| Beyond Bangkok, from the estuary of
the Chao Phraya River, the East Coast unfolds in a series of bays
and beaches to the ThaiKampuchean border. Many popular resorts, including
Pattaya , Asia's permier beach resort, occupy a coast characterised
by cliff-hidden bays, palm-fringed beaches, innumerable fishing communities,
lovely islands and largely tranquil Gulf waters. The region is rich
in natural resources, including rubber, rice, fishing, orchards and
gemstones, and scenically arresting with several national parks containing
waterfalls, virgin forest and uninhabited, remote islands.
Bangsaen, 100 kilometres southeast of Bangkok, is the capital's
nearest resort. A cool palm-lined promenade separates Bangsaen's
long crescent beach from seafront bungalows, a water amusement park
and a modern hotel.
Khao Khiao Open Zoo, 15 kilometres inland from Bang Phra, occupies
a 1 200-acre hillside setting. Favourite Asian, African and European
mammals occupy spacious enclosures. Thailand's most spectacular
aviary, nestling against a forested hillside, contains several rare
Asian species.
Si Racha, 15 minutes further down the coast from Bang Phra, is
a fishing community famed for a delicious, tangy sauce and excellent
seafood.
 Pattaya
147 kilomatres southeast of Bangkok, is Thailand's "Riviera"
and internationally famous beach resort. All manner of watersports,
motor-racing, offshore coral islands, luxury accommodation and a
vibrant nightlife comprise Pattaya's main attractions.
Bang Sare, fishing village, from where game fishermen seek marlin,
sharks, king mackerel, tura and other Gulf denizens, and Sattahip,
lie within 30 minutes to the south.
Rayong
Rayong is best known for its Ban Phe fishing village and the narrow,
6-kilometre long Samet island. Ko Samet has some 15 bays and lovely
beaches, Coral reefs and limpid waters ideal for swimming. snorkelling,
scuba-diving and fishing are found on the island's east coast.
Chanthaburi
is famous for historic sites, Thailand's largest Christian church,
locally mined star sapphires, bountiful orchards and the Khao Khitchakut
and Namtok Phlui national parks which contain attractive waterfalls.
Trad
the province bordering Kampuchea, is best known for the 52-island
Ko Chang Marine National Park which is dominated by Thailand's second
largest island.
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