Cha-am

If you’ve come to Thailand to experience modern Thai culture then look no further. At weekends and on public holidays, Cha-am is a getaway spot for provincial families and Bangkok students. Buses deliver holiday­makers firmly in party mode, fuelled by cheesy pop music and ready to kick back for a couple of days. Mix in beach parties under shady casuarina trees, fresh seafood and cold beers delivered to your deck chair, and rip-snorting banana boats up and down the beach and you begin to see the attraction. Subtle it’s not, but hey, there’s nothing wrong with a bit of raucous Thai fun.
If you’re looking for something quieter, then come during the week when Cha-am returns to being a relaxed resort town and you’ll get an even better deal at the good-value guesthouses and midrange hotels. Chances are it will be just you and the ladies selling deep fried shrimps and grilled squid. Bliss…