Thailand Beaches - How to Discover Hidden Beaches in Thailand

There are a million reasons to visit Thailand, such as the tropical rainforest's of the north, the Bridge over the River Kwai to the west in Kanchanaburi or the soft white sand of the beaches to the south to name a few. Many travelers who head south are searching for a perfect paradise, a place with deserted beaches fringed by green palm trees and soft white sand to bury their toes into. The reality however is they will end up on a beach just as packed with tourists as their flight was there.

In southern Thailand you can find many beaches. Some will be packed with tourists, jet skies and banana boat rides while others will be hidden paradise. Now if you want the jet skies and banana boats then things are easy but if you seek out that little corner of paradise then you need to do a little more work. Holiday planning should be the most essential part of any holiday and it should entail more than a visit to your local travel agent to pick up some brochures.

Here I have listed outlined 7 points that I belief help in finding those hidden beaches in Thailand.

7 Points To Great Holiday Research

Decided on what type of holiday you want, beach, city or forest break. If you want a combination of these then do the following 6 steps for each destination.
Note down 5 phrases or words that come to mind when you think about your chosen destination.
Put these phrases into Google or any other search engine you may use and have a look at the first page results, then ignore them.
Move to page 2 and 3 and working your way down ignore hotel booking services and visit the web sites that seem like information pages and have some relevance to your searched term or phrase.
Look for locations on these web pages that maybe you have never heard about or read about and take a note of the name.
Search for this unknown location and take note of the number of pages with the term.
The location with the least number of pages should now be your focus for your next holiday destination.

The Steps In Action:

Just in case you are not aware, I'm in love with Thailand beaches. When i think about them I get images of white sand, palm trees, blue waters, cool breeze and deserted beaches. I put these terms into my chosen search engine, Google for me, and here is what I find.

White sand Thailand returns 2.35 million results moving on to page 2 I ignore hotel booking service sites and see about half way down the page Amazing-Thailand.com - Tropicals Islands in Thailand a quick scan produces two possible locations, Koh Larn and Koh Turatao. The later returns 1,380 results and Koh Larn shows 55,400 pages. I now have my first holiday research place, Koh Turatao.

A word of warning about finding deserted beaches. These areas will often be far from any commercial outlets, medical centers or English speaking locals. This can be paradise when things go good but if the unthinkable happens and you take ill or get injured finding help can be a difficult task, just remember this before you head off into the unknown.

Finally, I would like to ask that in your research you do come across that perfect paradise then please keep it to yourself. There has been many paradise locations spoiled after someone has found it then wrote a post on some travel forums about their experience. Let others find hidden treasures, it really can make for the best possible holiday ever.

Brian has been on many holidays to Thailand and now provides information about Diving in Thailand as well as general chats what Thailand hotels are really like.
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Phra That Si Song Rak of Thailand

Phra That Si Song Rak was built in 1560 A.D. as a symbol of friendship between Somdet Phra Maha Chakkaphat of Ayutthaya and Phrachao Chaiya Chetthathirat of Lan Xan, the two kings. It was at this spot that the two kings vowed not to invade each other's territory, instead they decided to unify their armies so that they could fight as one against the invading army from Burma, present day Myanmar.

Built off the Laos-Thai border, the temple is located 83 kilometers from Mueang district. It is situated on a hill next to the Man River at border of the two ancient kingdoms in present day Dan Sai District of Loei Province. The chedi of the temple is 30 meters high and is built from brick and mortar. The Chedi has a 12-cornered indented square base giving it a cubical lotus shape, which is similar to Phra That Phanom in Nakhon Phanom Province.

The people of the district hold a grand celebration at the temple on the 15th day of the waxing moon in the month of May. They offer 3 objects made from candle wax. This is the best time to visit this unique temple, which symbolizes friendship and unity.

Visitors visiting the temple should be careful not to wear red or offer red flowers, as red symbolizes violence and blood. It is important to remember to remove ones hat, cap and shoes within the compound of the temple.

This temple is highly revered in Thailand and its most notable feature is its plastered stupa which houses the holy relics of Buddha.

