Pattaya

Pattaya is located on the eastern coast of the Bight of Bangkok-the huge bay at the top of the Gulf of Thailand. Being within easy reach of Bangkok along the coastal highways, Pattaya is a popular destination for the many ex-patriots living and working in the capital. They flock here to unwind and enjoy the vibrant nightlife. Pattaya is "party central" for many thousands of tourists who converge on the beach here year after year. Afternoons are spent recuperating along the sand and surf or, for those who are up to it, a host water sport activities are on hand. Superb diving can be found on the off-lying islands of Ko Phat and Ko Laan. Delicious fresh seafood is abundant and on offer throughout the numerous eating establishments of Pattaya. If you're looking to relax on a quiet, less crowded beach, Hat Jomtien is a scant 2 km. south of Pattaya and Hat Naklua is to be found just north. Wild nightlife, sun and surf, and great dining are a winning combination for visitors to Pattaya.

Beach on Koh Samui

Samui

Ko Samui represents the idyllic topical island paradise: small and laid back, coconut palms swaying over white sand beaches... Gone are the days, however, when backpackers had the island to themselves. Now, with daily flights and a bevy of ferries bringing in travelers from every walk of life, the island of Ko Samui has matured into a world-class holiday destination. From luxury resorts to beach bungalows, there is accommodation for every budget. Ko Samui is part of an archipelago of islands lying just off the coast in the province of Surat Thani at the western edge of the Gulf of Thailand. At 247 square kilometers, Ko Samui is the largest, and one of only six inhabited islands. A coastal road runs around the island for some 50 kilometers and links the many beaches and bays. Chawaeng and Lamai beach on the north and eastern coasts are among the most popular. There is plenty to see and do and, luckily, the island is small enough to put it all within easy reach. Enjoy the waterfalls at Hin Lat and Na Muang or the live coral beds of Laem Sed and Tong Takien. Take in the big Buddha on Fan isle in Plai Laem Bay. Great 'photo ops' await at the butterfly gardens and monkey training center. Don't miss the phallic rock formations at the southern end of Lamai Bay. Above all, take pleasure in the unique setting that is Ko Samui.

Kata Viewpoint, Phuket

Phuket

Midway down and west across the isthmus making up the panhandle that is Southern Thailand, the island province of Phuket nestles close to the mainland on the edge of the Andaman Sea. Phuket has flourished in recent years claiming the majority of Thailand's tourist receipts. Small wonder, for where else can you enjoy a beach for every mood? The 45 km. length of the west coast offers a string of beaches capable of exceeding everyone's expectations. Whether it is the placid sweep of a turquoise bay lined with glistening bodies frolicking in the surf or a near deserted ribbon of white sand stretching as far as the eye can see, Phuket has it and more. How about, jungle safaris into the hills on elephant back; world class dive sites for day trippers or live-aboard; guided sea canoe expeditions through stalagmite studded caves; luxurious spas offering herbal treatments and therapeutic massage; premium health care facilities proposing a host of body alterations and medical procedures at a fraction of the cost found in most western countries; a throbbing neon nightlife featuring transvestite cabaretshows; street vendors hawking handicrafts and trinkets; modern shopping malls or getaway island resorts catering to the party animal or the spirit of the castaway. And that's just to name but a few of the "things to do" on this island of plenty.

Krabi

Krabi is situated east of Phuket and about 1,000 km south of Bangkok. Giant limestone karsts rise up from the rolling hills of this southern province like huge green popsicles. The profusion of cliffs in the area has contributed to the number of rock climbing operations that have cropped up in recent years. The beautiful resort islands scattered over the body of water between Krabi and Phuket are shared by island hopping tourists originating from both destinations. Krabi province is a perfect place to enjoy nature and serenity since very little development has bothered the environment. Bird watchers thrill to the possibility of sighting rare species. Trails cut through tropical forests, carry ambitious hikers on unforgettable jaunts. The Buddhist temple, Wat Tham Seua, with its main alter built into the cave at the base of a monolithic rock formation, is truly an amazing sight and well worth visiting. Another intriguing spot is the Shell Fossil Cemetery at Laem Pho, 19 km. from town. Krabi town is the center of commerce and a good place to get oriented for excursions. Ao Nang is the main beachside community offering a wide variety of accommodation, dining experiences, and entertainment options. All in all, Krabi is a wonderful place to relax and enjoy.

