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When is the best time to visit Australia!

G’day, backpackers! If you’ve got Australia on your bucket list, timing is everything. The Land Down Under has a diverse range of climates and activities, making it a year-round destination. So, let’s talk about where to visit season by season, to help you plan your Aussie adventure.

Spring (September to November):

Spring in Australia consists of blooming flowers, mild temperatures, and outdoor celebrations, with an average temperature of 17°C and 35°C depending whether you’re north or south. This is an ideal time to visit iconic destinations like Sydney and Melbourne, where the weather is pleasantly warm, and the cities come alive with festivals and events. Explore the stunning landscapes of the Blue Mountains or the vibrant colours of the Floriade Festival in Canberra.

Summer (December to February):

Summer – the season of sun and surf. Head to the beaches of the Gold Coast, Sydney, or Perth to catch some sun and learn to ride the waves. Dive into the Great Barrier Reef for an underwater adventure, or embark on a road trip along the Great Ocean Road. Just be prepared for higher temperatures- over 40°C, especially in the northern regions.

Autumn (March to May):

Autumn in Australia brings cooler temperatures and a sense of tranquility. It’s an excellent time to explore the Red Centre, where iconic landmarks like Uluru and Kata Tjuta are surrounded by a softer, more temperate climate. The wineries of the Barossa Valley and Margaret River are also at their best, offering a feast for the senses with grape harvests and wine tastings.

Winter (June to August):

Winter down under is a time for adventure, especially in the southern regions. Hit the slopes in the Snowy Mountains for some winter sports or go on a wildlife adventure in Tasmania, where the cooler temperatures bring out the unique fauna. The whales are on the move along the east and west coasts, making winter a fantastic time for whale watching in places like Hervey Bay and Albany.

Year-Round Adventures:

Certain experiences in Australia are available year-round. The vibrant city life in Sydney and Melbourne, for example, is a constant delight. Explore the diverse landscapes of the Daintree Rainforest or take a road trip along the stunning coastline of the Great Ocean Road – these activities can be enjoyed any time of the year.

The best time to visit Australia depends on your preferences and the experiences you’re after. Whether you’re chasing the sun on Bondi Beach, exploring the rugged Outback, or immersing yourself in the vibrant city life, Australia is amazing year-round. So, pack your bags and get ready for your adventure down under!

Em ❤

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Best locations to visit in Western Australia

WA has to be my favourite place in Australia! You get to enjoy the busyness of city life whilst having the most beautiful wildlife and nature just a few hours drive away. In this post I am going to talk about the best locations on the west coast which you HAVE to include in your trip down under! As always if you have any questions, get in touch with me via social media!

Perth: City Lifestyle

Start your adventure in Perth, the sun-soaked capital. Perth is such a chilled out city compared to any on the east coast. You can stroll through Kings Park, explore the trendy neighbourhoods of Northbridge and Fremantle, take a graffiti tour of the city and learn about Aboriginal history and soak up the sun on the beaches of Cottesloe. Perth also has loads of nice restaurants and bars and unique things to do like rooftop cinema experiences. This is the perfect place to start your trip in WA to get immersed in Aussie culture.

Margaret River: Wine Capital

For the wine lovers among us, Margaret River is a must-visit destination. This stunning region is not only known for its world-class wineries but also for its stunning coastline and lush forests. You can take a leisurely drive along Caves Road, stopping to taste wines for just $10 aud, indulge in delicious chocolate, visit a natural water spa and snorkel at ‘The Aquarium’. Be aware the accommodation in this region is very expensive so plan to book ahead.

Hamelin Bay: Swimming with Sting Rays

Hamelin Bay is a famous spot for seeing wild sting rays close up to the beach! Make sure you head down early to avoid the crowds and walk 5 minutes from the beach car park to the best area to watch the rays. 8am is the ideal time to arrive and the sting rays will begin to come close to the shore and swim around your feet! Please avoid touching them as it can be damaging to both them and yourself.

