Places to visit and things to do in Thailand - Part 1

When in Bangkok - Get down to the Chao Phraya river for a change of scene. The easiest way to get there is to use the BTS Skytrain, stopping at the Saphan Taksin station (S6 on the official map). Once there, take any of the river cruises (they're all reasonable value for money) or the up-river taxi boat for stunning views of Bangkok and some its most famous sites. I recommend one trip in the daytime, and another at night. Even the short trip on the river taxi boat across to the south bank is quite fun.

When in Pattaya/Jomtien - Take a trip out of town and travel 15km due south to Bang Sarae beach. It's a lot quieter than Pattaya and Jomtien beaches, and makes a pleasant change. Food and drink are a bit cheaper, and there are hardly any beach sellers around to hassle you. Alternatively, for another pleasant day out of town, head to the harbour that sits right between Pattaya and Jomtien and take the ferry to Koh Larn island. Then take a taxi to one of the west coast beaches. Lovely beaches and views, nice and quiet. A bit pricey, but worth it.

When in Trat/Koh Chang - If you thought Koh Chang was a tropical island paradise (which it is), whilst stayng on the island get yourself down to Ban Bang Bao and take a day's boat trip (it's a couple of thousand Baht to hire a fishing boat if you haggle politely and buy some beers for everyone on board) to Koh Wai for an even more amazing taste of tropical island paradise living. Or take the Koh Wai ferry from Laem Ngop near Trat (where all the ferries to Koh Chang are).

More tips in the future...