Destination Thailand
Thailand has for a long time been known for its rich diversity of attractions. A land of golden temples, tropical beaches and forested hills, Thailand is truly a veritable oasis in an increasingly hectic world. Secure in its devotion to the Buddhist faith and to its beloved King, it merges a centuries-old culture with a way of life that preserves its identity and gracious natural hospitality. And the best part is that Thailand offers this wealth of diversity with the legendary Thai smile — which is not a legend at all, but one of the genuine delights of discovering Thailand.
For sightseeing and travel, Thailand has few equals: From dazzling temples and palaces to awe-inspiring World Heritage Sites; from timeless rural settlements to vibrant resort towns; from idyllic beaches to national parks where wild nature rules – the choice of where to go and what to see is limitless.
You can have soft adventure options blended with eco-tourism in mountainous jungle terrain, including trekking on foot or elephant back, 4-wheel drive safaris, mountain biking, whitewater rafting and meeting with remote highland communities.
Beach / marine
Away from the upland forests, the blue waters of Thailand’s extensive coastline beckons, offering the relaxing joys of beach life as well as diving, sailing, windsurfing and sea canoeing; all with expert training provided.
Golf Mecca
Golfers love Thailand and the feeling is mutual. The Kingdom has more than 200 golf courses, most up to international standards and located close to major tourism destinations with first-class facilities and relatively modest fees.
Thai cuisine
Thailand’s cuisine is recognised around the world. A profusion of fresh produce; fresh-caught fish and seafood with a balanced complement of aromatic herbs and spices, wok-fried or grilled for a dish that is light, nutritious and bursting with flavour.
Handicraft
Everywhere in Thailand traditional products are hand made by local artisans: weavers of cotton and silk, wood carvers, potters working in the local clay, silversmiths, basket makers. Even in the remotest villages, these cottage industries are being supported by the government’s One Tambon One Product (OTOP) project, and products from communities all over the Kingdom are now sold in many stores.
Shopping
Thailand is one of the best places in Asia for shopping and visitors will be spoilt for choice with the huge, glitzy shopping malls, department stores, small shops and bustling street markets.
Good buys include Thai silks and cottons, leather goods, batiks, silver and gold, pottery with celandine green glaze, precious and semiprecious stones in particular rubies and sapphires are indigenous to Thailand, pearls, dolls, masks, painted umbrellas, lacquer ware, pewter ware, bamboo and wood artifacts and bronze ware. Tailor-made clothes are also good value and can be made in a matter of days, yet the standard is very high.
Spa and wellness
The Thai secret of relaxation is a secret that can be shared by learning and practicing meditation in Buddhist retreats or training centres. The revitalising Thai massage is an ancient tradition that is another part of the secret visitors like to share, while at the many luxury spas, they can experience the most modern, sensual techniques at the firm but caressing hands of a trained therapist.
