Ayutthaya
Despite the partial destruction of the site by the Burmese people in the 18th century, the remains of the gigantic Buddhist monasteries enable to measure the magnitude of the city.
Bangkok
An eclectic mixture of tradition and modernity sets Bangkok apart as Asia’s most exotic and fascinating city.
The old City, in the north-west of the capital, contains the largest concentration of historical sights - the Grand Palace, the National Museum, Wat Arun... Bangkok became Thailand’s capital, after Sukhothai, Ayutthaya and Thonburi, at the beginning of Chakri Dynasty with Rama I in 1782.
The Chao Praya River divides the city like into 2 distinct towns, Bangkok on its right bank and Thonburi on its left bank, and is like the life line of the city. Bangkok remains the shopping paradise of South-East Asia. It is also one of the world’s most exciting cities in the world. Its lively nightlife and markets, shops and restaurants, and magnificent wats (temples), museums, palaces and parks, have something for every visitors.
Banlung
Travellers will also find the opportunity to meet the ethnic minority farmers working in this large farmland.
Battambang
It offers beautiful landscapes and authentic surroundings.
Cat Tien
Central Highlands
Chiang Mai
The kingdom was founded by King Mengrai by merging the various city states in the region in 1296. Today Chiang Mai is the economic, communications, cultural and tourism centre of Northern Thailand.
About 700 kilometres from Bangkok, Chiang Mai is situated in the Mae Ping River basin some 310 metres above sea level. Surrounded by high mountain ranges, it covers an area of approximately 20,107 square kilometres. The fertile terrain consists mainly of mountains and jungles parts of which are within national parks and are verdant with plentiful flora and fauna. There are many sites and locations which tourists can visit to study the lifestyle of the tribal people who live in the hills.
Chiang Rai
The northernmost province of Thailand, Chiang Rai is situated on the Kok River basin 416 metres above sea level. With an area of some 11,678 square kilometres, it is about 785 kilometres form Bangkok. Mostly mountains, it reaches the Mae Khong River to the north and borders on both Myanmar and Laos. The province is rich in tourism resources in terms of natural attractions and antiquities, evidence of its past civilisation. It is also home to several hill tribes who follow fascinating ways of life and a tourism gateway into Myanmar and Laos. Chiang Rai is unlike other towns. It is small enough to make visitors feel welcome but large enough to accommodate all these people in comfortable accommodation.
Dalat
The city enjoys fresh air and cool weather all year round.
It is famous for its green pine forests, colourful flowers and fruits. The rolling hills and fertile valleys are dotted with lakes and thousands of villas are nestled amidst the pine trees.
Danang
It has long been the busiest seaport and is now the main city in central Vietnam located midway between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
Nowadays, except for a few architectural remains of the French colonial period and its famous Cham museum, the city is mainly an active business city and port.
Halong Bay
With over 3,000 islets covering an area of 150 km² and its emerald water and numerous limestone caves, Halong Bay is truly a mystical site.
Hanoi
It has preserved its centuries‐old architecture and rich cultures.
Ho Chi Minh City
The streets, where much of the city’s life takes place, are a myriad of shops, stalls, stands on‐wheels and vendors selling wares spread out on the sidewalks.
The city churn, ferments, bubbles and fumes. Yet within the teeming metropolis are the timeless traditions and beauty of the ancient culture.
Hoa Binh / Mai Chau
Further on, 60 km west of Hoa Binh, is Mai Chau a small village occupied by the White Thai minority.
Easily accessible from Hanoi, the region offers an overview of the different ethnic minorities who are inhabitants of Vietnam.
Hoi An
Today, Hoi An, rich in cultural heritage and unique in character, is considered as one of the most charming coastal towns of Vietnam.
A mixture of Portuguese, Chinese, Japanese and French influences, it retains the feeling of the past centuries. Its magnificent collection of almost 850 ancient French colonial buildings, the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge and its pagoda and preserved streetscapes are just begging to be explored.
Hue
Surrounded by moats, the intriguing Purple Forbidden City which served as the residence of the Nguyen Emperors was constructed by Emperor Gia Long in 1804. Largely destroyed during the American War, the remains of the citadel, which have been partially restored, still contain interesting sights.
Isan Region
The majestic National Parks as well as the Angkorian ruins are perfect places for trekking, leaving great memories to travellers.
Kampot
It is the ideal spot to visit the Bokor National Park, relaxing on the Kep Beach or discovering the wonderful Koh Tonsay, also known as the Rabbit Island.
