Three things that travellers to Thailand inevitably look for, and greatly enjoy, are spas, shopping, and golf. There are more spas in the country than you could shake a large stick at, from pampering hideway day spas in larger cities like Bangkok, to state-of-the-art potion-and-lotion establishments at beach resorts and hill retreats.

Whatever your pleasure, rest assured that you are getting both the finest in hand-worked, natural, organic oils, and a quality of massage and treatment distilled through centuries of holistic healing and temple tradition. Wrap, exfoliate, steam, indulge in a floral bath, or simply get the back and pressure points kneaded. Ahh. One of the best known exponents of traditional Thai massage, is Wat Po, a temple near the Grand Palace in Bangkok.

Golf courses - several designed by international pros and quite striking in design and layout - are strung out all over the country. Bangkok has quite a few options for dedicated golfers,

and just about everywhere from Phuket to Chiang Mai will offer verdant greens, landscaped grounds and fees that won't break the bank. But it's in the department of shopping that Bangkok really comes into its own. For fun, variety, bargaining and sheer volume, Krungthep (as the Thai capital is locally known), is unbeatable. Try the weekend Chatuchak Market, now served by the SkyTrain and the underground. You'll find faux antiques, furniture, flowers, clothes, jeans, table mats and the ubiquitous silkware for which Thailand is renowned. Of course, if price is no object, pop into a Jim Thompson shop for breathtaking silk fashions.

Elsewhere in Bangkok, choice is unlimited at malls like the upscale Gaysorn and Emporium, Central, and the teeming cut-price MBK. Trains will transport you with ease. For knock-down prices on garments, shoes and leather, try Pratunam Market, a sprawling collection of stalls; or wander the alleys and smart shops of Siam Square and Siam Centre.