Bordered by Cambodia, Laos, Burma and Malaysia, and lapped by the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea, Thailand has long been enticing visitors. The country's attractions are endless, with miles of sandy beaches, national parks, pristine dive sites and fascinating cultural centres. Absorb yourself in the way of life and meet the Thai people who are only too happy to introduce you to their unique country.
Best Time To Visit: Thailand has different seasons across the country, for example it can be rainy season on the east coast but not on the west - though it is hot all year round wherever you are, the rainy season is between May and October and sea conditions can be unsettled. Climate chart is based on Bangkok weather, other parts of Thailand may vary.
Time Difference: GMT +7 hours.
Visas: Visas are not required for British passport holders for maximum stays up to 30 days.
Language: Thai and some Chinese languages. English is widely spoken
Currency: Thai Baht.
Flight Information: Direct airlines include Thai Airways, EVA Air, Qantas and British Airways. Emirates and Qatar Airways have great connections through Dubai and Doha.
Flight Time: Approx 12 hours.
1. Ultimate Experience If you want to get your PADI qualification there are few better places than Thailand. Not only is the diving superb, it's far cheaper than the UK or Australia.
2. Great Journey Take the Oriental Express from Bangkok to Chiang Mai and experience the refined opulence of a bygone era.
3. Where To Go For Adventure For something a little different, head to the forests and mountains around Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai in northern Thailand for some great trekking and rafting.
4. Water Parade The Andaman coast around Phi Phi is a wonderland of great snorkelling and diving, with dramatic limestone karsts rising from the aquamarine waters.
5. Shopping You'll find busy markets everywhere but one of the best is Bangkok's Chatuchak Weekend Market.
6. Dates For The Diary Thailand has countless events throughout the year. Highlights are the King's Birthday (5 December) when the whole country joins in with a simultaneous singing of 'Praise the King' and Songkran, the Thai New Year (13-15 April) which sees everyone take to the streets to soak each other with water.
7. Best For Kids Dusit Zoo in Bangkok is one of the best zoos in South East Asia. For kids, it will be a welcome respite from the Thai capital's innumerable sights.
8. Best For Couples Thailand has some incredible hotels in stunning settings. Find an island hideaway and escape the world with that special someone.
9. Splash Out It's actually quite hard to splash out in Thailand. The costs are so low that even the finest five star hotels are inexpensive.
10. Live Like A Local Get a taste of traditional life and go on a fishing trip on a long-tail boat. You'll find some of the best off Koh Samui and Phuket