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Bordered by Burma, Laos and Cambodia, Thailand is a vibrant blend of cultures and breathtaking natural scenery and, understandably, the most popular luxury holiday destination in South East Asia and one of the most venerated tourist destinations in the world. Legendary white sandy beaches and a very hospitable and welcoming people are only a small part of the allure that draws people to Thailand; any trip here will surpass expectations. A land of contrasts; expect an overload to the senses with an eclectic mix of ornate temples, floating river markets, chaotic cities, delicious pungent Thai food and 5 star luxuries. It’s an intoxicating mix of cities, jungles and beaches bathed in glorious year-round sunshine. Thailand sits nestled by the Andaman Sea, Gulf of Thailand and Indian Ocean, making it a mecca for divers. The popular west coast beaches, which stretch along this dramatic coastline, boast jungle clad hills and crystal clear waters perfect for diving enthusiasts. The Similan islands offer some of the best marine life sightings, whilst further south, Koh Lanta and Koh Phi Phi near Phuket are equally great for snorkelling as well as diving.

Thailand has a unique alchemy of ingredients that keeps us coming back, time and time again.  Party hard in Bangkok, get a culture hit in Chiang Mai, relax on the white sand beaches of Koh Phi Phi, visit a renowned destination spa for an underwater Watsu massage in Hua Hin, meet the elephants in Khao Sok National Park and swing by Kanchanaburi’s infamous bridge over the river Kwai. Oh, and don’t forget to sample the local delicacies – fried cockroach anyone?

Bangkok is often a natural starting point for any journey through Thailand. Here a colourful plethora of pagodas, night markets, entertainment districts, modern shopping malls and luxury hotels are thrown in the mix. Alongside megamalls and a pulsating business district, Bangkok still keeps its history with its majestic Grand Palace, serene reclining Buddha at Wat Pho, and the waterways of the Chao Praya. Outside the city, the ancient once-glorious capital city of Ayuthaya is fascinating to explore.

From Bangkok make your way to the north and the famous Golden Triangle. Historically known for its role in the growth of the Opium trade, the region is probably best known for its beautiful landscapes consisting of mist-shrouded mountains, green paddy fields and traditional tribes which offers a stark contrast to bustling Bangkok. Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai are the obvious gateways to the north; Chiang Rai with its laid back feel and Lanna culture and Chiang Mai which mixes old and new and host to some of the country’s most colourful festivals. Northern Thailand’s culture and cuisine are distinctly different from international impressions of Thai food and culture, due to its strong hill-tribe and Burmese influences. Chiang Mai has grown and flourished outside of the moated walls of the Old City, a tiny complex riddled with boutique hotels, street stalls and temples which makes for an interesting stroll on arrival. Chiang Mai is considered the cultural heartland of Thailand and has some of its best luxury hotels as well as traditional cooking schools.

The famous tourist island of Phuket in the south has become an international playground for the jet-set and boasts some of the best luxury hotels in the world, with unparalleled service, sumptuous spas and world-class golf courses. The gleaming beaches of Koh Samui now have some very high-end villas and uber luxury hotels, while Koh Phi Phi and Krabi have wild mangroves, white sand beaches, superb scuba diving and towering limestone islands – perfect for laid-back nature-lovers.