Adventures:
Chachoengsao
Chachoengsao is home to one of the most sacred Buddha images in Thailand - Phra Phuttha Sothon - which is housed in the Wat Sothon Wararam Worawihaan. The origins of the modest 198-cm-high Phra Phuttha Sothon are cloaked in mystery but the image is said to be associated with a famous monk with holy powers who supposedly predicted the exact moment of his death.
Ko Si Chang
This one-town island offshore from Chonburi Province on the Gulf of Thailand is practically deserted, making it great fun to explore. Its attractions include a meditation center with hermit caves, decent beaches with good snorkeling, a ruined palace, limestone caves and a Chinese temple perched on a cliff overlooking the sea.
Mae Sot
Mae Sot has a reputation as a frontier town with an outlaw image. It has a thriving black-market trade (guns, narcotics, teak and gems) and is an increasingly important official jade and gem center. It's a departure point for the fascinating border markets which trade Burmese handicrafts and foodstuffs.
Prasat Hin Khao Phanom Rung Historical Park
The Khmer complex is located on an extinct volcano and dominates the surrounding countryside. It has a fine promenade leading to the main gate, numerous galleries and halls, and the only three naga bridges left in Thailand. Thaleh Ban National Park
Thaleh Ban National Park is home to one of South-East Asia's best-preserved sections of white meranti rainforest. Its hilly terrain includes caves, waterfalls, limestone cliffs, lake views and wildlife such as mouse deer, gibbons, macaques and many rare bird species.

For Families:
When looking to venture outdoors in Thailand, two very popular activities are scuba diving and snorkeling. There are several great areas to dive and snorkeling including the less developed islands of Chumphon Province where the reefs are practically undisturbed. Other water activities feature inflatable canoes and typical sea-canoes with which one can tour the coastal limestone formations or even seek out half-submerged caves. Inland rafts trips down the Mae Klong River are also available. Another popular activity that draws a large amount of visitors is wilderness walking in Northern Thailand. There are fabulous mountainous treks through inhabited hill tribes in the mountains near Chiang Mai. Besides boasting fabulous hiking trials, Chiang Mai has also become a center for classes in Thai cooking and traditional massage. One of the biggest draws of visitors to become active in the Thai culture is through meditation. Meditation is a large part of the Buddhist religion, and instruction and accommodation for this intriguing art are usually free, although donations are expected.

Shopping:
A wealth of shopping opportunities awaits the visitor, and bargains abound throughout our country in traditional handicrafts, textiles, gems, jewelry and antiques, as well as more contemporary items.

Culinary:
Thai cuisine is pungent and spicy, seasoned with heaps of garlic and chilies and a characteristic mix of limejuice, lemon grass and fresh coriander. Galanga root, basil, ground peanuts, tamarind juice, ginger and coconut milk are other common additions. Fish sauce or shrimp paste are mainstays of Thai dishes, and of course rice is eaten with most meals. Main dishes include hot and sour fish ragout, green and red curries, various soups and noodle dishes. Thai food is served with a variety of condiments and dipping sauces. Snacks and appetizers include fried peanuts, chicken, chopped ginger, peppers and slices of lime. There is an incredible variety of fruit available, either fresh or juiced. Sugar cane juice and, for something stronger, rice whisky are favorite local tipples.

Nightlife:
Entertainment ranges from classical dance and Thai boxing to the go-go bars of Patpong. For alternative night entertainment, check out the night markets behind Ratchaprarop Rd in Pratunam. Bangkok is a great place to shop if you don't overdose on T-shirts and fake designer clothing. It's worth stocking up on clothes for your trip or your wardrobe at home.