Thailand
Thailand Holiday
Thailand's level of service, standards and welcoming hospitality has become legendary throughout Asia, earning it this most enviable of nicknames. What's more, if you are looking for any combination of absorbing cultural experiences and idyllic beach resorts you need look no further.
From the bustling capital of Bangkok to the northern retreats of Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai and Mae hong Sorn, Thailand boasts a spectacular array of glittering temples and huge Buddhist statues, saffron robed monks and fascinating hill tribes. There are also some great opportunities to indulge in bargain hunting for clothes and local handicrafts, as well as sampling the exotic tastes of Thai cuisine.
For those seeking pure relaxation, Thailand's coastline and islands are heavenly, with glorious sun-soaked, white sandy beaches lapped by crystal clear warm waters. The beaches are ideal for swimming and snorkeling and many of the hotels offer a good selection of water sports.
From the lively resorts of Phuket and Pattaya to the quiet seclusion of Koh Samui, there is something to suit all tastes.
The land of smiles has something for every taste-aesthetic, exotic or adventurous-as well as beautiful beaches and warm seas. Thailand is full of wonders: glittering temples, seething markets, historic palaces, and some of the world's most beautiful people. The food is delicious; the shopping is exciting, and so is the nightlife, although awareness of AIDS and other hazards has cast a shadow over the seedier side.
It's a big country. Resorts are constantly opening up on the Gulf of Thailand and the Indian Ocean, and visitors are discovering fresh areas of the north, home of the fascinating hill tribes. Indeed, Thailand has only just begun to exploit its possibilities. More than 90 per cent of Thais are Buddhist, a fact that permeates national life. Even in worldly Bangkok, women turn out in front of their houses at dawn to offer rice to saffron-robed monks. Thailand was never colonized, so there is no historic resentment towards foreigners. Instead, a pride in the past and respect for the monarchy.