As the majority of the country’s population are practicing Theravada Buddhists, one of the most prominent sights around Thailand from Bangkok to Chiang Mai are the tiered rooftops of grand temples (known as wats).

Thanks to its combination of such fascinating culture with a low cost of living, Thailand attracts thousands of backpackers each year, with numerous hostels in Thailand providing cheap accommodation for travelers exploring the country’s sights.

Bangkok

Often the first point of call for backpackers in Thailand, the hectic modern surface of the capital city, Bangkok, conceals a history that’s bound up with its numerous impressive temples.

Home to the country’s most famous attraction, the Grand Palace, Bangkok is at the heart of the Thai Kingdom and its cultural heritage. In the grounds of the Palace complex lies Wat Phra Kaeo, or the Temple of the Emerald Buddha – Thailand’s most sacred site.

Whilst the Emerald Buddha is small in size, it’s often considered to be the most important image in Thailand. Moved to its current location in 1784, legend places its origins in India with years of Southeast Asia fighting around (and over) it in between.

In addition to this celebrated image, there are paintings and figures inside the wat which depict the mythology of Ramakien, the Thai version of the Hindu epic of the hero Rama.

Just to the south of the Grand Palace, the dazzling Wat Pho is also a popular attraction in Bangkok. The oldest temple in the city, it dates back to the 17th century and is famous for its huge reclining Buddha.

With regards to a place to stay, there are a number of hostels in Bangkok offering both cheap private rooms and dorms to travelers exploring these stunning sights. Many of the best (and most affordable) hostels are situated in Banglamphu, a hub for travelers in the city and in easy reach of the Grand Palace.

However, these temples are just part of Bangkok’s rich history – other highlights include the Wat Mangkon Kamalawat, beautifully decorated with Chinese dragons, and the large Wat Arun, one of the city’s most distinctive landmarks.

Old Sukhothai

North of Bangkok, the ruins of the walled city of Sukhothai lie on Thailand’s central plains. Easily accessible by bus via the modern settlement nearby, there are also some convenient hostels in the vicinity.

Dating back to the 13th century, the city originally housed around 40 separate temples. Today, the most important site is the large Wat Mahathat, surrounded by a moat and filled with the remains of many of Sukhothai’s ancient monuments.

Chiang Mai

Heading further north, public transport whisks backpackers on to Chiang Mai. This laidback and old-fashioned city is an intriguing sight in itself, although it’s mainly a center for hilltribe trekking in the mountains which surround it.

The beautiful Wat Phra Singh is the city’s must-see temple with its exemplary 19th century Lanna architecture, interior murals and gilded roof pediment. To the east sit the ruins of Wat Chedi Luang, once home to the Emerald Buddha, but destroyed by an earthquake in 1545.

Wat Phu Tok

Thailand’s least visited region, the northeastern province of Issan is home to Wat Phu Tok, a stunning retreat perched on the rocky outcrops of the red hills to the east of Nong Khai.

Built by meditation master Phra Ajaan Juen, it winds itself into the cliffs with wooden walkways that represent the seven levels of Buddhist enlightenment. The top level, on the flat of the hill, is in the midst of an overgrown forest.

Although it’s best reached by car, Wat Phu Tok is also accessible by bus from Bung Kan or the nearest town, Ban Siwilai, where there are also a handful of budget hotels providing beds for backpackers exploring the region.

Tens of thousands of rooms are available in Koh Samui, including a growing number of upmarket boutique resorts near all beaches. These exclusive ‘boutique’ resorts are generally situated on landscaped, manicured grounds overlooking the beach and feature pool villas, every conceivable amenity and superb service.

The best boutique resorts on Samui can be found on the east coast of the island around the beaches of Chaweng, Lamai and the Northern beach of Bophut.

Hospitality guide to Samui

The Pavilion Samui Boutique Resort is one of the most popular boutique resorts on Samui with its central Lamai location, luxurious bungalow-style rooms and chic public spaces. A courtyard area with jacuzzi, as well as spa and dining pavilion, are right on the beach.

In the 10,000 to 20,000 baht range a night range, Buriraya Resort and Spa is also near Lamai beach; a fairly new resort set within hills overlooking the coast. Chic rooms can be had in the large block, while larger villas lie amid lush gardens, each with private jacuzzi and pool. The communal pool and spa are also exquisite and the views are breathtaking.

Coral Bay Resort is situated away from the noise in north Chaweng and features lavishly-decorated hillside bungalows. The focus here is on peace and serenity, with TV-less rooms and spacious grounds with hidden seating. The pool overlooks the coral beach below and a spa, Jacuzzi, sauna, kids’ club, library and video lounge are just some of the facilities of this quality boutique resort.

The Imperial Boat House Hotel is a unique, more moderately-priced Samui boutique resort featuring 34 authentic teak, dry-docked, free-standing rice barges as suites. There are also less-expensive rooms on-site in three-storey buildings, and a boat-shaped swimming pool finishes off the look. Facilities include two pools and restaurants, a spa, fitness centre, jacuzzi, sauna and great room service.

Also on Choeng Mon, the Samui Peninsula Spa & Resort offers private suites and luxury pool villas with amazing views. Although a fair walk to the beach, the resort and facilities are fantastic with Thai classical style rooms, a central pool with scenic views and superb dining.

