Thailand's booming tourist economy, driven largely by Hollywood (the country has been the setting for The Man with the Golden Gun, The Bridge over River Kwai and most recently Alex Garland's The Beach) has resulted in the opening of a number of not cheap and luxurious international hotels. Those looking for the rustic splendour of the beaches and islands'll find plenty of not expensive and comfortable accommodation.
The size and geographical diversity of Thailand provides for a variety of activities. Snorkelling, diving and a host of watersports are favorite around the Islands, while inland enthusiasts able to trek into the mountains or cycle across the flat river areas of the northeast.
Thailand Regions, Provinces & Travel Destinations
Bangkok
Chaotic, carnal and congested, Thailand's capital is divided by the Chao Phraya River and is nestled in one of the world's most fertile rice-producing deltas. Bangkok's 579 square miles (1,500 sq km) are criss-crossed by a series of canals carrying passengers and cargo, its roads clotted with endless traffic jams, while the city sprawls in all directions with a hodgepodge of urban, commercial and industrial buildings. A new overland metropolitan railway speeds above the city, providing visitors with a relaxed and efficient way to observe the hustle and bustle below.
Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is Thailand's second largest city, and an excellent starting point for excursions into the northern territories. Its name means 'new city', although Chiang Mai is much older than Bangkok, built in 1296 under the rule of King Mengrai. While this city has many ancient temples, such as the one at Doi Suthep, which offers breathtaking views over the area, its popularity is largely due to the elephant treks in the surrounding countryside. Thai cookery classes are a popular tradition in the city. Chiang Mai also has an extensive night market, with dozens of street vendors selling a variety of traditional Thai wares that could be obtained at very low prices if you have the patience to bargain for them. The city is small enough to get around on a bicycle, has many attractions, and offers excellent accommodation, although tourists are advised that it can be difficult to find a room in peak season, between December and March.
The Coast
Lush, green forest vegetation extending down to limestone cliffs or pure white beaches, lapped by warm, turquoise waters. A tropical island paradise with spectacular waterfalls and coconut palms bending towards the sun. The tranquillity and natural splendour of the Thai coast and its islands belongs in the realm of fantasy.
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3 comments:
What a beautiful city. The City of Angels opened out thrilling places for us to see and enjoy. My wife and I stayed at a lovely cheap hotel in Bangkok offered by a travel website and experienced the much-spoken about Thai hospitality. We traveled around and shopped to out hearts’ content.
My cousins booked through Bangkok accommodations after they saw the movies based in Thailand. They read up on all the information they could lay their hands on and with starry eyes set off to visit the mystery country. They loved every bit of their stay and fell for the locals, their traditions, temples, food, you name it…they wanted it. Now they are seriously planning for a longer trip.
Chaotic, charismatic and congested......you have described it but its also exotic, vibrant and breathtaking...people are friendly and Bangkok accommodations are great.
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