Thailand Getaway

Thailand: history

Bangkok became the capital in 1782 under King Rama I, whose family still reigns. Before it, the capital was Ayutthaya, which was destroyed in 1767. Thailand, once called Siam, was never colonised by a European power.

Thai culture has old Indian roots. The national epic, the Ramakien, is the Thai telling of the Ramayana. Pattaya was a fishing village until the 1960s.

Thailand: tourist attractions

• Grand Palace & Emerald BuddhaThe royal palace of 1782. Shoulders and knees must be covered.
• Wat PhoThe reclining Buddha, 46 metres long.
• Wat ArunThe Temple of Dawn, beside the river.
• Chao Phraya cruiseAn evening on the river with dinner.
• Safari World & Marine ParkAn open zoo and animal shows.
• Coral IslandA speedboat from Pattaya to beaches and water sports.
• Alcazar showA colourful stage show in Pattaya.
• Sanctuary of TruthA huge temple carved entirely from wood.
• Nong Nooch GardenTropical gardens and a cultural show.

Thailand: excursions nearby

• Khao Kheow Open Zoo about 50 km from PattayaA large zoo in the hills.
• Ayutthaya about 80 km from BangkokThe ruins of the old capital, a UNESCO site.
• Floating market about 100 km from BangkokBoats selling fruit and snacks at Damnoen Saduak.
• Kanchanaburi about 130 km from BangkokThe Bridge over the River Kwai and Erawan Falls.
• Phuket & Krabi about 1½ hours by airIsland beaches and the Phi Phi Islands.

Distances are approximate. Tell us which excursions you want and we add them to your quote.