Thailand Sales Planner - From Travel Agent September 10, 2007 - (Page 15)

Geographically, Thailand is a diverse country. Thais generally divide it into four regions. Each region has its own distinct ethnic peoples, speaking their own dialect and observing their own customs. Here is a brief glimpse of each; more in-depth profiles follow on pages 16-23. Each Has a Unique Appeal THE SOUTH Thailand’s Southern region is peninsula country, with the y Andaman Sea on one side and the Gulf of Thailand on the other. Popular seaside destinations include Samui, Phuket, Phang Nga and Krabi, known for the Phi Phi islands. The islands of Ko Samui are a big hit with younger travelers, as they have a reputation for knowing how to throw a party. Southern Thailand is definitely the right choice for those with watersports at the top of their list. Chiang Rai, and Sukhothai, site of the first independent Thai kingdom and a UNESCO World Heritage historic town. Those with an interest in hill tribe culture and handicrafts will want to make sure they have plenty of time to trek and explore the colorful culture of the north. THAILAND’S FOUR REGIONS CENTRAL The Central region is largely delta country, dominated by the Chao Phraya River. While Bangkok is the prime magnet for travelers, popular destinations throughout the region include Ayutthaya, the former capital of Thailand and W now a UNESCO World Heritage Site; Kanchanaburi, site of the historic Bridge on K the River Kwai; and the upscale seaside resort area, Hua Hin and the famous seaside resort of Pattaya. City-lovers need to schedule adequate time for Bangkok in order to explore its cultural treasures, great shopping, trendy restaurants and fastpaced cosmopolitan attitude. THE NORTHEAST Northeastern Thailand is a vast plateau, flanked by the Mekong River, and encompassing part of the Golden W T Triangle. World Heritage Sites include Ban Chiang in Udon Thani, where the world's oldest Bronze Age civilization flourished some 5,600 years ago, and Khao Yai National Park in Nakhon Ratchasima. This region will have a lot of appeal for those looking for the least touristy area of Thailand. It’s proximity to Laos gives the region a captivating blend of Thai and Laotian culture. THE NORTH The North is cool and mountainous. Stand-outs include the cities of Chiang Mai and www www.thailandtourism.org/la | 15 http://www.tourismthailand.org/la

Table of Contents Feed for the Digital Edition of Thailand Sales Planner - From Travel Agent September 10, 2007

Contents Make the Most of Amazing Thailand, Land of Heritage and History Planning a Trip to Thailand: Essential Information Transportation: Convenient Options, from Tuk Tuks to Skytrains Thailand's Vibrant Culture: Experience the Art of Thai Living Sampling Thailand’s Top 20 Delights Hotel Choices: From Luxury to Budget-Friendly Map of Thailand Overview of Thailand’s Regions Central Thailand: The Delights of Bangkok and Beyond Northeastern Thailand: A Distinct Culture All Its Own Northern Thailand: Experience the Iconic Heritage Southern Thailand: Balmy and Beautiful Days International Festivities in Thailand: Let Yourself Be Enchanted Water Sports: The Fun, Sun, Surf and Serenity of Thai Beaches Ecotourism: Encounter the Sheer Beauty of Thai Nature The Beauty of Wellness and Wellbeing in Thailand Shopping: Excite Yourself with a Myriad of Thai Trends

Thailand Sales Planner - From Travel Agent September 10, 2007

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