Highlights of Malay Peninsula

Close to the Burmese border in central Thailand lie the wildlife sanctuaries of Thungyai and Huai Kha Kheng, covering more than 6,000 km² of various types of forest. The reserves are home to a wide variety of animal species including elephant and tiger and at least 34 endangered species. The region is also home to several spectacular waterfalls including Thi Lor Su Waterfall, one of the largest in southeast Asia with seven tiers of falls from high limestone cliffs, Kotha Waterfall and Thi Lor Lay Waterfall.

UNESCO World Heritage Site: Thungyai-Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuaries

Khao Suk National Park is home to some of the oldest rainforest in the world, dating back 150 million years and set amidst mountains and karst limestone peaks. It is an area of incredible biodiversity, with resident species including the leopard, Malayan sun bear, elephant, langur and tiger, though spottings are rare due to the thick jungle and nocturnal nature of many of the animals. The park can be explored through jungle walks, elephant rides and canoe trips along the river.

The beachside resorts of Ao Nang and Krabi on Thailand's west coast is a lively and popular spot, with plenty of options to explore the beautiful landscapes and waters of this region. These include sea kayaking amidst the limestone peaks and caves, rock climbing on the famous Raileh Beach and scuba diving in the tropical waters in addition to relaxing on the palm-fringed sandy beach and the warm, crystal-clear waters. The area is renowned for its natural beauty which combines magnificent limestone cliffs rising from the waters, beautiful white beaches, verdant vegetation and numerous small islands. One of these is Phi Phi Island which gained fame as the location for the film 'The Beach'.

Phuket is Thailand's largest island and one of its most popular beach resort regions. As well as exploring historic Phuket Town, the beaches of Phuket and the neighbouring smaller islands are ideal for relaxing, swimming and snorkelling to explore the huge variety of colourful reef fish that are found in these waters.

The Samai Archipelago off Thailand's east coast is a tropical paradise comprising the islands of Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao, in addition to the stunning Ang Thong National Marine Park, inspiration for the book 'The Beach'. The islands offer beach resorts ranging from quiet secluded spots to party resorts, the chance for excellent snorkelling amidst beautiful coral reefs and tropical fish and boat trips exploring secluded bays and waterfalls (especially on Koh Phangan).

Situated at 1800 metres above sea level the Cameron Highlands were the location for a series of villages and hill stations built by the British to escape the heat and humidity of the lower altitudes. Today the region has maintained its English character and is a good location for picturesque forest and mountain walks in the refreshing air. The highlands are also known for their tea plantations which can be visited alongside a trip to a tea factory.

Taman Negara National Park contains rainforest that is believed to be the oldest in the world, dating back 130 million years. The park can be explored through forest trails, boat rides or for a different perspective by walking along the 400 metre Canopy Walk, a rope bridge situated above the forest treetops. The diversity of species found in the park is predictably huge, from exotic plants to butterflies and birdlife such as kingfishers and eagles.

Within the Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park, the active volcano of Mount Bromo is one of four craters set within an enormous outer crater. The surrounding landscape is one of rugged lava formations and a sea of sand. Climbing to the summit of Mount Bromo at sunrise or sunset offers a spectacular vista. Other viewpoints such as the summit of Mount Pananjakan provides similarly impressive views, with the peaks of Mount Bromo, Mount Batok and the majestic Mount Semeru (Java's highest mountain) in the distance.

Lovina is one of Bali's most charming and laid back beaches. With miles of black volcanic sand beaches and warm, calm, crystal clear waters, it's the perfect spot for kicking back and relaxing. The area is also great for diving and snorkelling with spectacular coral reefs around Menjangan and Tulamben. Lovina is also notable for its early morning dolphin cruises, allowing you to catch the sunrise over Bali's volcanic peaks and see the playful and energetic schools of dolphins that surround the boat.

The area around Mount Batur is very scenic, with lush green countryside and the waters of Lake Batur. The town of Kintamani near Lake Batur is at 1,500 metres and is a good base for climbing to the summit. An early morning ascent provides a stunning sunrise over the valleys of Bali and on a clear day you can see all the way to Mount Rinjani on Lombok.