Chumphon
As the gateway to the South, Chumphon is blessed with a long coastline facing the Gulf of Thailand, where a number of unspoilt beaches afford the opportunity for a quiet escape. The best is Hat Thung Wua Laen, which offers resort accommodation and a dive centre. This is also a hopping-off point for Ko Tao.

Getting There
Chumphon can be reached by bus or train from Bangkok, the journey taking 7-8 hours.