South of
Thailand
The South is made up
of 14 provinces from Chumphon in the north down to the Malaysian border
1,200 kilometres from Bangkok. It has a long coastline on either side
with sandy beaches and offshore islands on both, and a rugged central
hinterland of mountains and forests.
The east coast on the Gulf of Thailand always seems to be more relaxed,
with long, wide bays and calm seas; the Andaman Sea coast tends to be
more rugged and exhilarating, with its strange limestone rock formations
and cliffs.
The coastline attracts most tourists, though Samui island in the Gulf
of Thailand is growing in popularity as a laid-back holiday spot with
first class diving opportunities nearby on Tao and Pha-ngan islands.
The Andaman Sea coast offers more sophisticated choices in the island
province of Phuket, Thailand’s premier holiday resort. However, the fascinating
rock formations and offshore islands at Phang-nga, Krabi and Trang are
extremely popular for the diving and sailing opportunities they offer.
The mountains, rivers and forests in the national parks in the interior
of the peninsula are also gaining popularity with eco-tourists, as can
be seen with the growing numbers of safari expeditions on foot, by elephant
and in canoes.