Arayabu Boutique Resort is located in the north of Samui on Samrong Bay, ‘Secret Beach’. Arayabu is perfect for getting away from it all with comfortable, private terraced villas in gorgeous surroundings.

The high season in Koh Samui follows the rest of Thailand with November to April being the busiest time. Rooms are more expensive and harder to come by at this time of year, particularly so during Christmas and New Year, which is the peak season and when supplements are common. The low season, or ‘green season’, is between May and October, when the rains are prevalent. Prices during this time at many of the boutique resorts on Samui can be as low as half the high season price. Whatever season you decide to visit in, booking ahead is strongly recommended.

List of all Samui resorts

With new venues popping up on a weekly basis, Koh Samui is steadily gaining a reputation as one of the top nightlife destinations in southern Thailand. The possibilities for a memorable (or unmemorable, depending on your alcohol consumption) night are plentiful, with pumping nightclubs, trendy lounges, beachside bars and friendly pubs flooding the island’s most popular party areas.

Chaweng is undoubtedly the most renowned party spot on Koh Samui, attracting internationally acclaimed DJs to its crowded nightclubs. A night out on the town can easily last until dawn, despite the law mandating a 02:00 closing time. With countless venues to choose from, there are plenty of clubs known to bend the rules. Conveniently, abundant taxis roam the streets, making the ride back to your accommodation easy at any hour.

Kick off the evening with some casual drinks and dinner at one of the various bars lining the main beach road. The music starts fairly early, setting the scene for a night of revelry.

Chaweng’s most famous disco, The Green Mango, appeals to party-goers of all types with its massive dance floor, billiards and lounge area with tables and chairs. This nightclub attracts globally known DJs and is consistently filled to capacity with a lively crowd determined to have a good time. For those seeking out a more modest joint, the street in front of The Green Mango is crammed with a series of small bars blasting out music to suit all tastes. More on Samui bars.

Koh Samui’s oldest nightclub, Reggae Pub, still holds one of the most popular parties on the island. At the start of the night, reggae music creates a chilled out atmosphere that is slowly phased out as the house music and crowds take over after midnight.

Travellers not looking to break in their dancing shoes can head to Sweet �n Soul Bar, where the smooth music is complemented by a dark and seductive setting. The Jazz Junction is another lounge-type venue, known for its fantastic cocktails and jazz music. There’s also a Brazilian bar which is proving popular with its imported dancers.

Lamai is the little sister of party animal Chaweng – smaller, a bit cheaper, and with a friendlier vibe. Besides the standard nightclubs and bar beers, Lamai has also become known for its raunchy mud wrestling contests and racy lady-boy shows, which now attract a wide range of people looking for offbeat fun. Nightlife guide to Samui

The Night Plaza and Round Bars areas are the centres of nightlife in Lamai, filled with bars and clubs that have a beach party feel. For live music, Bikers and Rockers Pub is the place to be, well known for its high quality rock shows.

Big Buddha Beach holds the consistently popular Sunday festival at The Secret Garden, boasting excellent live music acts (both local and visiting), open jam sessions, food stalls and stands selling souvenirs and crafts. Held weekly from 16:00 to 20:00, this party guarantees a good time.

Travellers looking for a more low-key night should head to Maenam, which has a relaxed but solid nightlife. The Bophut area is also less raucous, drawing more of a local crowd to its pubs and bars, which offer high quality drinks.

Go Go bars on Samui

Samui is all about boutique villas and VIP treatment but that doesn’t mean it’s unaffordable. It may have gone very upmarket compared to its humble bacnpacker beginnings but that doesn’t mean there isn’t a good selection of hotels at reasonable prices. You can have comfort for a comfortable price so we’ve found some of the most recommended hotels on the island for under 2000 baht a night.

Tourists first discovered the beauty and beaches of Koh Samui in the 1970s, but Chinese and Malay fishermen first inhabited this circular island in the Gulf of Thailand 15 centuries ago. Koh Samui’s tourism industry has made it far less isolated in recent years, but Thailand’s third largest island still offers budget accommodation and unspoilt beaches for visitors looking to get away from it all.

Before Koh Samui’s first roads were built in the early 1970s, the only way to travel from one end of this 21km-wide island to the other was a treacherous day-long journey through mountainous jungles. Today, motorists can easily drive around Koh Samui’s spectacular coastline in just a few hours, making it easy to access the island’s choice accommodation.

The southwestern coastal town of Nathon is the first stop for tourists arriving in Koh Samui by ferry. Charming and walkable, Nathon is known for its affordable and offbeat shopping, and it is also the departure point for ferries headed to Ang Thong National Marine Park, a popular daytrip. From here you can take a shared taxi to the beach and guesthouse or hotel of your choice.

Chaweng beach, on Koh Samui’s northeast coast, is where most of the action happens. Home to the 1,350-baht-a-night Samui Island Beach Resort & Hotel, the island’s largest resort, Chaweng is where most visitors to Samui stay. This hotel’s lush garden setting combines traditional Thai hospitality and culture with modern comforts such as cable television and air conditioning.

Other affordable accommodations along Chaweng’s beach strip include the 1,400-baht-a-night Island Resort and Spa, whose tranquil bungalows and unique spa treatments are ideal for visitors looking to pamper themselves, and the 1,054-baht-a-night Akwa Guesthouse, one of Chaweng’s most unique accommodations with its funky pop-art decor.

