The Eastern Thailand Region sits south of Bangkok and Isan between the Gulf of Thailand, and Cambodia and is Geographically the smallest of the five regions of Thailand. A big percentage of budget travelers find themselves in this area. It has a lot of beaches and island resorts and the further away from Bangkok you go the better the beaches get.
The region includes some mass tourism destinations including Pattaya, and 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
- 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 – a rather flat island covered almost entirely with native forest or coconut and rubber plantations, Koh Kood has a number of pristine beaches with crystal clear water.
- Koh Samet – despite its proximity to Bangkok, a beautiful island with powdery white sand, generally great year round weather
- Pattaya – beer bars, gogo dancers and notorious red light district. However recent changes now see some good family entertainment. Read more…
- Prachin Buri – closest town to Khao Yai National Park
- Rayong – pristine beaches stretching along a 100-kilometer coastline and scenic waterfalls set amidst exotic surroundings. Fishing
- Sa Kaeo – beautiful forest, splendid waterfalls, remains of ancient civilizations, and the connection between Thailand and Cambodia.
- Trat – the gateway to the Ko Chang Archipelago