Travel To Thailand

Dream World in Bangkok

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Dream World is an amusement park in Thanyaburi district, Pathum Thani province, Thailand. During the weekend, it opens at 10:00 am – 5:00 pm, weekdays and public holidays is 10:00 am – 7:00 pm. The park includes three roller coasters and rides for the whole family.

Attractions

The park has been divided into several zones with specific groups of rides such as Dream World Plaza, Dream Gardens, Fantasy Land, and Adventure Land.

The interior of this park is filled with over 40 imported thrill rides and family attractions. However, the park's main attractions is Asia's first hanging coaster located in the middle part of Adventure land, and a model of the Grand Canyon as part of a river rafting attraction.

Dream World Plaza

This includes the main entrance to the park and a copy of Disneyland's Main Street USA. It is filled with shops and buildings that are fantasy themed.

Dream Garden

Dream Garden is nature themed. This area surrounds a lake located right after Dream World Plaza, and is also the setting for the parade called "The Color of the World" on every weekend.

List of Main Attractions: Dream World Railroad , Cable Cars ,Speedy Mouse Coaster ,Water Tricycle
Racing Cars , 7 Wonders of the World, Love Garden

Fantasy Land

This area is filled with many different themes of fairy tales from all over the world. It is located in the middle of the park.

List of Main Attractions: Fantasy Garden, The Giant House, Sleeping Beauty's Castle, Hurricane the ride
The Spider, Uncle Tom's farm, 4D Adventure

Adventure Land

Adventure Land is the largest zone of the theme park. This area is filled with many thrill rides and attractions. This has a space and futuristic theme, unlike the jungle theme in Disneyland. There has been controversy over the music played in this area of the park due to the park's usage of songs containing obscene language despite the park's overall family-friendly image. The volume has also been cited as an area of scrutiny.

List of Main Attractions: Snow Town, Grand Canyon, Super Splash, The Thunderbird, Haunted Mansion
Crazy Bus, Monorail Tour, Bumper Boats, Antique Cars, Go Carts Track, Flying Carpet, Space Mountains
Sky Coaster (Hanging Coaster), Viking Ship, Bumper Cars, Flying Fishes, Hollywood's Action Show
Red Indian's Boat, Raptor, Tornado

Walking Street, Pattaya

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Walking Street is part of the city of Pattaya, Thailand. It is a tourist attraction that draws foreigners and Thai nationals, primarily for the night life. It is a red-light district with many go-go bars and brothels. The street runs from the south end of Beach Road to the Bali Hai Pier. A large video sign was erected in March 2010 at the Beach Road entrance, replacing an earlier metal arch, and a small arch adorns the Bali Hai entrance.

Walking Street is closed to vehicles from 6:00 pm to 2 am, and car parking is provided at the Bali Hai end. The area includes seafood restaurants, live music venues, beer bars, discothèques, sports bars, go-go bars, and nightclubs, and is illuminated at night by many colored neon signs. The closing time of 2:00 am has been extended for many entertainment establishments.

Safari Wolrd in Bangkok

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Safari World is a zoo in Bangkok, Thailand that consists of two parks named Safari Park and Marine Park, operated by Safari World Public Company Limited. The park was opened in 1988 with a total area of 480 acres (190 ha) for its open zoo and 180 acres (73 ha) for its bird park. A major renovation to enhance effectiveness of land use began on April 17,1989 and its total area developed for the leisure park now consists of an open zoo and a marine park on 500 rai (approx.200acres) of land.

Safari Park

Safari Park is about 8 kilometres (5.0 mi) long. A drive through the park takes about 45 minute.The ultimate safari experience features hundreds of animals from all over the world. There are a lot of wild animals, including tigers and lions. There are daily tiger and lion feeding shows.

Marine Park

The Marine Park houses a vast spectrum of animal of land, sea and air. The attractions are Jungle Cruise river ride,a water flume ride through the jungle of Africa and Asia, 7 exciting show daily Spy War action stunt spectacular, water ski, dolphin, Hollywood cowboy stunt, bird, orang utan boxing and sea lion, hundreds of exhibits featuring white tigers, fantasy carp garden, tapir kingdom,and many others.

Songkran Festival

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Having fun is a big part of Thai culture, and having fun amidst scorching heat is no exception. The hottest month of the year, April sees the entire country go bananas in friendly water fights and street parties that last nearly a week. During Songkran, most office buildings, banks as well as family-run shops and restaurants shut down completely, while big shopping malls usually remain open. Bangkok experiences a mass exodus, as at least half of its residents travel back to their home towns for family re-unions. In their place are tourists, who fly into Bangkok particularly to enjoy one of the most colourful and festive times of the year.

