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The Kingdom of Thailand draws more visitors than any other country in southeast Asia with its irresistible combination of breathtaking natural beauty, inspiring temples, renowned hospitality, robust cuisine and ruins of fabulous ancient kingdoms. Few countries are so well endowed.
From the stupa-studded mountains of Mae Hong Son and the verdant limestone islands of the Andaman Sea, to the pulse-pounding dance clubs of Bangkok and the tranquil villages moored along the Mekong River, Thailand offers something for every type of traveller.
Travel Warning: Security Concerns
Most visits to Thailand are trouble-free but travellers should be aware that there are serious security concerns in the southern provinces of Pattani, Yala, Narathiwat and Songkhla due to ongoing violent insurgency. On 15 March, a car bomb exploded in the parking lot of a Pattani hotel, killing two people and injuring 13. The Thai-Myanmar border is also potentially volatile.
Thailand and Cambodia have resolved the territorial dispute at the site of an ancient Hindu temple which lies on the border. In July, more than 500 Thai and 1000 Cambodian soldiers were stationed on either side of the Preah Vihear temple, and the UN Security Council was called on to resolve the dispute. The trouble started after Unesco classified the temple as a Cambodian World Heritage Site, resulting in protests from Thai activists.
Following the general election in December, Thailand has returned to democratic rule under a coalition government, but travellers should still exercise caution, and avoid political rallies and demonstrations in the capital.
For more information go to Safe Travel or for the latest on what travellers are saying check out our Thorn Tree forum .
severity: High-level alert
Fast Facts
Country Full Name
Kingdom of Thailand
Population
65,000,000
Currency
Name: Baht
Code: THB
Symbol: ฿
Electrical Plugs
220V 50Hz
Languages Spoken
Official: Thai
Time Zones
GMT/UTC +7 (Indochina Time)
Country Dialing Code
+66
Weights & Measures
Metric
Thailand - Free Guidebook Chapter
Download the free Getting Started chapter or buy individual chapters from our Thailand guide, in our online Shop.
› Go to the Thailand download page.
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Disclaimer: We've tried to make the information on this web site as accurate as possible, but it is provided 'as is' and we accept no responsibility for any loss, injury or inconvenience sustained by anyone resulting from this information. You should verify critical information (like visas, health and safety, customs and transportation) with the relevant authorities before you travel.
