Vacation Thailand

Thailand certainly deserved its position as one of the world's top travel and holiday destinations. Southeast Asia's 'Land of Smiles' is known for the incredible diversity of natural and cultural attractions on offer, as well as the vast choice of activities and indulgences available to visitors. The Thai people's legendary service culture also contributes to pleasure of any visit and their gentle, welcoming attitude is evident from the moment you step off the plane. The country's kind climate matches this hospitality, with the country's three seasons, "rainy", "hot", and "cool", remaining pleasant year round and temperatures in the most popular beach locations rarely dropping below the 20s, even during the monsoon.

Thailand is roughly the same size as France and the provinces within its southern peninsula that borders with Malaysia to the south, include most of the Kingdom's 3000 plus kilometres of coastline. Once known as the Kingdom of Siam, Thailand has existed as in independent nation for more than 7 centuries. It is also one of the only nations in the Southeast Asia that has never been colonised by a foreign power.

English is widely spoken and considered a second language y many Thai people, although German, French and even Japanese are also understood in the more popular tourist areas. Hotel and restaurant staff in particular have strong spoken English, and they are always keen to converse and help answer questions about their country and culture. Different Thai dialects are used in different parts of the country. A sign of the ethnic diversity that characterises this dynamic nation. But Bangkok, or central Thai is the lingua franca countrywide and a few simple phrases go a long way, especially in the less visited areas.

When it comes to holiday fun, Thailand offers virtually every kind of recreational activity possible and is a particularly popular choice for lovers of water sports. When you get bored with lying on the beach you can head off on a speedboat to dive or snorkel around the country's famed coral reefs, which teem with colourful marine life. Above the water you can hire jet-ski for some high speed fun or take a leisurely charter cruise aboard a sailing vessel to enjoy a dramatic coastal sunset. Further inland, the country is also known for its verdant national parks and the many protected forests are a haven for wildlife of all shapes and sizes, offering the chance to spend time with nature while spotting rare species in towering trees or mountain caves.

A visit to Thailand can also be a more practical, educational experience. Thai cuisine is famous and enjoyed throughout the word and cooking classes are widely available in all the main tourist locations, offering the opportunity to learn about Thai culture through its food, as well as to take home a new skill and share the country's flavours with friends and family back home. For a more sophisticated, city base holiday, Bangkok is a buzzing cosmopolitan metropolis with top class dining, shopping and entertainment options, as well as a fascinating history and vibrant local culture. The country's second city, though more modest in size is equally enchanting and both are enhanced by a proliferation of finely decorated Buddhist temples or 'wats', which offer insights into the Kingdom's powerful spiritual traditions.

Thailand is an eclectic and dazzling blend of experiences and enjoyment. Spectacular scenery, appealing accommodation choices, fine food and warm, hospitable people make it a country that people rarely visit only once. Even if you choose a different location, interest or inspiration each time you visits Thailand, you will only begin to fully appreciate its enigmatic charm.