You can get to the beach resort of Mae Phim easily from central Bangkok – it is less than two hours away. It is a more authentically Thai destination than the nearby city of Pattaya, which attracts millions of tourists each year. That Pattaya attracts more tourists than Mae Phim does not mean that it is the better destination.

Mae Phim is an up and coming destination, which has only really tried to attract foreign tourists in the past few years. Foreign tourists first started to spend their vacations there a decade ago, but affluent Thais have been visiting for a much longer period of time. Its proximity to Bangkok, and first class accommodation, attractions and beaches make Mae Phim a perfect spot for a fun, but relaxing, getaway.

Of course, the beaches in Mae Phim are fantastic. White sand and crystal blue water await you at more than one of its beaches. You can find similarly beautiful beaches elsewhere in Thailand, but the ones in Mae Phim are still wholly unspoiled. Some of the popular beaches in Thailand have been over-run with deck-chairs and hawkers, but that is not the case in Mae Phim.

Mae offers several great beaches for you to choose from. There is no need to spend all of your vacation lying on the same beach – you could go to a different one each day. The beaches near the center of Mae Phim are busy, without being over-crowded though, but if you walk for 10 or so minutes then you can find yourself a nice, deserted spot.

As for accommodation options, you will not be disappointed. Simple guest-house, luxurious hotels, and everything in between can be chosen from. You might want to consider a vacation rental home. These properties are fully furnished homes that are fitted out with all the mod-cons that you could want. There are some truly fantastic homes available to rent – private swimming pools, several bedrooms, widescreen TVs, etc.

Try to stay near the town center, as it has a fantastic atmosphere. It is pleasingly modern, but is still charming and authentic. All modern amenities are available there, but they come with a Thai twist rather than being bland and boring.

The food is wonderful, the bars are great for sipping cocktails in as the sun comes down, and the shops are perfect for picking up unique souvenirs for your friends back home. What you find in Mae Phim will feel comfortably familiar, but with a new twist – one which will see you joining the many tourists who make a vacation in Mae Phim an annual event.