Heavily developed in parts, Phuket still offers some of the finest resorts in Rosetta Stone software Thailand, boasting many exclusive settings and beaches.KHAO LAK: A quieter and less developed northern alternative to Phuket, Khao Lak offers superb beaches and one of the most dramatic and scenically stunning natural backdrops in the whole country, with unspoiled rainforest, waterfalls and wildlife in profusion.PHI PHI & KOH LANTA: Once a popular haven for day-trippers and backpackers, Phi Phi Don has moved up-market offering bare-foot retreats of the highest order, set amongst dramatic karst scenery. Neighbouring Koh Lanta features an extensive, undeveloped coastline facing the Andaman Sea and backed by virgin rainforest. As relaxing and peaceful as it gets.KRABI: Krabi Province boasts some of the most stunningly beautiful scenery in Thailand. The beach resorts offer exclusivity, privacy and unequalled natural settings, overlooking the Andaman Sea and the eerie limestone karst landscapes of the surrounding marine national park.KOH SAMUI: A once pristine and idyllic island environment, now increasingly developed Koh Samui still retains its magical allure. Chaweng is the islands nerve centre with a host of restaurants, bars and resorts. More sedate and attractive options have sprung up over the last decade, notably in and around Bo Phut and Maenam, both facing north to nearby Koh Pha-Ngan.KOH SAMET & KOH KOOD: Koh Samet is blessed with pristine beaches, low-key, high-end development and beautiful bays all just two hours south of Bangkok. Further south and almost within touching distance of the Cambodian border Rosetta Stone Chinese, Koh Kood is even less developed with an unspoiled natural environment and a selection of tastefully designed eco-sensitive resorts.THAILAND - GENERAL INFORMATIONPASSPORTS AND VISASBritish passport holders do not require a visa for stays of less than 30 days. A minimum of six months validity is required on the passport. Other nationalities should contact the Royal Thai Embassy, 29-30 Queen's Gate, London, SW7 5JB - Tel: 020 7589 ext. 5502-5507.VACCINATIONS AND HEALTHYellow fever immunisation essential if arriving from an infected area. Precautions against hepatitis A, typhoid and polio recommended plus malaria depending on area visited and time of year. Please consult your GP for up to date information.CURRENCYThai Baht (Bt) = 100 Satang. Major credit cards accepted. US dollar traveller cheques recommended. ATM facilities available in major urban areas.CLIMATETropical. The best conditions are from November until February, which is predominantly warm, sunny and dry. The evenings are cooler in Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai and northern hill destinations. Temperatures and humidity increase significantly from March to May. The rainy season is from June to September although downpours can occur throughout the year.TIPPING AND Rosetta Stone French BARGAININGTipping is at the individuals discretion. 10%-15% is acceptable. Bargaining for souvenirs and artefacts, particularly at the many and varied street markets, is essential.