Thailand Where to Go

Bangkok
Island and Beaches of Southern Thailand
Gulf of Thailand
Andaman Sea
Northern Thailand
Central Thailand
Southeastern Thailand

BANGKOK

Bangkok is the most common arrival-point for tourists and offers limitless opportunities for the foreign visitor. Tucked around the spectacular high-rises, the city is full of temples, floating markets and excellent restaurants. Bangkok, known in Thai as “Krung Thep,” literally means City of Angels and provides a unique opportunity for travelers. Our adventures include taking a relaxing trip up the Chao Phraya, cruising through crowded and beguiling streets, and exploring cultural spots such as Chinatown and Khao San Road.

ISLANDS AND BEACHES OF SOUTHERN THAILAND

Thailand consists of a long peninsula ending in Malaysia. Both sides of Thailand harbor calm seas, beautiful beaches and a special love of life. On the Gulf of Thailand, beautiful beaches and access to the islands of Koh Tao, Koh Pha-Ngan, and Koh Samui are as close as two hours from BangkokÂ On the Andaman Sea, there are many pristine coastal beach communities and islands, and the main islands off this coastline include Koh Lanta, Phuket, and Koh Phi-Phi Don. Andaman Coastal adventures include trips to the Simian Islands and the Surin Islands, both known as having some of the best diving in the world.

GULF OF THAILAND

This gorgeous coast is a great destination for the adventure traveler. The first island, Koh Tao, is a diving mecca with world-class dive sites and a relaxing vibe even in the bustling town. Koh Tao is also an excellent location for bouldering in the islands. Below Koh Tao is Koh Pha-Ngan, most famous for its monthly full moon parties and miles of incredible coastline and great diving. The largest island in this archipelago is Koh Samui, which has an airport and is a good destination for more westernized accommodations and activities.

ANDAMAN SEA

With emerald green water, craggy limestone coasts and islands rimmed by white sand beaches, it is easy to get lost in this paradise. On the mainland we travel through Krabi and out to Railay beach (Ao Nang) for world-class climbing on the beaches and coves. Travel to and from the peninsula requires long tail boats. The towering cliffs are a great place for sea kayaking. Two other spectacular islands include Koh Phi-Phi Don and Koh Phi-Phi Leh. One is picturesque with blinding white sand beaches and bungalows, and the other is a protected marine island that was the location of the filming of “The Beach” with Leonardo DiCaprio. Diving is the main draw here, but local activities include Muy Thai (Thai Boxing matches), hiking and exploring. Phuket lies just to the North and via a ferry ride one can see a more developed island with nightclubs, dive shops and busy stretches of beach.

NORTHERN THAILAND

While the south is dominated by coastline, the north harbors the old kingdoms of Thailand, traditional villages and hill tribes. Chang Mai remains a great hub for visiting travelers with its rich history of ancient trade routes to Laos and Myanmar. Some of the other great villages such as Chang Rai, Pai, Mae Hong Song and Nan also offer great accommodations and activities. For those fascinated by the local ethnic minorities, cycling, mountain treks and rafting bring you into the rural areas. Working elephants wander the roads with their Mahouts, and many tours are available on the backs of these majestic animals. The famous “Golden Triangle,” or infamous opium-growing region of Southeast Asia, is located in the far north with day and multi-day tours.

CENTRAL THAILAND

With a rich history and beautiful surroundings, Central Thailand is becoming an increasingly popular destination. The former capital, Ayuthaya, provides some of the most impressive ruins in Thailand, and Kanchanaburi offers fascinating WWII history. Other great opportunities include local bike tours or visiting the Thailand-Myanmar border for a slice of Myanmar.

SOUTHEASTERN THAILAND

Southeastern Thailand and the northern part of the gulf is host to many European tourists, highly developed beach resort communities, as well as isolated beaches and stunning islands. Its proximity to Bangkok draws in many beach tourists. Great activities in this area include kite-surfing and diving. Farther towards Cambodia is the town of Trat and the islands of Ko Samet and Ko Chang. Ko Chang is located in the rainforest with elephant tours available. Ko Samet has a jumble of hotels and bars on its northern side with a largely undeveloped southern coast.