Audley in ThailandThailand features in the brochures of mostmainstream tour operators, usually as asimple 'off the shelf' package combining a few nights in Bangkok with some time onone of the more developed beaches.However, in Thailand as elsewhere, we startfrom scratch and assess what the country has to offer to suit each individual traveller.With national parks rich in flora and fauna,mountain ranges with their resident hill-tribes,and pristine beaches where local fishermenbring the catch in each day, many parts ofthe country can still be enjoyed in unspoilttranquillity. Whether you are looking foradventure, culture or beaches we can tailoran itinerary, combining well-known highlightswith hidden gems.AccommodationThailand boasts a wealth of accommodationfrom city hotels with unrivalled service torustic lodges or homestay experiences, luxurybeach resorts from some of the world's mostprestigious hotel groups to small, family-runboutique properties. Some parts of Thailandwhich have remained off the tourist trail,such as Nan and provincial towns in the Isaan region, have comfortable hotels butthese sometimes lack character. However, on many occasions we stumble across littlegems quite unexpectedly on our researchtrips which further enhance the possibilitiesand experiences for the traveller. In short,there are options to suit all budgets, tastesand requirements.Find out more For suggested itineraries and practicalinformation about travel in Thailand, pleasesee pages 68-69.www.audleytravel.comInteractive maps and features, further suggested itineraries,accommodation, climate informationand articles written by our specialists.Discuss your plans with our Thailandspecialists 01993 838 115?BangkokOne of the most vibrant citiesin the world, Bangkok willassault your senses at everyturn. Dig a bit deeper todiscover a melting pot ofcultures and communities.AyuthayaStay in a wonderful boutiquehotel overlooking theatmospheric ruins of the former Siamese capital, now aUNESCO World Heritage Site.21Floating marketsColourful, floating markets canbe found on the doorstep ofthe capital, where traders useboats to peddle their waresthrough the labyrinthinenetwork of klongs (canals).KanchanaburiWith the Bridge on the RiverKwai as an iconic landmark, thisis a region steeped in modernhistory set against a backdrop of beautiful parkland and lush,verdant scenery.34Isaan regionThe agricultural heartland ofThailand and home toimpressive Khmer era templesand the fiery but delicious som tam (papaya salad).Chiang MaiDiscover markets, quiet wats,and great cuisine in thisintriguing walled city.Golden TriangleImmerse yourself in the stunningscenery at the confluence ofLaos, Burma and Thailand. Anideal base for exploring thefoothills, once the haunt ofopium traders and now hometo one of Southeast Asia's bestelephant conservation centres.Khao Yai National ParkA haven for nature enthusiastsand the active. Camp under thestars for an encounter withThailand's oldest national park.Koh SametA tropical island within easyreach of Bangkok. The sandsqueaks underfoot and the palmtrees sway in the breeze.Krabi provinceLimestone karsts erupt from the ocean creating a dramaticbackdrop to the colourful fishing boats.1098756Thailand5112345678910Wat Pho, Bangkok

ARIYASOMVILLA, BANGKOKThis is a delightful family-run hotel tucked away atthe end of a pleasant soi off Bangkok's SukhumvitRoad. The hotel has easy access to the Ploen Chitskytrain station and the Nana Nue water taxistop. At this unique 25 room property, all guestsare made to feel at home by owner David andhis team and the small but attractive gardensprovide a pleasant oasis. There is a smallswimming pool, a spa and a yoga pavilion.THEPENINSULA, BANGKOKSituated on the Thonburi side of the Chao PhrayaRiver, the hotel's unique W-shape provides allrooms with views out over the river and theBangkok skyline. There is a complimentary shuttleboat between the hotel and the skytrain station,giving easy access to the city's attractions. Enjoybreakfast on the terrace and watch as the rivercomes to life with water taxis and commercialboats. A three-tiered swimming pool, one of thebest in the city, and a superb spa housed in aThai-colonial house offer a relaxing escape.FURAMAXCLUSIVESATHORN,BANGKOKSituated in the heart of Bangkok's CentralBusiness District within a three minute walk of the Chong Nonsi skytrain station and the populartourist area of Patpong, the FuramaXclusive offersgood accommodation and superb value formoney. The property has a fresh, modern styleand the 139 guest rooms are well equipped witha small kitchenette, DVD, TV, stereo andcomplimentary WiFi. There is a small outdoorpool, as well as a gym and sauna. The groundfloor restaurant serves food all day whilst anumber of good restaurants are within easy reach.BangkokBangkok, a vibrant metropolis sprawling aroundthe Chao Phraya River, invigorates the senses.Southeast Asia's main hub, it is a fascinating citywhere ancient heritage meets the modern worldhead on. Vast shopping malls tower over hawker'shandcarts; an efficient skytrain and undergroundrail system rattle across the city while tuk-tuksbelch out smoke. Along the river, longtail taxiboats and river buses link the Chao Phraya's majorsights. Experiences abound; with the soaring spiresand bright-tiled roofs of the Grand Palace, thereclining Buddha at Wat Pho, the bright blooms at the flower market and the elegance of JimThompson's House amongst the highlights. Thereis something of interest around every corner:quiet temples where saffron-robed monks sweepleaves, shrines where devotees light candles andincense, and ancient stilted houses that teeterover residential canals. The river itself is busy fromdawn to dusk with barges and water taxis, andprovides a quick and easy way to get around.52Freshly cooked stir fry, Chinatown, BangkokAriyasom Villa, BangkokThe Peninsula, BangkokFuramaXclusive Sathorn, Bangkok