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Thailand
Nestled between Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar and Malaysia and lapped by the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea, lies the tropical paradise of Thailand. Once considered primarily as a backpackers' playground, Thailand has since evolved into a destination more than able to satisfy even the most discerning traveller. The accommodation choice ranges from idyllic beachfront bungalows, high-tech city skyscrapers and romantic pool villas. The countries attractions are endless, with miles of sandy beaches, national parks, pristine dive sites and fascinating cultural centres. Absorb yourself in the Thai culture and relax as you meet your friendly Thai hosts, only too happy to introduce you to their unique country.
Thailand Travel Tips
Chiang Rai Mae Hong Son Chiang Mai
LAOS
MYANMAR
Sukhothai Udon Thani
Kamphaeng Phet
THAILAND
Ayutthaya Kanchanaburi Bangkok Phetchaburi Chon Buri Pattaya Hua Hin & Cha Am Chanthaburi Koh Chang
VIETNAM
Andaman Sea
CAMBODIA
Gulf of Thailand
Ranong Koh Phangan Koh Samui Khao Sok Khao Lak Phuket Phi Phi Koh Lanta Phang Nga Krabi Trang
South China Sea
· Time: GMT +7 · Flying Time from UK: Approx. 12 hours. · Language: Thai and some Chinese dialects. English is widely understood and spoken in hotels, shops and restaurants. · Currency: Thai Bhat (THB). £1 = THB 70 approx. · Departure Tax: THB 500 for international flights. · Visa Requirements: UK citizens may stay up to 30 days without a visa, provided that onward travel is confirmed. For visits of more than 30 days a visa will be required which may be obtained from: Royal Thai Embassy, 29-30 Queens Gate, London SW7 5JB. Tel: 0207 589 2944. · Getting Around: There is a good network of frequent domestic flights within Thailand, with major carriers being Thai Airways and Bangkok Airways. Various direct flights operate between Bangkok and Thailand's major resorts; including Phuket, Koh Samui, Chiang Mai, Trat and Krabi. Access to the resorts of Hua Hin and Pattaya is via expressway, which is a well maintained and direct road system. To escape to one of Thailand's smaller islands many of our hotels provide their own boat transfers, see the Thai Hideaways section (pages 40-42) for further details. · Festivals, Events & Busy Times: Numerous local events and festivals happen throughout the country at any time of year but especially during the cooler months from November to February. Many of these are determined by the lunar cycle and so exact dates vary. The two big countrywide festivals that coincide with public holidays are: Chinese New Year (February), Songkran Thai New Year (April) and the King's birthday (December). · Tourist Office: Tourism Authority of Thailand, Brook House, 98-99 Jermyn Street, London WC1Y 2EE. Tel: 0870 900 2007. www.thaismile.co.uk
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