Thailand lies in southeast Asia, between the Indian and Pacific oceans. Thailand is bordered on the north-west by Myanmar, on the north-east by Laos, on the south-east by Cambodia and the Gulf of Thailand, on the south by Malaysia, and on the south-west by the Andaman Sea. The north-western border with Myanmar, and the long Isthmus of Kra are mountainous. The central plain is the most fertile and thickly populated area, while the low north-eastern plateau is the poorest region. There is more visible historical evidence of past eras in Thailand than in any other South-East Asian country, so if you're interested in ruins, temples and deserted cities, this is the place to go. For pure holiday-making magic, Thailand's islands and beaches are working definitions of heaven. As for urban delights, the huge metropolis of Bangkok, although it can alarm with its chaos and its scale, tends to so charm visitors with its energy and cultural treasures.

Blessed with numerous powdery, soft beaches surrounded by warm inviting seas there is a lot more to Thailand than Bangkok. Park yourself on any of the surrounding islands for ultimate recreation and relaxation. Accessible only by boat, Koh Samui, Ko Phan Ghan and Koh Tao are all popular island destinations in the Gulf of Thailand. Many other resorts of a more up-market standard can be found on the other side of the Peninsula in the Indian Ocean including the increasingly popular Phuket and Pattaya. For yet another taste of Thailand, head north to Chang Mai. Away from the beach and the fast-paced nature of central Thailand, Chang Mai is the second largest city with extensive offerings. Trek through the jungles along the Myanmar border, discover Thailand's true shopping capital and respect some of the country's rich cultural heritage in the northern hilltribes.