Thailand is much smaller than you may initially think and, compared to Europe, is roughly the same size as France. The predominantly Buddhist kingdom is divided into four different regions, so to speak, and the traveller can enjoy the following:
The north
The mountainous north, where elephants reside and fruit is grown aplenty. Strawberries, peaches - the temperature in the north is cool and controlled enough to cultivate the most temperate of fruits.
The north is also home to the famous Mekong River, where it is believed that the oldest Bronze Age civilisation resided some five thousand years ago...
The middle
Central Thailand, as you probably know, is where you will find the capital - Bangkok. This area of the country is extremely fertile and is where a lot of rice and fruit is grown.
The transport links in and around Bangkok are excellent for getting to other parts of the country quickly and hassle-free, particularly, if you are able to, at night.
The south
The south of Thailand is also renowned for its stunning natural beauty and wildlife. Fishing and mining is rife here so, once again, if you want to experience some of Thailand’s history - the south is where to head.
Although Thailand’s beaches are best known for their laid-back lifestyle, beach lounging, yoga, massage and beauty treatments (whilst of course not forgetting the good old party scene); they’re also a haven for the more adventurous traveller.
If you want to experience more active activities then you will be pleased to hear that Thailand’s beaches also offer a multitude of water sports, golf, cycling and
hiking ventures.
Travelling around Thailand is not as daunting as you might first think, and is also relatively cheap in comparison to the West. Whilst not all forms of transport are particularly fast, they are incredibly efficient and run 365 days a year, 24/7.
Thailand is one of the easiest countries to travel around compared to the rest of south-east Asia. There are a number of trains and buses, which are cost effective and frequent. Many trains are extremely luxurious and, if you are able to travel at night, you could pretty much kip-it-out until you reach your destination.
Of course, if you prefer to travel by day and take in the sights offered by road, you can choose from a range of inter-town songthaews, air-conditioned minibuses or
share-taxis.
If you want to travel off the mainland to visit some of Thailand’s most favourable islands then there are ferries which provide very easy, quick access.
Many travellers use Thailand as a base to explore its neighbouring countries. With so many south-east Asian countries to choose from, all with flying times of less than a couple of hours, here is a brief introduction to the most popular:
Malaysia
With flights from Bangkok to Kuala Lumpur taking only approximately two hours and costing in the region of £50-£100 return per person, it makes sense to take a few days out to explore Malaysia too.
You could venture to the favourable Kuala Lumpur or head to the renowned beaches of Penang.
If you love Indian cuisine, shopping, incredible coastlines and national parks; or the idea of visiting a tea plantation or taking part in some jungle trekking excites you, then Malaysia really ought to be up there on your excursion list.
Laos
Laos is incredibly easy to get to, with a choice of either a short flight via several airlines from Bangkok or Chiang Mai, or you could even hit the road and catch a bus.
Luang Prabang is a popular destination; full of art galleries, trendy stores, cool coffee shops and fun nightlife. Just like Bangkok, Luang Prabang also boasts some stunning national parks, caves and lots of opportunities for an elephant ride!
The capital city of Laos, Ventiene, is definitely worth a visit if its tradition that you want. With beautiful temples, a motely mix of interesting museums, and many four and five star hotels to choose from. Ventiene is great for a little relaxing retreat away from the hustle and bustle of Bangkok.
Hong Kong
On the contrary, if its the bustle and rush you love then why not pop over to
Hong Kong?
Hong Kong is a true Chinese city, full of vibrant restaurants and designer shops. It also offers more than twenty museums, hiking and swimming adventures, enchanting temples, world-famous restaurants and an amazing light show over the city every night.
Singapore
Singapore is also a shopper’s paradise, renowned for its array of amazing bookstores: the food is once again out-of-this-world, with many world-class restaurants calling it their home, not to mention a long list of five star hotels thrown into the mix. If you want to live-it-up like a celebrity then Singapore is definitely
worth a trip.
Vietnam, Cambodia and Burma
Thailand is perfectly situated for you to visit a number of different countries. Let’s not forget Vietnam, Cambodia and even Burma if you want to experience something
extra exotic.
Vietnam has a rich, interesting and melochonic history. It is, in stark comparison to its military background, blessed with a ravishing coastline, emerald-green mountains, breathtaking national parks, dynamic cities, outstanding cultural interest and one of the world’s best cuisines.