Spending a few months backpacking around this popular destination in South East Asia will be a rewarding, developmental and intensely fun experience. Getting closer to such an inspiring culture, so intrinsically alien from Western ways, is a prospect relished by many a young explorer with a fresh taste of the travel bug and is seen by many as an important rite of passage to accomplish as a break from and gap after many years of rigid education. But to make the most of this momentous travelling experience there are a few guidelines worth adhering to in order to ensure your personal safety and peace of mind throughout the trip.

As one of the world's most popular destinations for backpackers, Thailand might well be high on your list of potential travelling locations. If so, be sure to take your time in planning. Political and social situations are in constant flux and in a nation relatively new to the tourist industry this could cause you some trouble. Get good travel insurance and make responsible plans using advice from experts in travel agents where possible, and then you can get into the fun of choosing your locations!

Situated in the central plains of Thailand, Kanchanaburi owes most of its fame to the pivotal role it played in the Second World War. The most photographed feature of the town is, of course, the instantly recognisable view of the Bridge Over the River Kwai, made famous by the David Lean film of 1957. However, this small town is now a popular destination for many travellers of Thailand for an ever expanding number of reasons which make Kanchanaburi an entirely unique travel experience.

Whether you decide to go backpacking for a new travelling experience or in order to get closer to the heart of a different kind of society; whether you choose your destination for its impressive heritage of architectural monuments, such as the Grand Palace in Bangkok, for the plethora of beach related activities such diving off Ko Tao; for its kudos as a travel spot or for its fascinating cultural history, there is no denying that Thailand has the best of all worlds ? something which will no doubt allow its current tourist industry to continue to flourish for many years to come.