2017
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Damnern Floating Markets, Bangkok | 15
Phuket | 24
Chiang Mai | 74
Cover Image: Temple of Ayutthaya Valid 1 April 2017 – 31 March 2018. Image Right: Ang Thong National Marine Park Contents
Navigating This Brochure 4
Travel Tips 6
Top 10 Things To Do 8
Holiday Packages 10
Thailand 12
Bangkok 14
Phuket 24
Elephant Hills 26
Patong Beach 27
Karon & Kata Beach 37
Kamala, Surin & Bang Tao 44
Phuket Beach Hideaways 48
Koh Phi Phi 50
Khao Lak 52
Krabi 55
Thai Hideaways 58
Koh Samui 60
Koh Phangan 73
Chiang Mai & Chiang Rai 74
Hua Hin 78
Pattaya 80
Accommodation Index 82
Booking Conditions 83
3 Navigating This Brochure 2017 2017 Let helloworld inspire HELLO HELLO ADELAIDE GOLD & SOUTH COAST you to discover these AUSTRALIA
Accommodation Ratings fantastic destinations
Diamond ratings are used throughout the brochure to describe the standard of accommodation.
Properties featuring Diamond symbols do not participate 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017
HELLO HELLO HELLO QUEENSLAND KIMBERLEY HELLO HELLO in a recognised rating scheme. The rating is supplied by NORFOLK NORTHERN ISLANDS & CRUISING & MELBOURNE ISLAND TERRITORY the individual property based on their own assessment. WHITSUNDAYS BROOME & VIC We recommend they be used as a guide only.
Comfortable standard of ¿¿¿ accommodation Superior standard of ¿¿¿¿ accommodation and facilities
2017 2017 2017 2017 20162017 Deluxe standard of HELLO HELLO HELLO HELLO SUNSHINE HELLO TROPICAL PERTH & SYDNEY NORTH ¿¿¿¿¿ accommodation COAST & TASMANIA THE WEST & NSW QUEENSLAND and facilities COAST BRISBANE
¯ Denotes additional half rating
Pricing Guide
The prices featured in this brochure are intended as
2016 a guide. The prices have been calculated using the 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017
HELLO HELLO lowest available daily price at the time this brochure HELLO HELLO ARABIAN HELLO COOK BALI CANADA & CHINA was produced and may change due to exchange rate PENINSULA ALASKA ISLANDS fluctuations, availability, taxes or seasonal surcharges. Prices featured in accommodation listings are per person twin share for the period specified unless otherwise stated. The “From” price has been calculated using the lowest nightly rate available, i.e. lead-in room type in off-peak season. A minimum stay is generally
2016 required. Where prices for more than a one night stay 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017
HELLO HELLO HELLO HELLO HELLO are featured, the prices refer to stays of consecutive HONG KONG NEW FIJI INDOCHINA HAWAI‘I & MACAU ZEALAND nights. Ask your travel agent for the best price available, other room types or travel dates.
What the Symbols mean
2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 Properties offering free Wi-Fi access HELLO HELLO HELLO HELLO HELLO PACIFIC SINGAPORE THAILAND UK & USA throughout the common areas and in rooms. ISLANDS & MALAYSIA EUROPE
Properties offering in-room disabled facilities.
Properties offering facilities catering for families which may include kids’ clubs, family rooms, child menus, highchairs and cots.
A special bonus offer (e.g. sparkling wine) 2017
is available if you are celebrating your Our Imagine the stories Imagine the stories HELLO GREAT AUSTRALIAN honeymoon. Details must be provided at the UNIQUE AUSTRALIAN EXPERIENCES Specialty Signature Collection RAIL HOLIDAYS time of booking. Collection Suggested ‘must do’ tours of iconic destinations/attractions. VIETNAM, LAOS & CAMBODIA SMALLASIA GROUP JOURNEYS
2017-18 FEATURING 2017-18 VIETNAM • CAMBODIA • LAOS • THAILAND Properties that provide early check-in/check- PRIVATE TRAVEL, RIVER CRUISES MYANMAR • CHINA • INDIA • BHUTAN ONE&ONLY HAYMAN ISLAND and SMALL GROUP JOURNEYS SRI LANKA • JAPAN • MONGOLIA out to cater for flight arrivals outside of normal 2017 – 2018 check-in times. The stay is calculated on a Our 2016-17 2017 2017 2016-17 24 hour basis from the time of check-in. This HELLO HELLO HELLO HELLO EXOTIC EUROPE ALASKA PACIFIC service is seasonal and subject to availability. Cruise CRUISING CRUISING CRUISING CRUISING Collection
Refer to page 5 for details.