The importance of this temple in the history of Thailand can be judged by the fact that Loei Province uses the image of the stupa in its provincial seal.

About Author:
Pauline Go is an online leading expert in travel industry. She also offers top quality travel tips like Maps Of Thailand, How To Find Thai Girlfriends
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Cha Am - Thailand's Little Known Beach Resort Town

A lot of people choose Thailand as a travel destination and no wonder. It`s a beautiful country and is steeped in history. The climate is great, and the beaches are amazing. A number of people who travel to Thailand will go to Hua Hin, but overlook neighboring Cha Am. Cha Am is about two hours from Bangkok by car (165 km or 102 miles) in Phetchaburi on the sunrise coast of the Gulf of Thailand. If you don`t fancy driving, you can take the train from Bangkok to the Cha Am train station, which is about 2 Kilometers (1.25 miles) from the beach.

For the traveler who really prefers something more local and less "touristy" it`s really a good idea to check out this lesser-known resort. If you`re looking for a quiet beach, Cha Am is ideal during the week. You`ll be able to find Cha Am hotels that will suit your budget and your traveling style with no trouble. There aren`t any bars, as local regulations don`t permit them. The Cha Am beach is not a night-life type of spot, but is a lovely, quiet town for people who really do want to get away from it all. It`s very family-friendly and a welcoming place, so it`s a great spot to take the kids to wind down and relax. Being a small-town resort, it`s important to remember local customs. While bathing suits and strappy tops are fine on the beach, bring a sarong or wrap to adhere to local dress customs while off of it.

The town of Cha Am stretches along the white sand beach. It is claimed to be Thailand`s longest beach, so there`s plenty of room for everyone. Even though it`s not packed with foreign tourists, you can find deck chairs and umbrellas for rent quite easily. They have jetskis and banana boats for rent for those who love skimming across the water, as well a motorcycles, scooter and bikes for rent for people who want to tour along the beachfront. If you want beer, soft drinks or the wonderful seafood for which Thailand is famous, you`ll find there are plenty of local vendors. You can also find inexpensive public bathhouses to wash off the salt after swimming in the sea.

Cha Am hotels and restaurants have excellent seafood - from its beach-side vendors to its wonderful restaurants, you can find yourself many tasty treats fresh from the sea. In September, you can enjoy the Cha Am beach shellfish festival "Feast-Fish-Flock" when fishermen, cooks and many people in the seafood industry get together to show off their ware and fishing prowess. You can join in the squid fishing and if you`re a bird-watcher, this is the time to come to Cha Am. The bird park is open and the festival definitely brings in the birds from surrounding areas!

If you`re looking for a quiet place to experience the "real" Thailand, Cha Am is a good place to consider. There are a range of Cha Am hotels that will fit almost any budget - from small budget places to luxury resorts, some of which offer the ultimate in privacy and luxury- the private pool villa. This is the resort the locals are more likely to visit, so you`ll get a chance to hang out with locals in a very relaxed environment and unwind by the Gulf of Thailand.

If you are interested in visiting Cha Am, be sure to check out our picks of the Top 10 Cha Am hotels and resorts
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Aaron_James

Koh Samui Thailand - Travel Destination

Koh Samui is easily reached from Bangkok, Thailand's main transport hub, by plane or bus / ferry combination. Other domestic destinations and even Malaysia can be reached from here as well. Should you travel by land, Surat thani Town, Don Sak or Chumporn are the ferry ports to reach the island.

Even due to all the development going on in recent years, the island still has its green stretches and also exports around seventy tons of coconuts per month, mostly to Bangkok.

Having started off as backpacker destination in the early 80's, Samui offers now something for everybody. From a beach bungalow to a high tech villa. A speed garage spring break in stylish bars and venues, one made completely from ice, or a chilled family holiday with some yoga recreation. The size of Samui, and its countless bays make it possible.

Or you are even thinking about renting a house. Should you stay more than one month it can save you a great deal of money. You can rent any style of house between 80 $ and 8000 $ a month. Most of them will have air conditioning included and feature some furniture or a kitchen. Huge Retailers like Makro™, BigC™ or TESCO™ make your daily shopping easier.

