The South: Phuket also known as the "Pearl of the South" is the largest of Thailand's islands and is the hub for the Southern region. It is the best known international tourist destination in the country. As the flight veers towards Phuket Internatinal Airport, the panoramic view of the alluring turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea with its crests of frothy white waves breaking along sandy shores is both breathtaking and mesmerising. Coconut palm trees line the shore and eventually merge into dense tropical forests, rubber and coconut plantations. Hundreds of odd-shaped limestone peaks and island break the relief. On the horizon, the blue-green sea meets clear blue skies. Countless islands are dotted around the Andaman considered to be one of the most interesting diving sites with the most diverse aquatic and marine species in the world. The perfect idyllic island escape...a dream fulfilled for visitors to the south. Crystal clear waters for swimming, snorkelling, windsurfing, or parasailing...a diver's paradise of pristine waters and colourful reefs teeming with life...exciting deepsea fishing or simply a relaxing vacation, sipping exotic tropical fruit cocktails in the sun, catching up on a tan. This is nature at its best, combined with the- comforts, convenience and luxury of five-star, duluxe and superior hotel accomodation, beach and mountain resorts, all offering modern facilities and international standards of service. Excellent golfing and shopping opportunities are also available. Gastrnomic delights are plentiful-fresh seafood, grilled or cooked anyway you prefer, local fare as well as a comprehensive range of international cuisine from fine dining to fastfood and take away. For those who are constantly on the go the old town of Phuket offers cultural interest. Narrow streets are lined with examples of Sino-Portuguese architecture. With day trips to the nearby islands or the village of the "Chao Le" sea gypsies, or to the pearl farm and the local cottage industries, time passes quickly...

Phi Phi Island National Park : Comprising Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Lei, this is one of the most beautiful of the island groups with plunging limestones cliffs and classic tropical coves. Bird's nets and ancient wall paintings are found in the islands' caves.

Ao Phang-Nga Marine National Park : This is one of Thailand's greatest and most photogenic wonders...islands in a calm bay surrounded by a gallery of immense natual sculptures of limestone cliffs, sea caves and submerged karstland. Phang-Nga is often recognised in Photos because of its distinctive scenery. This was where the James Bond movie " The Man with the Golden Gun" was filmed. Explore the limestone colums or inland lakes by canoe, as access is only from the sea.

Similan Islands National Park : This is a group of nine small islands of the Andaman Sea within an unspoiled marine park, and remote Islands which gained a worldwide reputation as one of the would's best dive sites. Beside spectacular underwater landscapes, Similan is known for frequent manta and whale shark encounters. Clear water, a stunning underwater architecture featuring huge boulders and swimthroughs plus a multitude of colours, reef fish and larger pelagics is waiting to satisfy both, divers and snorkellers equally. White sandy beaches and a tropical untouched paradise will amaze you.

Krabi : Located off the southwestern coast, its craggy coastline harbours secluded coves and bays, accessible only by boat. Deluxe hotel and convention facilities are available on this mystical island with its secluded beaches.

Ko Samui : As there are many islands along its coast, Surat Thani is also known as the Province of a Hundred Islands. Of these, the best known today is Ko Samui, the coconut Island which has become a popular resort. With an area of 247 sq km, Ko Samui is the third largest island of Thailand after Phuket and Ko Chang (off the eastern coast). It is the main island of a group of islets numbering 48 altogether. Sumui Island is famous for its highquality coconuts growing densely everywhere. The best time to visit Samui is from Febuary to April during which the sea is calm. Here are some fascinating attractions of Ko Samui.

Islands around Samui,
Ko Pha-Ngan Locate to the north of Ko Samui.

Ko Tao, 45 Km to the north of Ko Pha-Ngan is ideal for snorkeling and diving, perfect visibility and rich aquatic life,

Ko Nang Yuan is a group of three virgin islands close to the north of Ko Tao, and

Ang Thong Islands Narional Marine Park, 20 km from west of Ko Samui