Songkran :

Before Thailand adopted the international New Year’s Day in 1940, Songkran was calculated based on the solar calendar, which varied from one year to the next. Now Songkran in Bangkok is from 13 to 15 April of every year. Depending on where you are in the country, the dates and period of festivities may vary.
Songkran is the occasion for family re-unions, temple visits and annual house cleaning. Many Thais observe the holidays by spending time with families and friends. Traditionally, Thais perform the Rod Nam Dum Hua ritual on the first day of Songkran, which is officially the National Elderly Day. During the ritual, young people would pour fragrant water into the elders’ palms as a gesture of humility and to ask for their blessings.

The second day of Songkran is officially the National Family Day. Families would wake up early and give alms to the monks, then ideally the rest of the day would be spent sharing quality family time together. An important religious ritual on Songkran is ‘Bathing the Buddha image’, in which devout Buddhists pour fragrant water over Buddha statues both at the temple and at home. More religious Thais would engage themselves in Buddhist ceremonies and merit-making activities throughout the holidays.

Water as a symbol :

Contradictory to what you may have witnessed throughout Songkran, fun-loving Thais don’t just throw water at each other for no good reason (besides having a kick out of seeing other people soaking wet). The real meaning behind the splashes is to symbolically wash off all misfortunes in the past year, thus welcoming the new year with a fresh new start.

Traditionally, Thais would politely pour a bowl of water on members of the family, their close friends and neighbours. As Songkran has taken a more festive note, a bowl becomes a bucket, garden hose and water guns, and the spirit of holiday merriment is shared amongst all town residents and tourists alike.

Where can we have fun :

Silom

Probably the largest and wildest crowd in Bangkok; The entire 5 km length of this street - mostly known for Patpong - is packed on two levels with thousands of young Thais carrying anything that can spray water. The best part is that you can enjoy the party in relatively dry surroundings by staying on the BTS sky walk that runs above the street. Relatively means that you should still carry any valuable items in a plastic bag. From up there you can witness the full extent of the game: a huge colorful crowd of smiling young Thais slowly walking between two rows of stalls selling water guns, food, soft drinks and of course, lots of beer. The highlight is to spot the firetrucks ambushed at each intersection with their incredibly powerful water hoses. The crowd is actually delighted to be hosed down as the heat can reach 40˚C in the sun.

Khao San Road

If you like the idea of getting soaked from head to toe in the middle of a wild party, be sure to drop by Khao San Road.

The entire length of Khao San Road is turned into an almighty water fight, and once you're in, you're going to get absolutely wet! There are police checkpoints set up at both ends of the street to confiscate bottles, cans and the white powder that is usually rubbed on people's faces. Don't worry though, you can buy all the alcohol you're likely to need inside one of the many bars that stay open throughout the festival, some with DJs set up inside plastic shelters and podiums for dancing. A word of advice though: be careful on the tiled floors that become like ice rinks because it's a fiarly common sight to see inebriated young tourists slipping, sliding and ending up with their whisky bucket all over the floor.

Phra Pradaeng District

If you prefer a more traditional Songkran, head over to Phra Pradaeng district where the Thai-Raman communities live out their Songkran traditions. Here, the celebrations take place about a week later than in central Bangkok and is filled with cultural significance. You will not only get splashed here, but also enjoy an array of cultural activities, such as the Thai-Ramn flag ceremony, ‘saba’ game, Raman dances, boat races, floral floats parade, and many more.

Sanam Luang

Sacred celebrations are held at Sanam Luang, opposite the Grand Palace. Here on the first day of Songkran the Buddha image 'Buddhasihing' is brought out from the National Museum and escorted along the streets for people to sprinkle water on.

The image is then located there for three days, so people who missed the procession can pay their respects. Other merit-making customs in Bangkok include the building of sand stupas which are then decorated with colourful flags and flowers. These can be seen around key temples in the Rattanokosin area.

Bangkok Transportation

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Getting Around in Bangkok

Tuk Tuk

Tuk-tuks or 'sam lor' (three-wheeled) used to be everyone's favourite way of getting around Bangkok before the BTS, MRT and colourful taxis took over. Originating from an old-fashioned rickshaw during the second World War, a tuk-tuk is essentially a rickshaw with a small engine fitted in.