Getting around is easy as regular bus and taxi services connect all major towns and beaches. Private air conditioned and metered taxis can be hired for a slightly higher share. For single travelers a motorbike taxi will be the cheapest way to get around.

Samui offers a lot of spare time activities. Mountain trails, waterfalls or tours to the Ang Thong National Marine Park for the nature lovers. Golf & Shooting Ranches, Water parks and Go karts for the holiday junkie. And Fine Dining Restaurants, Tennis Tournaments and sailing cruises for high flyers. A lot of western managed diving schools will happily take care of your water sports needs. And a trip around the island may discover some fun activities such as football golf or guppy fishing. There is plenty to do for everybody.

Speedboat transfers to the world famous Full Moon Party on the sister island of Koh Phangan are easily available at every travel agency.

Please note that Koh Samui is part of the Surt thani province. One of fifteen provinces in Thailand where the wearing of a helmet whilst operating a motorcycle is required. The legal fine for offenders varies between 300 and 500 Thai Baht (7-12$). If you never have driven a motorcycle before, then Koh Samui is not the place to learn it.

Have a nice holiday and enjoy the land of smile.

Ferd Herbsen

(Manager "Herbs & Spices - Jumunjy" - Koh Phangan)

http://www.jumunjy.com - Jumunjy Club Koh Phangan / DJ Promotions for Asia
(Webmaster - databass.asia)
http://www.databass.asia - Your Resource for music in Asia
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Restaurants in Phuket - Where to Eat on Thailand's Top Island

If you're planning a trip to Phuket, Thailand, you'll most likely be looking for information about two things: nightlife and restaurants. As one of Thailand's most popular destination, the restaurants in Phuket have a lot to offer. However, if you're only visiting Phuket for a fleeting visit, you won't have the time to weed out the good from the bad.

Thai restaurants in Phuket are everywhere. There is less of the street food than you might find in Bangkok, but there are countless small restaurants where you can eat like a king for a couple of bucks. With its close proximity to the sea, there are a large number of seafood restaurants in Phuket. The Thais have a knack for concocting some of the most amazing seafood dishes around.

Italian restaurants in Phuket are seemingly everywhere, but the quality of the food is usually a bit hit and miss. Furthermore, a lot of the Thai restaurants that also serve Italian food create such bizarre dishes as pasta with ketchup. If you've never had pizza with ketchup, you'll be in for an experience, too. Breaking the mold are a few places in Phuket City.

Some of the best restaurants in Phuket can be found at the high-end resorts. While they are expensive, if you want incredible Western or Japanese dishes, you often have to pay for the privilege. Some of the luxury resorts in Mai Khao play host to some fine restaurants.

There are far too many Indian restaurants in Phuket, most of which are located in Patong. Patong is expensive and the focus is on mass tourism. As a result, the food is often substandard. If you want to eat Indian food in Phuket, you'd be better off checking out places in Phuket Town.
Find out more about restaurants in Phuket at Phuket Vogue.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Matt_Crook

Phu Ruea National Park of Thailand

Phu Ruea National Park
Phu Reua National Park sits on an area of 75,525 square kilometers on top of a plateau. It comprises of a rugged mountain range, whose highest peak rises 1,365 meters above sea level and is the source for a number of rivers flowing through Loei.

The view from the top of Phue Reua National Park is just amazing. You can see as far as Heuang and Khong Rivers. The climate in this area is temperate and one can see abundant orchids growing right round the year. A good part of the peak on which the park sits is covered by lush green pine forest. You can take the numerous trails to waterfalls, rock gardens, caves and observation points. In fact, the observation points make excellent areas for picnics where the food can be bought from the numerous stalls along the way.

Phu Reua National Park is home to countless wildlife, including deer, bears, monkeys, squirrels, turtles, rabbits and a large number of birds. The park has a special feature added to it. It is home to Chateau de Loei vineyards, the chief domestic wine producer of Thailand.

