From idyllic, unspoilt beaches with turquoise seas and pure,
white sands to bustling cities sporting exotic markets and a
vibrant, colourful nightlife, it is easy to see why Thailand has
become one of the most popular tourist destinations for the
adventurous and young at heart.A turbulent, and often bloody history has left Thailand
scattered with ruins, forgotten temples and deserted cities that
reveal a rich tableau of past eras to those willing to explore.
Thailand's booming tourist economy, driven largely by Hollywood
(the country has been the setting for
The Man with the Golden Gun,
The Bridge over River Kwaiand most recently Alex Garland's
The Beach) has resulted in the opening of a number of
expensive and luxurious international hotels. Those looking for the
rustic splendour of the beaches and islands will find plenty of
cheap and comfortable accommodation.
The size and geographical diversity of Thailand provides for a
variety of activities. Snorkelling, diving and a host of
watersports are very popular around the Islands, while inland
enthusiasts can trek into the mountains or cycle across the flat
river areas of the northeast.
