Thailand Itineraries Trip Planning & Itineraries

Outside Bangkok: Pattaya

This one-time fishing village became popular with US GIs in the late 50s. Pattaya is a bustling beach resort town about 150km outside of Bangkok. The town awakens late and comes to life when the sun goes down. For the diver at heart, Pattaya offers some of the most easily accessible diving outside of Bangkok. Explore one of the many islands off Pattaya like Koh Samet or Koh Larn. Get to know the local wildlife by getting up close and personal with elephants, crocodiles and tigers. For those looking for something completely different try and catch Tiffany's Cabaret Show.

Heading North: Chiang Mai

This city is a must see for any journey to Thailand. Chiang Mai is located about 700km northwest of Bangkok. In this cooler city to the north the pace slows down a bit and the experiences are plentiful. You can take classes in Thai language, massage, cooking, and yoga or get an insider's perspective at handicraft production. For the adventuresome at heart take a day trip to do some elephant trekking or visit a hill tribe. Chiang Mai also boasts endless shopping and over 300 temples. A visit to the beauty of Doi Intanon National Park also promises to satisfy your senses. Don't forget about the endless shopping in Chiang Mai.

The Islands: Koh Samui and Phuket

Koh Samui is the third largest island in Thailand and has legendary status amongst the backpacking community. This island has some of the best value in accommodations and meals and radiates a very casual atmosphere that most island cultures proclaim. Exploring the island is a must from both land and sea. Koh Samui is also ideal for day trips to one of the 80 islands that are a part of Koh Samui's archipelago. Take a day trip around the island to get your bearings and end up being pampered. Go sightseeing to the neighboring island of Ko Phangan famous for its Moon Festivals and iridescent plankton. Or take a sea kayak adventure to Angthong National Marine Park.

Phuket, pronounced 'poo-get', spreads over 800 square km with everything from lush vegetation to sandy beaches. One could pass the days in one of the famous resort spas or explore the various areas of the island. Thailand is known for its elephant population and the islands are no different. A half day safari around Phuket will get you off the beach for half a day and learning about the wildlife on the island. I strongly suggest spending a day on the island of Phi Phi made famous by the movie 'The Beach.' For those that don't want to spend a minute out of the water check out Phuket's water activities, you won't be disappointed. On the nightlife front, why not go and see the Simon Cabaret Show or the Phuket Fantasea.

Down South: Krabi

Krabi serves as a jumping off point to many of the islands surrounding it in the south of Thailand. Krabi has much to offer travelers looking for good food, friendly dispositions and local flavor. The area is famous for rock climbing and has a fascinating geological history. Tham Phi Hua To or Tiger Cave is the most famous limestone cave in the area and not to be missed. You could also discover some of the caves from the water by going on a canoe cave explorer trip. If you want to check out some neighboring islands I would suggest taking the 4 Island Tour or Koh Hong Island Tour. If you are looking to learn about the history of trade or discovering the rain forest spend the day exploring hot streams and rain forests with an experienced guide.