In addition to accommodation the popular 1,640 baht a night Montien House provides relaxing massages and beauty treatments, as well as live folk, blues, and traditional Thai music, while the 999 baht a night Samui First House hotel offers a weekly Thai dance or cabaret show. Both establishments provide live music six nights a week and easy access to Chaweng beach.

Visitors planning a longer stay may prefer the nearby 1,300 baht a night Samui Beach Apartments, whose 10 rooms include a kitchenette, satellite television, and hot showers. Daily, monthly, and yearly rates are available.

South of Chaweng is the large, beautiful valley and sweeping bay of Lamai. Despite the beach’s popularity, Lamai retains a spacious and uncrowded feel which made it one of Samui’s first well-known tourist destinations. The beach’s northern end is one of the few locations offering year-round deep water swimming.

The 850-baht-a-night Serene Hill Resort and Spa’s teakwood villas are a perfect escape from Lamai’s seedier side. Free shuttles to Chaweng, Lamai, and Bophut are available, along with daily trips to the nearby islands of Koh Tao, Koh Pha Ngan, and Ang Thong National Marine Park. The staff here also offer trips to the Samui Aquarium, Na Muang’s spectacular waterfalls, and Lamai beach’s Papa and Mama rock formations, whose resemblance to male and female genitalia amuse many visitors.

The 1,300-baht-a-night Auberge Resort, with each of its bungalows including a private balcony, is another affordable Lamai accommodation choice. This resort also offers massages, Thai cooking classes, and elephant rides.

Visitors looking for a more private and tranquil beach experience can easily find it in Maenam. Located in the middle of the island’s north coast, Maenam offers spectacular views of nearby Ang Thong National Marine Park. The golden sands and calm, warm waters of Maenam’s uncrowded beaches are a well-preserved reminder of the unspoilt scenery and solitude which first attracted visitors to Koh Samui. Here visitors will find affordable, pleasant hotels such as the 1,500-baht-a-night Maenamburi Resort.

The rapidly growing community of Bophut, just east of Maenam, is a wonderful compromise between lively Chaweng and Lamai, and Koh Samui’s more isolated destinations. Bophut maintains a quiet, laid-back feel, and the traditional fisherman’s village in the beach’s middle section seamlessly blends in with more modern architecture.

Bophut’s main attractions are its beaches and its many French restaurants and cafés, some of which also provide accommodation such as the 1,600-baht-a-night Carpe Diem Hotel. The 40 spacious chalets and bungalows at the long-established 1,517-baht-a-night Smile House Resort are also popular and affordable.

The airy bungalows of the 750-baht-a-night Sundays Sanctuary Resort and Spa offer a unique combination of east and west with traditional bamboo paneling, air conditioning, and a communal pool table. Among this resort’s unique spa and beauty services are a natural steam room and a cold water relaxing pool.

Bangrak, also known as Big Buddha beach, is home to Koh Samui’s best-known tourist attraction. The 12-metre gold statue of Big Buddha dominating the view from Bangrak is one of the first sights visitors see before landing at nearby Samui Airport. Bangrak is quieter than Chaweng and Samui, but during important festivals it becomes one of Koh Samui’s liveliest spots.

The tropical gardens and private balconies of the 890-baht-a-night Full Moon Bungalows are among the best places to enjoy Bangrak’s outstanding views and uncrowded beaches. This laid-back English run resort also offers a beach bar and package tours to the monthly and high energy full moon parties at nearby Koh Pha Ngan.

The secluded beach of Choeng Mon, located on Koh Samui’s northeastern tip, is one of the island’s most peaceful places. Choeng Mon is an ideal destination for young families, and the 850-baht-a-night Choengmon Buri Hotel is one of its most affordable accommodations. This hotel offers massages, a restaurant, and private mini bus tours across Koh Samui and its surrounding islands.

Idyllic and romantic Lipa Noi is considered the west coast’s best swimming beach and an excellent vantage point for Koh Samui’s most beautiful sunsets. Ban Hua Thanon, Na Khai, Laem Set, Bang Kao and Thong Krut are the most well known beaches on the south coast. Budget accommodation in the form of beach bungalows can be found at these idyllic spots.

Not long ago, there was little contact between Koh Samui and mainland Thailand. Today, Samui Airport offers daily flights to Bangkok and other major Southeast Asian airports, although tickets are expensive and surcharges are levied on both domestic and international departures. Flying to mainland Surat Thani or Chumphon and taking a ferry to Koh Samui is a cheaper but less convenient option.

See more hotels on Samui

Samui accomodation guide

Krabi rests along the western coast against the Andaman Sea, about 170kms south of Phuket and boasts the best seascapes of all of Thailand’s beach resort areas. Rich in history and a long established traveller favourite, Krabi’s popularity stems from its easy accessibility and pristine natural beauty as much as from the numerous and diverse accommodations and leisure activities on offer here. Not surprisingly some of the best hotels have established themselves here.

While there is no scarcity of places to stay or dine in Krabi, regardless of budget, availability during seasonal peak periods can become a concern and reservations are recommended. Most popular, on the basis of proximity to both Krabi town and the famous Railay beach, is the area of Ao Nang. Luxury and privacy can be found in beachfront resorts with spectacular scenery on the islands of Phi Phi and Lanta, with the least expensive accommodations available within Krabi Town itself.

