Thailand

Thailand, the original backpacker favourite, remains a beguiling cocktail of tropical allure and profound culture. From the frenetic street markets and glittering mega-malls of Bangkok, the country's manic, temple-strewn heart, to the serene, mist-shrouded mountains of the north, this is a country that rewards the curious and the bold.

Head north to Chiang Mai for ancient Lanna temples, ethical elephant encounters, and trekking adventures through humid jungle. For pure escapism, turn south to a dazzling scatter of islands including the limestone karsts of Krabi and the Andaman Coast, and the Gulf islands of Koh Samui, Phangan and Tao, home to world-class diving, wellness retreats and all-out partying through the night. Whichever route you choose, enjoy the legendary warmth of the Thai people and arguably the world's most dynamic cuisine along the way. This is the Land of Smiles, and its magic endures.

Highlights.

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Experience the spiritual heart of the capital at the Grand Palace, Wat Arun and Wat Pho, where golden spires and the monumental Reclining Buddha showcase the pinnacle of Thai craftsmanship.
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Bask on shores of powdery white sand and turquoise waters, for a true picture postcard paradise escape.
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Trek through the green hills surrounding Chiang Mai, traversing mist-covered peaks and visiting ethical hilltribe villages tucked away in the jungle.
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Journey into one of Thailand's national park to watch herds of wild elephants roaming freely in their natural habitat.
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Follow the path of the Death Railway in Kanchanaburi as it carves through jungle cliffs above the River Kwai, a powerful tribute to WWII history.

Hidden gems.

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Venture into Isaan, the rural northeast, to discover Thailand's most authentic region, home to ancient Khmer ruins, sprawling rice paddies, and a rich, spicy culinary heritage untouched by mass tourism.
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Trade the beach crowds for a more peaceful island escape such as Bulon Lae or Ko Phra Thong.
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Ascend to this high-altitude retreat on the Myanmar border to Thailand's Little Switzerland, Doi Angkhang, for cherry blossoms, terraced tea plantations, and cool mountain air retreats.
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Discover the sleepy, mountain-fringed valley of Nan, where ornate teak temples and a slow pace of life show a more authentic side to Northern Thai culture.
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Cycle through the lotus-filled ruins of Thailand's first capital, exploring a UNESCO World Heritage site where stone Buddhas lie.