Thailand is an interesting mix of modernity and well-preserved cultural identity. Located in Southeast Asia, Thailand has four natural regions: the Northeast Plateau with its farm lands and archeological sites, the North with its mountains and forests, the Central Plain full of fertile rice fields and orchards, and the South Peninsula famous for Thailand's unspoiled white sand beaches.

Thailand is a constitutional monarchy. Bangkok, Thailand's capital city, is the center of commercial, industrial, political and cultural activities; and home to Thailand's Royal Family. The present king, His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej, also known as King Rama IX, is the longest reigning Thai monarch holding the seat for more than half a century. Recognized as Head of State, Head of the Armed Forces, Upholder of the Buddhist and all religions; the King governs all of Thailand's 76 provinces, which are further divided into districts, sub-districts and villages. Neighboring countries are Myanmar in the west and north, Cambodia in the southeast, and Malaysia in the South.

Thailand is a tropical country. The wet rainy season arrives around July and lasts until November, followed by a cool dry period until February. This is the best time to visit Thailand since the weather is pleasant and appropriate for Thailand's national and regional festivals. The hotter dry period from March to June is best spent in the South peninsula's coastline idyllic beaches. 

Thailand is home to 62 million citizens comprised mostly of Thai descent, with some Chinese, Malay and minorities. Spoken and written Thai is primarily used everywhere, a sign of this country's proud history and preserved culture. English is also used especially in road signs and is widely used in Bangkok. Some hotels, shops and restaurants can also speak European Languages.

Thailand uses the Thai Baht (THB or ฿). It uses the metric and kilo systems for weights and measures. Thailand lies at GMT/UTC +7 time zone. 

Thailand offers a wide range of tourism attractions catering to people's different personalities. The religious may go on a spiritual journey meditating in this country's many awe-inspiring golden Buddhist temples. 

The worldly may fulfill their material needs through shopping, be it in modern malls or street stalls, where almost everything is a bargain like in markets like in Chatuchak and Suan Lum Night Bazaar.

History buffs can be thrilled by visiting the historic cities of Ayutthaya and Sukhothai - ruins of ancient Thai capitals, and by exploring centuries old settlements like Ban Chiang; which are all under the UNESCO's World Heritage Sites.

Adventure awaits for nature lovers who can go trekking, rafting, or biking in the mountainous terrains of the North, or go diving, sailing, or windsurfing in the blue waters in the beautiful beaches in the South, or simple lie back to enjoy lazy days lounging in white sand beaches.

Try the revitalizing ancient tradition of Thai massage at luxurious spas. Have a taste of authentic Thai cuisine in Bangkok where dishes from all regions of Thailand are found. Whatever your interest may be, Thailand can accommodate you with a smile.

A valid passport is needed to enter the Kingdom of Thailand. Foreigners, who wish to visit Thailand for tourism purposes may enjoy a Tourist Visa Exemption, and stay for a period not exceeding 30 days per visit. They may re-enter but should not exceed a cumulative duration of 90 days within 6 months from the date of the first entry.

Click here to view the list of countries with Tourist Visa Exemption.

For more information on entry regulations, please visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand's official website.

For Customs regulations, click here.

Lonely Planet Website 

Thailand Tourism Website 

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand