INTRODUCTION The Kingdom of Thailand lies in the heart of Southeast Asia. Topographically the country is divided into four distinct areas: the mountainous North, the fertile Central Plains, the semi-arid plateau of the Northeast, and the peninsula South distinguished by its many beautiful tropical beaches and offshore Islands. 　 　 AREA GUIDE CHIANG MAI C hiang Mai is Thailand's principal northern city,in terms of location, region, culture and an incredible value for money. BANGKOK O nce known as the Venice of Asia for the network of canals, Bangkok is one of the most vibrant capitals of Southeast Asia. PHUKET P huket has a moist, tropical climate, influenced chiefly by monsoon winds that vary in direction according to the season.