Bangkok, the Thai capital, is usually the first place that people think of when planning flights to Thailand. Situated in the centre of the country, Bangkok is a city of many sights and sounds, from its famous nightlife to the impressive shopping malls and traditional open air markets. You can visit the Grand Palace, the official residence of the Kings of Thailand since the 18th century, take the Skytrain across the city or sample Thai cuisine in one of countless fine restaurants.

Kanchanaburi is located around 130km east of Bangkok and is a closer alternative to Chiang Mai if you want a taste of life outside of the capital. You can enjoy outdoor pursuits such as bamboo rafting, hiking and elephant rides, or visit the hills surrounding Kanchanaburi that house several Buddhist temple caves, each filled with stalagmites and altars.

If you have any energy left by the evening, enjoy yourself at the floating discos and karaoke boats that sit in the harbour.

Phuket Town

Phuket Town has been a popular trading post with merchants from around the world for centuries.  Holidaymakers come here to sun themselves on the beach, watch Thai Boxing at the stadium, visit the markets and socialise in the bars.

Chiang Mai

The dynamic, modern city of Chiang Mai is considered to be the northern capital of the country. Bohemian and popular with travellers, Chiang Mai is situated more than 700km north of Bangkok and is surrounded by mountains. The city is an appealing mix of the old and new, with Buddhist temples rubbing shoulders with modern hotels.