Each year Thailand is discovered and rediscovered by visitors, drawn to its pristine beaches and aquamarine seas, as well as its rich culture, glitzy shopping malls, chic boutiques and colourful markets crammed with bargains. With its enticing mixture of established destinations such as Phuket and Hua Hin, and out-of-the-way palm-fringed islands, Thailand appeals to the most varied of travellers, whether they are craving barefoot luxury or hippy chic. Marvel at Bangkok's glittering Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaeo, a temple complex housing the Emerald Buddha. Upriver are the Royal Barges, ornate barges used for special processions on the Chao Phraya River.

Don't miss Wat Pho, the oldest and largest temple in Bangkok and home to the Reclining Buddha and travel north to Chiang Mai, Thailand's second-largest city and a centre for excursions to the region's ancient temples, hill tribes and the Golden Triangle. Climb the 300 or so steps to Doi Suthep temple for sweeping views of the city or step back in time with a visit to Ayutthaya, once the capital of Thailand. Ramble through the ruined palaces and wats on foot, by bicycle or even on the back of an elephant.

After which, one can head to Phang Nga Bay, which is world-famous for its stunning seascape, with its hundreds of limestone islets emerging from a translucent sea. Easily reached from Phuket, many visitors will recognize scenery featured in a James Bond film. Thailand isn't just beaches and temples. Go on an adventure into Khao Sok National Park in southern Thailand. Here the dripping rainforest covers majestic limestone formations laced with sparkling streams and waterfalls. Stay in tree houses or on bamboo raft houses. Pampering is an art form in Thailand, and throughout the country spas offer authentic treatments whether it's in a 5-star luxury resort or a beach-side hut. If it's pulse-raising excitement you are after, head to the hectic sprawl of Bangkok's futuristic high-rise buildings.

Location: South-East Asia

Time: GMT + 7

Capital: Bangkok

Visa: Pre-departure visas required for some nationalities. 

Language: Thai is the official language. English is widely spoken, especially in establishments catering for tourists.

Weather

Generally very hot, particularly between March and May. The monsoon season runs from June to October, when the climate is still hot and humid with torrential rains. The best time for travelling is November to February, although the southern islands are best from June to September.

Currency

The currency of Thailand is the Baht.