Thailand
Far East
Overview
Thailand’s shape and geography divide into four natural regions: the mountains and forests of the north; the vast rice fields of the central plains; the semi-arid farmlands of the north-east plateau; and the tropical islands and long coastline of the peninsula south.
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More about Thailand
As the only nation in the region to have maintained self-rule throughout its long history, the Thai people are proud of their traditions and keen to preserve their independence of spirit. Thailand’s return to popularity is well deserved; guests can expect some of the finest service you will find anywhere in the world. Ancient Thai temples, royal palaces and Khymer ruins dominate the cultural scene, but there are plenty of other diversions, from pristine national parks, beaches and coral reefs, to elephant sanctuaries and the wonderful flavours of Thai cuisine.
Bangkok
The capital city of Thailand, Bangkok offers visitors the opportunity to experience fascinating glimpses of Thai culture amongst the bustle of a great and dynamic city. Visitors should take the time to view the many temples and other historical buildings that are dotted around the city such as The Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha as well as taking advantage of the many great shopping opportunities.
Chiang Rai
Located in the north of the country, Chiang Rai is a small and charming city that provides the perfect base for exploring the captivating scenery and culture of the area. Locals selling their farm produce wander the streets which are lined with quaint shops, whilst the landscape is dotted with crops of tea, coffee and fruits. The region boasts a long history which is showcased through its temples, monuments and museums.
Chiang Mai
Located on the banks of the Ping River, Chiang Mai is affectionately known as ‘the rose of the north’. The city and its surroundings are blessed with stunning natural beauty and a unique indigenous cultural identity with its own dialect, customs and cuisine. Once you have experienced all of the cultural attractions and traditional mountain villages, why not enjoy an adventure such as elephant trekking, river-rafting or a 4WD safari?
Phuket
Located south of Bangkok, Phuket is Thailand’s largest island. Its coastline is fringed with rocky headland and white-sand beaches washed by the Andaman Sea and is set against a background of lush green vegetation and coconut groves. Whilst guests tend to take advantage of the beautiful beaches, the island also offers some great shopping opportunities and many temples and museums to visit. Sporting activities include golf, sailing, horse-riding and deep-sea fishing.
Phang-nga
Phang-nga is famed for its natural beauty and mountainous limestone islands which rise majestically from the sea. The islands are best explored by boat to allow to you a close look at the incredible colours and hidden caves. Perhaps the most well known of all is Ko Phanak or ‘James Bond Island’ which featured in The Man with the Golden Gun.
Krabi
With some of Asia’s best beaches and lush tropical greenery spilling onto the shores, Krabi offers coves and islands to explore, marine life to marvel and adventure in the form of rock-climbing, trekking and kayaking.
Samui
Sitting snugly in the Gulf of Thailand between Bangkok and Phuket, Samui is a magical place of white sands, turquoise waters, traditional sleepy Thai fishing villages, coconut palms and impressive waterfalls. Clear waters and an abundant marine life make diving and snorkelling a popular diversion. The island beckons exploration; visit the famous golden Big Buddah, the Grandmother and Grandfather Rocks or the Mummified Monk who was famous for his dedication to meditation.
Tailor-made Thailand
• Take a river trip by long-boat in Bangkok
• Visit an elephant orphanage
• Experience the night markets
• Visit the famous Golden Big Buddah
• Visit the Grandmother & Grandfather Rocks in Samui
Flights, Timezone and Currency
Flights:
British Airways, Qantas, Thai Airlines from London Heathrow
Flight time: 11 hrs (to Bangkok)
Time Difference:
GMT +7 hrs
Currency:
Thai Baht
Climate - Phuket
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temp °C | 32 | 33 | 34 | 33 | 32 | 32 |
| Hrs of Sun | 9 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 6 | 5 |
| Rain mm | 30 | 21 | 49 | 122 | 319 | 269 |
| Month | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temp °C | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 |
| Hrs of Sun | 6 | 6 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 |
| Rain mm | 291 | 273 | 399 | 310 | 176 | 59 |




