Thailand still maintains its appeal to visitors, with its golden, palm-fringed beaches, its jungle-clad mountains, its welcoming people, its vibrant nightlife and world-renowned cuisine. And our experience shows that “there is no better time than 09” to visit!

Whilst Thailand has not suffered the economic woes to the same extent as experienced elsewhere across the globe, it has definitely seen a decrease in visitor arrivals in 2009. In a country that is so dependent upon tourism to prop up its foreign reserves and to provide employment for its nationals, the importance of reacting quickly to the situation has not been missed, and every effort is being made to lure visitors back to the kingdom.

So what does this mean for us, the guests?

To start with, getting to the country has become cheaper. Oil prices have collapsed and air tickets are now considerably less expensive than in 08, and numerous airlines have special offers for trips to the major aviation of Bangkok. 

Upon arrival, visitors have reported noting to a new attitude: whilst the Thais have always been welcoming to foreigners, there is a suggestion that whilst a steady flow of guests had previously been taken for granted, there is now a genuine desire to ensure all visitors are welcomed with open arms. 

When it comes to recommending where to stay and what to see, our suggestions have now changed in the new climate. The visitor to Thailand will find best value in seeking out properties either owned and operated by locals, in their home towns or provinces (to which they have returned after a period of economic migration to the capital), or properties owned by foreigners now feeling the pinch and needing to seek a return on what were once dream holiday homes for personal use.

So by all means book yourself a hotel in Bangkok for the beginning and end of your stay (and insist on a good package or deal!), but between these capital breaks, sandwich a relaxing holiday in your own private house or villa. 

Finding and renting a holiday house may not always appear simple, but if you target reputable sites specializing in Thai holiday homes, or identify professional sites from standalone villa owners, you will not go wrong. We recommend Thailand Holiday House with its limited listings of only five or so privately held villas, usefully sorted by region or province, with a description of the area itself. Most of these villas have private swimming pools, and many offer full service when required, making your vacation so much easier.

As an example of the kind of private villa stays available in Thailand in 09, check out this Thai country villa in the northeast of the country. The oddly named Gecko Villa and its large private swimming pool is surrounded by rice fields, off the beaten track in the plateau of Isaan. Book this property and you will enjoy your own large rural house, and delicious Thai meals prepared especially for your each day, as well as an introduction to the local area, its sights and unusual activities, for those who wish to get “under the skin” of the country. At just over US$200 / night, a family of four will stay in comfort, have no additional expenses and get to see a fascinating side of the kingdom.

When arranging your travel around the kingdom, buff up on the possibilities. Rather than heading straight for the national carrier, Thai Airways, check out the budget airlines which will get you to your destination in equal comfort and safety, such as Nok Air and Air Asia. If you rent a car, Budget and Avis currently have attractive deals in place, and local Thai rental companies are also making some hard to beat offers – but do make sure you get full insurance!

And finally, remember that Thailand is also the major gateway to many of the countries formerly labelled as “Indochina”. Why not get the most out of your trip and combine a stay in one of Thailand’s provinces with a trip across the nearest border to visit the neighbouring culture? After a stay near Udon Thani, head up to Nong Khai and cross the Friendship Bridge over the Mekong River into the capital of Laos, Vientiane. Or, after a stay in Trat, head to the border and over into Cambodia to visit Angkor Wat.

So in short:
- There’s no better time than 09 in Thailand
- When you book your hotel, request a discount. Don’t be shy!
- When flying domestically, review the airline options.
- For stays out of the capital, try a private villa
- Go local
- Then go beyond borders – combine your trip with a neighbouring country.

Thailand, officially the Kingdom of Thailand, is one of the most popular tourist spots in Asia. Thailand is situated at the geographical heart of South-East Asia, on the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea.

Covering an area of about 513,120 square kilometers, Thailand is the third largest country in South-East Asia. Boasting of magnificent islands, stupendous beaches, picturesque hills, mysterious caves, dazzling waterfalls, and lush green forested areas, Thailand abounds in wonderful attractions.

