|
Thailand is nestled between the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, bordering
Myanmar, Laos and Cambodia. It is exotic yet accessible, with something for
every visitor. Relax on white sand beaches, hike through vast areas of tropical
forest, or live it up in the humming capital of Bangkok.
There is much for you to discover in Thailand. The country offers a huge range
of new experiences in sights, sounds, tastes, and outlook. But different as it
may be from your home, Thailand is probably the easiest exotic country for
visitors. The people are friendly, leisure activities are well organized, the
food is great and you receive excellent value for money.
Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
There is much for you to discover in Thailand. The country offers a huge range
of new experiences in sights, sounds, tastes, and outlook. But different as it
is from your home, a visit to Thailand is an easy journey of discovery
Newcomers to Thailand sometimes overlook the kingdom's rich geographical and
cultural diversity. After all, one week in a five-star hotel in Bangkok or
Phuket is unlikely to give a proper insight to a realm with so much to
experience. But compared to the subtle variations found in many western
countries, the people, culture and food of Thailand's regions are strikingly
different.
North of Thailand
In the north, with its exquisite temples and handicrafts, the rugged, forested
mountains contrast with the fertile central plains, where rice is grown in
paddies that stretch to the horizon. The northeast, known locally as Isan and
punished by alternate drought and flooding, has some of the finest Khmer ruins
beyond Cambodia's Angkor Wat. Though less developed than Thailand's other
regions, Isan offers a lot. Its food, dialect and music are easily discernible,
and northeasterners possess a character all of their own. To the south are what
sun seekers consider Thailand's glory: stunning beaches, lush green islands and
azure seas. 
Floating Market
Visitors' reactions to Bangkok, Thailand's bustling capital city, vary as much
as everything it has to offer; some say you either love it or you hate it.
Traffic, pollution, heat and noise are compensated by countless restaurants,
historical and cultural treasures and exotic curiosities. Shopping facilities
rival those of neighboring countries, and bargain hunting is the sole purpose
of many trips to Thailand. Glitzy malls or crowded markets, the choice is
yours.
Getting around the city is easy. Metered taxis are everywhere, as are tuk-tuks;
three-wheeled buggies that constitute the city's unique novelty ride. Local
buses offer an interesting experience, and adventurers can take motorcycle
taxis. The sky train offers a limited but scenic alternative.
Snorkeling in Thailand
Lasting impressions of any trip depend largely upon a person's experience with
the local people. Bangkok folk deal admirably with hectic city life, but it is
in the provinces that real Thai warmth, charm and personality are found. The
Thais possess an innate friendliness and are hospitable to all who pass
through. To take it all in, a trip upcountry is a must for anyone wishing to
see for themselves the true face of Thailand and all its treasures.
Thailand map
|
