A Visitor's Guide to Thailand

Thailand, officially the Kingdom of Thailand, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, boasting a fascinating combination of culture, cuisine, climate and coast. These exceptional factors have made Thailand a magnet for travellers all over the world.

Thailand is an exotic place made up of lush green jungles, crystal clear beaches and historic sites offering a wealth of cultural experiences. But despite the vast amount of tourists descending on this Asian gem, the country retains a uniquely laid back and quintessential atmosphere, complete with friendly and hospitable locals who will happily try to make your stay as memorable as possible.

When visiting Thailand, accommodation should not be a problem. There is a host of accommodation at all price ranges, from budget to luxury. For the best accommodation prices, visit during Thailand's low season from May-August. During peak season, December-February, expect prices to soar and accommodation to be harder to come by.

Guesthouses are usually your cheapest option, and will cost you around 200 baht per night. Guesthouses in Thailand are nothing like the guesthouses we are familiar with, and simply consist of a room with a fan, a squat toilet and not much else. Basic living if there ever was such a thing. Thai hotels start from around 200 baht and can go up to 800 baht. The most expensive hotel rooms will include air conditioning, a private bathroom, bed linen and towels, and possibly a hot shower. For those looking for a little more comfort and luxury, the tourist hotels in Thailand are more appropriate, and generally costs around 1000 baht per night. These hotels offer more modern amenities like a swimming pool, room service and colour TVs.

For an even more luxurious experience, Thai boutique hotels start from around 2000 baht and provide a more private retreat away from the crowds. Here guests enjoy personalised service and exceptional creature comforts. For the ultimate in luxury, business and luxury hotels in Thailand are on par with the best in the world. These hotels start at about 4000 baht a night and provide every modern amenity you can think of.

Thailand is also well known for its many exciting tourist activities that keep the tourists coming back for more each year. Most popular are the spectacular pristine beaches, as well as a wide range of exhilarating sports like golf, rock climbing, scuba diving and trekking.

Must See Thailand Attractions:

Grand Palace - a royal palace and the official residence of the King of Thailand
Wat Pho - famous Buddha temple in Phra Nakhon in Bangkok
Chiang Mai City Arts and Cultural Centre - modern multimedia historic and cultural education centre
Chaweng Beach - largest and most famous of the Ko Samui beaches
Hin Ta and Hsin Yai - 'grandfather' and 'grandmother' stones that resemble human genitals, making it a popular tourist attraction
Ban Chiang - famous archeological site
Thungyai-Huai Kha Wildlife Sanctuaries - the two famous wildlife sanctuaries