However, these attractions are not just the reason that draws millions of people from across the world per year, but beyond that. The destination is also much favored for its salubrious tropical climate, sumptuous cuisines, heritage palaces, interesting museums, fabulous architecture, ancient shrines interesting activities, and above all, the presence of smiling amicable Thai people.

Additionally, Thailand is also one of the Asia’ preferred destination for medical and wellness tourism, with a number of sophisticate private hospitals and spa establishments offering rejuvenating massages and beauty therapies.

Attractions in Thailand are categorized in terms of regions, such as, the Central Region, the North-East Region, the East Region, and the South region. The Central region is much famed for its sites of historical significance. Bangkok, the capital city of the country, is perhaps the greatest of all attractions in this region.

Just few among many of the highlights in the region are Wat Phra Kaeo and Grand Palace complex, Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn), Wat Saket (Golden Mount), Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha), Wat Benchannabophit (Marble Temple), Vimanmek Palace, and the Pasteur Institute’s Snake Farm. Another much famed tourist attraction in this region is Ayuthaya Historical Park, which is about 75 kilometers north of Bangkok.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ayuthaya once served as the capital of the Thai kingdom for more than 400 years. A host of historic temples, crumbling palaces and fortresses, and ruins of ancient sculptures and architecture that stand as a symbol of ancient Thai kingdoms can be seen here.

Also, included in the highlights of this region are Kanchanaburi, whose focal point is an allied war cemetery; Lop Buri – an ancient city that dates back to the 9th century; Phetchaburi, which is renowned for its attractions such as Khao Luang Caves filled with statues of Lord Buddha, the hilltop palace of Phra Nakhon Khiri, and Wat Suwanaram noted for its murals; and Hua Hin, which is the country’s oldest beach resort.

With Laos and Burma as its neighbor, the Northern Region of Thailand is bestowed scenic attractions covering forested hills and fertile river valleys. This area also encompasses some parts of the fabled Golden Triangle. Among the attractions in this region are Sukhothai, which is noted for its huge stone images of Lord Buddha.

Phitsanulok, which is famed for Wat Phra Si Rattana Maha That, enshrining the much revered Phra Buddha Chinarat; Lampang, with several Burmese style temples; Lamphun, boasting of Wat Phra That Hariphunchai, which stands as a fine example of northern religious architecture; Chiang Mai, an ancient city founded in 1296; and Nan, where annual boat races are conducted.

Bordered by the Mekong River and Laos, the North-East region has a unique topography, and is home to attractions such as Khao Yaii National Park, Nakhon Ratchasima, Nakhon, Ubon Ratchathani, Yasothon, and Khon Kaen. Included in the attractions of the Eastern region are Pattaya, one of the premier beach resorts in Asia; Rayong, whose prime attraction is Ban Phe fishing village; Chanthaburi, which is renowned for its historic sites; and Trat, with Ko Chang Marine National Park.

When comes to the Southern Region, this area contains a multitude of lush islands, beautiful palm-fringed beaches, forested mountains, and picturesque sanctuaries. Some of the attractions in the region are Phuket – the largest island in the country; Krabi, with 75-million-year-old Susan Hoi shell graveyard; Pattani, which boasts of the most beautiful mosque in the country; Surat Thani, with the magnificent island of Ko Samui; and Chumphon, with excellent scuba diving facilities.

Above all, people touring Thailand could indulge in a number of activities from water sport activities such as diving, paragliding, sailing, and deep sea fishing to activities like viewing traditional Thai boxing, indulging in traditional Thai massage, taking Thai cooking classes, and jungle trekking.

In short, Thailand has everything that is required to make your vacation in the destination amazing as well as unforgettable. Hence, the destination has accommodation choices to cater to every taste and budget. From hotels and resorts to condominiums and apartments, accommodation choices are aplenty in the destination. Along with these options, also a popular choice is villa, which is perfect for those seeking privacy and luxury.