Rottenest Island: Quokka Paradise

Just a short ferry ride from Perth, Rottnest Island is a perfect location for nature lovers and for anyone looking for the famous quokka selfie. Watch the quokkas sunbathing, explore the island’s stunning beaches, discover the historic lighthouses, and snorkel in vibrant coral reefs while enjoying the laid-back island atmosphere. You may be lucky enough to spot whales and sealions!

The Pinnacles: Mars on Earth

To experience the most surreal desert, head to Nambung National Park and visit the Pinnacles. These ancient limestone formations are situated within the bright golden sand, creating a scene that feels straight out of a movie. Visit at sunset or sunrise for an even more mesmerising experience! Whilst you’re there, head less than an hour down the road to Lancelin to swim with wild dolphins in the evening!

Jurien Bay: Home of the Sealions

Jurien Bay is a hidden gem that deserves a spot on your Western Australia itinerary. This stunning town has amazing beaches as well as the opportunity to visit the marine park to swim with wild sealions! For those who prefer to stay dry, a visit to the iconic Jurien Bay Jetty is a must. Stretching into the Indian Ocean, this jetty provides the perfect point for a beautiful stroll or some fishing! If you are a seafood lover, there is an abundance of restaurants providing the catch of the day!

Kalbarri National Park: Crazy Nature

You HAVE to head further north to Kalbarri National park and experience the amazing nature! Explore the rust-coloured gorges carved by the Murchison River, visit the Pink Lake and stand on the edge of the iconic Nature’s Window. For the adventurers, there are so many amazing hikes you can do such as the Z-Bend and the aptly named “Loop,” where the scenery looks like a painting!

Exmouth Region: Snorkelling and Sharks

Exmouth is a coastal paradise that has endless marine life. Known for its proximity to the UNESCO-listed Ningaloo Reef, Exmouth lures snorkelers and divers into an underwater paradise full of colourful coral gardens and marine life. With its relaxed atmosphere, stunning beaches, and the opportunity to swim with whale sharks – Exmouth is a must-visit destination for those looking for a perfect mix of natural beauty and aquatic experiences. Some of the top places to add to your list include: Coral Bay, Ningaloo Reef and Shark Bay.

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Em ❤

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Top travel destinations for 2024!

As we welcome the start of the new year, I wanted to share with you my top destinations for 2024 to allow us to manifest lots of travel into the next 12 months!

Reykjavik, Iceland: Chasing the Northern Lights

2024 is the year to see the northern lights at their best! Reykjavik is the capital of Iceland and has been gaining popularity for its beautiful landscapes, geothermal hot springs, and of course, the Northern Lights. The best time to visit is between September and March.

Tokyo, Japan: The Tech Capital of the World

Tokyo is no stranger to the travel scene, but 2024 is going to be a year like no other for this city. With the Summer Olympics having left a buzz of excitement, Tokyo is the destination to explore this year and despite what everyone says, it is actually possible to do on a budget. Immerse yourself into the mix of ancient traditions and modern technology by exploring historic shrines, eating fresh sushi, and navigating the neon-lit streets of Shibuya. The best time to visit is March to May when it isn’t too hot and the cherry blossoms are in full bloom!

Cape Town, South Africa: A Combination of Culture and Nature

Cape Town is an absolute hidden gem. Nestled between the famous Table Mountain and the stunning beaches of the Cape Peninsula, this city is the perfect balance of culture, history, and amazing scenery. You can explore the diverse nature, indulge in local cuisine, and take a cable car ride to the top of Table Mountain for a panoramic view that will leave you in awe. The best time to visit is January to March as the days are longer and the weather is gorgeous!

Marrakech, Morocco: The Red City

Be transported to a world of sun and spices in Marrakech. The vibrant colours, busy souks, and the aromatic scent of spices will leave you in awe of this amazing city. Get lost in the maze-like streets of the medina, visit the historic Jardin Majorelle, and savor the flavors of tagines and couscous. The best time to visit is May to September as there is less rain and it is not too hot!

