France is ultra sophisticated yet at the same time authentically French. A short 2 hour flight from London to Nice makes it a popular retreat, especially for long weekends. As an alternative to air travel, also consider Eurostar to Paris and then high speed rail link south.
Spain attracts the most British tourists, as well as a huge number who have decided to make Spain their permanent residence. It is a country with fantastic contrasts and maybe a few contradictions, which make it even more interesting. Openly hedonistic in some areas, proudly conservative in others. Wonderful culture and lifestyle.
From the UK to mainland Spain and Mallorca is just over 2 hours, and to the Canary Islands about 4 hours.
Kuala Lumpur, is the proud capital city, with high rise buildings, but just as many colourful older traditional areas. Lively street markets competing with luxurious shopping malls for the attention of your wallet. The prices are some of the most competitive in the region. Fantastic selection of restaurants fully reflecting the diversity of influences found in Malaysia, but with just as many culinary options from around the globe.
Chiang Mai is the 2nd city of Thailand but is just a fraction of the size of Bangkok. It is compact, bustling and despite some recent development, it retains a market town atmosphere. It is the main gateway to the region. Flying time from Bangkok 60 minutes. Chiang Rai is in the extreme northeast of the country, even smaller and more traditional, with the focal point of interest being the Golden Triangle, the area where Thailand, Laos and Burma (Myanmar) all meet.
Khao Lak Thailand is located on the mainland facing the Andaman Sea, linked to the island of Phuket by a causeway bridge. Come to Khao Lak Thailand for the glorious beaches with the stunning Khao Sok National Park in the background. You fly into Phuket and then it is a scenic 60-minute road transfer along the coast.
Krabi is located on the west coat mainland facing the Andaman Sea, and Koh Lanta is linked by car-ferry and/or speedboat. Both are wonderfully tropical, with limestone islands emerging from the generally turquoise waters. Krabi is more developed and has a lively nightlife scene at Ao Nang. Koh Lanta is quieter, with just a couple of good hotels, offering a glorious and real sense of escapism.
