Highlights of Thailand
Bangkok
Bangkok, the vibrant capital of Thailand, is bustling with an eclectic mix of ornate temples and towering skyscrapers. Both traditional and contemporary, the city is a hive of colorful food and flower markets, buzzing off-beat streets and intriguing waterways complemented by a dynamic dining scene with some of Asia’s top restaurants as well as Michelin-worthy street food all just waiting to be explored.
Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai, the cultural heart of northern Thailand, is a land of misty mountains and colorful hill tribes where the kings of the Lanna civilization once held court. Reaching the height of prosperity between the 13th to 18th centuries, the city is home to centuries-old artistic traditions and numerous history-filled temples framed by crumbling red-brick city walls, distant rice fields, teak forests and the Ping River in the east.
Phuket
Framed by the sparkling waters of Andaman Sea, Phuket is a haven of tropical beaches, idyllic rainforests and mountainous landscapes. An excellent base for diving and snorkeling among nearby Phang Nga Bay's limestone karsts, crystal lagoons and vibrant coral reefs, the island also contains an interesting old town lined with Sino-Portuguese shophouses that hark back to the glory days of tin-mining
Koh Samui
Filled with gently swaying coconut palms and white sand beaches, Koh Samui is an alluring tropical paradise sheltered in the calm azure waters of the Gulf of Thailand. The neighboring Angthong National Marine Park offers some of the region's best diving, while on land, there are verdant rainforests, small fishing villages and a thriving coconut industry to be explored.
Khao Sok National Park
Towering limestone karsts, emerald lagoons and scenic nature trails, Khao Sok National Park is a hidden treasure in the south of Thailand, a few hours’ drive from Krabi or Phuket. The highlight of this region is Cheow Lan Lake, a picturesque, man-made reservoir that creates a peaceful backdrop for an overnight stay at a floating lodge or back-to-nature adventures with scenic kayaking, cave hikes and forest walks in search of rare Rafflesia flowers, hornbill birds and gibbons.
