Thailand Overview

Called the kingdom of Siam till 1939, the warm, tropical land of Thailand, located in the Gulf of Siam, is the only country in Southeast Asia never to have been colonized. This tiny country with the bustling Bangkok as its capital is known for its free, open economy. The tourists can check out this Thailand guide which gives them an overview of Thailand to know why Thailand is a hit with tourists, across the world!

Culture of Thailand

The historical and religious heritage of the Thai people is profound to say the least. The official language is standard Thai and most people are conversant with English as well. The major cultural influence is that of Buddhism, with Hinduism playing a minor part. Cultural influence of Thailand's neighbors Laos, Vietnam and China is pretty evident as well.

Popular Thailand Destinations

A few of the must-sees on a Thailand trip would include beach islands like Phuket and Ko Samui in the south, the old capital of Ayutthaya, Chiang Mai and Sukhotai in the north, popular beach resort city like Pattaya and island destinations like Ko Samet, besides the beautiful capital city, Bangkok.

Sightseeing in Thailand

Home to exotic beaches, historical cities and warm, smiling people, Thailand has lots to offer to tourists. Regular buses, ferry services, hired limousines and rail services make it easy to get around in Thailand.

National Parks of Thailand

Thailand is home to more than a hundred National Parks, besides Marine Parks. While Khao Yai National Park is the oldest, others like Khao Chong Nature Reserve, Doi Inthanon, Thaleh Ban and others are all worth exploring.

Thailand Festivals & Events

Thailand celebrates its ethnic and cultural diversity throughout the year with colorful events and festivals. With religious festivals like Vishakhabuja Day, Khao Phansa and social festivals like Songkran and the Rocket Festival in Yasothan - there's always something happening in Thailand.

How to Get In

Thailand is easily accessible by flights. The main airport is Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi International Airport. Thailand is linked by regular rail services with Singapore and Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia. There are three road crossings on the Thai-Malaysia boundary are at Yala, Narathiwat and Songkhla provinces. It is connected by road to Cambodia, Laos, Singapore and Myanmar as well.

Things to Do in Thailand

Whether the tourists visit the Ancient City (Muang Boran), the Grand Palace of the King or Wat Saket (Golden Mount) in Bangkok, the infamous Golden Triangle or Doi Suthep temple overlooking Chiang Mai, historical Kanchanabari (site of the film "Bridge on the River Kwai") - they will find that there is still a lot to be explored.

Adventure and Recreation in Thailand
br> The tourists can go elephant trekking in Phong Nga, scuba diving or snorkeling in the calm waters, float downstream on their kayak in Phi Phi Le, or simply make leisurely explorations from one beautiful island to the next- Thailand opens up a whole world of adventure, just for the tourists.

Thailand Tourist Information

Irrespective of the economic conditions of the visitors they can have a most amazing vacation in Thailand. The tourists may contact the Tourist Information (Tourism Authority of Thailand Head Office) at the following number: +66(0) 2250-5500 (Hotline: 1672). They can also send a fax at +66 2250 5511 or send an e mail, with their queries at the following address: center@tat.or.th