Southeastern Thailand Travel Guide

Southeastern Thailand is the smallest region in Thailand, made up of only six provinces, Chanthaburi, Chonburi, Prachinburi, Rayong, Sa Kaew and Trat, but filled with a number of wonderful natural sights as well as numerous well developed and popular tourist destinations. The East's proximity to Bangkok has made it a popular holiday destination for Thais escaping the hectic city and students seeking a quiet piece of land to camp, sing and play their guitars.

Today much of the coastline fills on weekends and holidays with growing numbers of wealthy Bangkok Thais and increasing numbers of farangs. The number of foreigners venturing further than Pattaya is also steadily increasing as islands like Ko Samet and Ko Chang, both of which are within a day's reach of Bangkok, become more accommodating and conducive to a relaxed stay.

Sinful Pattaya, one of Thailand's most visited holiday resorts amongst both package tourists and sex tourists, serves to sum up the results of ill thought and short sighted development. On the other side of the coin, the islands within Trat Province are considered by many as the last frontier in Thailand. Their deserted shores, limited accommodation and abundant nature serve to entrance all who visit. The stunning province is also one of the most beautiful as Khmer Rouge activity has delayed some development until now. The opening of the land border to Cambodia, as recent talks have suggested, may quickly change the whole region through the increase in economic and tourist traffic, but only time will tell.

Highlights

  • Ko Chang is a large and diverse island with something for everyone (Trat Province).
  • Ko Kut and Ko Wai are great getaways for absolute seclusion (Trat Province).
  • Chanthaburi town is a great place to kick back and pick up some gems while you are there (Chanthaburi Province).
  • Si Racha is another good place to hang out, particularly on the wharves over the ocean (Chonburi Province).
  • Cross to Cambodia from Hat Lek for an interesting day trip (Trat Province).

Itineraries