During the rainy season, the park is closed to visitors as it becomes too dangerous for them. The hottest months are from March to June and if you are visiting the park, make sure you take all the precautions required. The same goes for the winter months of December and January when the temperatures often dip to zero degree centigrade.

Be prepared to pay an entrance fee of 200 Baht per adult, while children under 14 have a 100 Baht fee.

About Author: Pauline Go is an online leading expert in Thailand travel industry. She also offers top quality travel tips like :Thailand Hotel Booking Tips, Maps of Thailand
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Pauline_Go

Phu Kradung National Park of Thailand

Phu Kradung National Park is located around 70 kilometers from Loei on a high plateau on the Khon Kaen-Loei Highway. The park is considered to be extremely fertile and amazes visitors with its lush green vegetation. At an elevation of 1,352 meters, it is home to many different types of wildlife.

Loei is famous for is cool climate and that is why Phu Kradung National Park is ideally suited for plants and trees which thrive in this type of climate. The park is covered with seasonal tropical rain forest and evergreen forest. Nearly sixty square kilometers on the plateau is home to forests of pines, oaks and beeches. You can see many species of birds along with elephants and barking deer.

The park receives the heaviest rainfall in the month of October, while there is almost no rain during December right until February. The best months to visit are from October through January, the months when the park is crowded with visitors, especially during the weekends. Phu Kradung National Park is closed from June to August as the Forest Department deems it necessary given the number of footfalls and the negative effect on the environment.

If you are interested in camping at the park, it can be arranged at the park offices located at the foot of the mountain and at the plateau. The park's headquarters is at the base of the mountain, and it is approximately 9 kilometers from there to the camp ground and the plateau. Out of these 9 kilometers, the final 4 kilometers is a walk.

Along the climb, villagers have set up drink and food stall. The climb takes around 3 to 6 hours. Once you are on the plateau, you have 50 kilometers of marked trails that lead to waterfalls, cliffs and meadows. You can also take a guided tour into the depths of the forest to see the flora and fauna.

About Author: Pauline Go is an online leading expert in Thailand travel industry. She also offers top quality travel tips like :Thailand Hotel Booking Tips, Maps of Thailand
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Vacation in Pattaya Thailand - Travel Tips From an Insider

Pattaya Thailand may not have the same glitz and glamour as Cannes France. Yet this seaside city on the southern coast of Thailand manages to pull over 1 million tourist a year. Pattaya invented its own category, its on special vibe and reputation for having one of the wildest nightlife scene in this tiny sliver of Southeast Asia. Sure it may be short on class when you compare it to the stuffy clubs and bars in Cannes with its $2,000 champagnes. But where else are you going to find bars with names like "Beavers" serving ice cold Tiger beer for $2?

Navigating amongst Pattaya's many sois or "Side Street" (in foreigner speak) of bars, clubs, pubs and massage parlors is not so difficult. Where ever you find gaudy neon lights you are bound to find some assortment of male recreation befitting all appetites. And of course outside of said establishments you can find a myriad of Thai women hounding you to patron their place of work, promising you a time you will never forget.

Pattaya city can be broken up into two sections; North Pattaya and South Pattaya. Most visitors to Pattaya converge on Walking Street located in southern Pattaya which is most well known for its no holds barred nightlife venues. The bright neon lights and skull jarring hip hop beats. Thai woman (and transvestites), tugging and pulling at your shirt sleeves make you feel like you are taking a stroll inside a life sized arcade pin ball machine. Walking Street is considered the epicenter, the crust of all that is unholy and seedy in this part of Pattaya. But upon closer inspection you will find Irish pubs, various other watering holes and well established restaurants run mostly by foreign expats. These are places filled visitors from all over the world just sitting and chatting, without a lady sitting on their laps. Then you realize Pattaya is not just all about sex and sin.

Pattaya is about rest and recreation, the famous R&R phrase used by US soldiers from the Vietnam war era who changed the face of this once quiet seaside fishing village forever. Where once army boots pounded the streets long ago, today are being patrolled by slipper wearing backpackers and even by elderly tourist who curiously peek at the go-go dancer, who lure men in like a seasoned fisherman.

