Thailand

Each year Thailand is discovered by millions of visitors, gathered there by its wonderful pristine beaches and aquamarine blue seas, as well as its rich culture, endless shopping opportunities, modern boutiques and colorful markets full of bargains.
From idyllic, unspoilt beaches with turquoise seas and pure, white sands to bustling cities sporting exotic markets and a vibrant, colorful nightlife, it is easy to see why Thailand has become one of the most popular tourist destinations for the adventurous and young at heart. Turbulent, and often bloody history has left Thailand scattered with ruins, forgotten temples and deserted cities that reveal a rich tableau of past eras to those willing to explore.
Thailand’s booming tourist economy has resulted in the opening of a number of expensive and luxurious international hotels. Nevertheless those looking for the rustic splendor of the beaches and islands will find and plenty of cheap and comfortable accommodations in Thailand.
The size and geographical diversity of the country provides for a variety of activities. Snorkeling, diving and almost any possible water sport are accessible around the Thai islands, while inland sports lovers can trek around the mountains or cycle across the flat river cut areas from the northeast.
Despite this vast influx of tourists, Thailand's cultural integrity remains heavily  undamaged – a country that avoided colonization has been able to absorb most of the western influences without succumbing to them at full. The standard Thai community remains the traditional farming village. Close to fifty percent of Thais still earn their living from the land, based around the rice - the foundation of the country's unique and famous cuisine.
Travel in Thailand is easy and affordable due to a sound network of trains, buses and airplanes. Most visitors are entering the country via the Southeast Asian travel hub Bangkok (the City of Angels). Popular beach islands and resorts include Ko Samui and Phuket Island. Chiang Mai in Northern Thailand is popular for Thai culture and scenery.
Known side-trip is to Kanchanaburi, home of the famous Bridge over the River Kwai, after which some visitors head north, usually through the ancient capitals of Ayutthaya and Sukhothai, to the laid-back city of Chiang Mai and the nearby hill-tribe villages.
To the northwest, the beautiful highlands around Mae Hong Sonand Pai are idyllic, while Thailand's northeast, one of its least visited region, offers ancient Khmer ruins at Phimai and Phanom Rung and is home to the country's most accessible national park, Khao Yai.
People with a limited time or budget might go to the East Coast. There are many popular resorts, including Pattaya and Jomtien. The region is rich in natural resources, including rubber, rice, fishing, orchards and gemstones, and provides several national parks containing waterfalls, virgin forest and uninhabited islands. Known island locations are Ko Samui, Ko Chang and Ko Samet.