Thailand Travel Guides & Information

It’s almost a cliché to state that Thailand is a country of contrasts. Millions of travellers a year make the pilgrimage to drink in the decadent nightlife of pulsing clubs and beachside cocktails, to bask on sun-bleached beaches and slip into cerulean seas. Millions more embark on a spiritual journey to ancient Buddhist temples, humbling monuments, or the solitude of the mountainous highlands. The only source of stress is wondering what to see next.

Hedonism and tranquillity make fine bedfellows with the choice to cap off a day’s ray-catching with a traditional Thai massage at your luxury hotel or dive into the fray of Bangkok for bustling night bazaars and intoxicating bars doused in neon lights. There’s an island to suit every desire. Koh Samui and Phuket host the most indulgent of getaways, while many more are inhabited only by quaint fishing villages and the untamed wild.

The overseas popularity of Thailand has led to some locals taking advantage of over-eager tourists. With proper caution exercised however, you’ll find most of the people are open and generous. Open your mind and a little piece of this remarkable country will stay with you long after your visit is over.

• The Kingdom of Thailand was known as Siam until 1939.
• Thailand’ loosely means ‘Land of the Free.’
• Nakhon Pathom, a town in central Thailand, is home to the world’s largest Buddhist monument, standing at a towering 127ft.
• Thailand has produced more Guiness World Record holders than most other countries – including the record holders for largest ever aerobics workout, the biggest hamburger, and the man with the longest hair.
• In Thailand, it is illegal to leave your house without wearing underwear.