CONNECT CONNECT CONNECT CONNECT In store helloworld.co.nz 0800 80 80 40 WITH US In store helloworld.co.nz 0800 80 80 40 WITH US In store helloworld.co.nz 0800 80 80 40 WITH US In store helloworld.co.nz 0800 80 80 40 WITH US 4 Why book with helloworld?
Sanphet Prasat Palace, Ayutthaya The helloworld Difference 1. We have experienced knowledgeable travel consultants who are passionate about making your travel dreams come true. 2. We will ensure you enjoy choice and flexibility when you book your travel with us. 3. We offer a real alternative for discovering the world by crafting travel experiences that suit your individual needs. 4. We are the only New Zealand travel agency group that allows you to earn and spend your Fly Buys points. 5. Should you need to change your travel plans while you are away there will always be someone here to help you.
Bonus Offers Throughout this brochure you’ll find amazing Bonus Offers including free nights, room upgrades and food and beverage credits to name a few. Just look for the Bonus Offer box. Look for this symbol to find our We are always sourcing specials throughout the year. most popular experiences! Ask us for the latest deals when making your booking. With everything from accommodation, car hire, day tours, extended touring and much more, you’ll be spoilt with choice when planning your next holiday. Exclusively For You To assist you, we’ve highlighted our most popular products booked by our customers. Just look for the We love it! We’re always on the lookout for ways to enhance your symbol throughout this brochure. holiday experience! We’ve put together some fantastic Our customers love it and so will you! Holiday Packages that offer exceptional value for money, starting on page 10 available exclusively through helloworld. Just look for Exclusively for You!
24 Hour Assistance We know your holiday experience doesn’t end until you are safely home. That’s why when you book a GO Holiday through helloworld you will have access to the GO Assist Help Desk which is a 24 hour, seven day a week service, should you require any assistance during your holiday. You will be given your GO Assist Freephone number with your documentation and you can contact the team at any time during your holiday. We‘re with you on your journey. 5 Travel Tips
Chiang Mai
How to Get There Language BY AIR Thai is the official language, although English Events & Public Holidays Thai Airways operate direct flights from Auckland to is widely understood in most major tourist areas. Bangkok five days a week. Connecting flights are April available from major New Zealand cities. Currency Top of the Gulf Regatta From Wellington and Christchurch, Singapore Thailand’s currency is the Baht. ATMs are International 1st Apr-31st May Airlines offer connecting flights via Singapore. plentiful in the cities, larger towns and major Chakri Day 6th Qantas Airways operates connecting flights to tourist destinations. Major credit cards are widely Bangkok via Sydney and Malaysia Airlines operates accepted. Songkran Festival flights via Kuala Lumpur. Throughout Thailand 13th-16th Health FLIGHT DURATION ANZAC Day Commemoration 25th Vaccinations may be required, it is important FROM / TO BANGKOK to discuss your travel plans with a qualified doctor Auckland 12 hours to ensure you are adequately protected against June The above table shows flight durations for direct flights only. Connecting flights from other destinations are also available. endemic disease. The risk of malaria exists in Bun Luand and Phi Ta Times are a guide only and subject to change. many rural areas. As Thailand enjoys a hot climate Khon Festival 1st Jun-31st Jul for much of the year, a hat, a thin long-sleeved The Dok Krachiao Visas & Passports cotton shirt and sunscreen are required. Insect Blossom Festival 1st Jun-31st Aug Visas for holiday travel to Thailand are not required for repellent is advised for travel in tropical areas. New Zealand passport holders staying less than 30 Laguna Phuket days and holding an onward air ticket. Please check Electricity