• Thailand is known for its many beaches.traumstrand in thailand image by fomo from Fotolia.com
  
  Thailand is one of the world's most popular travel destinations, thanks to its gorgeous beaches, fascinating jungles and world-class diving and snorkeling. The country attracts global travelers to its many spas and holistic health retreats, as well those seeking a spiritual experience in its many temples and monasteries. Thailand is also ideal for lovers who are looking to escape the ordinary and set out on a romantic tour.
  
  

Thai Island Getaway

• Deserted beaches and local flavor.KOH SAMUI LONGTAILBOAT image by Nici Heuke from Fotolia.com
  
  Thailand has a well-deserved reputation of being home to some of the world's most spectacular island beaches. Located about 200 km from Bangkok, Rayong province, in Eastern Thailand, is home to several of the nation's most breathtaking islands. The area boasts over 100 km of white, sandy beaches, spread across five major islands. Koh Samet is perhaps the most popular, home to enough development to offer tourists a wide range of accommodation choices without affecting its pristine state. Fourteen beaches provide plenty of opportunities for long romantic walks, and the crystal clear waters teeming with coral and fish are popular choices for scuba diving or snorkeling. Day trips to the Koh Man Island group are perfect for couples, as these breathtaking islands are home to waterfalls, sea turtles and secluded beaches. Since no overnight stays are permitted on the Koh Man islands, few visitors make the trek, creating a desirable place for a romantic picnic lunch in paradise.
  
  

Culture and Color

• The first day of the twelfth lunar month (usually in early November), is the celebration of Loi Krathrong, a religious festival of lights, fire and water. Elaborate lanterns made of cork and banana leaves are set adrift in the rivers to honor Buddha and the Thai royal family. Other lanterns are set to float across the night sky, powered by the heat of candles attached below each rice paper masterpiece. Couples looking for a truly unique experience should travel to the northern towns around Phayo Lake, where locals celebrate with thousands of floating lanterns, live music, street parties and folk dancing. While the largest festivals take place in the northern areas, few tourists attend, making it an ideal way to truly experience Thai culture. Couples can visit several cities during the festival to appreciate the entire region, or travel a short distance to Chiang Mai to embark on a trip into the jungle by elephant.
  
  

Pampering Mind and Body

• The entire concept of a spa began in Thailand centuries ago. To the Southeast Asian community, spas are places to go to invigorate, regenerate and relax. While this certainly aligns with Western ideals, Thai spas focus on invigorating the mind as well as the body though yoga, Reiki and Pranic healing. Thailand is home to luxurious spas that combine gourmet food, elegant accommodations and highly educated practitioners. It is also home to more organic programs, often housed as part of a large Buddhist temple complex, with comfortable but basic accommodations and traditional practitioners and spiritual guides. Regardless the style of experience you are seeking, couples will share a truly unique experience. Many spas offer couples programs that combine treatments with day trips to the area's sites and restaurants. Bangkok is home to many of the most luxurious spas and is the best city to embark on a spiritually tinted vacation.