Sandy beaches, grand Buddhist temples, spicy cuisine, world-class spas, and a unique and enormously rich language--Thailand is unique among Southeast Asian nations and a not-to-be-missed destination. Thais have a rich cultural history and contrasts abound in the country, both geographically and socially. In a land the size of France, beach resorts run the gamut from sketchy but popular Pattaya to dignified Hua Hin. Idyllic island hideaways of virgin beaches sheltered by palm groves and lapped by gentle waters contrast with Bangkok, the busy capital.