Quebec City, Canada: Winter Wonderland

If you’re a winter person, Quebec City is your dream destination. The historic charm of Old Quebec during the winter season, with twinkling lights and snow, is straight out of a fairy tale. Embrace the cold with activities like ice skating in Place d’Youville, exploring Montmorency Falls, and sipping on hot maple syrup-infused drinks. Who said winter is the worst season? The best time to visit is of course December to March!

These are my top travel destinations for 2024 that are sure to give you the travel bug and make the most of this year! Pack your bags, charge your camera, and get ready for your next adventure! Safe travels!

Em ❤

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Whale Sharks: Where and When to see them

Whale sharks are the largest fish in the sea, growing up to 12 meters long, and swimming with them is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. They are completely safe to swim with as they only eat plankton.

Here are some of the best places across the world to see whale sharks, and the best time to visit each destination:

Ningaloo Reef, Western Australia

Ningaloo Reef is one of the best places in the world to see whale sharks. The reef is located off the coast of Western Australia, and is home to a variety of marine life, including the whale shark. The best time to visit Ningaloo Reef is between March and July, when the whale sharks come to feed on the plankton-rich waters. You can also see manta rays, turtles, and dolphins here.

Donsol, Philippines

The small fishing village of Donsol in the Philippines is another great place to see whale sharks. The best time to visit Donsol is between November and June, when the whale sharks come to feed on the plankton in the area. Aside from whale sharks, you can also spot other marine life such as sea snakes, rays, and barracudas.

Utila, Honduras

Utila, a small island located off the coast of Honduras, is also a popular destination to watch whale sharks. The best time to visit Utila is between March and April when the whale sharks congregate in the area to feed. You can also see other species of sharks, turtles, and dolphins.

Mafia Island, Tanzania

Mafia Island off the coast of Tanzania is home to one of the largest populations of whale sharks in the world. The best time to visit Mafia Island is between November and February, when the whale sharks come to feed on the plankton-rich waters. The island is also a sanctuary for sea turtles and various species of fish.

Koh Tao, Thailand

Koh Tao, a small island located off the coast of Thailand, is known for its whale shark sightings for scuba divers. The best time to visit Koh Tao is between March and May, when the whale sharks come to feed on the plankton in the area. Aside from whale sharks, you can also find other marine life such as turtles, barracudas, reef sharks and groupers.

La Paz, Mexico

La Paz in Baja California Sur, Mexico, is known for its whale shark sightings, and you can even swim with them. The best time to visit La Paz is between October and April, when the whale sharks come to feed on the plankton in the area. Aside from whale sharks, you can also find sea lions, dolphins, and various species of fish.

Whale sharks are some of the most amazing creatures in the sea, and seeing them up close is an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re visiting Ningaloo Reef in Western Australia or Donsol in the Philippines, there are plenty of opportunities to see these incredible creatures in their natural habitat. Be sure to visit during the right season to maximize your chances of seeing them, and enjoy the experience of a lifetime!

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The Best Places to Travel in April

April is a great month to travel as many destinations around the world have perfect weather and less tourists. There are so many options for travelling in April which are affordable and beautiful, whether you want a beach holiday, jungle adventure or city break.

Here are some of the best places to travel in April:

Japan

April is one of the best times to visit Japan, as the famous cherry blossoms are in full bloom. The cherry blossoms typically peak in late March or early April, depending on the location. Some of the best places to see cherry blossoms include Tokyo, Kyoto, and Nara. In addition to the cherry blossoms, April is a great time to explore Japan’s beautiful gardens and temples, and to try its delicious local food.

Portugal

April is a great time to visit Portugal, as the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller than in the summer months. Portugal is known for its beautiful beaches, historic cities, and delicious food and wine. Some of the best places to visit in Portugal include Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve region. In April, you can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and surfing for really cheap and explore Portugal’s history and culture.

Bali, Indonesia

Bali is an amazing destination year-round, but April is one of the best times to visit. The weather is warm and sunny, and there are much fewer tourists than in the peak season. Bali is super budget friendly as whilst to get there is expensive you can survive on less than £20 a day. Bali is known for its stunning beaches, jungles, and sea life. In April, you can go surfing, hiking, and snorkeling, or explore Bali’s many temples and traditional villages.

