Eastern Thailand Region
The Eastern Thailand Region sits south of Bangkok and Isan between the Gulf of Thailand and Cambodia. Geographically the smallest of the five regions of Thailand. A big percentage of budget travellers are attracted to this area. It has a lot of beaches and island resorts. The further away from Bangkok you go, the better the beaches get.
The region includes some mass tourism destinations including Pattaya, plus the islands of Ko Samet and Ko Chang.
It is claimed by some that much of Eastern Thailand has been spoiled by short sighted development projects. One prime example of this is Pattaya, once a sleepy fishing village it is now a sun, sea and sex destination. This is mostly as a result of it being a rest and relaxation stop for the US armed forces during the Vietnam war.
Main cities and attractions of the Eastern Thailand Region
- Chachoengsao – Wat Sathon, Bang Khla Floating Market.
- Chanthaburi – a quaint provincial capital with some pleasant waterfalls and national parks.
- Chon Buri – important industrial area.
- Koh Chang – the eastern most province of Thailand with 50 offshore islands, red gems, sweet Rakam fruits, indigenous dogs.
- Koh Kood – flat island covered with native forest, coconut and rubber plantations, pristine beaches with crystal clear water.
- Koh Samet – beautiful island with powdery white sand, generally good year-round weather.
- Pattaya – beer bars, gogo dancers and notorious red light districts – some good family entertainment.
- Prachin Buri – closest town to Khao Yai National Park
- Rayong – 100-kilometre coastline, scenic waterfalls, pristine beaches, fishing.
- Sa Kaeo – beautiful forest, splendid waterfalls, remains of ancient civilisations, connection between Thailand and Cambodia.
- Samut Prakan – Erawan Museum, Suvarnabhumi Airport, many temples, ancient city replica.
- Trat – gateway to the Ko Chang Archipelago.