Through the years Pattaya has set her own standards and charm as one of the world's foremost party and relaxation destinations. She may not have famous celebrities and movie stars sunning themselves on their million dollar yachts there, but Pattaya Thailand can still cast a charm on any soul beckoning them to return again and again.

For more information Pattaya as well as some great hotel accommodations please visit, Pattaya Hotel Guide.
Edwin M. Clark is a business consultant who travels to South East Asia, specifically to Thailand for over 8 years. His experience and knowledge in the region has provided valuable information and resources for business venturers and mid range to major corporations in the travel industry.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Edwin_M_Clark

Thailand Southeast Asia Travel by Bicycle Also Renting and Buying a Bike

If you are a keen cyclist a fancy doing a tour of Southeast Asia then this is the article for you. South east Asia is the perfect place. Sure enough your first stop will probably be Bangkok. And Bangkok is probably the best place in Thailand to get your bike.

That is if your not bringing your own. There are some advantages to bringing your own bike but a lot of disadvantages. Putting the bike on the plane and transportation of luggage etc can be a hassle so you would be far better off picking up a bike in Bangkok. When arriving at Bangkok Thailand your first reaction about cycling in the city would probably be 'it's dangerous' but its not as bad as you might think. As long as you keep to the left the drivers are fairly considerate. Another way is to put the bikes on the back of a Tuk Tuk this is an easy and safe way of traveling around Bangkok to and from train stations etc. The Trains will happily transport the bikes for you with no problems.

One best ways to pick up a bike is to hire the bike. This is one of the best options as it is cheap and problem free. Buying a bike is another option but with there being a limited number bike shops in Bangkok and the prices being no cheaper than in Europe and America this option has a few more problems to deal with than renting. There are a few places to rent decent bikes from in Bangkok one of the good ones is mountainbiketoursthailand.com they are based on Khaosan road and use good quality bikes like trek and Meridia and are a lot cheaper then most of the others on the internet with a fairly low deposit as well.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Austin_Morgan

Gem Buyers Guide to Thailand



The Gem Buyers Guide to Thailand is the perfect companion for those seeking to buy precious gems in Thailand.
This book puts you in the actual gem markets, with pictures and illustrations explaining what to expect. You are told exactly what to bring, what the gem dealers will have, and what to do.

The guide covers the four major gem markets:

  • Silom, Bangkok
  • Chanthaburi
  • Mae Sot
  • Mae Sai

The guide includes a complete description of all of the gems available in the markets of Thailand. It also explains the common cheats and how to avoid them. The guide has a glossary and index for your convenience.

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Moon Thailand (Moon Handbooks)



Journalist and Bangkok resident Suzanne Nam knows the best ways to experience Thailand, from diving in the clear azure waters off the Andaman coast to exploring 13th century Buddhist temples in Chiang Mai. Suzanne offers unique trip strategies, such as Touring the Temples and Five Stars at Two-Star Prices that enable any traveler to enjoy all that Thailand has to offer. Including expert advice on shopping at Bangkok’s vibrant street markets, island-hopping around Koh Samui, and visiting National Parks, Moon Thailand gives travelers the tools they need to create a more personal and memorable experience.

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Thailand Travel Pack (Globetrotter Travel Packs)



The highly successful "Globetrotter Travel Series", which includes Travel Guides, Travel Maps, Road Atlases, Best Of Pocket Guides and In Your Pocket Language Guides, presently covers more than 90 destinations worldwide. The Packs are excellent value, including both a guidebook and a softcover version of the fold-out Globetrotter map of the region, in a printed plastic wallet.The handy pocket-size guide is packed with useful information, tips and recommendations, accompanied by colour photographs, charts and maps for the first-time traveller who wants to experience the major highlights that Thailand has to offer. The fold-out map of Thailand is ideal for tourists and visitors.