Tuk-tuks have become one of Bangkok's most recognisable transportation features, and are still popular among tourists and visitors. Riding a tuk-tuk is more of an experience rather than a practical way to get around. So, if it's your first time in The Big Mango, there's no harm in giving it a go. Here are some tips to keep in mind before you wave one down:

- Fares vary, depending on the distance travelled, the time of the day, the traffic, and the mood of the drivers. Normally a very short trip will cost 30 baht.

- Fare negotiating and haggling is a must because the price named by the driver is always an 'inflated rate' (especially if you're a tourist). The trick is to negotiate 5 - 15 baht off the proposed fare, and take it from there.

- Be careful of the 'mafia' tuk-tuks around touristy areas, who often boasts privileged knowledge of 'secret' or 'special' shopping places and things. Some of them may offer sightseeing tours and unsolicited help to take you places. A short and sweet "no, thanks" will save you from their scams. The same rule applies to taxis.

- Avoid taking a tuk-tuk during peak hours (07:00 - 09:00, 16:00 - 19:00). You don't want to be stuck in traffic for hours, sweating and breathing in the hazardous fumes from engines all around you.

- Tuk-tuks are most ideal for short trips. (Sometimes it would cost the same, or even cheaper, to take a cab to the same destination.

Taxi

Besides the BTS and MRT, the easiest and most convenient way to get around Bangkok is by taxi. Most taxis are new, spacious and, in addition to the traditional green-yellow and red-blue, they also come in funky colours like bright orange, red and even pink. Finding a taxi is not a hassle, especially around hotels, shopping malls and other tourist attractions.
However, you're in for a really long wait when it rains, and during rush hours. The fare starts at 35 baht, and stays there for the first two kilometres. Thereafter, the fare gradually works its way up with 2 baht at a time (roughly per kilometre). A surcharge applies in traffic jams (1.25 baht per metre when moving under 6 km per hour). Typical taxi fares for going a few kilometres are around 50 baht. Communication can be a problem with the majority of Bangkok's taxi drivers as they often speak little English. Improvise, and be imaginative.
Overall, there's never a shortage of taxis in a city that never sleeps. They're cheap and available virtually 24 hours a day. Meter taxis now predominate, but sometimes you may have to politely ask them to switch the meter on to save negotiating later. Since taxis are cheap and the drivers work all hours in traffic that is legendary, a small tip is often appreciated.

Motorbike Taxi

Indeed, one of the fastest ways to get around town when you're a solitary traveller is to jump on a motorbike taxi. By being able to dodge the almost constant gridlock and dart in and out between cars and buses, motorbikes are a quick way to get around, especially during rush hours. Considering Bangkok's notorious traffic conditions, it is probably also the most dangerous! Despite the immediate hazards - fearless motorbike taxi drivers will do anything to get you to your destination quickly, even if it means driving on sidewalks or in the opposing traffic lane! - many brave passengers opt for the two-wheeled vehicles to take them all over town.
Motorbike taxi drivers are easily recognised. Wearing numbered orange vests, groups of motorbike drivers can be spotted congregating in groups near street corners of office or shopping buildings, busy roads, smaller 'sois' (streets), and near Skytrain and underground stations. Fares will start from 10 baht for short journeys, and varies depending on how far you go. For certain routes, the fare will be fixed, and you'll sometimes see a board displaying prices. But make sure you negotiate prior to the journey, or else you might find yourself paying more than the locals. Always wear a safety helmet - not only for obvious reasons, but because foreigners are easy targets for spot fines (up to 1,000 baht, depending on the mood of the traffic officer).

Bangkok Skytrain

The BTS is undoubtedly the swiftest way to get around. It's a cheap, smooth, cool, clean, fast and scenic way to enjoy Bangkok. Major shopping malls, Chatuchak Weekend Market, all Sukhumvit Road's attractions, and even the riverside are accessible by Skytrain.
Note that Service runs between 06:30 and midnight, and the trains can be packed during peak hours (07:00 - 09:00 and 16:00 - 19:00).

Bangkok Airport Train

The much-awaited Airport Rail Link (06:00-midnight) that connects downtown Bangkok with Suvarnabhumi International Airport is a smart alternative to the airport’s express buses or taxis. The two SA Express routes can get you to the airport (or downtown) in 15-18 minutes, so rest assured that you will make it to the boarding gate right on time. The City Line makes six stops between downtown (Phayathai Station) and the airport, completing each run in 30 minutes, which is also a great option for those with little luggage and who are not in a rush.
The Airport Rail Link connects you to the MRT underground at Makkasan City Interchange Station (MRT Petchaburi Station) and the BTS Skytrain at Phayathai Station. If you travel via Thai Airways International or Bangkok Airways, you can also check in your luggage at Makkasan.
From Bangkok International Airport (Suvarnabhumi), the entrance to the Airport Rail Link service is on the First Floor.