International Marathon 3rd-4th The electric current is 220 volt AC (50 cycles) the passport and visa requirements with your travel Amazing Thailand consultant or the appropriate embassy/consular office throughout the country. Travellers are advised Grand Sale 15th Jun-15th Aug before you travel. Travel advice is available from the to purchase an international adaptor before New Zealand Government Ministry of Foreign Affairs leaving home. and Trade at www.safetravel.govt.nz. July Tipping & Etiquette Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival 1st-31st Tipping is not customary; however a token of appreciation is always welcome. September When visiting any religious site dress conservatively, avoid wearing short skirts or Quicksilver Thailand Surf shorts above the knee and singlets or sleeveless Competition 1st-30th blouses. Remember to remove your shoes before entering a temple. Thai culture is unique so take October some time to learn about the varying customs King Chulalongkorn Day and requirements. Throughout Thailand 23rd Shopping From the moment you reach Thailand, you’ll be November astounded by the sheer variety of goods on offer. Laguna Phuket Triathlon 1st-30th Items range from art and antiques, handicrafts, Loi Krathong Festival gold and silver jewellery, to fine textiles and Throughout Thailand 3rd-5th clothes. At local markets and shopping centres (excluding the well known department stores, good for brand name shopping) you’ll find the December real bargains. Bargaining is accepted just about Jet Ski King’s Cup – World Cup everywhere except in supermarkets, department Grand Prix 1st-31st stores and hotels. 6 GOLDEN TRIANGLE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORTS CHIANG RAI REGIONAL AIRPORTS PAK BENG N MAE HONG SON FERRY MYANMAR (BURMA) CHIANG MAI GULF OF LAOS TONKIN
SUKHOTHAI
THAILAND Lorem ipsum
KANCHANABURI AYUTTHAYA
BANGKOK
PATTAYA CAMBODIA
KOH SAMET ANDAMAN HUA HIN SEA
KOH CHANG
VIETNAM GULF OF THAILAND
KOH TAO
KOH PHA NGAN KOH SAMUI
KHAO LAK SURAT THANI
PHANG NGA PHANG NGA BAY PHUKET KRABI KOH PHI PHI KOH LANTA TRANG
Weather Guide Thailand enjoys a tropical climate and is generally hot all year round. The best time to visit is November to February when the temperatures are slightly cooler.
STTEMPERATURERAIT OF AVERAGE (MAX.°C) RAINFALL AVERAGE (MM) THAILAND MALAYSIA J F M MA ALAMCCAJ J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D PHUKET 32 33 34 34 33 32 32 32 31 31 31 32 23 26 59 138 270 237 284 283 387 296 174 62 KOH SAMUI 29 30 31 32 33 32 32 32 32 31 30 29 138 58 78 77 147 113 123 119 117 290 490 209 BANGKOK 32 33 34 35 34 33 33 33 32 32 32 31 9 30 29 65 220 149 155 197 344 242 48 10 CHIANG MAI 29 32 35 36 34 33 32 31 32 31 30 28 8 9 19 54 153 117 153 225 200 118 51 18
7 Top 10 Things To Do
1 James Bond Island, Phang Nga Bay
1. Phang Nga Bay 5. Ayutthaya Located in Southern Thailand, north of Phuket, Phang Nga Venture north of Bangkok and discover Ayutthaya, Bay is famous for sheer limestone karsts jutting out of Thailand’s answer to Cambodia’s Angkor Wat. Wander emerald-green waters. The best way to explore the cave through the ancient ruins of this UNESCO World systems, lagoons and quiet secluded beaches is to take a Heritage site to get a glimpse into the glory of ancient kayaking tour. (see page 25 for further details) Thailand. Discover the Buddha’s head entwined in the 2. Temples roots of a Banyan tree at Wat Mahathat. (see pages 16 and 17 for further details) Known as Wats, these striking temples are important religious symbols and a ‘must-see’ when visiting Thailand. Situated 6. Snorkelling & Diving within the Grand Palace, Wat Arun and Wat Phra Kaew are the Between November and April, venture from Khao Lak 2 Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, Chiang Mai highlights of the complex. Wat Pho is Bangkok’s oldest temple or Phuket to explore the crystal clear waters and white with an impressive 45 metre reclining Buddha. Climb the 306 sand beaches of the Similan Islands, home to Thailand’s step staircase to Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep and be rewarded largest variety of marine life. The warm waters of Koh with views of Chiang Mai. (see pages 15 and 75 for further Nangyun, Koh Tao and the Angthong Marine Park are details) ideal for diving and snorkelling. (see page 52, 55 and 3. Koh Phi Phi 61 for further details) Made famous by Leonardo DiCaprio’s movie ‘The Beach’, 7. Floating Markets no trip to Phuket is complete without visiting this cluster of Bangkok is the best place to explore the colourful islands, only a 45 minute speedboat ride from Phuket Island. floating markets – our picks are Khlong Lat Maon, Here you’ll find pristine white sand beaches, stunning rock Damnoen Saduak, Amphawa, Taling Chan (famous for formations, turquoise waters and a laidback atmosphere. (see fresh seafood) and Bang Nan Pheung. Watch boats pages 25 and 55 for further details) piled high with fruit and vegetables float by and sample tasty treats cooked on board. (see page 15 for further 4. Shopping details) From local markets to luxury shopping malls, Thailand is a shopaholic’s dream! You’ll find everything from fine antiques 8. Cooking Classes to designer clothing, beautiful Thai silks and amazing A cooking class is a must for lovers of Thai cuisine. handicrafts. Popular sites include the Chatuchak Weekend Learn how to cook traditional dishes, then enjoy the Markets, MBK Centre, Platinum, Pantip Plaza (for electronics), fruits of your labour. (see pages 15, 25, 61 and 75 for Asiatique Night Market and Siam Paragon in Bangkok. Head further details) to Jungceylon Shopping Mall, OTOP Market and SB Plaza in Maya Bay, Koh Phi Phi 9. Elephant Hills Camp 3 Phuket or Central Festival in Chaweng, Koi Samui. For a unique experience, stay at Elephant Hills Camp located in stunning Khao Sok National Park, three hours from Phuket. Here you’ll have an opportunity to interact with Asian elephants and learn more about these majestic creatures. (see page 26 for further details) 10. Doi Inthanon National Park Part of the Himalayan mountain range, Doi Inthanon is Thailand’s tallest peak, approximately two hours from Chiang Mai. Cool climate lovers should visit the park from December to February when the blossoms of the Thai Silks Ayutthaya 4 5 Siamese sakura flowers cover the area. 8 Our Local Secrets
The best way to end the day is… Watching the sunset from one of Bangkok’s many rooftop bars. Try Park Society, with impressive views over Lumpini Park or Sirocco, the world’s highest alfresco restaurant.
7 Damnern Saduak Floating Markets A great place to have a drink is... Manung Café in Chiang Mai, relax with good music and enjoy a Singha or two.
For an irresistible dining experience in Bangkok… Make a reservation at Sala Rattanakosin, with delicious modern Thai cuisine and a stunning view of Wat Arun lit up against the night sky. Request a table on the outdoor deck for the best views.
For great home style cooking try… Tonpalm Restaurant located in Chaweng Noi Beach, Koh Samui. A family run restaurant with friendly service, great prices and 6 Similan Islands 8 Cooking Classes outstanding food. Make sure to try their pork red curry stir-fry. Absolutely mouth-watering!
For the freshest seafood in Phuket… Visit Rawai Seafood Market in Chalong Bay, for a great selection of seafood straight off the boats. Once you make your purchase, cross the road to one of the restaurants and have them cook it for you.
While in Phuket don’t leave without… Exploring the streets of Phuket Old Town. The area is rich in history with Sino-Portuguese architecture, shrines, temples and quaint shops. 9 Elephant Hills 9 Holiday Packages HOLIDAY PACKAGES
Patong Beach
Planning a holiday to Thailand is easy with our selection of great Holiday Packages. We’ve put together a range of the most popular getaways including exclusive packages created just for you. Featuring a choice of accommodation options and local experiences, these are a fantastic way to discover Thailand. If you’re looking for the best holiday at the best price, our package deals offer exceptional value for money!
