Surathani

 Travellers don't really spend a lot of time here. It is a transit hub for island hoppers wanting to catch a ferry to Koh Samui, Koh Toa or Koh Pha-Ngan.

Pattaya

 Because it is just two hours away from Bangkok, this is a good destination for day-trippers who want to explore the beach side city while they relax with a cocktail in their hand on the pier. This is more popular for expats and businessmen. It is not a popular destination for backpackers.

Hua Hin

 Thanks to King Rama VII and the Thai high society, Hua Hin changed from a little fishing village on Thailand's east coast to a glamourous getaway for the rich and beautiful. Today this is a cosmopolitan city and a holiday destination for Europeans who want to escape winter.

Koh Tao

 For a more relaxed time, Koh Tao is a good place to chill out and scuba dive along a beautiful coral reef.

Koh Phangan

 This is the most well-known backpacker party place in all of Thailand. When night falls, head down to Hat Rin Beach and enjoy one of the legendary full moon parties. Dance to trippy trance beats around fire sticks while you throw back a glass or five of good old Thai whiskey. After a long night out and a short nap in one of the beach hammocks, start the day with a refreshing dip in the sea.

River Kwai

 This stretch of water was immortalised in 1957 when Bridge over the River Kwai was adapted into a film from Pierre Boulle's novel. It is located in the Kanchanaburi province of western Thailand, around two hours from Bangkok. It is a great spot to learn about traditional Thailand and the country's involvement in World War Two.

Chiang Rai

 Also known as Siang Hai, this is a quiet city located near the Mekong River in the most norther province of Thailand. Everything seems a little bit smaller and more relaxed than it is in Chiang Mai. The place is (in)famous as being a centre for opium and has been nicknamed the gateway to the golden triangle.

Chiang Mai

 Surrounded by gorgeous mountain scenery, historical Chiang Mai is a place of Thai art and culture. There are over 300 temples to explore and you can meet the locals while strolling around the nights markets.

general information

 Typical Thai food combines ingredients like coconut milk, chillies, fish sauce and lemongrass which are then mixed together with fresh meat and vegetables. The best way to experience real Thai food is to eat at one of the street stalls. These are cheap and a good way to meet locals.

Hill tribes

 The Hill Tribes are located in northern Thailand. The area has tropical forests, wild rivers and scenic mountain ranges, and is home to a diverse number of tribes and you can experience their unique way of life in places like Lamphun and Sukhothai.