Lazy days
Thailand's coastline and islands has produced miles and miles of glorious beaches. From the developed, tourist mecca of Phuket to the laid-back islands of Ko Samui or Ko Tao, you can be as busy or as lazy as you want, lounging around in turquoise waters before mozying off to a beachside bar for a drink. Perfect.
Bangkok
One of the world's most intoxicating (and some would say toxic) cities. It's full of traffic, noise and chaos, but has plenty to see and do. The backpacker mecca of Khao San Road has cheap acccommodation, food and drink and is a good place to pick up bargains. Pat Pong Road is the globally infamous area that would make Amsterdam's red-light district blush.
Chiang Rai
In the country's far north, Chiang Rai is a compact, (reasonably) laid-back city, and is a good base for exploring the surrounding jungle, organising treks, visiting hill tribes and outlying regions, or organising a trip into Laos for a boat trip down the Mekong.
Food
Without doubt one of the world's best cuisines, and in contrast to somewhere like France, you don't have to pay a fortune for a decent feed. Curries, noodle soups, salads and stir fries are all specialties, ranging from hot 'n' spicy to mild and tangy.