3 Night Northern Thailand Adventure
From price based on 3 night package, Y PACK $ * IDA AG valid 18 Apr – 31 Oct 17. L E From 345 O S H per person twin share EXCLUSIVEL Y FOR YOU H S O E LI G This is the perfect introduction to Northern Thailand. Explore the northern city D A K A Y PA C of Chiang Mai, once the capital of the ancient Lanna Kingdom and a land of misty mountains and colourful hill tribes. The culture capital of Thailand, the city is famous for its sightseeing, spa resorts, food and trekking. Home to hundreds of ancient and elaborate temples, a paradise for shoppers and a delight for adventurers, Chiang Mai offers it all. Includes: • 3 nights accommodation in a Lanna Deluxe Room at Khum Phaya Resort & Spa, Centara Boutique Collection • Breakfast daily • Morning City and Temples tour • Full day Chiang Rai and Golden Triangle tour including lunch • Return coach transfers from Chiang Mai Airport Note: Refer to page 76 for more details on this property.
BONUS: FREE Night Offer: Stay 3 nights, pay for 2, valid 18 Apr – 31 Oct 17. FREE Wi-Fi.
3 Night Kamalaya Koh Samui
From price based on 3 night package, Y PACK $ * IDA AG valid 1 May – 31 Oct 17. L E From 1859 O S H per person twin share EXCLUSIVEL Y FOR YOU H S O E LI G Kamalaya Koh Samui is centred around a monk’s cave that once served Buddhist D A K A Y PA C monks as a place of meditation and spiritual retreat. At this acclaimed wellness sanctuary and holistic spa resort, you can experience a life-enriching healthy holiday. The resort offers wellness programs for detox, yoga, stress and burnout, fitness and weight control. For those seeking a more personalised program, a team of naturopaths can tailor a health program to suit your needs. Includes: • 3 nights accommodation in Hillside Room at Kamalaya Koh Samui • Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily • All beverages (except imported drinks and alcohol) • Tropical welcome drink on arrival • Wellness consultation • Body Bio Impedance Analysis • 60 minute Vital Essence Oil massage • 30 minute Traditional Asian Hand massage • 60 minute Traditional Asian Foot massage • 60 minute Traditional Thai massage • 60 minute Indian Head massage • 30 minute Chi Nei Tsang massage • Return coach transfers from Koh Samui Airport Note: Refer to page 68 for more details on this property.
BONUS: FREE Wi-Fi 1 hour per day.
* The prices in this brochure are intended as a guide only. Prices are in New Zealand Dollars and are per person per package twin share, unless otherwise specified. 10 Please refer to page 4 for an explanation of “From” prices and ask your travel agent for our best price. Holiday Packages HOLIDAY PACKAGES PACKAGES HOLIDAY 5 Night Koh Samui Getaway
From price based on a 5 night package, Y PACK $ * IDA AG valid 1 Apr – 15 Jul, 1 Sep – 23 Dec 17. L E From 649 O S H per person twin share EXCLUSIVEL Y FOR YOU H S O E LI G Unwind and relax at the stunning beachfront location of Chaweng Beach on D A K A Y PA C Koh Samui. The beaches are the star attraction of Koh Samui, spend your days cooling off in the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Thailand or indulge in a pamper session at the resort’s spa. Explore Koh Samui, including the Big Buddha Statue or take a short boat ride to the surrounding islands. At Chanita’s mountainside cooking school learn the art of Thai food while taking in the stunning sea views. Includes: • 5 nights accommodation in a Deluxe Regency Room at Chaweng Regent Beach Resort • Breakfast daily • Chanitas Thai Cookery Class • Koh Samui Privilege Card with discounts at restaurants, bars, entertainment and shopping • Return coach transfers from Koh Samui Airport Note: Refer to page 66 for more details on this property.
BONUS: FREE Night Offer: Stay 5 nights, pay for 3, valid 1 Apr – 15 Jul 17, 1 Sep – 23 Dec 17.
