A holiday in Thailand is guaranteed to relax and energise. Mystical and ancient Siam has grown into a vibrant holiday destination for a wide range of holidaymakers. Rich in religious and cultural history, with breathtaking temples and pagodas scattered throughout the landscape and wide, sandy beaches kissing pristine turquoise waters, and steamy tropical jungles teeming with tropical flora and fauna, it’s no surprise that Thailand is such a hot destination.
Thailand holidays offer a wide range of accommodation from traditional beach huts to plush, air-conditioned, 5 star hotels, and exclusive and expensive health spas. No matter what the budget, a holiday in Thailand will reward and excite. From the bumper-to-bumper traffic of Bangkok to the calm serenity of a massage temple in Chiang Mai, the senses are overwhelmed with a kaleidoscope of influences.
For a jungle experience to remember, venture north to the lands beyond Chiang Mai, Thailand’s cultural capital, for cultural and adventure treks where you’ll wander past hidden temples and ancient ruins, come face to face with ethnic minority groups and a diverse range of wildlife including gibbons, deer, monkeys and a stunning variety of birdlife. Not keen on hiking? Maybe an elephant trek is more your style.
Bangkok, the Thai capital, is an in-your-face metropolis crashing headlong into westernisation at a rate of knots. From the calm temples of Wat Phra Kae to the tourist enclaves of Khao San Road, Bangkok never fails to excite. A vast city, Bangkok can overwhelm at first, but once familiar is a fascinating destination with a staggering variety of attractions.
Most favoured of Thai regions is on Thailand’s southern islands and beaches. Phuket is undeniably the mecca for sun and thrill-seekers, while islands like Koh Samui maintain a budget appeal with raging bars and cheap accommodation, a distinct contrast to some beautiful, quiet beaches. Further around, on the Andaman coast, you will find six star luxury spa resorts amid spectacular scenery with sheer limestone cliffs rising from turquoise seas and chalk white beaches.
Thailand fun facts
Bangkok is known as City of Angels
Thailand is making a name for itself in the wine industry. Chenin Blanc grapes thrive in the cool hill region of Khao Yai
It’s been estimated that about 2,000 elephants live in the wild
Hong Kong & Macau with Cathay Pacific
Thursday 8th November 2007
Travel Counsellor: Karen Farley
In November 2007 I travelled to Hong Kong for a work conference/educational trip.
I flew with Cathay Pacific to/from Hong Kong - one way in business class and one way in economy class. Business class service was great - comfortable and very attentive. Probably too much food served during the flight but one can never say no to the ice cream! Economy class - the usual - still great service but not comfortable for my larger frame. Thankfully a spare seat next to me was arranged by the airline - very good customer service. Hong Kong airport is very modern - reasonably easy to navigate and if you get disorientated when you arrive - just do what I did and follow the crowd.
We arrived around 10pm and stayed at the Regal Airport hotel, Hong Kong airport for the first night. This hotel is excellent quality and linked to the international airport by a covered walkway. It's easy to find and the Regal Hotel staff will even meet you in the arrivals hall and escort you to the hotel. Our... view full story
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