Although a few of the most international of hotel chains are in evidence in Krabi, such as Sheraton and Best Western, the majority of hotels are privately owned establishments. At the top end of luxury and exclusivity, the Rayavadee Resort on Cape Phra Nang is accessible only by boat. Set within acres of manicured gardens, secluded by limestone cliffs and possessing three private beaches, its two-storey pavilions and well-appointed grounds offer every amenity and service possibly required.

The Chada Beach Resort and Spa unfolds across nearly eight acres of some of the most beautiful beachfront on Koh Lanta. Situated centrally and only a short drive from Saladan, the resort offers 196 choices of suites and villas, each catering to the needs of individual travellers to couples or families with children. Possessing the island’s largest swimming pool, an elegant restaurant with an impressive menu and wine list, white sand beaches, modern amenities and exceptional customer service has made the Chada resort one of the most recommended places to stay on Koh Lanta.

A short distance southwest of Krabi, on Koh Phi Phi, vacationers in search of ultimate privacy without sacrificing any loss of luxury or availability of services will find the Phi Phi Natural Resort an excellent choice. With five types of cottages offering a difference in views, from garden to ocean and mountain views, the beautifully furnished and spacious wooden cottages are set harmoniously among the natural surrounding and upon an exclusive stretch of pristine white sand beach.

All rooms are well-appointed, some with private balconies and bedrooms separate from the living area for families travelling with children. The resort provides a swimming pool overlooking the beach for those not tempted to dive or snorkel in the sparkling, crystal clear sea. A restaurant, open-air coffee shop, money exchange and souvenir shop are also available.

The Ao Nang Sea Front Thai Resort, a few rungs down the ladder of luxury, is a popular family and newlywed selection at Ao Nang bay. Only a short distance from the beach, the traditional Thai-style rooms offer private, spacious and comfortable facilities within a setting of lush tropical forest and relaxing atmosphere.

A 15-minute boat ride from Ao Nang and travellers find themselves at Railay, one of the most popular beach areas in Krabi. On the sunrise side of Railay, natural style mountain or sea facing bungalows can be found at Diamond Cave Resort and Spa. Only a two-minute walk from the beach, the rooms at Diamond Cave are available with air conditioning or fan while the resort offers a range of facilities from traditional massage, a full-service restaurant, onsite rock climbing, a sauna and a swimming pool. Tours can be arranged through in-house operators for diving or boating daytrips, or to visit nearby islands.

Roughly 800kms from the capital of Bangkok along the north-south route of highway 4, Krabi poses no difficulty in accessibility by land, sea or air. The small Krabi Airport boasts a fairly new international terminal and offers a tourist visa on arrival, with daily domestic flights from Bangkok’s Don Muang Airport. Night buses from Bangkok’s Southern Bus Terminal offer a less expensive domestic option, while high-season ferry services sees boats running from Phuket to Ao Nang and Railay directly.

Concerning the best times to travel, the hot season from November to April is busiest, with January and February considered ideal for climate and weather. Songkran, the traditional Thai New Year at the end of April, ushers in the rainy season which lasts until October and during which tropical monsoon conditions are common.

Full list of Krabi hotels

Cheap hotels in Krabi

So, you’ve seen the gorgeous beaches and stunning karst cliffs on the brochures, but just what is there on offer in Krabi. Which beach has the best resorts, which are away from it all, and how do you find those paradise spots that caught your eye in the travel shop.

Krabi is actually a whole province with the southern Thai city of Krabi Town at its centre. But the real tourist spots are on the coast and islands, with half a dozen different options on where to stay. Picking the right beach is important for getting the most out of your holiday but you can hire a bike or boat to experience some of the others.

The most important and busiest of all the beach resort areas is Ao Nang, which isn’t that busy really. It’s located on the coast about 15 minutes from Krabi Town and an hour from Phuket airport. Ao Nang doesn’t have the best beach along this brilliant tropical coast but if you’re stepping off the plane from cold and rainy Europe you’ll still be very impressed. The largest selection of hotels, including budget choices are found here, along with plenty of restaurants and bars, a few shops, and a good selection of tourist services. There’s even a bit of a nightlife here. The beach is pretty good too, lengthy, with part of it backed by sheer cliffs. Offshore you have a great view of small islands. More on Ao Nang.

Nearby is Railay, perhaps the most spectacular coastal beach in Thailand. It’s cut off from the mainland by karst rock and reachable by a short longtail boat ride. Most visitors come for the day from Ao Nang to lie on the lovely beaches and gaze at the jaw-dropping scenery or swim in the lovely clear water. But there are some resorts on the small strip of land here, at a range of prices although they book out well in advance of the busy season. Next door is Ton Sai beach which isn’t very swimmable but has budget bungalows and attracts the climbing crowd. More on Railay.

Perhaps the most famous of Krabi’s locations is surely the world famous Phi Phi islands. The Tsunami of 2004 completely flattened the tourist infrastructure on the small sandwich of land between the two picturesque bays and although some have been rebuilt, the selection is much more limited. Actually the island is now much nicer, since over development had spoilt it and a day trip from the mainland is a much more sensible idea. There are however a range of options for all pockets and out of season you won’t have problem finding a place at short notice. Only Phi Phi Don is inhabited while Phi Phi Ley and the others are national parks for day-trippers only. Guide to Phi Phi islands.

