Hua Hin & Cha Am

If you like a slower pace of life then these twin resorts could be for you. Popular with weekending Thais, they’re quiet midweek and only a couple of hours drive from Bangkok. Seafood is big here – enjoy it freshly grilled for you on the beach or at one of the stalls in Hua Hin’s popular night market.

There’s a great choice of golf courses to tee off on and spas in which to indulge. Hua Hin’s acclaimed International Jazz Festival is a high point in the summer. You can visit seaside palaces and the sumptuous royal waiting room at the heritage railway station.

On a day trip you could also take in historic town Phetchaburi or the 170 Buddha statues in Khao Luang caves