10. Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya is a town 85km North of Bangkok.

The main attractions are the ruins of the old city – which was once the capital of Thailand and one of the most prosperous city in the world until being destroyed by the Burmese army in 1767.

If you are not heading to Cambodia to see Angkor Wat then Ayutthaya is a great alternative.

9. Ang Thong Marine National Park

Ang Thong is an unspoilt archipelago of 42 tropical islands in the Gulf of Thailand.

A great escape from its over developed and crowed neighbour Koh Samui.

There are some fantastic caves and beaches, as well as great snorkelling and diving spots around the islands.

Most people visit for the day as there is only limited and basic accommodation, although camping is permitted and popular.

8. Bangkok

For me, Bangkok is a place to experience rather than enjoy, but certainly a must visit destination.

There is plenty to see and do, as well as eat and drink; and everybody that visits comes back with a crazy story of some kind.

The backpacker hub is Khao San Road – it may not be the most authentic part of Thailand, but it is a great place to meet new people to explore this wild city with.

7. Similan Islands

The Similan Islands are renowned as one of the best dive locations in the world.

Like Ang Thong, the Similans are an unspoilt archipelago of islands with plenty of pristine beaches, providing a refreshing break from the nearby high octane resort of Phuket.

6. Railay Beach and Krabi

Krabi, in particular Railay Beach provides that postcard image of Thailand that everybody wants to send back home.

Railay Beach itself is only accessible by boat due to high limestone cliffs that surround the peninsula.

Railay is also known as one of the best and most spectacular places in the world to rock climb and abseil – one of the scariest things I have ever done.

5. Pai

The ultimate chilled out backpacker town – one of those places where you say “I’ll stay for a few more nights”, and end up staying for a few more weeks.

Pai has an alternative vibe and nightlife, set in an idyllic mountain valley – a great place to reflect on life in a hammock.

Most people hire scooters whilst in Pai as they are so cheap and there are plenty of places to go to in the area, including natural hot springs and waterfalls.

4. Phi Phi Islands

An idyllic set of tropical islands – if it wasn’t for the vast amount of tourists here, it would be my number one in this list.

The islands shot to prominence after the movie ‘The Beach’, staring Leonardo Di Caprio was filmed at Maya Bay, on Koh Phi Phi Ley. After that of course a place this beautiful is going to become very popular.

The islands of Phi Phi provide that iconic image of Thailand, with stunning limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons, warm turquoise waters, white beaches and longtail boats. The islands provide some brilliant snorkelling and dive spots too.

3. Koh Pha Ngan

Home to the infamous Full Moon Party and surely one of the best party destinations in the world.

Nowadays there is a party everyday of the week on Koh Pha Ngan, but the island really comes to life in the days leading up to the Full Moon Party – so time your trip well.

However people often overlook the other side of Koh Pha Ngan. Literally on the other end of the island from Haad Rin (the full moon party beach), lies Haad Salad and Mae Hat, two of the best beaches in Thailand. They both provide excellent snorkelling and dive spots, as well as beautiful and peaceful, yet cheap, wooden bungalow accommodation.

2. Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is wonderful place with plenty to see and do.

The city itself is surrounded by an ancient wall and moat; and is one of Thailand’s most cultural significant cities, with many temples and festivals along with a passion for Muay Thai boxing. The food and markets are another reason why people love this city so much.

The main draw though is it’s gateway to the jungles and mountains of Northern Thailand – great for trekking, mountain biking and bamboo rafting.

Interactions with elephants are popular here too, but I would advise against going on a trek and instead opt for visiting a rehabilitation centre, as these majestic animals are much better treated there.

There are also many hill tribes in the nearby mountains which you can visit and even stay in.

1. Ko Tao

I very nearly stayed here forever and many people do.

Ko Tao is small tropical island in the Gulf of Thailand. Most of the island is uninhabited, making for some great walks and hidden beaches.

The main area is Hat Sariee; a sunset beach lined with restaurants, bars, guest houses and dive centres.

Like many people the main reason I came to Ko Tao was for the scuba diving, one the best and cheapest place in the world to start diving. There is something about the diving culture on Ko Tao that makes everyone so happy and relaxed – I think it is something to do with your daily routine…

… for eight days my routine was wake, eat, dive, eat, dive, eat, drink, sleep and repeat.

The perfect lifestyle. Many people stay and become full time dive instructors.