If you insist on being on the islands, then Koh Lanta is a good alternative. Although it’s not as dramatic as Phi Phi or Railay, it has miles of good beach and almost all the resorts front the beach, giving you a true island experience. It’s 90 minute ferry ride south of Ao Nang and has escaped the mad atmosphere of tuk tuks, touting tailors, and troublesome bar girls. There’s plenty of choice here on about five main beaches than run down the West side of the island. Guide to Lanta.

Noppharat Thara beach is really just an extension of Ao Nang, around a small headland. It’s far less busy or developed although the beach is tidal and the facilities less. This is a great alternative if you don’t want too much company but find it convenient to be close to the action, and there are plenty of resorts here too.

There are a few other beaches that are wonderful, but restricted, so that you cannot stay on them. These are mostly found on the offshore islands such as the lovely Koh Hong, which are pristine and worth a day trip to get away from the crowds. Ultimately, where you stay depends on whether you seek solitude, family friendly areas, exclusivity and great views, or a lively atmosphere.

Book hotels in Krabi.

A thriving, imaginative playground for those travelling with children, a paragon of ultimate clubbing experiences for night owls, and a city of sin for others, Pattaya is many things to many people. Pattaya can also be a relaxing home-away-from-home for expats and those in their retirement. Because everything is so cheap and the smoky-eyed Pattaya girls are so friendly, it is a paradise for those who decide to settle down here.

Only a 1-hour, 30-minute drive from Bangkok, or about 150kms, this exciting oasis provides a cheap and comfortable home for all ‘farangs.’ Pattaya has everything, from lip-smacking, inexpensive food, to vibrant nightlife, top-notch golf courses and a wide range of other spine-tingling indoor and outdoor activities, not to mention a lot of hanky panky business.

If living in Bangkok is paradise, living in Pattaya is seventh heaven. The cost of living isn’t as expensive as in Bangkok or Phuket, with the price of food commonly very low. The most authentic food can be found at local street vendors, which are everywhere in Pattaya.

A plate of famous phad thai noodles with big, yummy shrimps and egg costs less than £1 (about 70 baht), while less than £2 (about 140 baht) can get you a sumptuous plate of chicken fried rice and a big bowl of tom yum kung spicy soup. If you are lucky, you might be able to throw in a watermelon shake with this budget. For more information about sumptuous Thai food, visit our Thai food section.

If your stomach cannot adjust to spicy Thai cuisine, McDonald’s, KFC and Pizza Hut serve the same food as your hometown, but at much lower prices. Pattaya is also home to a dizzying array of authentic Western restaurants. From tangy American prime rib, and creamy and cheesy French onion soup, to English fish and chips delights, you can find everything in this city of food-a-plenty.

Finding a place to stay in Pattaya isn’t exactly a Herculean task. Guesthouses and cheap condominiums have been mushrooming in Pattaya in recent years. There are many studios that start from 5,000 baht per month, but if you are picky and would like something overlooking the water, several apartments in Jomtien are up for grabs for about 10,000 baht per month.

If you are very new to Pattaya, real estate agents can be helpful. However, just like any other places in the world, Pattaya has its fair share of scammers. Ask around for a reliable agency or check out the Pattaya Mail, a local newspaper, for useful tips, news and classifieds. More on Property.

Shopping in Pattaya proves to be a fun experience. A great number of fresh markets are scattered around the city while there is also a wide range of chain supermarkets and Westernised department stores. Tesco Lotus and Big C are very popular among locals and expats, where you can buy goods at wholesale prices.

Foodland and Tops supermarkets have good quality food and many imported products while Pattaya Outlet is where you can buy both local and brand name clothes at a discount. For an all-in-one department store, nothing beats the newest addition to the shopping scene, Central Pattaya, a big shot store that monopolises the shopping scene in major cities in Thailand.

Pattaya boasts tip-top infrastructure, with good and inexpensive transportation operating throughout the city. If you have the privilege of staying downtown, several places are located within walking distance. However, if you feel the need for a ride (no pun intended), Pattaya has a wide range of transport options such as songthaew taxis or pick up truck taxis which have padded rail seats and go all over Pattaya for less than 20 baht.

Motorbike taxis are also a popular mean of travelling when you are in a hurry. With a skilled biker, you will be able to zip through the traffic and reach your destination within a wink of an eye. Just remember to hold on tight and wear a helmet.

Once you have settled in comfortably, it’s time to explore to the heart of Pattaya. Known as the naughtiest city in Thailand, Pattaya offers memorable nightlife experiences for all who come to visit. The main clubbing scene is along Walking street, in the South Pattaya, while Central Pattaya is also fringed with a number of bars and cafés. More about Pattaya bars here. Pattaya is also very gay-friendly. If you would like to join the club, head to Boyz Town, the most famous gay area, located around soi Pattayaland 1 and 3.

Staying in Pattaya can be bliss if you know where to go, what to do and who to hang out with. With so many things and venues to accommodate retirees and expats, Pattaya is an ideal place to live and settle down. If you need more information about living in Pattaya as an expat, Pattaya has the Pattaya Expats Club (www.pattayaexpatsclub.com) which holds meetings regularly. No man is an island in Pattaya.

