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| Photo Credit to Scott Photos |
Thailand has a land area of 513, 115 square km. Bordered by Malaysia (South), Myanmar (West and North), Laos (North and East) and Cambodia (Southeast) which makes it a tropical climate. Temperature varies from 38C to 19C. Average temperatures are about 29C; humidity from 66% to 82.8%. While it may be considered summer all year long, Thailand's season is divided into three, Hot: March to May, Rainy: June to October and Cool: November to February.
It is advisable to wear thin cotton as it is the best option for Thailand's weather. A jacket or sweater may be necessary in the cool season, especially in a mountainous area in the North or Northeast. Drinking water from the tap is not recommended; drink boiled or bottled water instead. Ice is generally produced from purified water under hygienic conditions and can be regarded as safe. It's better to take precaution when traveling in the caution, as the same thing goes for food. A packed and looking place will most likely be safe.
Although Thai is their national language, they also converse in English widely in the cities. However with a smile on your face and a little knowledge of sign language would also help when communicating. The transliteration of Thai pronunciation into a roman alphabet has proved to be a quagmire of phonemes and good intentions. Any traveler will encounter several possible spellings for a single place name; hence the rule of thumb regarding spellings is to be like a Thai when in Thailand - adaptable and tolerant, and with a sense of humour.
Thailand, for centuries an Asian crossroads, owes its rich culinary art to the cuisines of India, China, Malaysia and Indonesia. The success of this country’s cuisine lies in the blend of 4 basic tastes; salty, sweet, sour and pungent. These tastes form a wide range of flavours. However, foreigners must note that chilies is amply use in a number of Thai dishes. So if you are trying Thai hot food, watch out for the little chillies or ask the chef to make the dish less hot than usual. Take plenty of cooked rice along with the hot dishes, which is the best ay to smother the fire in your mouth.
Famous Thai food varies from tom yam kung (spicy shrimp soup), kaeng khiao wan kai (green chicken curry), phat thai (Thai fried noodles), yam nua (spicy beef salad) and end your meals with Thai sweets or fruits.
English is spoken in large restaurants in tourist provinces; and most establishments have menus in Thai and English, except street-side food stalls and some small restaurants. Salt-shakers are rarely found on Thai dinner tables, so add a little caramel-colour fish sauce (called nam-pla in Thai) instead, if you find your food is not salty enough. Beckon waiters with a wave of a hand. Don’t clap, snap fingers or hiss. Normally, a tip of 10-20 baht or 5-10% of the bill should be left when dining in a middle or high-class restaurant.
Bargaining is an art long practiced in Asia countries including Thailand. So feel free to ask for a proper discount when shopping in places where prices are not marked. Be careful in dealing with sidewalk vendors who may not offer genuine goods at fair prices. Receipts should be obtained for the goods you buy. For jewelry, you must get a certificate of guarantee as well. Some shops can offer a money-back guarantee but you should clearly determine all conditions with the shopkeeper beforehand.
Although in most people's minds, Thailand's nightlife is probably more synonymous with the Bangkok capital than the rest of the country. This is because nightlife in almost every part of Thailand is abundant and very enjoyable.
Other popular activity would be experiencing spa in Thailand. This relaxing escapade brings together a range of indigenous resources, folk wisdom and traditions that have been handed down for centuries. Many of the healing techniques and well-being therapies featured on the contemporary spa menu includes natural healing, a tradition based on the healing power of herbs and plants, perfect for those who prefer holistic remedies specially formulated to restore balance and rejuvenate mind, body and spirit. Thai Massage is considered to be an act of compassion and promises to give guests an experience of a lifetime with the various aspects of Thai-ness. More often than not, Thai spas are value for money.
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| Photo Credit to Bertrandlinet |
This is because Thailand is located at the meeting point of the two great cultural systems of Asia – Chinese and Indian. In everyday life, Chinese culture has mixed very well with the Thai, whereas in Thai court culture, which has been based mainly on Buddhism and Brahmanism, India has exerted a strong influence.
Thailand has a constitutional monarchy headed by King Bhumibol Adulyadej with 76 provinces, each subdivided into amphoe (district), tambon (subdistrict) and muban (village). It's national flag - the red, white and blue bands symbolise the nation, Buddhism and the monarchy respectively.
As Buddhist country where Buddha images are held sacred. Sacrilegious acts are punishable by imprisonment even if committed by foreign visitors. Thai people hold their King and Queen and the Royal Family in great reverence, and so won’t tolerate foreigners showing disrespect to them. Generally, Thai women are conservative. So don’t touch them without their consent. When visiting the Buddhist temples, it is advisable to dress appropriately. Mini skits and shorts are not allowed. Shoes are prohibited inside the hall of worship and ladies are not to touch Buddhist monk, give things direct to him or receive things direct from him. Call Thais by their first names; politely use the titles “Khun” for adults. Entering a Thai house, you’re expected to remove your shoes.
