As one of the few Asian countries never colonized by Europeans, Thailand has retained many of its traditional customs.

At the same time, this dynamic land has had Western visitors for over two hundred years. More in the last thirty years than ever before. As a result, it combines much of the best of East and West.

Bangkok is a modern, cosmopolitan city of seven million with beautiful temples and an active feel. Founded in 1782, it has retained many traditional ways while moving firmly into the 21st century.

Along Ratchadamnoen explorers can view the melding of old and new. The Democracy Monument here memorializes the move to a constitutional monarchy that occurred in 1932. The combined art treasure and history lesson can be seen in the King Prajadiphok Museum.

In Thailand visitors can enjoy the celebrations during Songkran, the Thai New Year that occurs in mid-April. Or, visit during December and celebrate the birthday of King Bhumibol that takes place on the 5th. Tour one of the many spectacular and intricate temples, such as the marble Wat Benchamabophit. Or see the Venetian-Gothic Government House in Dusit.

Don't miss the superb Wat Pho and the must-see Grand Palace in the Old City section. The Grand Palace is one of the more popular designations for those seeking traditional, grandiose Thai religious architecture.

Visit the 'City of Angels', Krung Thep, and wander along the Chao Phraya river toward Wat Trai Mit to see the solid gold Buddha. Catch the venom milking at the Snake Farm nearby.

Take in the Dusit zoo and the Siam Paragon aquarium. Be sure to visit the Samutprakan Crocodile Farm, too.

But Thailand offers much more than just Bangkok, as full as that city is of things to do and see. To the north are the famed forested hills of Thailand, to the south the even more famous beaches.

None of the destinations in Thailand outside Bangkok, however, is more sought out than the two Koh Phi Phi islands, Don and Leh.

Dive the islands with scuba or snorkel and kayak from Ao Lo Dalam. If that isn't enough exercise, climb one of the challenging cliffs of Phi Phi.

Chaing Mai, home to more than 300 temples, could keep a visitor busy for a week. And if you become tired from all that walking, take an excursion to the working elephant camp. Watch as the trainers work with them to aid in forestry then hop on for a ride.

Phuket is often regarded as the second stop after Bangkok for visitors to Thailand. Lounging on one of the beaches along its 50 kilometer shoreline is one option. Or, if you feel more energetic, you could take in the Butterfly Garden and Aquarium or the Naga Pearl Farm.

For the truly motivated, try the Kathu bungy jump above the river during the day and a nightclub later on. Golf is a popular choice for those who prefer their water hazards across from their forehand rather than underneath their heads.

Whatever your vacation interest, there's no more hospitable place to pursue it than beautiful, friendly Thailand.