Eastern Seaboard

Koh Chang: The "Elephant Island," part of a marine national park near the Cambodian border. It's much less developed than the Andaman coast, retaining a wild, jungle-core feel with a mountainous interior full of waterfalls. The west coast is lined with long, relatively quiet sandy beaches like White Sand Beach and Lonely Beach. It's a favorite for travelers seeking a more rustic, adventure-oriented island experience with trekking and snorkelling, yet still with a comfortable backpacker and resort scene.

Pattaya: A city that defies simple description, just a two-hour drive from Bangkok. Once a sleepy fishing village, it's now a sprawling resort city known for its neon-lit nightlife and the infamous Walking Street, but also for a massive array of family attractions: water parks, theme parks, and shows. Recently it has rebranded with luxury beach clubs, top golf courses, and impressive floating markets. It's a city of contrasts, where high-end condos stand next to go-go bars.