Rayong in Eastern Thailand

Although it has over 100 kilometres of coastline, some great beaches, waterfalls and a host of other natural attractions, Rayong province has for a long time been in the shadows of its successful Chonburi neighbour and as a result only recently emerged as a tourist destination in its own right. Rayong province is located on the Gulf of Thailand approximately 200 kilometres from Bangkok. The area is a major agricultural province known for fruit production, particularly pineapple and durian – Thailand’s evil smelling but great tasting national fruit. Despite its agricultural prowess, the province is also an industrial hub housing major developments like oil refineries and industrial plants. The province spreads beyond the mainland to encompass a string of islands that include the world-famous Koh Samet – part of the Leam Ya/Koh Samet National Park. Although the mainland features mountains and flat plains, both the islands and mainland have some absolutely stunning white sandy beaches. The area is also home to a number of dive sites with excellent underwater ridges and masses of marine life.