Thailand
Each year Thailand is discovered by millions of visitors, drawn to its pristine beaches and aquamarine seas, as well as its rich culture, glitzy shopping malls, chic boutiques and colourful markets crammed with bargains.
With its enticing mixture of established destinations such as Phuket and Hua Hin, and out-of-the-way palm-fringed islands, Thailand appeals to the most varied of travellers, whether they are craving barefoot luxury or hippy chic. From staying on a converted rice barge, clambering into a jungle tree house or bedding down in a hill tribe village, Thailand offers a wealth of choice for every taste and budget.
Pampering is an art form in Thailand, and throughout the country spas offer authentic treatments whether it's in a 5-star luxury resort or a beach-side hut. If it's pulse-raising excitement you are after, head to the hectic sprawl of Bangkok's futuristic high-rise buildings.
Early morning is when the saffron-robed monks leave the sanctuary of their wats (temples) to receive alms from the people, be it in a dusty village or on crowded city streets. Buddhism is a way of life here and the Thai's are also strong supporters of their monarchy. In fact, His Majesty King Bhumibol is the longest reigning monarch in the world, since coming to power in 1946.
Following the end of absolute monarchy, Thailand moved towards democracy, but this was thwarted by the military, which has often staged coups in protest at government policies. The most recent was in September 2006 when a bloodless coup overthrew Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra and replaced him with an interim prime minister until elections at the end of 2007.
For all this, Thailand has risen above the economic collapse of 1997, SARS and avian influenza as well as the devastating tsunami in December 2004, to become a hugely popular destination on the long-haul tourist trail.
adventure travel thailand
Had Khom (Coral Beach), north coast of Ko Phangan 
Donald Duck Bay, Similan Island 
National Park Headquarter Beach, Similan Island 
Ao Si - Ko Jum
Relax Bay (Hat Phak Naam) - the Phi Phi knockers never make it to the lovely and uncrowded east coast bays. Image Louise F.
Leela Beach, back of Had Rin, Phangan
Bamboo Island near Phi Phi - this one is a bit contentious because it can get a bit busy with daytrippers in dry season. Looks pretty sweet here - image Louise F.
Oean beach near Poseidon Bungalows, Khao Lak 
The only beach on Ko Lialiang 
Had Thong Reng, east coast of Phangan - site of the new Tree House moved from Ko Chang
Ao Pudsa/Tubtim - Ko Samet
Bang Bao, Ko Kut
Nai Yang, Phuket - 
Small beach just west of Pansand Bungalows, Ko Bulon Lae - 
Loh Paret, Ko Yao Yai
Ao Jak, Ko Tarutao
Ao Malaka, NP headquarters beach, Ko Taruato
Eastern beach at NP headquarters, Ko Adang.