Monocle launches Thailand handbook with driving guide

Monocle has released 'Thailand: The Monocle Handbook', the first in its travel guide series to venture outside Europe. The 224-page book, featuring original photography and reporting, covers the entire country and is designed to inspire both travel and relocation. Editor James Chambers, who has been driving in Thailand for over a year, advocates for obtaining a local license as a way to truly experience the nation. He highlights polite Thai drivers, the lack of honking, and the ease of avoiding Bangkok traffic jams. Chambers recommends road trips from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, stopping at former capitals Ayutthaya and Sukhothai. He also notes the expanding EV network in Thailand and suggests the government promote driving tourism, comparing potential routes like Highway 4 from Bangkok to Koh Lanta to Australia's grand coastal drives.