Stretching over much of the Banglamung coastline, Pattaya draws visitors with its lively entertainments scenes and pretty beaches. You don’t need to be a millionaire to enjoy this popular beach resort, with an array of decent mid-range accommodation and several budget options to choose from.

Standard rooms can be found from 400 baht a night although many of these feature basic rooms without air conditioning. Most budget hotels start at around 1,200 baht and usually feature air-conditioning, refrigerators, hot showers and cable television although these prices tend to go up in the high season.

Pattaya is split into six sub-districts, each of which is named after the section of beach it contains. North Pattaya is one of the quietest areas, with South Pattaya and Central Pattaya making up the main hub of the resort. Naklua, a popular district among German tourists, flanks the area to the north and Buddha Hill lies to the south. Farther south from Buddha Hill lies lively Jomtien. Budget accommodation can be found in all of these areas.

In the quiet north, the Thai Garden Resort is located among tropical gardens and boasts a relaxing atmosphere. The lovely, well-kept rooms are just a 10-minute walk from the beach and prices start from 1,300 baht a night. For a livelier break, the Mark Land Hotel Pattaya is a high-rise that towers above the lively area. Being a 10-minute walk from the vibrant party scene and a 15-minute walk from Wong Amat beach, this hotel proves a popular choice among travellers of all nationalities.

Also in the north, the hotel’s Sky restaurant features views over the district, and here guests can enjoy a sundeck and swimming pool. Room prices start from 1,350 baht. The nearby Fairtex Sports Club & Hotel features clean, spacious rooms from 985 baht and boasts sporting activities ranging from Thai boxing to table tennis. Guests can relax in the sauna or steam room before socialising in the onsite bar.

Located centrally on Pattaya Second road, the Ice Inn Hotel boasts bright, clean rooms with air conditioning, cable television, hot showers, telephones, refrigerators and minibars. Prices start from around 450 baht and the staff are exceptionally friendly here. The Central Pattaya Hotel is situated close to the bar and shopping area and features a family-friendly pool area, making this the perfect place to relax with the children.

In bustling South Pattaya lies the Nova Lodge Hotel, boasting a beachfront location close to the main shopping and entertainment areas. Palm trees surround a large swimming pool and rooms are charmingly decorated. Staying at the Nova Lodge Hotel will set you back between 1,000 and 2,300 baht a night. Close by, the Golden Cliff House is built in the style of a Victorian castle and lies to the south of Pattaya beach. Room prices start at 1,240 baht and guests can enjoy the excellent restaurant with its sea views and a salt water pool.

For those who are on a tight budget, the Wonderful Bar on the corner of Second road, close to South Pattaya, features basic rooms with hot showers, televisions and air conditioning for between 300 and 400 baht per night. Alternatively, the Sawasdee Pattaya Hotel features simple rooms with no air conditioning for around 400 to 500 baht per night. Located close to the main area, this backpacker haven has an onsite restaurant and internet facilities.

Farther south and situated close to Jomtien beach is the White House Resort, which features clean, bright rooms with all modern facilities as well as a large outdoor swimming pool. Room prices start from 870 baht per night and each room boasts a decent sized balcony. Close by, the Jomtien Beach House and Spa is located close to bars and shops, with Pattaya’s main nightlife area a mere 10-minute walk away. Rooms can be had for between 965 and 1,650 baht per night.

The recently renovated One Metro Apartments in Jomtien feature excellent rooms with all mod-cons including DVD players and wireless internet. An onsite bar is open until the early hours and features three pool tables and internet access. A small library and onsite laundry service are available to guests. Prices range from 650 to 850 baht per night and discounts can be had for staying for more than a week or a month. A short walk away from here lays the Nirvana Boutique Suites with its traditionally decorated rooms and small, family-friendly swimming pool. The price for a single or double room is 1,650 baht and rates do not change with the seasons.

See a whole list of Pattaya hotels

His Majesty the King was once asked ‘What is your favourite food? and his simple answer was ‘rice!’ Indeed rice is the foundation of the Thai Kingdom, and if ever there was a fitting theme for a resort environment in Thailand a rice paddy is it. To sit among five star service gazing out at a terraced fields, accompanied by the sound of water softly trickling through the delicately crafted canals and dykes, must surely be the quintessential rural Asian experience.

There is nothing romantic about the back-breaking work of rice harvesting but the newest Mandarin Oriental resort has turned a peasant pre-occupation into a wonderfully themed experience, where the cereal bowls of the nation blend effortlessly with ultimate luxury. As wine glasses tinkle and Lanna-costumed staff pad quietly about on teak ‘al fresco’ decks, guests of the Dhara Dhevi in Chiang Mai are treated to a resort experience quite unlike anything the international hospitality industry has ever seen before. For sheer effect it rivals the Palace of the Lost City in South Africa’s Sun City complex, or the Atlantis sea-themed resort on Nassau’s paradise island, and sets a new benchmark for cultural ambience among Thailand’s hotels. Guide to Chiang Mai hospitality

But there’s so much more to the grounds than the pretty rice terraces that lie beneath the main breakfast deck and swimming pool area. The sprawling 60 acres of this extraordinary hotel boast more than 10,000 trees and saplings, each one specially brought in to cover a landscape that was, quite ironically, formerly a rice field. It has been a commendable undertaking over the past four years to transform waterlogged fields into an established garden that boast enormous ficus trees and towering 15-year old coconut palms. And at its heart is a patina of green -the working rice field, complete with local farmers employed for effect.

