For too long Phaic Tan has been closed off to the outside world, a country visited each year by just a handful of hardy travellers, aid agency workers and hostage negotiators. Quadrille Publishing, in association with Jetlag Travel Guides, are proud to present the introduction to this undiscovered jewel.

Where to Stay: The Orient Star Hotel in the capital Bhumpatabumppah, is so luxurious that in every room the mini bar comes complete with a live-in cocktail waiter. The Food: Phaic Tanese cuisine is best described as 'explosive', a flery mix of chilli, garlic and pepper to which food is occasionally added. Etiquette: As in many other Asian countries it is considered rude to point with one's index finger. If you need to indicate a direction or signify something, do so with a series of sharp pelvic thrusts which will generally get the message across.