Being just slightly off Earth's equator, local time in Thailand is GMT +7 hours and most offices open from 8:30am to 5:00pm, Monday to Friday. General banking hours are Monday to Friday from 8.30am to 3.30pm. For those who are in the cities, the rush hours may be something one should consider not being part of.
In terms of major agricultural exports, the leading industry would come from rice, tapioca, rubber, maize, pimeapples, durians, longans, palm oil and herbs. While the major manufactured exports comes from Computer and computer accessories, intergrated circuit, textiles, electronics, cars and spare parts, gems and jewellery, televisions and television accessories.
Electric current is 220V with 50 cycles. The electrical wall outlets are usually of the two-pole type. Do not fret, international plug adapters are readily made available in department stores. Weights and measurements are expressed in Metric system, like other Asian countries around.
The basic monetary unit in Thailand is Baht. A baht is divided into 100 satang. The following coins and notes are currently in use:
Coins: 25 and 50 satang; 1, 5 and 10 baht.
Bank notes: 10(brown), 20(green), 50(blue), 100(red), 500(purple) and 1000(brown) baht.
Foreign visitors may bring an unlimited amount of Thai currency. For travelers leaving Thailand, both Thais and foreigners, the maximum amount permitted to take out without prior authorization is 50,000 baht per person or, if they are going to one of Thailand’s neighbouring countries, 500,000 baht per person.
Nationals from 39 countries* can now stay in Thailand for up to 30 days witout an entry visa. For visitors from 14 countries*, temporary tousit visa valid for 15 days may be obtained at any of the 23 designated immigration check-points including the four international airports at Don Muang (Bangkok), Chiang Mai, Phuket and Hat Yai.
* For more details, please contact Thai Embassy or Consulate in your country.
Thailand is divided into many regions as follows:
The Central
Bangkok is the capital of Thailand, is a metropolis where one can find both old and new, East and West, traditional and fashionable, blended together in a harmonious way.
The old capital from 1350 to 1767, Ayutthaya which is 76km away from Bangkok is today’s visited mainly as a historical site, especially the ancient ruins left by the Burmese invasion of 1767.
Kanchanaburi is a good place for nature lover, where they can raft down the stream watching enchanting scenery.
On a trip to Saraburi, Buddhists should not missed out the opportunity to pay homage to the Buddha’s Footprint there.
Lop Buri is famous for shrines in the Khmer style, the remains of the King Narai’s palaces of the 17th century and the sunflower fields.
Nakhon Pathom is the town that boasts the tallest Buddhist pagoda both in Thailand and in the world.
Phetchaburi (123km) has many tourist attractions including the famous Cha-am Beach and many other beaches, scenic mountains, limestone caves, historical sites and ancient temples.
Prachuap Khiri Khan (281km) is well known for the Klai Kangwon Palace, a summer palace of the King and the Roayal Family, the oldest beach resort, Hua Hin.
The East
Pattaya is 2 hours away from Bangkok by car. It is renowned for recreation centre on the east coast for it’s sand, blue sky and limpid sea that are irresistible for both foreign and local tourists.
Chantaburi (245km), a coastal province famous for it’s gemstones, fruits, hot pepper and Chanthabun mats.
Rayong(179km), where the most attractive tourist spot is the Samet Island, which has become very popular among foreign visitors.
Trat (315km), the most far-flung province on the eastern coast, is well known for it’s Ko Chang Marine National Park.
Prachin Buri (135km) is famous for it’s “Hin Phoeng” Rapids, which is part of Khao Yai National Park.
The North
Chiang Mai (697km), the second biggest province of Thailand, provides visitors with a host of places of interest such as Doi Suthep, Doi Inthanon and Bhubing Palace.
Chiang Rai (785km) is located at the northern tip of Thailand in the very heart of the Golden Triangle, gains fame from it’s scenic views, exotic hilltribes and exciting elephant-back riding tours.
Lamphun (670km) is a town of beautiful women, bountiful orchards and ancient temples.
Lampang (599km) is the sole province in Thailand where horsedrawn carriages are still used as a means of transportation.
Phrae (643km) is known for the northern costume call mohom and Phae Muang Phi, a small area of weird earth formation.
Lying in the northwestern corner bordering Myanmar, Mae Hong Son (942km) is well known as the “Town of Three mists” because it is mist-shrouded throughout most of the three seasons. It has several tourist attractions, north natural and cultural. Being mountainous, the province has many waterfalls and caves.
Sukhothai(427km), the first capital of the Thai Kingdom, is well known for it’s two historic sites – Sukhothai and Si Satchanalai Historical Parks, which have been declared World Heritage Sites by UNESCO in 1991.
Tak’s (426km) mountainous province is ideal for nature lovers and adventurous tourists as there are numerous places for white water rafting, trekking and elephant riding. Blessed with high mountains and natural beauty.
Phetchabun (346km) is where the scenic Nam Nao National Park and Phu Hin Rong Kla National Park are situated. It is also rich with waterfalls, rivers and lakes.