Kanchanaburi
An ancient Thai civilisation, Kanchanaburi is best know for it's more recent history when, during World War II the Japanese Imperial Army began construction of the infamous "Death Railway" which included the Bridge Over The River Kwai. In total, over 100,000 POW's lost their lives building the railway, tunnels and the famous bridge.
A relatively modern province, the origins of Kanchanaburi can be traced back to the reign of King Rama I, who established the area as a defence against the invading Burmese in the late 18th century. The Thais and Burmese have a long history of crossborder troubles and Three Pagodas Pass in Sangkhlaburi district is still used today as a smuggling route! Over the next century, Thailand as a nation became the economic power of South East Asia, due in large part to the creation of small towns such as Kanchanaburi, complimenting the established Kingdoms of Ayutthaya, Sukothai and of course Bangkok.
Khao Yai
Many treks will allow travellers to admire different waterfalls, colorful birds and other jungle animals.
Ko Phi Phi
Although very frequented by tourists, Ko Phi Phi still considered today having the most beautiful beaches in the world. Consequently, the much known Phi Phi Don will surely leave travellers speechless.
Koh Chang
The sea lovers will find incredible seabed to discover and will surely have a wonderful experience.
Kompong Cham
The surroundings are also known for the Wat Nokor Temple and its Aspara sculptures and the Cham minority villages, the third ethnic group of Cambodia.
Kompong Chhang
Used as a frequent stopover for boats cruising the river, Kompomg Chhang is an ideal spot to spend the night in a relaxed atmosphere.
Kompong Thom
Among them are Phum Prasat and Sambor Prei Kuk with over a hundred pre-Angkorian temples lost in the jungle.
Krabi
Situated on the Andaman seaboard, it has some of the finest and most beautiful beaches in the Kingdom.
Almost virgin stretches of alluring soft sands welcome the visitor and the spectacular waters invite moments of blissful swimming, snorkelling and other marine pleasures.
Krabi is also known for its historical significance. Stone tools, ancient drawings, pottery and skeletal remains found in the region have been dated back tens of thousands of years. To describe Krabi as a fantastic place to relax and enjoy a pleasing tropical climate is an understatement. The pace of life here is unhurried and some beaches can be reached only by boat, a notion which lends itself to that unmistakable island getaway atmosphere.
The area is growing in recognition as a resort destination offering a less developed alternative to bustling Phuket. A range of accommodation is available, much of it in the main centre of Ao Nang, where there is as well a selection of restaurants and shops. There is also stunning national park land to explore, with the presence of Hat Noppharat Thara-Ko Phi Phi National Park.
And for those looking for a touch of adventure to add to their ‘fun in the sun’, Krabi certainly delivers: kayaking, sailing, rock climbing, trekking, cave exploration and island hopping are on the list of activities here.
Kratie
Mae Hong Son
Some 900 km from Bangkok, Mae Hong Son is bordered by Myanmar to the north and west and - while a strong Burmese influence is evident in the province’s beautiful temples and buildings - it is a region of ethnic diversity. The population is an enchanting mix of Thai, Shan and different hill-tribes such as the Karen, Hmong, Lahu, Lisu and Padong.
It’s from the Padong hilltribe this exotic spot draws one of its most intriguing attractions – the women of the group are famed for their elongated ringed necks. Enjoying a cooler climate than most of Thailand almost year round, Mae Hong Son offers a wealth of nature based activities. There’s rafting, hiking through lush jungle countryside, visits to the hill-tribe villages, exciting elephant rides and much, much more…
Mekong Delta
With thousands of canals nourishing a variety of fruits, trees and tropical plants, the Mekong Delta is a real display of the rural life. Places of interest in the Mekong Delta include My Tho, Vinh Long, Can Tho and Chau Doc.
Mondulkiri
Modulkiri Region also has vigorous waterfalls, wooded hills and pine forests that can be visited riding on an elephant for an unusual journey.
