Page 157 - Asian Paradises 2019-20

— Thailand —

SOUTH THAILAND

The region abounds in sandy Most of Phuket’s evening entertainment Chaweng Beach has a reputation as a
beaches fringed with palm trees. is found here, as well as cheap shopping hangout for the international party crowd
opportunities. Patong Beach is where while those looking for peace and quiet
The narrow peninsula of southern Phuket’s action is, and it is by far the most should try Mae Nam, Bo Phut and Big
Thailand stretches from the border of frequented destination on the island. It has Buddha on the northern coast. Trang is
Myanmar to Malaysia. The region has a several white sandy beaches and is packed a coastal province on the Indian Ocean
rich multi-cultural heritage, and abounds with restaurants, hotels, bars and shops and that was the first area in Thailand to grow
in sandy beaches fringed with palm trees. is a great place to start your exploration of rubber, which is now a major part of the
the surrounding areas. economy.
Phuket is Thailand’s largest island and one
of the most popular holiday destinations Nature lovers won’t want to miss Mai Hat Chao Mai Beach is of particular
in Southeast Asia with many traditional Khao Beach, where sea turtles lay their interest to tourists, and on offer are
fishing villages transformed into holiday eggs between December and February. A amazing experiences such as paddling on
resorts. Longtail boats take visitors to visit to a pearl farm is also a popular day Phang-Nga Bay, allowing adventurers to
sights such as the extraordinary limestone trip for tourists. Krabi, 180 kilometres explore a network of interesting caves and
stacks of Phang-Nga Bay. Phuket Town is a from Phuket, is a small fishing town with scenic deserted beaches.
perfect place to shop for truly unique gifts, an important role as the ferry connection Phang-Nga, located next to the Andaman
as well as giving tourists the opportunity to point for islands such as Ko Lanta, Ko Sea, has amazing natural beauty and offers
see Thai and Chinese temples. Phi Phi and the beaches around Ao Nang. breathtaking scenery and landscapes, with
Towering limestone outcrops have become mountainous areas alongside forest and
Covered in lush green hills and rice the signature of the twin Phi Phi islands,
paddies, Phuket’s major attractions include and the challenging conditions attract rock some wonderful islands and beaches. It has
Karon, Kamala and Kalim beaches, as well climbers from around the world. a charm of its own, without the hustle and
as Patong Beach and Promthep Cape. bustle of Phuket, and is nestled amongst
The beautiful paradise of Koh Samui soaring mountains that rise up around the
The clearest waters, best sand and most is Thailand’s third largest island. It has town.
luxurious hotels are found on the west a forested hinterland of granite and
coast. Patong is the most densely developed limestone hills and a shoreline of world Khao Lak, just an hour’s drive north of
Phuket, is one of Thailand’s most peaceful
resort while Karon and Kata are quieter.
famous palm-fringed beaches. Koh and beautiful resort destinations. Verdant
Patong Beach owes its popularity to its Samui is the second most popular island national parks sweep down to pristine
easy access and long stretch of beach. destination in Thailand. coastlines that go on for miles.

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