Bangkok MRT (Underground)

Fast and efficient, the Mass Rapid Transit network (MRT) serves 18 stations and stretches for 20 km in a horseshoe shape from Hua Lamphong in the South (near Chinatown) to Bang Sue in the north. Trains arrive every 5-7 minutes, and connect to the BTS Skytrain at Sukhumvit and Silom stations.
Stops of particular interest to visitors include Kampaengphet (Chatuchak Weekend Market, Or Tor Kor Market and Rod Fai Market), Sukhumvit (Asok BTS Skytrain), Silom (Saladaeng BTS Skytrain, Pat Pong Night Market and Lumpini Park) and Hua Lamphong (Chinatown and Central Railway Station). The Petchaburi Station is about 300m from the Airport Rail Link’s Makkasan Interchange Station, where you can board the express train to Suvarnabhumi International Airport.

Bangkok Train Station

Hua Lamphong Railway Station

Hua Lamphong, or Bangkok Train Station, is the main terminal to northern, eastern, northeastern and southern Thailand. It connects with the MRT underground system and features a distinct half-dome structure, designed by an Italian architect Mario Tamagno in an Italian neo-renaissance style.
Open in 1916, Hua Lamphong boasts an elegant design, similar to several government buildings and public monuments built during the same period, such as the Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall, The Bank of Thailand Museum and Parliament building – all designed by the same architect.

Buses in Bangkok

Buses in Bangkok provide an incredibly cheap way to travel from one side of the city to another. It's also a great way to see the real Bangkok you don't often see if you're traveling by other means of transportation. Although buses give you a ringside seat to experience and observe the locals and the city, they're not the most favourite means of getting around. Obnoxious drivers, aggressive bus conductors, bad traffic, pollution and sweaty fellow passengers are some of the things you will inevitably encounter. But this is real, hardcore Bangkok.

Types of Buses & Fares

There are many types of buses available in Bangkok. Bus routes are very extensive too, and can be mind-boggling to first-timers. Make sure you first equip yourself with the MBTA map (available at most bus terminals). When in doubt, ask a local, or policemen, or call the '184' BMTA Hotline for assistance. Most buses (except for the all-night ones) run from 05:00 to 23:00 daily. Regular buses cost 7 baht (cream-red), and 8 baht (white-blue). Expressway buses costs 8.5 baht. Air-conditioned buses (cream-blue) cost from 9 to 19 baht (depending on the distance travelled). All-night buses (cream-red) are 8 baht. EURO II buses (yellow-orange) cost anything between 12 to 22 baht, depending on the distance travelled.

How to take a Bus: Useful tips

Since destinations on the majority of the city's buses are written in Thai, the best way for visitors to figure out which bus goes where is by the bus number, the type of bus and its colours. The BMTA bus map also comes in very handy. Don't be fooled by the buses with the same number but different colours; they don't always share the same route. Make sure you stick to the numbers that match the colours only. Things to keep in mind when taking a bus in Bangkok:
- The fare will be collected on the bus by the bus conductor.
- Prepare small change for the fare. A 100-baht note on an air-con bus is acceptable, but not so much on regular or smaller buses (500 and 1,000 baht notes are a big no-no).
- Keep the small receipt because sometimes it will be checked.
- On air-con buses, fares vary according to the distance. Just tell the bus conductor where you wish to get off, and he will tell you how much the journey will cost.
- On regular or smaller buses, the fare (around 7 - 8 baht, normally no more than 10 baht) is usually fixed.
- Be courteous and offer seats to small children, monks, the elderly and pregnant women.
- Once on the bus, keep walking inside. Don't stand at the door, or block the way in the middle of the bus.
- Make sure you hold on to the rail at all times because buses tend to be a bit 'jerky'.
- To alert the driver that you want to get off, press a buzzer in advance (before the bus reaches your stop).
- If you're not sure where to get off, ask the bus conductor to let you know.
- Always keep the name of your hotel and its address (or wherever you're staying) with you, preferably in Thai, in case you get lost.
- The newest, most efficient, and spacious bus is of the EURO II (yellow-orange). The drivers and conductors are nice and polite and, most importantly, the air-con works!

