Understand

Thailand is the most visited country in Southeast Asia and offers a diverse range of experiences. Here, you can find lush green jungles, crystal-clear blue waters that feel like a warm bath, and a culinary scene that will tantalize your taste buds. Thailand is both exotic and safe, offering a wide range of accommodations to suit every budget, from beachfront backpacker bungalows to luxurious hotels. Despite being a popular tourist destination, Thailand has managed to retain its unique Thai culture and history. The people are known for their friendly smiles and a carefree lifestyle called "sanuk." Many travelers find themselves extending their stay or never wanting to leave Thailand. There is something for everyone, whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or cultural exploration. However, Thailand does have its downsides. The country faces challenges with its growing economy, where agricultural laborers struggle to earn a decent wage while the wealthy flaunt their luxury cars. Bangkok, the capital city, is notorious for its traffic congestion, and rapid development has taken away some of the charm from once-beautiful places like Pattaya and Phuket. In some heavily touristed areas, scamming tourists has unfortunately become an art form, and immigration queues can be long, leaving travelers with less than ideal first and last impressions. Additionally, due to inflation and the decline of certain Western currencies, Thailand is no longer as cheap as it once was. If you need assistance or information about tourism in Thailand, you can contact the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) at Tourism Authority of Thailand 1600 New Phetchaburi Road, Makkasan, Ratchathewi, Bangkok 10400, THAILAND (Suvarnabhumi Airport). You can reach them at +66 02 250 5500 (120 automatic lines). For TAT local offices, you can visit their official website.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Pad Thai: Pad Thai is a signature Thai dish consisting of stir-fried rice noodles with a uniquely balanced blend of sweet, sour, salty, and tangy flavors. It typically includes shrimp or chicken (though can be prepared with tofu for a vegetarian version), scrambled eggs, bean sprouts, and is garnished with crushed peanuts, lime wedges, and fresh herbs like cilantro and green onions. The dish is served with a side of som tam (green papaya salad) and mango sticky rice for a complete meal.

Tom Yum Goong: This spicy and aromatic soup is a beloved Thai classic that features a fragrant broth made from stock, kaffir lime leaves, lemongrass, galangal, lime juice, fish sauce, and chili paste. It's packed with succulent prawns, mushrooms, tomatoes, and other vegetables, with optional additions like snakehead fish or even chicken. The dish is often garnished with fresh cilantro and a sprinkling of pepper.

Mango Sticky Rice: This iconic Thai dessert is a delightful combination of sweet, creamy mango and glutinous rice. The sticky rice is cooked in coconut milk and sugar until it achieves a chewy texture, then served alongside ripe, juicy mango slices. The dish is sometimes garnished with toasted coconut flakes or sesame seeds for added crunch and flavor. It's typically enjoyed during the mango season (May to September) as a sumptuous, refreshing treat.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing