Thailand
The Land of Smiles was introduced as an advertising slogan, but it so accurately sums up Thailand, that it has become much more than a promotional catchphrase. The people are charming and the country is a wonderful combination of ornate temples, ancient pagodas, glorious beaches, stunning mountain scenery, colourful tribes, bustling cities and buzzing nightlife.
The culture
For the culture vultures, Thailand has a wealth of sights and sounds just waiting to be explored. Thai culture is visible everywhere and is reflected in its traditions, local lifestyles, superstitions and beliefs which are all passed down from one generation to the next.The shopping
Thailand has the added “wow factor” of being retail heaven. Regular visitors know that it can beat many of its Asian neighbours when it comes to finding a great selection of quality goods at attractive prices and if you are streetwise, you can get some great deals. Thailand is well known for its genuine brand names and also for its fakes. Many of the world’s most famous brands for clothing have established factories in Thailand as export bases. You will often find that the local markets sell the “off-runs” at prices well below those in the UK. You can buy just about anything from clothes to souvenirs. In the markets, the rule is - barter with patience and a broad smile and you will get a better price. Bangkok is a shopping mecca with shopping malls and markets, but even in some resort towns and in Northern Thailand, there are great shopping opportunities. The North is excellent for local handicrafts. Koh Samui boasts a number of art galleries where you can pick up some great artwork at very reasonable prices and beachwear is extremely good value.The Beaches
Thailand has it all when it comes to beaches whether you want big and boisterous or quiet and intimate. A dazzling choice of beach resorts offering the best of everything from hidden coves, sweeping bays, quiet islands, pulsing nightlife to luxury accommodation. Premier Holidays offers a wide choice of hotels, resorts and spas in the larger resorts of Phuket, Koh Samui, Hua Hin, Cha Am and Pattaya but also in the smaller resorts of Khao Lak, Phi Phi, Trang, Krabi, Rayong and Koh Chang.In a nutshell...
“Thailand is justifiably one of South East Asia’s top destinations and the reason is clear - it has something for everyone. The value for money is second to none and when you take into account the high standards of the hotels and the genuine welcome from the Thai people, you have a mix which is hard to beat. It’s also a great place for kids of all ages. Thais love children and are very protective of them no matter what their nationality.”
The facts:
Geography: Thailand has a population of over 62 million and covers an area twice the size of England. It divides into four main areas – the Central Plains including Bangkok; the North, which encompasses the jungles of the hill country; the North East; and the South with its stunning beaches.
Language: the official language is Thai and the alphabet is very different to ours. Some English is spoken, particularly in tourist destinations.
Passports: you will need a full British passport valid for a minimum of six months beyond your date of return.
Visas: a visa is only required if you stay in Thailand for more than 30 days. Non-British passport holders should check with the relevant embassy for documentation requirements.
Vaccinations: Vaccinations are strongly recommended. For further information, please consult your doctor.
Travelling time: Bangkok is approximately 12 hours by non-stop flight from the UK.
Local time: GMT + 7 hours.
Currency: Thai Baht.
Departure taxes: 700 Baht for international flights and 30 Baht for domestic flights except Koh Samui which is 400 Baht. Taxes must be paid locally in Thai Baht only.
