest resorts in Thailand, boasting many exclusive settings and beaches.
KHAO LAK: A quieter and less developed northern alternative to Phuket, Khao Lak offers superb beaches and one of the most dramatic and scenically stunning natural backdrops in the whole country, with unspoiled rainforest, waterfalls and wildlife in profusion.
PHI PHI & KOH LANTA: Once a popular haven for day-trippers and backpackers, Phi Phi Don has moved up-market offering bare-foot retreats of the highest order, set amongst dramatic karst scenery. Neighbouring Koh Lanta features an extensive, undeveloped coastline facing the Andaman Sea and backed by virgin rainforest. As relaxing and peaceful as it gets.
KRABI: Krabi Province boasts some of the most stunningly beautiful scenery in Thailand. The beach resorts offer exclusivity, privacy and unequalled natural settings, overlooking the Andaman Sea and the eerie limestone karst landscapes of the surrounding marine national park.
KOH SAMUI: A once pristine and idyllic island environment, now increasingly developed Koh Samui still retains its magical allure. Chaweng is the islands nerve centre with a host of restaurants, bars and resorts. More sedate and attractive options have sprung up over the last decade, notably in and around Bo Phut and Maenam, both facing north to nearby Koh Pha-Ngan.
KOH SAMET & KOH KOOD: Koh Samet is blessed with pristine beaches, low-key, high-end development and beautiful bays all just two hours south of Bangkok. Further south and almost within touching distance of the Cambodian border, Koh Kood is even less developed with an unspoiled natural environment and a selection of tastefully designed eco-sensitive resorts.

THAILAND – GENERAL INFORMATION
PASSPORTS AND VISAS
British passport holders do not require a visa for stays of less than 30 days. A minimum of six months validity is required on the passport. Other nationalities should contact the Royal Thai Embassy, 29-30 Queen’s Gate, London, SW7 5JB – Tel: 020 7589 ext. 5502-5507.
VACCINATIONS AND HEALTH
Yellow fever immunisation essential if arriving from an infected area. Precautions against hepatitis A, typhoid and polio recommended plus malaria depending on area visited and time of year. Please consult your GP for up to date information.
CURRENCY
Thai Baht (Bt) = 100 Satang. Major credit cards accepted. US dollar traveller cheques recommended. ATM facilities available in major urban areas.
CLIMATE
Tropical. The best conditions are from November until February, which is predominantly warm, sunny and dry. The evenings are cooler in Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai and northern hill destinations. Temperatures and humidity increase significantly from March to May. The rainy season is from June to September although downpours can occur throughout the year.
TIPPING AND BARGAINING
Tipping is at the individuals discretion. 10%-15% is acceptable. Bargaining for souvenirs and artefacts, particularly at the many and varied street markets, is essential.

Resources:
Contact the The Tourist Authority of Thailand, 3rd Floor, Brook House, 98-99 Jermyn Street, London, SW1Y 6EE – Tel: 09063 640666. Email: info@thaismile.co.uk. Website: www.thaismile.co.uk
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