Geographical differences have given distinctive character to each of the coasts. The Andaman Coast is the most dramatic, edged by sheer limestone cliffs carved by wind and water into strange silhouettes, and interleaved with thick bands of mangrove forest. The Gulf Coast begins and ends quietly with relatively flat, featureless stretches to the south of Bangkok and down towards the Malaysian border, but peaks at its midpoint, where the peninsular mountains march into the sea to form the wildly varied landscapes of the Samui archipelago and the Ang Thong National Marine Park. A fair chunk of the East Coast is dominated by the rigs of offshore oil and gas exploration, but the islands that lie further out have forested spines and gorgeous strands. In short, you’ll find great beaches on all three coasts: idyllic confections of clear turquoise waters at invitingly balmy temperatures, sand so soft that it squeaks underfoot, and palm trees laden with coconuts.

The Thai royal family started the craze for seaside holidays by making regular trips to Hua Hin in the early 1900s, and the subsequent construction of the Southern Railway Line soon opened up the region to the rest of the population. Inspired by American GIs who’d discovered Thailand’s attractions during their R and R breaks from Vietnam, it wasn’t long before foreign holidaymakers followed suit, and these days tourism is the main industry in nearly all Thailand’s coastal areas. Many of the most beautiful spots have been well and truly discovered, and a number have developed into full-blown high-rise resorts which seem to have more in common with the Costa del Sol than the rest of Southeast Asia. But you need only venture a few kilometres from such anomalies to encounter a more traditional scene of fishing communities, rubber plantations and Buddhist temples. Over ninety percent of Thais are Theravada Buddhists, and their faith colours all aspects of daily life, from the tiere! d temple rooftops that dominate the skyline, to the omnipresent saffron-robed monks and the packed calendar of festivals. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

Synopsis
The Rough Guide to Thailand's Beaches and Islands is the ultimate guide to these glorious destinations. From the enchanting and little-known islands of Ban Krud and Suan Luang to the hip new beach resort of Pak Nam Pran. A full-colour 24-page section introduces the highlights, with stunning photography of the best the islands have to offer. The authors provide expert recommendations on where to go, from party beaches and luxury resorts to remote national park islands and bases for diving, snorkelling and kayaking. The guide also includes full coverage of Bangkok, the main point of arrival, a sophisticated metropolis and gateway to the coasts. There are detailed maps for every region and informed advice on activities - from Thai cookery to Thai boxing and from scuba-diving to white-water rafting.

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