River Boats & Ferries in Bangkok

Boats are a great way to get around the famous riverside area with its many historical attractions, and to explore the 'klongs' (canals) for a glimpse of yesteryear Bangkok. Several kinds of boats (express boats, river taxis and tail-boats) run up and down the Chao Phraya River, connecting with the local suburbs on the Thonburi side and along the river, while ferries can be used to cross the river at various points.
There are different types of boats offering different services, and some of the express boats only stop at the main piers. If you simply want to cross the river, there are ferries which cost 2.5 baht, available at several boat landings. River taxis operate up and down the river and cost from around 6 baht, depending on the length of the journey. The Chao Phraya Express Boat Company offers a day pass for 75 baht with departures every 30 minutes from Sathorn Pier. It stops at ten major piers and provides access to attractions like Wat Arun (the Temple of Dawn) the Grand Palace, Wat Po and the Royal Barge Museum. Great value, considering that it includes a guide and drinking water! The Sathorn Pier can easily be reached by traveling with the Skytrain (BTS) to Saphan Taksin station.

Thailand Fruits

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Being a tropical country, Thailand excels in the fruit department with exceptionally delicious sàp·Ъà·rót (pineapple), má·lá·gor (papaya) and đaang moh (watermelon) sold from ubiquitous vendor carts, often accompanied by a dipping mix of salt, sugar and ground chilli. You’ll find more exotic fruits sold in produce markets. The king of fruits is the spiky-shelled tú·ree·an (durian), an acridly pungent delicacy in Southeast Asia. The fruit smells so strong that it is banned from airlines, air-conditioned buses and some hotels.
Other seasonal fruits that you deserve to meet include creamy nóy nàh (custard apple), the Velcro tennis-ball shaped ngó (rambutan), the purplish skinned mang·kút (mangosteen), and the grape-shaped lá·mút (sapodilla)
and lam yai (longan).
Má·môo·ang (mangoes) come in a dozen varieties that are eaten at different stages of ripeness. Some are served green and crisp and taste like apples, while others are ripe and luscious and served in the intoxicating dessert kôw nĕe·o má·môo·ang (mangoes and sticky rice).

Durian ( Thurian )

Tangerine ( Som Khiao Wan )

Banana ( Kluai )

Guava ( Farang )

Dragon Fruit ( Kaeo Mangkon )

Lychee ( Linchi )

Pineapple ( Supparot )

Sugar Apple ( Noina )

Sala ( sala )

Papaya ( Malako )

Sweet Tamarind ( Ma-kham Wan )

Longan ( Lamyai )

Mangosteen ( Mangkhut )

Java Apple ( Chomphu )

Jack Fruit ( Khanun )

Passion Fruit ( Saowarot )

Pummelo ( Som-o )

Rambutan ( Ngo )

Star Fruit ( Mafuang )

Young Coconut ( Maphrao On )

Mango ( Mamuang )

Beer

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There are several brands of beer in Thailand but they are largely indistinguishable in terms of taste and quality. The Singha label is considered the quintessential ‘Thai’ beer and like all others, is an alcohol-strong pilsner.
Pronounced sing (not ‘sing-ha’), it claims about half the domestic market, and has an alcohol content of 6%. Beer Chang matches the hoppy taste of Singha but pumps the alcohol content up to 7%. There are other varieties of beer,like Leo, that offer more alcohol for the baht. Dutch-licensed but Thailandbrewed
Heineken and Singapore’s Tiger brand are also popular selections. When in the company of Thais, beer is rarely consumed directly from the bottle but instead enjoys yet another communal ritual. Each drinker gets a
glass, filled with ice, into which the brew is poured. A toast goes round and the younger member of the group is usually in charge of keeping everyone’s glass filled with ice and beer. The ice helps keep the beverage cool in a hot climate and combats the dehydrating effects of a hangover.

Food & Drink ( Noodle)

