Jacinta Fabricius

Live like a rock star at the Hard Rock Hotel. Faun over framed costumes and guitars that once graced the stage with iconic music legends. The celebrity treatment continues at dinner with performances by Hard Rock Café’s world-class rock bands.

A spectacular 18th century palace and former home to Thai royals. Exquisite buildings decorated in mosaic, painted ceramic and carved statues bring thousands of tourists to the complex each day. Also within the complex is Wat Phra Kaew, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, said to be the most sacred Buddhist relic in Thailand.

The ultimate tropical paradise. Coconut-clad sundrenched islands, with alluring beaches so divine they captured James Bond, are just the beginning. City streets harbor a utopia for foodies. Thai cuisine’s punchy flavors gained a global following and abound at bargain street food prices. Thailand's heartfelt culture is exemplified in its ornate Buddhist temples, dating back to the 16th century. Locals brim with kindness and happiness. It's no wonder Thailand is reputed as “the land of smiles”. Spend a few days in this tropical paradise and you’ll find yourself smiling too.

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Conveniences of a luxury hotel blended with the independence of a rented furnished apartment. Apartments range from studio up to 3 bedrooms, suited to any length of stay. Soak up city views from a private balcony or soak in a sensuous bathtub. A fully equipped kitchen, washing machine and dryer make you feel like home. Shama Lakeview Asoke is within walking distance of public transport, shopping malls, restaurants, and the Central Business District. Relax by the peaceful lake at Benchakiti Park or make the most of the hotel’s complimentary buggy service to the supermarket. A perfect location for both business and leisure travelers.

Bangkok’s home of Muay Thai fighting matches. Watch professional fighters clash in the ring every Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Perhaps more popular than the fight itself is the opportunity for spectators to place bets on blue vs red-clad boxers using a series of coded hand gestures. Rajadamnern Boxing Stadium is one of the largest and most modern stadiums in Bangkok with capacity for 8,000 spectators.

A majestic, castle-like wooden temple seemingly floating above the sea at the Ratchavete Cape beachfront. Every inch of the 105-metre high structure is decorated with intricate carvings of stories from Thai folklore. The Sanctuary of Truth possesses a rare atmosphere of tranquility and is a fine example of man’s ability to craft natural materials, made entirely from untreated wood without a single metal nail.

A mystical cavern located within the Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park near Hua Hin. Views of dancing sunrays and the pin-drop quiet atmosphere are well worth the 430m uphill climb to reach the cave. Save a 2km hike and catch a boat from the main National Park entrance to the closer Laem Sala Beach.

A 14th century Buddhist temple in Chiang Mai. Former home of the Emerald Buddha (which now resides in Wat Pra Kaew at the Grand Palace complex in Bangkok). Wat Chedi Luang features three ornate buildings with golden Buddhas, intricate paintings and religious sculptures. The main building stood 80 metres high before being damaged by an earthquake in 1545 AD. Earthquake damage can still be seen.

Immaculate white beach sand and crystal clear, turquoise waters and one of South East Asia’s best snorkeling locations. Canoe hire and scuba-diving courses available. The Racha Resort provides a rest from snorkeling with a restaurant, cocktail bar and swimming pool. Best visited as a day tour from Chalong Pier, Phuket.

One of the world’s largest outdoor markets with over 1,500 vendors forming a maze-like grid of stalls each weekend. Items for sale include clothing, souvenirs, homewares, jewellery, curry sauces, street food, and much more.

A pristine, white sandy beach with dramatic cliff landscapes only accessible by boat. No vehicles (other than golf buggies) are allowed on the peninsula, creating a peaceful atmosphere. Activities range from lazing in the sparkling, calm sea to rock climbing. Dozens of accommodation options ranging from budget to luxury.

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