5 Night Luxury Bangkok & Hua Hin Escape
From price based on a 5 night package, PAC $ * DAY KA valid 18 Apr – 31 Oct 17. LI G From 945 E O S H per person twin share EXCLUSIVEL Y FOR YOU H O S L E Discover exciting Bangkok and the charms of the seaside town of Hua Hin ID A G AY PA C K during this six day escape. Bangkok is a city of contrasts, marvel at the gleaming temples, luxury shopping centres competing with local markets or catch a tuk-tuk through the bustling streets. Relax and unwind in the seaside town of Hua Hin. It is a place where you can do very little or a lot. Visit the night markets for local handicrafts and souvenirs, enjoy the superb selection of seafood eateries or play 18 holes at Thailand’s first golf course, The Royal Hua Hin Golf Course. Includes: • 2 nights accommodation in a Deluxe Room at Shangri-La Hotel Bangkok with free Wi-Fi • 3 nights accommodation in a Deluxe Room at Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin • Breakfast daily • One way private car transfer from Bangkok Airport to Shangi-La Hotel Bangkok • One way private car transfer from Shangri-La Hotel Bangkok to Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin • One way private car transfer from Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin to Bangkok Airport Note: Refer to pages 23 and 78 for more details on these properties.
8 Night Phuket Non-Stop Family Fun!
From price based on 2 adults and 2 children 2 to 11 years on a AY PACK $ * D AG LI E 8 night package, valid 1 Apr – 31 Oct 17. From S 419 O H per person quad share EXCLUSIVEL Y FOR YOU H S O E LI G Stunning scenery, tropical sunsets and warm blue waters await you at Phuket, D AY C K A PA Thailand’s most popular beach destination. Phuket is perfect for a family beach holiday with many attractions and activities to keep children entertained. Indulge at Phuket’s restaurants and use the Phuket Privilege Card booklet to save up to 25%. Visit Phi Phi Island by speedboat and enjoy snorkelling and swimming in the crystal clear waters. Includes: • 8 nights accommodation in a Superior Room at Holiday Inn Resort Phuket • Breakfast daily • Full day Phi Phi Island by speedboat including lunch • Phuket Privileges Card with discounts at restaurants, bars, entertainment and shopping • FREE Phuket Introduction Tour • Return coach transfers from Phuket Airport Note: Refer to page 32 for more details on this property.
BONUS: FREE Night Offer: Stay 8 nights, pay for 4, valid 1 Apr – 31 Oct 17. Children 0 to 11 years eat FREE from the children’s menu when dining with adults. (maximum 2 children)
* The prices in this brochure are intended as a guide only. Prices are in New Zealand Dollars and are per person per package twin share, unless otherwise specified. Please refer to page 4 for an explanation of “From” prices and ask your travel agent for our best price. 11 12 THAILAND visiting thisfascinatinganddiversecountry, timeandagain. River, indulgeinaspaexperiencePhuketorexplore thewhitesandybeachesofPhiIslands.There issomuchtoseeanddo,youwon’t tire of through thejungle,Thailandwon’t failtodeliver. Thaidailylifeasyoumeanderthrough themarketsofBangkok,takeacruisedownMekong Witness after aluxurioushotelexperience,anoff thebeatentrackculinaryadventure, todiscoveropulentroyal ajourney palacesandancientruins, oratrek this magicalcountrythanfriendly, hospitablepeople.Prepare tobedazzledbythisenchantingcountryandallthedelightsithasoffer. Whetheryou’re Thailand isfamousfortheradiatingwarmthandsmilesofitspeople,makingitonemostdelightfuldestinationstovisit.Butther to explore. corals teemingwith fishuniteandare yours pearly sand,tropical andcolourful wilderness and Koh Lanta – where secluded stretches of locations inThailand–KohYao, KohPhi Be seducedbysomeofthemost stunning Phuket near Islands