Gulf of Thailand

Make a Big Splash in the Gulf of Thailand

No journey to the Land of Smiles would be complete without visiting some of its globally lauded, tropical islands and oceanfront resorts. Dip into Hua Hin (the country's oldest beach resort) for golf and horse-riding on the beach. Try Ko Chang for its abundance of ecotourism activities. Rock up to Pattaya for its raucous nightlife or savour all of these different delights on Ko Samui.

But there are many other natural treasures with some sandy fringe benefits where serenity reigns supreme. Ko Tao is popular with families and also certifies more rookie scuba-divers each year than any other destination in Southeast Asia. To really get away from it all, try Ko Mak in the Ko Chang National Marine Park. For a more Thai-style experience, close to Bangkok, head for Bang Saen, which boasts some of the cheapest and most succulent seafood in the country.