Whether seeking adventure or in need of serious relaxation you’ll find it in bewitching Thailand. Golden temples, bustling markets, historic palaces, delicious food, wonderful beaches and the world’s friendliest welcome. If you take one lasting memory from Thailand, it has to be the hospitality of its people.

Famous for inspiring Alex Garland’s novel,‘The Beach’, it won’t take you long to find your own idyllic retreat, with untouched sandy coves and endless beaches. But if you liked the look of di Caprio’s paradise head for Maya Bay on little Phi Phi Lay Island and experience it for yourself.

If the limestone cliffs towering above the beaches fuel climbing fantasies, then head for world famous Rai Lay Beach just round the corner from Ao Nang. Accessible only by boat, it’s a mecca for climbers from all over the world.

If beach-lounging is your priority,  Phuket, the pearl of Thailand’s southern shores, has white sands melting into crystal waters. Stay on dry land for a day and explore the jungle at Krabi. There are paths to caves in weird looking rocks, lagoons and waterfalls. Or let an elephant take the strain and see the jungle head and shoulders above the rest.

Bangkok is the country’s sizzling capital – take a dizzying tuk tuk ride and haggle your heart out in some of the most exciting markets in South East Asia.

Though Thailand is hot year round, the best time to go is between November and March, when it rains least and the temperatures are cooler.

Holiday rentals from owners in Thailand bookable safely on-line.