budget styleaccommodation. resorts, traditionalThaistylevillasorsimple budgets andstyles;from worldclassluxury accommodation optionstosuitalltypesof Old PhuketTown. Phuketboastsavarietyof treat yourtastebudsatthenightmarketsof stay awhile,relax onthelovelybeachesand place tovisitforfuninthesun.Besure to largest islandisalsoitsmostpopularandthe ribbons ofwhite-sandbeaches,Thailand’s Renowned foritsjewel-green watersand Phuket markets atPatpongRoad. heading toBangkok’s mostpopularnight Palace andtheGoldenBuddhabefore food. Explore the grandeuroftheRoyal shopping, excitingnightlifeanddelicious offers amixofintriguinghistory, outstanding Thebustlingcity will delightateveryturn. Known asthe‘CityofAngels’Bangkok Bangkok Thailand summer sunset. perfect forwatersportsorenjoyingalazy Phuket Island.KhaoLakisabeautifulcoastline and relaxing, situated80kilometres northof A wonderfulbaseforexploringnearbyislands Lak Khao soak intheislandatmosphere. beaches oncethedaytripboatshaveleftand way totrulyenjoythisisland,thepristine stayonKohPhiisafantastic An overnight destination forbothdaytripsandlongerstays. of islandsintheworld,KohPhiisapopular One ofthemostuniqueandbeautifulclusters Phi Phi Koh Moon beachparty togetyourgroove on. with lushforest toexplore andamonthlyFull blue sea,KohPhanganisarelaxed beachhaven Lying tothenorthofKohSamuioveraglistening Koh Phangan nightclubs are plentiful. acclaimedrestaurantsinternationally and and Lamaiare vibrantareas where activities, with oldChineseshophouseswhilstChaweng The area ofBoPhutfeatures oldworldcharm accommodation stylestosuitanybudget. activities, watersports,restaurants, barsand atmosphere. Theislandoffers awiderangeof picturesque beachesandatrueisland This paradiseislandboastsswayingpalms, Thailand’s mostpopularholidaydestinations. The third largestislandinThailand,andoneof Koh Samui enjoyed attheriversideeveningmarket. Thai cuisineservedoutdoorsbythebeachor features cosycafésandinexpensiveauthentic Krabi isasmall,charmingriversidetownthat lush greenery andmeetbeautifulsandybeaches. limestone cliffs set inthewater, are covered in kayaking, snorkellinganddiving.Towering backdrop forwateractivitiessuchassea The spectacularsceneryprovides amajestic Krabi e isalotmore to Railay Beach, Krabi THAILAND 13 Wat Arun Thailand
Songkran Festival) Water (Thai Year New Year Thai New Songkran is the traditional steeped in tradition and meaning celebration, Officially a three day event, Thai Buddhists. for hoses during the celebration locals use buckets, and water pistols in playful water fights. The throwing of water signifies the process of self of sins and cleansing and purifying one’s Year. bad luck before starting the New Amazing Thailand Grand Sale this event paradise in Bangkok, A shopper’s sees shoppers descend on this grand sale, organised to provide discounts on products Thai handicrafts From from all over the world. electric appliances to to brand-name clothing, hotel and restaurant discounts - this is a sale The fantastic discounts allow that has it all. Held dream purchases at a fraction of the price. in the Siam Paragon Shopping Mall in Bangkok you will find products and services a to cater for every need. shopaholic’s Loi Krathong ‘Festival of Lights’. Loi Krathong is known as the river and ocean are lake, Every waterway, These blanketed with little floats (Krathong). flowers floats are made from banana trunks, and candles and drift across the water with the In some parts of candles flickering as they go. lanterns (Khom Loi) can also be seen the country, This visually stunning floating into the night sky. festival falls on the the full moon of the twelfth It signifies lunar calendar. Thailand’s month of the letting go of bad luck and bad feelings while welcoming good luck and happiness.
