In a recent statement, Post Office suggested that Thailand will be the best value for British visitors and their travel money due to Sterling’s continuing strength against the Thai baht and incentive-led discounts to tempt tourists back to Phuket and Hua Hin. So what do these destinations have to offer?

The island of Phuket is just off the west coast of Thailand whilst Phuket city is located in the south eastern corner. The island is 20 kilometres across and 50 kilometres north to south, and since the Asian Tsunami of 2004 has undergone near complete restoration. Moving into 2010, Phuket is reminding tourists of its many enduring qualities. Its beaches, such as Patong and Bang Tao are two prime examples: the former a popular two kilometre swimming beach, and the latter, a huge – far quieter – bay.

Away from the beaches and the golf courses of the coast are the equally scenic and arguably more culturally interesting places to visit. The pagodas and statues at the temples at Wat Chalong are inspirational in their design and grandeur, and open for visitors everyday. Thai national parks charge 200 baht for adults, but they are also worth the visit. The Khao Phra Thaeo National Park offer tropical rainforest treks and impressive waterfalls.

Hua Hin is located on the opposite coast 200 kilometres south of Bangkok. Known as Thailand’s Royal Beach Resort, Hua Hin has been established as a popular resort for over 70 years and consequently has not suffered from such high-speed development. Famous for its old world charm, Hua Hin is also surrounded by national parks and other attractions. The Spirit Houses of Brassiere Beach were supposedly built in honour of the fate of a legendary fisherman and his tragic daughter whom he tore to pieces and threw into the sea because she was lusted after by so many men.

Hua Hin town itself includes a glorious three kilometre long beach upon which a Buddhist temple is built into its cliffs. The beach is popular with fisherman, as well as those who want to partake in such modern activities as kite-boarding. There is also a nightly street market where visitors can sample traditional Thai wares such as kommaphat, and at night there are many bars aimed at the custom of tourists and holidaymakers.