Greece

Greece is also a good place to visit in April as the weather is still nice and you can travel for much cheaper than peak season. Greece is known for its beautiful beaches, historic cities, and delicious food. You can explore ancient ruins, go hiking and sailing, or relax on the beach. Athens, Santorini, and Mykonos are among the best places to visit in Greece and island hopping in the south is definitely a bucket list activity!

Costa Rica

Costa Rica is another great destination to consider in April, as it marks the end of the dry season and the beginning of the rainy season. The weather is warm and sunny, and the rain only comes in short bursts. Costa Rica is known for its beautiful beaches, rainforests, and wildlife and there are so many amazing hostels to choose from. You can go surfing on the coast, hiking in the jungle, zip-lining through the trees and explore Costa Rica’s many national parks and wildlife reserves.

April is a perfect month to get out of the UK, as there are so many destinations around the world that offer better weather and delicious food. Whether you’re looking for a beach holiday, city break, or a jungle adventure, there are plenty of options to choose from. From Japan’s stunning cherry blossoms to Bali’s beautiful beaches, there’s something for everyone in April.

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The Most Popular Hostels in Siem Reap

Siem Reap is a city in the northwestern part of Cambodia, known for its temples and historical landmarks. It’s a popular destination for backpackers as the city has so much to see, the night life is buzzing and there are many great hostels to choose from.

Mad Monkey Hostel

Mad Monkey is a popular hostel with locations all over Cambodia. It is known for its lively atmosphere and really good facilities. The hostel offers both private rooms and dorms, making it a great option for solo travelers and groups. They also have a swimming pool, a bar, and a restaurant, so its a great place to relax and meet new people.

Onederz Hostel Siem Reap

Onederz Hostel Siem Reap is another chain of hostels located in the heart of the city. It is known for its modern facilities and great location. The hostel has a rooftop pool where you can relax and enjoy the views as well as another pool downstairs. I found this hostel was less social than others I’ve stayed at and felt more like a hotel vibe, like everyone was there doing their own thing.

Lub d Siem Reap

Lub d is yet another chain hostel located just a few minutes’ walk from the city center. It has clean and comfortable rooms, as well as its great facilities. The hostel has a rooftop terrace, swimming pool bar, a restaurant with amazing food and lots of activities (even a cycling bar!). You can also book lots of excursions and even transport through the hostel which makes things so much easier.

Pub Hostel

Pub Hostel is a popular hostel located just a few minutes’ walk from Pub Street, the old market, tuk tuk bars and the night market. They host regular events and activities, have a bar with delicious and cheap cocktails and food made by a Khmer chef! Pub Hostel also have a pool with a volleyball net so its really easy to meet people!

The Twizt Lifestyle Hostel

This hostel is the most luxurious you’ll ever feel as a backpacker and for only £8 a night! Twizt Hostel is located on 16th Avenue and whilst a bit less social than other hostels, is a great escape if you’re looking for a break from the backpacker life! They have private rooms and dorms so you can still meet people, and an absolutely stunning swimming pool so you can spend the day relaxing and topping up the tan!

Siem Reap is a great destination for anyone looking to explore the ancient temples of Cambodia and experience the country’s culture. With its many great hostels, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a lively atmosphere at Mad Monkey Hostel or a luxurious break at Twizt, Siem Reap has something for everyone!

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The Best Snorkelling Spots in Southern Thailand

Thailand is known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters, making it a popular destination for snorkelling and scuba diving. Southern Thailand, in particular, has some of the best snorkelling spots in the continent! The region has plenty of gorgeous islands, reefs, and bays that offer incredible places for backpackers to explore on a budget.

Koh Phi Phi

Koh Phi Phi is a small island located in the Andaman Sea and is known not only for its stunning beaches but its crazy nightlife! The oceans surrounding Phi Phi has so much marine life, including colourful fish, sea turtles, and even reef sharks. It is one of the best snorkelling spots in Southern Thailand if you want to see the most vibrant sea life. The best snorkelling spots on Koh Phi Phi are Maya Bay and Shark Point, where you can see all of these fish up close without having to buy a boat trip or swim out too far. These snorkelling trips can be about £30 so if you are really on a budget its so good to be able to do yourself!