Hat Yai

Hat Yai is one of Thailand's larger cities, and the major center of commerce in the south. A short hop from the border of Malaysia make this strategic city a focal point for goods flowing between the two countries. A large immigrant Chinese community ensures the prosperity of trade in the downtown area. Bargain hunters from Hong Kong, Malay businessman and international travelers heading to or coming from Malaysia make up the majority of Hat Yai's visitors. Shopping is the principal attraction for many. Then again, maybe it's the nightlife. There are, of course, temples to visit but bull fighting? Apparently so, and we're not talking matador vs. big bad bull; two bulls square off against each other! After all the excitement, you may want to take in "Elephant Tusk" falls. A day of natural beauty and relaxation is easily accessed 24 km. west of Hat Yai in the Rattaphum district. The twin falls cascade through seven levels and reach their optimum flow at the end of the wet season (Oct.- Dec.). Once back in the city, sample the mouth-watering flavors of Indian, Chinese, Malay or Thai cuisine or-if you really must-have a hamburger at McDonalds. Hat Yai, you gotta love it!

Kanchanaburi

Thais more often than not, will refer to this mountainous province as Kan or Kan'buri. It is to be found 130 km. west of Bangkok. The road gradually rises along a plain of sugar cane fields to the foothills where the quaint city of Kanchaniburi is located. The film, "Bridge Over the River Kwai", chronicling the 2nd World War occupation forces utilizing allied P.O.W. to build the "Death Railway" was shot on location here. There are a number of museums paying homage to the brave who died during this period as well as two cemeteries containing their remains. Once out of the city, roads branch off and snake over the mountains and valleys that separate Burma (Myanmar) from Thailand along the western frontier. The winding mountain road working its way for over 200 km. up to the infamous border crossing known as Three Pagoda Pass offers some of the most picturesque vistas of Thailand. Waterfalls, hot springs, rivers and caves are plentiful throughout the many national parks dominating this region. Fine resorts and golf courses cater to vacationing Thais and foreigners alike. For the more adventurous spirit, there are river rafting excursions and hiking trails to explore. Kanchanaburi is a varied and appealing destination. No small wonder then, that it is becoming increasingly popular with visitors to Thailand.

Phitsanulok

On the road to the northern provinces and just under 400 km. from Bangkok, the rolling hills of Phitsanulok are suggestive of a changing topography. The lowland plains of rice are left behind as one moves through this verdant, forested countryside. Situated on the banks of the Nan river, Phitsanulok town welcomes all who journey to this region whether simply passing through or, having been charmed, decide to stay awhile. There is much to discover in the surrounding area. But before you go off exploring, be sure to visit Wat Phra Si Ratan Mahthat where one of the most famous Buddha images resides. Two mountainous national parks: Thung Salaeng Luang and Phu Hin Rongkla (once a haven for communist party members and student activists during turbulent times), beckon travelers to take the road east. The Thai breed known as the Ban Kaeow-a cross between dog and wolf-originated in Phitsanulok province. While sitting in a floating riverside eatery deciding whether to tour the Buddha foundry or the folk museum, perhaps you might consider an extra day or two and do both. Who knows, you might even have time to visit the ruins at Wat Chulamani.

Thai Buddhist Temple

Chiang Mai

Several hundred km. northwest of Bangkok and serviced by air, road and rail, Chiang Mai is the gateway to the northern provinces. Would-be explorers to the region are delighted with the prospects of visiting hill tribe villages and hunting for handicrafts among the vast selection on offer in Chiang Mai province. The city, Chiang Mai, is a bustling burgh with a vast array of accommodation and tantalizing menus to choose from. At the heart of it all, surrounded by a moat with numerous bridges leading through gates, is the ancient walled city. Historical temples abound within these walls. Night markets teeming with people from every corner of the globe display the plethora of foods, handicrafts and goods available in Thailand. This is also the venue for a variety of free dance and musical performances showcasing cultural aspects of Thai life past and present. Chiang Mai hugs the base of Doi Suthep, the summit of which is at 1,600 meters. A steep and winding road leads to the temple, Wat Phra That, constructed in 1383. Aside from the spectacular views of Chiang Mai, the Wat contains a number of interesting surprises for the keen observer. The Royal Family's winter palace is located a little further up the road and the gardens are open to the general public. There is just so much going on in this area, it would take years to explore and experience it all. Maybe that's why so many visitors take up residence in Chiang Mai.