Nakhon Ratchasima (Khorat)
From archaeological evidence it has been found that there were 2 ancient towns named Sema and Korakapura which currently are in Sung Noen district, 30 km west of present-day Khorat. It was once part of the Khmer empire. In the years of 1656-1688 King Narai moved the city to its current location. The city was attacked by Anouvong, the King of Vientiane, in 1827 in an attempt to halt the growing Siamese control of Laos. Thao Suranaree is a local heroine with a statue in the centre of the city; she is credited with having saved the city from Anouvong's army. The old town of Khorat west of the Thao Suranaree monument was designed and built by the French engineer who is believed to be the same one who built Naraimaharaj Palace in Lopburi. Nakhon Ratchasima is connected with the north-eastern railway line, connecting Bangkok with Ubon Ratchasima and Nong Khai. Also passing the city is Thai highway 2 (Friendship highway). 26km east of the city is the Nakhon Ratchasima Airport. As of 30
November 2006, the airport does not handle passenger traffic, and shipping has not been seen as a major commercial possibility. Passenger service has been attempted many times with financial failure (charges were as low as 99 Baht to fly to Bangkok), authorities are still discussing ways to make the over 400 million Baht investment several years ago a paying venture.
Nha Trang
Ninh Binh
A stay in Ninh Binh will most certainly take you to Tam Coc for a wonderful journey along the river discovering the natural caves and karstic peaks of what is called “Halong Bay on earth”.
Phan Tiet
In a nice setting with white sand beaches and coconut trees, the resort is also endowed with amazing spots such as the sand dunes, natural lakes and astonishing “red canyons”.
Phnom Penh
Looking back to the colonial days, Phnom Penh is just a real oasis of peace which is well worth a visit.
Phu Quoc Island
Far from civilization, this unspoilt island with its crystal clear blue‐green waters and wonderful coral reefs is definitely a recommended destination for peace and nature lovers
Phuket
The island is connected to the Thai mainland by a bridge, but has retained a distinct culture fused from Chinese and Portuguese influences combining with the culture of the chao naam, the indigenous sea-faring people.
About 35% of the island's population is Thai Muslims. The island's terrain varies from rocky beaches and long, broad sweeps of sand to limestone cliffs and forested hills. It has good beaches, tropical vegetation and a pleasant, relaxed atmosphere, but its ambience and ecology are under pressure from extensive and irresponsible development.
The main resorts include Patong, Karon and Kata, but better beaches are scattered all around the island. Roads radiate from Phuket Town, in the south-east of the island, making it a good base for exploring. Don't ignore the island's interior which has rice paddies, plantations of rubber and cashew nut, cacao, pineapple and coconut, as well as Phuket's last slice of rainforest.
Poipet
Its geographical location has contributed to its fast development creating an original and exciting journey.
Preah Vihear
In this hardly accessible area, travelling during the dry season is highly recommended. However, the magnificent Angkor temples are worth visiting.
Ratanakiri
In addition to these treasures, there are also several traditional Kroeung villages in the region.
Sambor Prei Kuk
The Khmer architecture as well as the specific decorative details are full of history and worth discovering.
Samui
Dubbed the biggest coconut plantation in the world until the first backpackers arrived in the 1970s, this island has now seen tourism become its main income earner.
Samui’s beaches are world famous - its long, perfect strands attract around 500,000 visitors each year. Chaweng beach, in particular, has a reputation as something of a hang-out for an international party crowd.
Sapa
Siem Reap (Angkor)
The ancient capital of the Khmer Empire, the vast Angkor complex is one of the most beautiful archaeological and architectural sites in the world.
A mixture of stones and jungle in perfect harmony, the Angkor Temples have retained all its beauty and testify even today of the greatness of the Khmer Empire.
Sihanoukville
Sihanoukville and its surroundings islands is a perfect stop for a beach holiday.
Sukhotai
Located just a few kilometres from the ruins of the ancient city, magnificent temples and historical monuments are there to explore.
Tonle Bati
The major activities are picnicking and fishing. It is a perfect place to relax in an exotic environment.
Tonle Sap Lake
Due to the climatic conditions of Cambodia, alternating the dry season and wet season, its surface changes twice a year to be multiplied by 6 during the rainy season! This phenomenon adds to the uniqueness of the surrounding villages, whose houses are on stilts.
Trang
Whilst an average of one plane every few minutes uses Phuket's busy runway, Trang's tranquil airport (opened in 1999) welcomes just a handful of flights a day, with the few overseas visitors on board generously outnumbered by Thai businessmen and local citizens.
At the nearby seaport of Kantang, the charming 19th century train station marks the terminal of the South-western Thai railway, adding to the comforting end-of-the line feeling in this lovely part of the Kingdom, with the noise and pollution of Bangkok some 830 kilometres and 15 hours up the track.
Here, lazy beach lounging and stunning sightseeing attractions can be enjoyed without the standard recipe that tends to define and often defile tourist resorts everywhere, and since over two thirds of the province has been designated as national parkland, thoughtful ecological considerations are likely to shape future development.
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