Maya Bay is a beautiful bay surrounded by cliffs. It is a sheltered beach that you can only access by boat and so it provides excellent snorkelling opportunities. You can see a variety of fish and coral, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot a reef shark. Shark Point, as the name suggests, is a popular spot for sighting leopard sharks. As always watch out for jellyfish!

Koh Lanta

Koh Lanta is also in the Andaman Sea and has some stunning beaches and laid-back atmosphere. The best snorkelling spots on Koh Lanta are located at Koh Rok and Koh Haa, where you can see a variety of marine life, including colourful fish, sea turtles, and occasionally manta rays!

Koh Rok is a small island located off the coast of Koh Lanta and is a protected marine park. The island has two main snorkelling spots, one on the eastern side and the other on the western side. You can see a variety of fish, including parrotfish and angelfish, as well as coral and sea anemones. Koh Haa, which means “five islands” in Thai, is a group of five small islands located south of Koh Lanta. The area is known for its crystal-clear waters and marine life.

Koh Tao

Koh Tao is a small island located in the Gulf of Thailand and is known for its PADI scuba diving courses. It is the most popular island for backpackers to get their qualification as its cheaper and has some amazing sea life. The island is home to a variety of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and even whale sharks. The best snorkelling spots on Koh Tao are located at Shark Bay and Sai Nuan Beach.

Shark Bay is a popular spot for seeing blacktip reef sharks, which are not dangerous to humans, however the water is shallow and the coral is high so it can be hard to swim in places. The area is also home to a variety of fish, including barracuda and parrotfish. Sai Nuan Beach is a small, secluded beach that is home to a variety of marine life, including sea turtles and colorful fish.

Similan Islands

The Similan Islands are a group of nine islands located in the Andaman Sea and are a very popular snorkelling and diving location. At these islands you can find colorful fish, sea turtles, and even manta rays and whale sharks! The best snorkelling spots on the Similan Islands are located at Donald Duck Bay and Christmas Point.

Donald Duck Bay is a protected bay that is home to lots of marine life. The area is known for its clear waters and vibrant corals. Christmas Point is a popular spot for sighting manta rays. The area is also home to a variety of fish, including barracuda and trevally.

Koh Lipe

Koh Lipe is a small island located in the Andaman Sea which is often missed by backpackers due to less hostels and tourism than other islands. But the island has a lovely vibe and the lack of tourists gives a real laid back, authentic experience. This island also has a variety of marine life, including sea turtles and blacktip reef sharks. The best snorkelling spots on Koh Lipe are located at Sunrise Beach and Pattaya Beach.

Sunrise Beach is a long stretch of white sand beach and Pattaya Beach is a popular spot for sighting blacktip reef sharks. The area is also home to a variety of fish, including butterflyfish and angelfish.

Southern Thailand is home to some of the best snorkelling spots in the world. Whether you’re exploring the stunning beaches of Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta or Koh Lipe, or the crystal-clear waters of the Similan Islands, there is something for every type of backpacker to enjoy. With its vibrant marine life, stunning underwater landscapes and plethora of beach parties Southern Thailand will definitely leave you with some memories!

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Amazing Sunset spots across Cambodia

Cambodia is a country full of natural beauty, and there are many places you can go to see a beautiful sunset. Here are some of the best places to watch the sun go down in Cambodia:

Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat is a temple located in Siem Reap and is one of the most iconic landmarks in Cambodia. Watching the sunset or sunrise over the temple is a breathtaking experience and is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Siem Reap.

Koh Rong

Koh Rong and Koh Rong Sanloem are small islands located in the south of Cambodia, making the sunsets from the beach gorgeous and undisrupted. These islands are quiet during the day and really lively at night, the perfect place to relax on your trip.