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Pad Thai

It shouldn’t take too long in Thailand before you get your tongue around gŏo·ay đĕe·o, the intimidating and all-encompassing word for noodle soup. Despite being an import from China, noodles have been entirely integrated into the Thai repertoire of foods, and for most Thais, a day hardly passes without a bowl or two.
You’ll find four basic kinds of noodle in Thailand. Hardly surprising, given the Thai fixation on rice, is the overwhelming popularity of sên gŏo·ay đĕe·o, noodles made from rice flour mixed with water to form a paste, which is then steamed to form wide, flat sheets. The sheets are folded and sliced into sên yài (flat ‘wide line’ noodles 2cm to 3cm wide), sên lék (‘small line’ noodles about 5mm wide) and sên mèe (‘noodle line’ noodles only 1mm to 2mm wide). At most restaurants or vendor stands specialising in gŏo·ay đĕe·o, when ordering
you are expected to specify which noodles you want.The simplest and most ubiquitous dish is gŏo·ay đĕe·o nám, a bowl of noodles served most commonly with pork stock along with meatballs and various vegetables, including a garnish of pàk chee (coriander leaf). This dish is eaten around the clock as a quick snack before work, after shopping, post-clubbing or in between the real meals. The most famous gŏo·ay đĕe·o dish among foreigners is undoubtedly gŏo·ay đĕe·o pàt tai, usually called pàt tai for short. Taking the form of thin rice noodles stir-fried with dried or fresh shrimp, bean sprouts, tofu, egg and seasonings, the dish is traditionally served with lime halves and a few stalks of Chinese chives and a sliced banana flower.Another kind of noodle, kà·nŏm jeen, is produced by pushing rice-flour paste through a sieve into boiling water, much the way Italian-style pasta is made. Kà·nŏm jeen is a popular morning market meal that is eaten doused with various spicy curries and topped with a self-selection of fresh and pickled vegetables and herbs.The third kind of noodle, bà·mèe, is made from wheat flour and egg. It’s yellowish in colour and is sold only in fresh bundles. After being briefly parboiled, the noodles are mixed with broth and meat, typically barbecued pork or crab, and you have bà·mèe nám. Served in a bowl with a small amount of garlic oil and no broth, it’s bà·mèe hâang. Restaurants or vendors selling bà·mèe typically also sell gée·o, a square of bà·mèe dough wrapped around
ground meat.Finally there’s wún·sên, an almost clear noodle made from mung-bean starch and water. Sold only in dried bunches, wún·sên (literally ‘jelly thread’) is prepared by soaking in hot water for a few minutes. The most common use of the noodle is in yam wún sên, a hot and tangy salad made with lime juice, fresh sliced prík kêe nŏo (tiny chillies), shrimp, ground pork and various seasonings. Other uses include Ъoo òp wún·sên, bean-thread noodles baked in a lidded clay pot with crab (or sometimes shrimp) and seasonings,
or gaang jèut, a bland, Chinese-influenced soup containing ground pork, soft tofu and a handful of the noodles.

Food & Drink ( Rice )

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There’s an entire universe of amazing dishes once you get beyond ‘pad thai’ and green curry, and for many visitors, food is one of the main reasons for choosing Thailand as a destination. Even more remarkable, however, is the love for Thai food among the locals; Thais become just as excited as tourists when faced with a bowl of well-prepared noodles or when seated at a renowned hawker stall. This unabashed enthusiasm for eating, not to mention an abundance of fascinating ingredients and influences, has generated one of the most fun and diverse food scenes anywhere in the world.

Rice

Rice is so central to Thai food culture that the most common term for ‘eat’ is gin kôw (literally, ‘consume rice’) and one of the most common greetings is Gin kôw rĕu yang? (Have you consumed rice yet?). To eat is
to eat rice, and for most of the country, a meal is not acceptable without this staple. There are many varieties of rice in Thailand and the country has been among the world leaders in rice exports since the 1960s. The highest grade is kôw hŏrm má·lí (jasmine rice), a fragrant long grain that is so coveted by neighbouring countries that there is allegedly a steady underground business in smuggling out fresh supplies. Residents of Thailand’s north and northeast eat kôw nĕe·o, ‘sticky rice’, a glutinous short-grained rice that is cooked by steaming, not boiling. In Chinese-style eateries, kôw đôm, ‘boiled rice’, a watery porridge sometimes employing brown or purple rice, is a common carb.

Here are some samples of Thai food :

Khao Pad Gai (Thai Fried Rice with Chicken )

Kao Pad Kaprao (Thai Basil Fried Rice)

Kao Neuw ( Mango With Sticky Rice )

You should try mango with sticky rice you will love it .

When to go Thailand

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The best time to visit most of Thailand is between November and February, because it rains the least and it is not too hot. This period is also Thailand’s main season for festivals, like Loi Krathong and Songkran.
If you plan to focus on the northern provinces, the hot season (March to May) and early rainy season (June to July) are not bad either, as temperatures are moderate at higher elevations. Northeastern and central Thailand, on the other hand, are best avoided from March to May, when temperatures may climb over 40°C. Because temperatures are more even year-round in the south (because it’s closer to the equator), the beaches and islands of southern Thailand are a good choice for respite when the rest of Thailand is miserably hot.
Thailand’s peak tourist season runs from November to late March, with secondary peaks in July and August. If you want to avoid crowds and take advantage of discounted room rates, consider travelling during the least
crowded months (typically April to June, September and October).
Although the rainy season (roughly July to October) gets a bad reputation, there are some bonuses: temperatures tend to be cooler, tourists are fewer and the landscape is lush and green. Depending on the region and the month, the rains might be hour-long downpours in the afternoon. October, however, tends to be the wettest month.