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Thailand Condensed: 2000 Years of History & Culture



The only Southeast Asian nation never to have been colonized by a European power, Thailand is a country rich with history. Thailand Condensed provides readers with an overview of key events in the nation’s past as well as the cultural touchstones of its present. From elephants, tuks tuks, and silk to the realities of modern life, Thailand Condensed is loaded with nuggets of information, all presented in one volume for the reader’s ease of reference.

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Culture Shock! Thailand: A Survival Guide to Customs and Etiquette



With over three million copies in print, CultureShock! is a bestselling series of culture and etiquette guides covering countless destinations around the world. For anyone at risk of culture shock, whether a tourist or a long-term resident, CultureShock! provides a sympathetic and fun-filled crash course on the do's and don'ts in foreign cultures. Fully updated and sporting a fresh new look, the revised editions of these books enlighten and inform through such topics as language, food and entertaining, social customs, festivals, relationships, and business tips. CultureShock! books are packed with useful details on transportation, taxes, finances, accommodation, health, food and drink, clothes, shopping, festivals, and much, much more.

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Thailand : The Golden Kingdom Book



From the beaches of the south to the mountains of the north, Thailand is a beautiful and diverse land. Thailand: The Golden Kingdom encapsulates Thai history, culture, and art in one compact volume. It gives an endearing portrait of Thailand's multi-ethnic population, the people's beliefs and ways of life and sets it in an historical and cultural context. Over 140 stunning color photographs illustrate the clear, insightful text about all aspects of one of Asia's most fascinating places.

About the Author
William Warren, born in the southern part of the United States, has made his home in Thailand since 1960. he is the author of a number of publications on Thai life and culture including Tropical Asian Style and Thai Garden Style, both published by Periplus.

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Thailand: The Beautiful Cookbook



Thailand the Beautiful Cookbook is a joyous celebration of Thailand its people, and its cuisine.

The range and diversity of Thai cooking is showcased in this magnificent collection of authentic recipes from each of the four regions of Thailand.

From the South, where the cooking reflects a Malay influence, comes a tantalizing array of curries and delicious seafood dishes. The Central Plains region, with the huge vibrant city of Bangkok as its focus is the most fertile, part of the country and is rich in fresh produce. The North has a very distinctive cuisine based on glutinous rice, and the dishes that accompany it are generally milder than those of the Central and Northeastern regions In the Northeast the influence of nearby Laos is felt and dishes tend to be highly spiced.

Thai-born chef and culinary expert Panurat Poladitmontri and his partner, Judy Lew, have prepared this superb collection of authentic, recipes, each of which has been individually photographed by leading food photographer John Hay and beautifully styled by Ann Creber. Internationally renowned photographers Luca Invernizzi Tettoni and John Hay present a spectacular collection of photographs to show Thailand's great scenic diversity, from the beaches and jungles of the South to the misty mountains of the North, and the varied lives of it's people. William Warren, who has spent many years in Thailand, writes with an insider's knowledge. He takes the reader on an absorbing trip around the country discussing the various influences--historical, physical, racial and cultural--that have formed the distinctive culture of the Thai people.

An extensive glossary ensures that any cooks who are unfamiliar with oriental ingredients and presentation will have no difficulty in bringing this wonderful selection of Thai dishes to their tables.

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The Rough Guide to Thailand's Beaches & Islands 3 (Rough Guide Travel Guides)



The Rough Guide to Thailand''s Beaches and Islands is the ultimate guideto these glorious destinations. From the enchanting and little-knownislands of Ban Krud and Suan Luang to the hip beach resort of PakNam Pran. A full-colour 24-page section introduces the highlights, withstunning photography of the best the islands have to offer. This new edition includes two brand-new full-colour inserts: ''Southern Thai Food'' and ''Sea Kayaking''. The authorsprovide expert recommendations on all the top places to visit, from the best party beaches andluxury resorts to remote national park islands and bases for diving,snorkelling and kayaking. The guide includes full coverage ofBangkok, the main point of arrival, a sophisticated metropolis andgateway to the coasts. There are detailed maps for every region andinformed advice on activities - from Thai cookery and boxing to scuba-diving and white-water rafting.

