Thailand

An irresistible combination of natural beauty, inspiring temples, genuinely charming people and ruins of fabulous ancient kingdoms make Thailand a glorious destination.

Spend time in the cultural markets, visit the hill tribes of the North or learn to dive in the pristine waters of the South. With idyllic beaches, dense rainforest coupled with the modernity of the cities and some heavenly properties, Thailand is a diverse destination ideal for any traveller.

Scott Dunn’s highlights for Thailand:

Explore the Khao Sok National Park, a stunning rainforest area that is home to monkeys and tigers.
Some of the best beaches in Thailand are in the idyllic island of Koh Samui, be sure to spend a few days on these palm-lined beaches.
Be inspired by Thai cuisine, as you tour the local market in Chiang Mai, which is full of spices and fresh produce.
Explore the sacred city of Ayuthaya to view the ancient ruins, and to take a quiet elephant ride through this more rural area.

Thailand’s capital was once called the Venice of the East because of the latticework of canals (klongs), which formed the arteries of the city. Today it’s a bustling and modern centre with elevated highways and fantastic shopping. The city’s history lives on however, with the striking Grand Palace, the six-ton Golden Buddha, the Golden Mount and the klongs of Thonburi.

Koh Samui is the archetypal tropical island, with beaches of powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters. In contrast, a mountain ridge runs east to west of the country, covered in forested hills, coconut palms and emerald paddy fields. Further into the Gulf of Thailand, Hua Hin is a charming fishing village with a long, curving bay and excellent golf courses in the area.

Surrounded by the tallest mountains in the country and scattered with paddy fields, northern Thailand is a place of calm, and traditional Thai culture. There’s lots to do here, such as trekking through rural countryside, visiting or even riding elephants, playing golf, and shopping in superb markets selling locally-made handicrafts. In the far north at Chiang Saen you can stay in beautiful hotels

Famed for its clear waters, the west coast of Thailand is a haven for snorkelling and diving enthusiasts. Phuket Island is an international resort connected to the mainland by a causeway, and is home to some of the most exclusive hotels in Thailand. Almost 80 percent of the island is mountainous, with dense forests and nature reserves, whilst the beaches are idyllic.

Scott Dunn: ANYTHING ELSE IS JUST A HOLIDAY

Thailand

Bangkok

East coast beaches and islands

Northern Thailand

West coast beaches and islands