Thailand General Information

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Geography
Thailand has a land area of 513,115 sq.km.(approx. 127,008 acres) bordered by Malaysia (South), Myanmar (West & North), Laos (North & East) and Cambodia (Southeast). The country's east coast borders the Gulf of Thailand and the west coast abuts the Andaman Sea. The country is divided geographically into four main zones-the fertile central plains, dominated by the Chao Phraya River; the 300-metre-high northeast plateau, the kingdom's most barren region ; the mountainous North; and the tropical southern peninsula.

Climate
The temperature varies from 38°C to 19°C with the annual average at about 29°C. The humidity is from 66% to 82.8%.

Seasons
There are three seasons in Northern, Northeastern and Central Thailand - hot (March to May), rainy (June to October), and cool (November to February). And there are two seasons in the South - rainy (April to November) and hot (December to March).
In the North and Northeast in winter, the temperatures are much lower during night time, especially on the mountains, with temperatures lower than 10°C.

Population
Total 63,878,267 (end Dec 2010), about 31 million males and 32 females. Of the total, 9.3% live in Bangkok.
**Note** The total population includes only permanent residents.

People
75% Thais, 11% Chinese, 3.5% Malays, and others are Mons, Khmers, Burmese, Laotians, Indians and a variety of hill tribes.

Language
Thai is the national language. English is widely understood in Bangkok and big cities.

Religion
Buddhists 94.2%, Muslims 4.6%, Christians 0.8%, others 0.4%.

Government
Thailand is a constitutional monarchy headed by King Bhumibol Adulyadej or King Rama IX. The country comprises 76 provinces, each sub-divided into amphoe (county), tambon (district) and muban (village).

Capital
Bangkok

National flag
The red, white and blue bands symbolize the nation, religion, and the monarchy respectively.

Largest provinces
Nakhon Ratchasima 20,493 sq. km., Chiang Mai 20,107 sq. km., Kanchanaburi 19,483 sq. km.

Largest islands
Phuket 543 sq. km., Chang 429sq. km., Samui 247 sq. km.

Highest peaks
Doi Inthanon 2,565 m., Doi Pha Hom Pok 2,285 m., Doi Chiang Dao
2,195 m.

Principal rivers
Chi 765 km., Mun 750 km., Nan 740 km., Chao Phraya 370 km. or 1,110 km. if the Nan, its main tributary, is included.

Electricity
220 volts 50 cycles throughout the country.

Water
Drink only bottled or boiled water.

Clothing
Light, cool clothes are highly recommended. Thin cotton is the best. A jacket or sweater may be necessary in the cool season, especially when you are in mountainous areas in the North or Northeast.

Local time
GMT + 7 hours.

Business hours
Government offices open from 08.30 to 16.30 hours, Monday to Friday.
Banking hours : Monday to Friday, 08.30 to 15.30 hours
Most business offices open from 08.30 to 17.30 hours, Monday to Friday.
Some work on Saturday.

Major agricultural exports
Rice, tapioca, rubber, maize, pineapples, durians, longans, palm oil and herbs.

Major manufactured exports
Computer and computer accessories, integrated circuit, textiles, electronics, cars and spare parts, gems and jewellery, televisions and television accessories.

