Thailand
by Chris Thompson
Siam to me as a child was the most exotic, exciting land. Having fallen under the spell of the movie "The King and I" my childhood wish was to visit and stay among the colourful Siamese! As an adult my wish came true! Having visited Thailand a handful of times I have great pleasure introducing clients to this still exotic, exciting land.
Thailand offers visitors to the Far East a land of many contrasts. My favourite combination for a first time visitor - I feel strongly this country is an ideal introduction to the Far East, would be Bangkok and a beach on Koh Samui or Phuket. This allows you to appreciate the buzz of this vibrant city and the beauty of the islands and marine parks surrounding them. It is true to say Thailand can offer some of the most stunning hotels in the world. Perched high above a beach on Koh Samui, on a tiny castaway island off the coast of Phuket or one of many on Phuket itself you will be very, very spoilt. Service is second nature, unlike some western countries staff take great pride in the service they provide and do not think waiting on you is demeaning - far from it. You will encounter warmth and grace throughout your stay.
Should you have more time or be on a return visit you should also head north to the Golden Triangle of Mae Hong Son, Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai. This will give you the opportunity to visit and even stay overnight with a local hill tribe, visit orchid farms, ride an elephant and go rafting. The scenery is stunning and for the shoppers among you I defy you to visit the Chiang Mai night market and not buy at least one item!
For those of you wishing to visit alternative countries surrounding Thailand, Bangkok acts as a gateway to these destinations. The new airport is superb and should you wish to have a short stopover to break your journey you will find a few nights in Bangkok will revive you. With a huge choice of hotels, restaurants (one of my favourites is Vertigo on the 61st floor of the Banyan Hotel, the views are fabulous if a little hair raising!), temples and relaxing spa facilities you will not be bored. I have stayed over in Bangkok on the way to Cambodia and returning from Bhutan as a break in an otherwise lengthy journey.
Please consider this beautiful country for amazing hotels, great service and the value for money is pretty good too!