Thailand is giving some more established countries such as France and Italy competition in the tourism stakes: the country that promotes itself as the 'Land of Smiles’ is becoming the destination for people who are looking to find sun, sea and sand. 

Thailand is a constitutional monarchy that dates back to 1238 and it is one of the few countries that has never been colonised. The Mae Hong Son mountains and the Andaman Sea’s limestone islands are only some of what is on offer in Thailand. Bangkok is the country’s most well-known destination but there are other cities that are as interesting as the capital city. 

Location 

The country shares borders with Laos, Cambodia, and Burma so visitors to Thailand have many opportunities to explore other countries. Thailand comprises 6 regions: central Thailand, north Thailand, north-east Thailand, south Thailand, south-east Thailand, and west Thailand. 

Accommodation 

Thailand has it all – accommodation for those on a shoestring budget; accommodation for those with slightly fatter wallets; and accommodation for those who 'want it all'. 

Budget – the budget traveler can easily find hotel or backpacker rooms. It’s not difficult to find something that is safe as well as clean for only a couple of US Dollars. The Tara Garden in Bangkok is one of many great options for budget conscious travellers. 

Mid-range – the mid-range options are more varied than the budget ones. They’re also more comfortable and personal than the lower range options. The Indra Regent in Pratunam is a 3-star hotel and a good example of what to expect. 

Luxury – if 5-star luxury is what you’re used to, then you’ve come to the right place. Thailand has an abundance of luxury accommodation options. These hotels present themselves as sanctuaries and offer far more than the mid-range options. The Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort in Chiang Rai is a classic example of luxury living. 

Attractions and Activities: 

You can have the best of both worlds in Thailand: white-river rafting can co-exist peacefully with Zen retreats. Do some shopping or work on your tan at one of the many beaches. 

Attractions: 

• Siam ocean world in Bangkok is ideal for the entire family. It offers more than just watching fish in tanks: shark diving, a stroll on the 'ocean', and a 4D theatre experience.
• The Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden in Chiang Mai province covers 1000 hectare and has 12 exhibition greenhouses. Go for a pleasant stroll along one of the garden trails and enjoy the diverse range of exotic and native flowers.

Activities: 

• Hitch a ride on an elephant at the Thai elephant conservation centre in Lampang or at Elephant hills in Khao Sok. This activity has almost become de rigueur in Thailand. There are various types of rides: some are a half hour walk while others could be a 3 or 5-day trek to the jungle.
• Bicycle tours on trishaws are popular in Thailand. These tours take visitors past little fishing villages and explain the history of the area.
• The Samphran elephant ground and zoo is ideal for the entire family. Go watch a crocodile wrestling show or get your photo taken with a tiger.

Author bio: 

Flightsite wrote this article about how to get the best out of your visit to Thailand.