At a cost of $800m the hotel has been developed on a Lanna and Burmese theme, recreating temples, palaces and royal villas in the grandest of style. But it is the gardens that really provide the character and wonderful tropical atmosphere. Giant rain trees (Samanea saman) and colourful flamboyants (Delonix regia) recreate the charming character of Chiang Mai, while masses of heliconia foliage add a tropical feel. The grounds are an attraction themselves, covered in water features, glades populated with grazing deer and endless rows of frangipangi trees (Plumeria obtusa) to provide a dazzling display of flora. You can choose a secluded villa with its own private garden and pond, or stay among the purpose built ‘vegetable garden’. The soon to be completed colonial wing boasts rolling lawns fronting a pretty lake, while the prime villa locations are those that sit on the edge of the pretty amphitheatre of rice terraces.

Nominated on the Conde Nast Traveller Hotel hotlist for 2006 and voted ‘Hideaway of the Year’ by Andrew Harper’s Hideaway Report, The Dhara Dhevi magnificently recreates the glorious past of Chiang Mai’s Lanna Kingdom. Typified by architectural lyricism and distinct wealth, this Northern Kingdom thrived during the 14th and 15th centuries and was considered one of the first civilised kingdoms of Siam. With Chiang Mai as it’s capital, Lanna attracted the region’s best artisans from as far and wide as Lanchang (Laos) and Pagan (Burma), leaving an incredible legacy of craftsmanship which the architects of the Dhara Dhevi have faithfully reproduced in astonishing detail. At the entrance are a series of Northern temples replicated from famous viharns in Lampang. They are so authentic that they drew the ire of pious locals who protested the copying of their sacrilegious Buddhist landmarks.

The spa pavilion, located at the heart of the resort, is an incredible work of art modelled on a Shan styled palace with its multi-tiered roof finished in delicate teak filigree. Other vernacular styles such as Thai Lue and Haw Luang have been borrowed from for inspiration, and the soaring spires of the main lobby building peek above the tree tops and can be seen from all over the resort. Full Chiang Mai travel guide

To create this, conceptual designer Rachen Intawong assembled a team of fellow graduates from the Department of Fine Art at Chiang Mai University to study the Lanna style in detail. ‘We are not just building a resorts’ he says, ‘we are aiming to create a legend’.

‘For me this is a place where we can create the past and let people touch history’. Since graduating several years ago, this surprisingly young architect has made Lanna historic architecture and art his passion, expanding his interest to the greater Mekhong region. He spends his time travelling to remote villages or sites and reading ancient books to seek out rare or lost styles, in order to deeply understand the long lost glory of Lanna.

The Kingdom eventually fell to the Burmese in 1558, and they sacked the capital, destroying many of the fine teak royal villas in the process, so that only the sturdy temples remain from its hey day. With the aid of a wealthy philanthropic investor, The Dhara Dhevi Company has been able to recreate a luxury that has long since been forgotten in the region.

‘There was no master plan’ Khun Intawong admits, ‘It was more like a jigsaw puzzle, just like the city of Chiang Mai, we built it up over a long period, it was a natural growth process’.

Located a 10 minute drive from the city centre in the Sankhampeng district, the hotel is certainly an environmentally low-impact development thanks to the gardens and flora that have transformed the neighbourhood. A team of 70 grounds staff, under the supervision of ‘Khun Jack’, have been responsible for landscaping the entire 60 acres, including undulating levels, a complex water management system that provides a network of canals and streams, and the transplanting of dozens of 40 foot trees.

The largest of these are the stately kapok trees (Bombax ceiba) – with their lofty upright trunks that create a timeless tree-lined lane leading to the spa and current reception area. Inspiration for this likely came from the well known avenue of trees that lines most of the 35km Chiang Mai-Lamphun road. The hundreds of giant Yaang Naa trees that flank either side of this road are centuries old and purported to have been planted by a Lanna prince in an unsuccessful effort to woo a girl from Lampun. Antiquity is the essence of the Dhara Dhevi, and without aged trees the effect simply wouldn’t be complete. However, transplanting 30 year old rain trees, with their enormous canopies, is complicated by the sheer size of their root systems. “Since creating the ‘Kingdom’ needs a lot of big trees to replant around the resort we didn’t have time to wait that long for them grow” says Khun Jack, who oversaw the process. “Replanting old big trees is the biggest challenge. We had difficulty to keep them alive.” Replanting a big tree causes damages, and the older trees are weakened when moved”, he explained.

Yet they have succeeded. The showpiece nutmeg tree (Myristica fragrans), in front of the spa is one they are particularly proud of transplanting, and it’s ancient twisted form resembles a prop from Lord of the Rings. Even a medium sized banyan tree (Ficus annulata) has been placed near the colonial suites. But the magnificent giant banyan specimens that stand sentinel at the main gate – some 30 feet in diameter with hundreds of aerial roots – are originals. Some rare trees have also been included, such as the Sal trees (Shorea robusta) and Bombay Laurel (Codiaeum variegatum).