Bokor Hill Station

Bokor Hill Station is a former French colonial resort located in Kampot province. The hill station offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside, and watching the sunset from the top of the hill is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Kampot.

Kep Beach

Kep Beach is a beautiful beach located in the south of Cambodia. The beach is known for its stunning sunsets and is a popular destination for tourists and locals. There are many restaurants and bars located along the beach, making it a great place to watch the sunset while enjoying a drink or a meal.

Tonle Sap Lake

Tonle Sap Lake is the largest lake in Southeast Asia and is located in the center of Cambodia. Watching the sunset over the lake is a unique and unforgettable experience, and there are many boat tours available that will take you out onto the lake to watch the sun go down.

Phnom Penh Riverside

Phnom Penh Riverside is a popular destination for tourists and locals. The area is known for its stunning views of the Mekong River, and watching the sunset over the river is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Phnom Penh.

Cambodia is a country full of stunning natural beauty, and watching the sunset is a great way to experience it. Whether you’re watching the sunset over a temple, a hill station, or a beach, Cambodia is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.

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The Best Bars in Koh Tao, Thailand

Koh Tao is a small island in the South of Thailand, and is known for its beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and vibrant nightlife. The island is a popular destination for backpackers and travelers looking to experience the best beaches and get their PADI scuba diving certificate. These are the most popular bars in Koh Tao.

Lotus Bar

The Lotus Bar is a popular beachfront bar located on Sairee Beach. It is known for its relaxed atmosphere, delicious cocktails, and stunning sunset views. The bar has a laid-back vibe and is a great place to relax and enjoy a drink after a long day of snorkeling or diving.

Fishbowl Beach Bar

The Fishbowl Beach Bar is another popular beachfront bar located on Sairee Beach. It is known for its more lively atmosphere, great music, and delicious drinks. The bar offers a wide variety of cocktails, including its famous fishbowl cocktail, which is perfect for sharing.

Banyan Bar

The Banyan Bar is a rooftop bar located in the heart of Sairee Village. It is known for its stunning views of the island and is a great place to watch the sunset. The bar offers lots of different cocktails, and is a popular destination for backpackers and travelers looking to meet new people.

Choppers Bar

Choppers Bar is a popular bar located in Mae Haad. It is known for its lively atmosphere, great music, and cheap drinks. The bar offers a wide variety of cocktails, as well as Thai and Western food.

Koh Tao is a great destination for anyone looking to experience Thailand’s beach culture and vibrant nightlife. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back beachfront bar or a sophisticated rooftop lounge, Koh Tao has something for everyone. By visiting these bars, you’re sure to have an unforgettable time on this beautiful island.

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Some of my favourite beaches in Thailand

Thailand is known for its beautiful beaches, and there are many to choose from. Here are some of the prettiest beaches in Thailand:

Railay Beach

Railay Beach is located in the Krabi province and is only accessible by boat. It is known for its beautiful limestone cliffs and clear blue water. The beach is surrounded by lush jungle and is a popular destination for rock climbing.

Maya Bay

Maya Bay is located on the island of Phi Phi Leh and is famous for its appearance in the movie “The Beach.” The beach is surrounded by towering cliffs and is only accessible by boat. It is a popular destination for snorkeling and scuba diving.

Koh Nang Yuan

Koh Nang Yuan is a small island located near Koh Tao. It is known for its beautiful white sand beaches and crystal-clear water. The island is a popular destination for snorkeling and diving, and there is a beautiful viewpoint that offers stunning views of the surrounding area.

Koh Phi Phi Don

Koh Phi Phi Don is the largest island in the Phi Phi archipelago and is known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife. The island has many beautiful beaches, including Long Beach and Loh Dalum Beach.

Phra Nang Beach

Phra Nang Beach is located in the Krabi province and is only accessible by boat. It is known for its beautiful limestone cliffs and crystal-clear water. The beach is a popular destination for rock climbing and is a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Thailand has many beautiful beaches to choose from, and these are just a few of the nicest. Whether you’re looking for a secluded beach or a vibrant party scene, Thailand has something for everyone.