Thailand

There are countries that have everything, and Thailand is one of them. Temples gleaming like gold under tropical sun, beaches that seem from a dream, cuisine that has conquered the world, and a culture welcoming you with open arms. It is no coincidence it is Southeast Asia's most visited destination. Bangkok is perfect chaos: skyscrapers beside centuries-old temples, floating markets and luxury malls, street food competing with the world's best restaurants. The north is another country: Chiang Mai with its hundreds of temples, mountain villages where tribes live, jungle and elephants. And the south offers beaches: from touristy Phuket and Krabi to nearly virgin islands in the Gulf of Thailand. What makes Thailand special is its ease. It is a country where everything works, where tourist infrastructure is developed but authenticity remains, where you can move easily and find everything from budget lodging to some of the world's finest resorts. It is Asia for all levels, all budgets, all ages.