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Thailand Travel Map (Thailand Regional Maps)



Thailand Travel Map
This title includes the area maps of Ko Samui and Ko Phangan, Northern Thailand, Phuket and Southern China. It also includes city plans of Ayuthaya, Central Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Karon and Kata Beaches, Northern Samui, Patong Beach, Pattaya and Phuket Town.

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Frommer's Thailand (Frommer's Complete)



You'll never fall into the tourist traps when you travel with Frommer's. It's like having a friend show you around, taking you to the places locals like best. Our expert authors have already gone everywhere you might go--they've done the legwork for you, and they're not afraid to tell it like it is, saving you time and money. No other series offers candid reviews of so many hotels and restaurants in all price ranges. Every Frommer's Travel Guide is up-to-date, with exact prices for everything, dozens of color maps, and exciting coverage of sports, shopping, and nightlife. You'd be lost without us!

Frommer's holds the key to worry-free travel in this exotic land, with valuable cultural insights, the latest trip-planning advice, detailed maps, and smart tips on language, local customs, and getting around. You'll find honest, in-depth reviews of luxury beach resorts, high-tech business hotels, intimate inns, and simple guest houses and bungalows, all based on recent personal inspections.

We'll show you spectacular beaches, waterfalls, floating markets, majestic temples, ancient ruins, national parks, palaces, and traditional villages. We'll lead you to amazing restaurants, and even take you elephant trekking in the Northern Hills. You'll also rely on us to guide you through the confusing, bustling, but intriguing city of Bangkok (our author, who lived there while writing this guide, knows it intimately, and discovered all sorts of hidden surprises). With Frommer's in hand, you'll experience all the wonder of Thailand!

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Buy Thailand Adventure Guide



A thorough guide to the number-one tourist destination in Southeast Asia. The finest hotels, with impeccable service, cost a fraction of what you would pay elsewhere, and shoppers will never tire of the vast selections, from silk scarves and designer gowns to exotic jewelery. Try elephant trekking, sea canoeing or Thai massage. Taste the exquisite cuisine, explore mystic temples (30,000 of them!) and sail to unspoiled islands. "Thaland Adventure Guides" are about living more intensely, waking up to your surroundings and truly experiencing all that you encounter. The regional chapters take you on an introductory tour, with stops at museums, historic sites and local attractions. Places to stay and eat; transportation to, from and around your destination; practical concerns; tourism contacts - it's all here! Detailed maps feature walking and driving tours. Then come the adventures - both cultural and physical - from canoeing and hiking to taking dance or cooking classes. This unique approach allows you to really immerse yourself in the local culture.

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Buy Thailand's Islands & Beaches (Regional Guide) Book



Discover Thailand's Islands and Beaches

Surrender to the serenity of a hammock on Ko Pha-Ngan
Discover Ko Phi-Phi's underwater world of shipwrecks, psychedelic cora and bus-sized whale sharks
Meditate in a cave temple filled with Buddha images and bats
Take time out from paradise in buzzing Bangkok, where world-class dining and shopping await

In This Guide

Four authors, 200 days on the road, one karaoke bar too many
New color Activities chapter: climb, snorkel or kayak through Thailand's coastal playground
Bamboo hut or opulent villa? Independent, authoritative reviews of every sleeping option
Visit lonelyplanet.com for up-to-the-minute reviews, updates and traveler insights

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Thailand (Country Guide) Book



Discover Thailand

Uncover Bangkok's best street stalls or enjoy skyscraping gourmet dinners.
Climb aboard a long-tail boat and island hop to your own isolated beach paradise.
Get soaked at Songkran, the Thai celebration that becomes the world's biggest water fight.
Trek off the beaten path in remote Isan to watch a rare solar alignment at an ancient Angkor temple.

In This Guide:

Ten authors, 259 days of in-country research and 150 maps.
Trek, dive or monkey-watch with our detailed coverage of national parks and natural wonders.
Visit lonelyplanet.com for up-to-the-minute reviews, updates and traveler suggestions.

See Thailand (Country Guide) Book