A buzzing metropolis with a laid back attitude, elegant temples and palaces stand side by side with Romanesque concrete skyscrapers and charming wooden houses. And while the main thoroughfares are choked with traffic and fumes, nearby side roads contain tranquil houses nestled among lush gardens. Love it and hate it, you can’t ignore or forget it.
Thailand’s largest island is a wonderland of wildlife and rainforest fringed by white sand beaches with some of the world’s premier resorts.
This beach town and the islands nearby are famous for strange rock formations and unspoiled nature.
Thailand’s second city, Chiang Mai is a comfortable yet sophisticated city and gateway to the mountains of northern Thailand.
This former capital and World Heritage Site had its heyday in the 13th and 14th centuries, leaving a rich legacy of ruins and temples.
Anyone with a love of the great outdoors will enjoy the lush mountain trails of northern Thailand. Organized treks are widely available from agents in Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Mae Hong Son and smaller towns such as Mae Sot, Pai and Mae Sariang. These take you through remote villages, where you stay overnight with ethnic hill tribes such as the Lahu, Lisu, Akha and Karen. Average treks are 4 days, 3 nights and cost around US$50, but longer treks are possible. Many treks include bamboo rafting and elephant riding, although these may cost extra. Always ask what is included before paying for a trek - shop around and ask for recommendations. Your trekking agent and their guides should also be registered with the government.
The best time to go trekking is during the dry season, from September/October to January/early February. Nights are chilly around Christmas and New Year, so take warm clothing. You can go trekking at other times, but February to June/July is hot, and it rains heavily from July to September.
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