THE KINGDOM OF THAILAND

Introduction to Thailand

Thailand is situated in the heart of South East Asia, bordered by Malaysia, Myanmar, Lao and Cambodia. Because of its location and economic success, it is a hub for transport of all kinds within the region and a key air destination from major cities all over the world.

Thailand has also become the top tourist destination in South East Asia. This is probably because it has something for everyone. Thailand has a fascinating history, culture and religion which are all still very evident in everyday life and able to be experienced by the traveler who visits for just a few days or those (and there many) who chose to stay much longer.

For those seeking a relaxed vacation, Thailand offers perhaps some of the best beaches and diving opportunities in the world.

The pristine beaches of Koh Samui and the sea around the limestone cliffs and formations near Phuket, Krabi and Ao Phang-Nga on the Andaman Coast attract tourists from all over the world to luxury resorts of 5-star international standard.

For those seeking more activity and excitement, you can go elephant trekking, white water rafting and rock climbing. And if it’s entertainment you want, the major centres of Bangkok, Phuket and Pattaya offer nightlife to satisfy everyone from the wildest party animals to seekers of fine dining experiences.

The cuisine of Thailand is popular around the world but there is nowhere better to experience it than in its country of origin. It is almost impossible to get a bad meal in Thailand, whether you purchase a bowl of it’s national dish, thom yum khung (spicy prawn soup), from a street vendor or in a 5-star resort or one of the countless excellent, international-standard fine dining venues in Bangkok, be prepared for a delicious taste sensation.

Thailand offers a variety of accommodation to suit the budget and tastes of every traveler. As in all of Asia, cheap guesthouse-style accommodation is available for those traveling on a shoestring. For those at the other end of the scale, there is a plethora of internationally recognized 5-star hotels and resorts. Bangkok’s famous Peninsular and Oriental Hotels have both been voted the best in the world. And for those people traveling on a medium level budget, mid-range hotels are plentiful in all the major destinations in the country.

A highlight for many people who come to Thailand is the world class shopping. It’s not as cheap as it used to be but there is nothing you can’t buy in either the street and covered markets, where you still haggle for your purchases or the modern department stores such as Isetan, Central, the Emporium and Robinson’s. All the major fashion labels are represented in Bangkok with exclusive boutiques such as Armani, Chanel, Louis Vitton, Bally and so many more all located centrally a stone’s throw away from each other in the central business district. See the Markets and City Shopping sections under Bangkok for more details.

The ease of travel within Thailand is also a major advantage. There are regular domestic air services to all the major cities and resort areas and bus services which are fast and economical.

The weather is also on your side. The climate is warm to hot all year around and, even in the wet season, September to October, the rain rarely disrupts your day.

”What are you waiting for? Come to Thailand.”

The free, 2007 Editions of the on-line Cambodia and Vietnam Travel Guides are now available in English. Other Travel Guides will be available in the near future.

In addition, Arikah now also features free, online encyclopedias in Dutch, English, German, French, Japanese, Polish, Portuguese, Spanish and Swedish.