Thailand at a glance

2012-01-27T03:30:00.000-08:00

Location, Geography & Climate

Thailand is the geographical heart of South-East Asia. The infamous golden triangle, located at the nation's northernmost point, is where Thailand's borders meet those of both Laos and Myanmar (Burma). The border with Myanmar continues to the west and then south as far as the Malay peninsula, much of which is occupied by Thailand. On the east, the border with Laos meanders southeast along the Mekong River until it reaches Cambodia, which is due east of Bangkok, the Thai Capital. In the south is the Gulf of Thailand. Roughly the size of France (200,000 sq. miles), Thailand is composed of four main regions. The northern mountainous region contains numerous ruins and temples, the ancient city of Chieng Mai, and Thailand's highest peak, Doi Inthanon. This region is also home to the hill tribes of Thailand, distinct ethnic groups which settled in the area thousands of years ago after migrating from as far away as Tibet and central China. The north-east of Thailand occupies the semi-arid Korat plateau, the most desolate and least-visited part of the country. An interesting blend of Thai, Lao, and Khmer influences characterise the culture of the Korat. Central Thailand, which consists of the fertile plains surrounding the Chao Phraya River, is the country's most populous region and its rice basket. Thailand's alluring and congested capital city of Bangkok is located along the banks of the Chao Phraya, near the river's outlet into the Bight of Bangkok and the Gulf of Thailand. The southern region of Thailand, which stretches for hundreds of miles along the Malay peninsula, abounds with stunning beaches and scores of tropical islands.
Thailand can be an extremely hot and soggy place. Its tropical climate is divided into three seasons: cool in November to February, hot in March to May, and rainy in June to October. The seasons are more extreme in the northern regions, where the dry heat can grow quite intense in late spring and the cool can become cold in the mountains. The rainy season is no detriment to travel in Thailand, as the rains can be cool and refreshing.

History and People

The earliest people to appear in Thailand were most likely the Mons, who came into Southeast Asia from Central China two millennia ago. The Mons settled along various rivers in Burma and Thailand, building cities and rapidly developing a civilized culture. Within a few centuries they were confronted by other groups coming out of the north. As the region filled with people and villages, local kingdoms emerged and vied for supremacy over each other, giving rise to Thailand's earliest empires. The first of these were the Davaravati of Central Thailand and the Srivijaya, whose empire extended from Sumatra up the Malay peninsula to southern Thailand. Both kingdoms practiced Buddhism, which had spread from India during the time of the Mons. Eventually, the Davaravati fell to the westward expansion of the Khmers from Cambodia.
The next Thai kingdom to arise was Siam, which had its origins in the military expansion of the Mongols under Kublai Khan. As the Mongols pressed south through China, the peoples of the northwestern mountains and the Shan Plateau fled south and east. In 1220, the Thai lords founded their first capital at [link]Sukhothai[link], in the Nan River valley. Soon afterward, two other Thai kingdoms were established: Lanna Thai (million Thai rice fields) at Chiang Mai in the north, and Ayuthaya, upriver from present day Bangkok. In the mid-14th century, Ayuthaya had entered its golden age, dominating the other kingdoms and driving the Khmers out of the region entirely.
For the next few centuries the Thai kingdoms faced a stronger threat, not from the east or north, but from their neighbors to the west---the Burmese. In 1556 the Burmese captured Chiang Mai, and then Ayuthaya in 1569. The Thais rallied and recaptured both cities in the following decades, but the antagonism between the two peoples continued. The Burmese attacked Ayuthaya once more in 1767, this time practically erasing the city after a particularly bloody and protracted battle. Although the Thais managed to expel the Burmese shortly after, a new capital had to be constructed around what is now Bangkok. This chapter in Thai history marks the establishment of the Chakri Dynasty under Rama I, whose descendants have reigned in unbroken succession until the present day.
Unlike most of the other countries of Southeast Asia, Thailand (or Siam, as it was known at the time) never felt the yoke of direct European colonialism. As early as the 17th century, the Thai kings were set upon maintaining independence, having executed a French emissary to underscore their determination. As the French, British, and Dutch carved up the entire region over the next hundred years, the Kings of Siam shrewdly played the competing Europeans against each other, ensuring that no one power would gain a dominant presence. The strategy paid off handsomely, as Siam remained autonomous while reaping most of whatever benefits the colonial system had to offer.
After a peaceful coup in 1932, Siam's powerful monarchy became constitutional, and in 1939 the country officially adopted the name Thailand. Over the next several decades, Thailand was governed primarily by military dictatorships, which drew much of their support from collaboration with more powerful nations. They supported the Japanese occupation army in WW2 and later provided bases and men for the United States' efforts in Vietnam. Since that time, Thailand has weathered several coups, a number of border clashes with neighbouring communist regimes, and violent student demonstrations, finally emerging in the last decade as a remarkably stable and economically successful nation.
Today Thailand has a population of 54 million people, the vast majority of whom are of Thai ethnicity. Significant minorities of Chinese, Malay, Khmer, Mons, and various hill tribes also reside in Thailand, in addition to tens of thousands of refugees in border camps from the more troubled countries of South-East Asia.
Buddhism is the dominant religion in Thailand, although a variety of tribal religions continue to be practiced. Thailand's people regard their royal family with a respect bordering on awe. The main language in Thailand is Thai, although Lao, Chinese, Malay and English are also spoken by significant numbers of people.