Thailand Travel Highlights

Thailand Destinations

• Bangkok will be the first stop for most visiting Thailand. A vibrant city with excellent hotels, activities, nightlife and services
• Phuket has made a strong comeback after the tsunami. Beautiful beaches, scuba diving great hotels and nightlife on this island in the Andaman Sea
• Krabi has some of the world's most spectacular scenery. Phangnga Bay has fascinating limestone karsts, outstanding beaches and world class rock climbing.
• Chiang Mai and surrounds is synonymous with nature, trekking, hilltribes, white-water rafting and mountains. Doi Suthep and Doi Intanon are but 2 highlights.
• Pattaya usually lives up to its checkered reputation. But on closer inspection, you can find a large expat community. Koh Samet and Jomtien Beach are nearby.
• Koh Samui has become a "must do" destination. A reasonable ferry ride from Surat Thani. Beaches range from busy Chaweng to laid back Maenam. But as paradises will, Sanui is suffering from over development
• Issan may well be the soul of Thailand. Vast National parks, Khmer ruins, bronze age archeological sites and petroglyphs along the Mekong.
• Kanchanaburi is known for the death railway, but there is more. The river Kwai, rafting, superb golf courses and natural beauty all around.

Thailand Information

• Visas are not necessary for citizens of many western nations for stays of 30 days or less, although your airline may require one.
• Safety most parts of Thailand are extremely safe, safer actually that most western countries.
• Health care excellent health care is available in most larger cities. Many physicians are western trained. Medical and dental costs are low compared to the west.
• Language Thais speak Thai, a tonal language that can be difficult for english speakers. Their written alphabet has 44 consonants and 36 vowels.
• Monarchy Thailand is a constitutional monarchy with HM Bhumipol Adulyadej as titular head of state. The Thais rightly adore HM and take severe offense at anyone speaking ill against the royal family.
• Money The Thai Baht is the currency of Thailand. The exchange rate floats at approximately Bt32/US$ as of late 2010. Major international currencies and travelers' checks are easily exchange at banks and exchange booths in larger cities.
• ATM's are prolific in Thailand and will accept many ATM and Credit Cards. The system uses a 4-digit PIN number. Credit cards are accepted by many hotels and shopping venues .. cautions are recommended.