Lonely Planets Best of Thailand

BEST OF THAILAND

TOP SIGHTS, AUTHENTIC EXPERIENCES

Welcome to Thailand

Thailand is blessed: exotic and mysterious yet approachable and hospitable, it has the looks and personality to entice the world to its shores.

Bangkok, the kingdoms capital, is an adrenalin rush. The pace is fast, the spaces cramped and the sights and smells dizzying. It is disorienting but addictive for urban junkies. In contrast, the tranquil southern coast will soothe modern nerves. The waters are clear, the diving is spectacular and the pace is oh-so sleepy. Thailands famous islands and beaches specialise in fun, from beach parties to casual dining. Along the Andaman Coast dramatic limestone mountains cluster like prehistoric monuments.

Beyond the beach scene, Thailands culture trail educates and enlightens. Intense displays of religious devotion and tangible history unfold in Bangkok, the seat of religion and monarchy. Further north, the ancient capitals of Ayuthaya and Sukhothai are peppered with gravity-ravaged ruins and serene Buddha figures. Northern Thailand is lush mountains, historic cities and border intrigue. The gateway to the region, Chiang Mai, has a well- preserved old city and university atmosphere. In higher altitudes, minority hill tribes cling to a distinct cultural identity.

In every corner of the kingdom, Thais concoct flavourful feasts from simple ingredients. Travelling from region to region becomes an edible buffet, from fresh coconut curries in southern Thailand to steamy bowls of noodles in Bangkok and hearty stews in Chiang Mai.

Traditional Thai dancers / ATLANTIDE PHOTOTRAVEL/GETTY IMAGES

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Once great capital packed with temples

was once Siams vibrant, glittering capital packed with temples. It has been ravaged by war and gravity but the brick-and-stucco ruins, which form a Unesco World Heritage site, can be visited on a cycling tour that evokes their history and artistic legacy. Ayuthaya is an easy day trip from Bangkok or an alternative landing pad for city phobics.

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Crumbling temple ruins and picturesque countryside

Step back in time about 800 years at Thailands most impressive historical park . Explore the ruins by bicycle, winding past crumbling temples, graceful Buddha statues and fish-filled ponds. Worthwhile museums and good-value accommodation round out the package. Despite its popularity, Sukhothai rarely feels crowded, and nearby Si Satchanalai-Chaliang Historical Park attracts only a few history adventurers willing to scale ancient stairways.

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The cultural capital of the north

is a cultural darling wearing its Lanna heritage with pride. Its old walled city is crowded with temples dating to the days of the teak boom. Bookshops and ethnic-chic shops outnumber glitzy shopping centres. The dining scene celebrates the fresh and local produce of the region and flirts only casually with flashy trends. Great country escapes are just an hours journey outside the city. Nowhere else in Thailand has such a delightful mixture of big city attractions with a provincial pace.

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Ethnic diversity and dramatic mountain scenery

Thailand, Laos and Myanmar converge in what was formerly a remote and lawless area known as the Golden Triangle, the centre of opium poppy cultivation. Little border intrigue persists, now that there are roads, and modern farming has replaced the illicit trade. The tidy provincial capital of serves as a logical base for visits to minority tribes. Chiang Rais hill-tribe treks often have a social justice mission to help villages meet the demands of cultural autonomy.

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Riverside border town with friendly, laid-back charms

Representing the hardworking northeast, is not a usual stop on a quick country tour. But it is worth the effort for its pretty Mekong River setting and laid-back provincial charms. A curious sculpture garden shelters an astounding collection of avant garde art. The riverside market displays its Lao heritage and visitors spend the rest of their visit cycling around town, past chickens, school children and tropical fruit gardens.

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City and sea escape fit for royalty

The kings choice, is a fine fit for city and sea creatures within striking distance of Bangkok. The beaches are long and wide, the market meals are fantastic and theres even Thai culture. Explore the quiet beaches south of the city for a more secluded feel, hike to the top of a headland shrine or master the sea and wind with a kiteboarding lesson. In between seaside frolicking you can feast like Thai royalty from morning to night.

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Synonymous with sun, fun and comfort

Eager to please, is a civilised resort island for the vacationing masses, many of whom fly in and out without much cultural exchange. Chaweng is a luxurious stretch of sand where sun-worshippers come to see and be seen; but beyond the brassy beaches are reminders of Samuis old moniker, Coconut Island, and a few gentle coves for families. Samui also boasts a thriving health scene with yoga, massage, detoxing and other yins to the islands partying yang.