It all combines to create a wonderfully natural environment that guarantees guests their privacy, and blends in well with Northern Thailand’s wilderness appeal. For added authenticity they have recreated a typical Thai styled house of a well-to-do farmer, dismantling a teak relic from nearby Lamphun and rebuilding it complete with humble antiques and local villagers who sit about all day weaving baskets for effect. It’s all part of a pro-active theme where you can shake off your bourgeoisie guilt by learning a traditional craft for a token half hour while the kids get their hands dirty planting rice.

There are several themed sections to the resort, with accommodation ranging from colonial suits to private villas with their own garden, jacuzzi and pool, or even the multi-roomed luxury pavilions that mimic palatial Burmese palace quarters. With each comes a private butler service, state-of-the-art multi-media systems (and individual CD/DVD library), and a host of standard services that accompany five star luxury. In addition there is an enormous spa staffed by dedicated specialists in Ayurvedic and other popular treatments. Recent guests have included HRH Prince Albert of Monaco, HRH Prince Andrew, the Duke of York, His Majesty King Letsie III of Swaziland, Colin Powell US Secetary of state, tennis star Maria Sharapova and violin vurtuoso Vanessa Mae.

With rooms starting from US$390 a night, the Dhara Dhevi might just be an experience out of most people’s reach. However, the resort complex has five restaurants open to the public, and for a luxurious, yet affordable, evening you get a peek at this exclusive other-worldly ‘theme park’. The Fujian Restaurant serves up a good value ‘all you can eat’ spread of Cantonese dim sum for 500 baht (lunch only), and is located at the Kad Dhara – a gentrified replica of a turn-of-the-century Siamese trading street. Across the parking area is The Grand Lanna, an alfresco and sala venue serving excellent Thai and Asian fusion food in a lush traditional Lanna garden environment.

Krabi is one of the cheaper seaside destinations in Thailand, and your budget requirements here will depend on your tastes and the time of year you visit. Backpackers could get by on as little as 300 baht a day, while the average European or US holidaymaker tends to spend around 2,000 baht per day (about US$65).

Most visitors to Krabi spend their money on accommodation, eating and entertainment, as with anywhere, yet you will find the hotels and attractions a lot cheaper here than those in Europe. The following is a breakdown of general costs in Krabi.

The beaches are free to use, yet to really enjoy your holiday a sun lounger is a must. A slew of restaurants and all manner of water sports are at your disposal, so you’ll want to budget for dining and activities. Figure on 200 baht a day for the sun lounger, about 800 baht for 30 minutes on a jet-ski, 60 baht for a beer, 20 baht for a can of coke, and 20 baht for some fruit and ice-cream. Anything up to 1,000 baht will easily cover a day on the beach.

Krabi is a world-class rock climbing destination with hundreds of mapped climbs on the limestone cliffs of Rai Leh Beach. Numerous schools offer courses for beginners up to advanced level. Courses and equipment rental are a lot cheaper here than climbing destinations of this caliber elsewhere else.

Diving is also extremely popular in this region, with the reefs of Koh Phi Phi well within reach of Krabi. Dive centres in Ao Nang offer PADI courses and dive trips to reefs and wrecks throughout the season. Standards are good, guides speak English and prices are cheap. The OW1 PADI course is around 6,000 baht (US$200) and a daytrip with a couple of dives works out at about half that. Activities in Krabi.

Thailand is renowned for its spas and massage, and you could enjoy a relaxing massage on the beach for 200 baht, or try one of the many parlours along the beach front or in town. In addition, many of the larger hotels have spas, but these generally charge a lot more for their services.

Krabi Town has the cheapest shopping and is loaded with small shops of every description. Handicrafts, silk scarves, sarongs, silver jewellery, and leather items are all popular sellers. If you’re after some fake designer gear, Ao Nang is the place, but bargain hard. Aim for around 30 to 50-per cent off the asking price, and barter with a smile.

You could spend anywhere from 20 baht for a typical rice dish at a hawker stall to around 1,000 baht a head for a full blown seafood extravaganza at a beachside restaurant. However, spending 1,000 baht per person in most restaurants in Krabi is considered extravagant. Figure on about 500 baht a head for a decent meal with drinks at a good restaurant. Drinks run at about 60 or 70 baht for a bottle of beer and around 100 baht or more for a gin and tonic in the bars.

Most hotels in Krabi are concentrated in Ao Nang, with the cheapest off-season prices at around 200 baht, up to around 5,000 for a deluxe/suite in one of the best resorts. A four-star place near the beach in the high season would be around 2,000 baht per night. Booking hotels online is your best bet for picking up a bargain. See prices and booking of hotels.

For transport, the most useful option for tourists is the songthaew, an open-air bus or pick-up with two benches in the back. Fares are typically 30 baht from Krabi Town to Ao Nang. Taxis and tuk-tuks are also ubiquitous, but you’ll need to bargain hard to get a good price.

Many tourists hire scooters for getting about and these are about 150 to 200 baht a day, while cars are 1,000 baht upwards. Fuel is about half the price of Western countries.

Long-tail ferries run between Ao Nang and Rai Leh costing about 60 baht per head (more after 19:00) and can carry around 10 people. You can charter one for about 1,200 baht a day to take you around the various beaches, or go the whole hog and charter a speedboat for 15,000 baht.