Pattaya Bangkok lies Less than two hours drive from The lively beach is popular this beachside resort. with a variety of travellers, especially families, shops, golf courses, many restaurants, offering amusement parks and water sport activities. There are a variety of resorts boasting water a variety of resorts are There slides, kids activities and fantastic family facilities.
charms of one of Thailand’s best night markets. charms of one of Thailand’s seafood restaurants or sample the simple seafood restaurants riding on the beach and, after dark, visit rustic the Royal Hua Hin Golf Course, go horseback that offers world class resorts. Play 18 holes at world class resorts. that offers of Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai. seaside town Palace), Hua Hin is a relaxing expedition to the charming Mekong River towns River towns charming Mekong to the expedition Worries’ Ratchawang Klai Kangwon (‘Far from beautiful Thai temples, head off on a trekking on a trekking beautiful Thai temples, head off Phra family’s Home to the Thai royal Visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, one of the most Visit Wat Hin Hua the enduring lifestyle of the Hilltribe people. temples and provide a dramatic backdrop to a dramatic backdrop temples and provide and tumbling waterfalls surround unique and tumbling waterfalls surround forests, majestic rivers, breathtaking mountains majestic rivers, breathtaking forests, a wonderland of natural beauty. Here, lush Here, a wonderland of natural beauty. A stronghold of Thai culture, custom and of Thai culture, A stronghold Northern Thailand Bangkok
Our Favourites
Visit The Grand Palace, the city’s BANGKOK most famous landmark. Marvel at the intricate detail and beautiful architecture
Chao Phraya River runs through the heart of Bangkok and a river cruise is a great way to see the sights
Eat like a local from the street food stalls; there are hundreds to choose from offering an array of local delicacies Grand Palace
Bangkok is a city of contrasts with adventure at every turn – a fascinating blend of East meets West. FIND YOUR ACCOMMODATION Admire the mix of modern and ancient Thai architecture. If there is one must-see sight, it’s the opulent Grand Palace with its sacred Wat Phra Kaew Temple. Catch a tuk tuk along the bustling HOTELS PAGE . streets of Chinatown or take a long-tail boat ride to the colourful floating markets. Boats are laden to 1 Amari Watergate Bangkok ◆◆◆◆◆ 22 the brim with tropical fruits, vegetables, ready-to-drink coconut juice and local food cooked right on 2 Bandara Suites Silom Bangkok ◆◆◆◆ 19 board, be sure to try a sample! 3 Banyan Tree Bangkok ◆◆◆◆◆ 22 4 Centara Grand at Centralworld ◆◆◆◆◆ 23 Shop up a storm at the countless shopping malls filled with designer brands. Check out the many 5 Centara Watergate Pavillion Hotel local markets and don’t miss the Chatuchak Weekend Market with over 8,000 market stalls! Food Bangkok ◆◆◆◆ 19 6 Century Park Hotel ◆◆◆◆ 19 is another Bangkok highlight, from local dishes served at street stalls to haute cuisine at rooftop 7 Grande Centre Point Hotel Ratchadamri restaurants, you’ll only be limited by your imagination. ◆◆◆◆¯ 22 8 ibis Bangkok Nana ◆◆◆ 18 No visit to Bangkok would be complete without a glimpse of its famous nightlife – from cabarets to 9 Indra Regent Hotel ◆◆◆ 18 the red-light districts, Bangkok never ceases to amaze. 10 LiT BANGKOK Hotel & Residence ◆◆◆◆¯ 20 11 Montien Hotel Bangkok ◆◆◆ 18 12 Narai Hotel ◆◆◆¯ 19 13 Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square ◆◆◆◆ 20 Transfers 14 Novotel Suvarnabhumi Airport Hotel ◆◆◆◆ 18 From Bangkok Airport to downtown Bangkok 15 Pathumwan Princess Hotel ◆◆◆◆¯ 21 Hotels (30km): 16 Rembrandt Hotel Bangkok ◆◆◆◆ 20 By coach: $19 per adult, child (under 16 years) FREE 17 Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel and Towers By private car: $53 per vehicle ◆◆◆◆◆ 23 18 Shanghai Mansion Bangkok ◆◆◆◆ 22 Operator: Tour East Thailand 19 Shangri-La Hotel Bangkok ◆◆◆◆◆ 23 Note: Price based on one way. Private vehicle price based on 20 Siam@Siam Design Hotel Bangkok ◆◆◆◆¯ 21 2 adults and 1 child travelling with no guide. 21 Sofitel Bangkok Sukhumvit ◆◆◆◆◆ 23
Rama 8 Bridge