Top 10 things to do in Thailand

Home to a beautiful beach, Maya Bay, which played host to Leonardo DiCaprio in the cult film The Beach, and a tropical island, Ko Tapu, which featured in the James Bond film. Stunningly beautiful, this island is made up of jungle-laden limestone nestled in the azure Andaman Sea; the views are truly breathtaking! With warm hospitality, ocean-view hotels and golden Buddhist temples to visit, you could spend the most relaxing holiday of your life, surrounded by the beauty of Thailand.

Dynamic and rich in culture, Bangkok marks the start of many a tourist holiday in Thailand. The capital is packed with things to do and see: shopping in the iconic Siam Paragon shopping centre, visiting Sea Life Bangkok Ocean World, exploring the royal jewels of the Grand Palace or strolling the canals of Bangkok's Chao Phraya River: Thailand is your oyster. Most direct flights to Thailand arrive at Suvarnabhumi International Airport, also known as Capital Airport, on the outskirts of Bangkok, about a 20-minute drive from the city centre.

A Krathong is a small lotus-shaped lantern. Thousands of them are lit and released into the air by the rivers, in honour of the goddess of water and the water she has provided over the year. The spectacle is truly breathtaking, resembling a star-studded night sky. It takes place on the night of the twelfth lunar month.

Gold, gold, gold, elephants and more gold: that's Doi Suthep. Located in the highlands of Chiang Mai, visitors come here for two reasons: to admire the breathtaking scenery of Chang Mai and to visit the Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temple. Expect golden elephant shrines, souvenir stalls and a rich history.

Nature lovers are in for a treat. Covering a vast area of 2,168 square kilometres, Khao Yai was Thailand's first natural jewel, and it's easy to see why! The park is a lush meadow of crystal-clear rainforests, turquoise waterfalls and over 300 species of animals, including elephants, deer, bears and gibbons. Located in the province of Nahkon Ratchasima, 180 km from Bangkok, Khao Yai is easily accessible on foot or by car.

Once the capital of Thailand, it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk in the footsteps of ancient ruins, once walked by King U Thong before the vast destruction by the Burmese army, and breathe in the historic remains dating back to the 1350's. What remains of the city is preserved in a historic park which is well worth a visit. You can reach the city by bus (1h40), train (2h) or car (45 minutes). If you still want to discover other temples, check out Sukhothai.

When you hear 'floating markets', you might think it's a misnomer, but Damnoen Sudak lives up to its name EXACTLY. Indeed, these bustling market stalls live in narrow canals, on wooden bridges, accessible only by boat. Paddling gently along the river, you'll have plenty of photo opportunities for the gram. Discover this Atlantis market located 100km from the centre of Bangkok.

Koh Lanta was created by Mother Nature for one purpose: its stunning coral reefs and exotic marine life. This tiny island is home to famous dive sites called Hin Daeng and Hin Muang. Grab your snorkelling gear and immerse yourself in an aquamarine oasis with vibrant explosions of colourful reefs and tropical fish.

There's no doubt that Thailand is blessed with some of the world's most spectacular beaches. Starting with Phang Nga Bay and its impeccable aesthetics: a turquoise lagoon surrounded by sage-green mountains and endless sunshine for sunbathing. Not to mention the plethora of water sports activities available on request on each majestic beach.

Songkran is the Thai New Year and if you're travelling to Thailand around Easter, make sure it's on your bucket list! This laughter-filled festival is a traditional water fight that typically takes place between 13 and 15 April across the country. Water is sprinkled throughout the festival, almost as a ritual, in the hope of bringing good luck and washing away all sins and negative energies.