Lonely Planet Best of 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 adrenaline 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 wellpreserved 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 fiery coconut milk curries in southern Thailand to steamy bowls of noodles in Bangkok and hearty stews in Chiang Mai.

Bangkok has it all in super-sized portions

This loves neon and noise, chaos and concrete, fashion and the future. Its an urban connoisseurs dream: a city where the past, present and future are jammed into a steamy pressure cooker. Zip around town in the sleek, elevated BTS; watch the sun sink into the muddy Chao Phraya River on a commuter ferry; or get stuck in one of the citys famous traffic jams. Then reward your adventurousness with top-notch pampering.