Phitsanulok (377km) features many historic sites and natural scenic spots. There are theree national parks in this province – Chat Trakan, Thung Salaeng Luang and Phu Hin Rong Kla, the last two covering areas of Phetchabun Province too.
The Northeast (Isan)
Nakhon Ratchasima (259km), or Khorat for short is the gateway to the Northeast where the Khmer-style stone shrine Prasat Hin Phimai, Thao Suranari Monument and an over 250 year old banyan tree is located.
Khon Kaen (449km), one of the northeastern commercial centres famous for the local product- matmi silk. At Phuwiang National Park, dinosaur fossils, which were uncovered at the site are on show.
Kalasin (519km) is where dinosaur fossils were excavated and are not exhibited at Dinosaur Research Centre in Sahatkhan District.
Ubon Ratchathani (629km) is the easternmost province of Thailand, bordering Laos on the east and Cambodia o nthe south. The renowned Pha Taem and Pha Mon are sandstone cliffs featuring prehistoric colour paintings. Other attractions include beautiful old temples and many rapids and cascades along the Mun and Mekong rivers.
Sakon Nakhon (647km) offers tourists the picturesque scenery of the vast Non Han Lake and Phan National Park.
Surin (457km) is also known as the land of elephants. World famous for it’s Elephant Round-up taking place at the third weekend of November.
Si Sa Ket (571km) where the famous Khmer ruins, Khao Phra Wihan, is located on the Cambodian border. There are many other Khmer-style stone buildings in the province which are worth visiting.
Buri Ram (410km) comprises of many Khmer ruins. This province is where the largest Khmer-style stone temple, Prasat Hin Phanom Rung is located.
Loei (520km), a challenging place for nature lovers who want to admire the scenic beauty of Phu Kradueng National Park in the cool season.
Udon Thani (564km) is famous for it’s World Heritage site – Ban Chiang Village of ancient civilization, and Phu Phra Bat Historical Park with bizarre rock formations.
Nakhon Phanom (740km) is well known for it’s Phrathat Phanom, which is a very ancient pagoda containing a relic of the Buddha, and it’s annual Illuminated Boat Procession Festival, which is held around October or November.
The South
Samui Island of Surat Thani (644km) will be another choice. It’s tranquility and unpolluted environment will refresh you. Pha-ngan Island, which is a famous diving centre, is also an interesting destination.
Ranong (568km), Thailand’s rainiest province, is well known for its hot mineral springs. Visitors can enjoy mineral bath in many hoels here. The offshore Surin Island is stunning with abundant coral reefs and colourful fishes.
Phatthalung (840km) is believed to be in the realm of the ancient Sri Vijaya Kingdom which has long been forgotten leaving only a few hallowed hills today.
Songkhla (950km) is a famous seaside resort in the far South where a cruise on Songkhla Lake is fascinating.
Another famous place in this province is Hat Yai. The big bustling city widely known for the low priced imported goods.
Phang-nga (788km), adjoining Phuket, is full of magnificent seascape and beautiful limestone caces.
Those who love diving may visit Krabi (814km) to explore it’s Phi Phi, Lanta and Hong Island Groups. At Rai Le Beach, you can enjoy the exciting rock climbing.
Trang (828km), with plentiful picturesque islands, this province has many fine beaches and beautiful scenery waiting to be explored such as Chao Mai National Park and Ko Muk as well as it’s Morakot Cave.
Tarutao Island off Satun (973km), being the remotest, will provide you with the most marvelous underwater life and most tranquil atmosphere.
Nakhon Si Thammarat (780km) the land of predominant Buddhism during the Sri Vijaya period is famous for it’s Talumpuk Cape and Hat Khanom-Mu Ko Thaletai National Park.
The thing about Thailand is that, it caters to all kinds of people. For the beach lovers, there are so many beaches to choose from where most of the selections in Thailand are the best ones. Note that only the islands in the west like Phuket and Koh Phi Phi were affected by the tsunami as most of the damage has been repaired by now and it is perfectly fine to visit these places again. In fact, people want the tourists to come back.
Growing quickly in popularity is the wide range of adventure and nature tours now available in Thailand. These include trekking in the mountains and jungles of northern and western Thailand, especially in the border regions, which still boast pristine tropical forests, spectacular waterfalls and rivers. Indeed, rafting is frequently featured as part of these treks. Participants also usually have the opportunity to stay overnight in small villages where they can experience the lifestyles of Thailand's hill tribe and nomadic people.
There's also the fascinating temples that will keep everyone occupied while being here. Thailand has literally thousands of temples. Symbols of past civilisations, these cultural treasures are scattered throughout the entire country. Visit the world heritage sites like Sukothai or Ayutthaya for the day or stay overnight. Never know when you'll get inspired by this majestic country filled with exotic, mysterious yet glittering temples.
Thailand also fiercely protects it's traditional culture to ensure integrity from outside influence. Dance, drama, theater and sports all have a unique Thai dimension and a number of cultural shows/centers around the country help maintain these traditions through regular performances.
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