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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: Political Protests - Security Concerns
Anti-government protests continue to be held in Bangkok despite the election of a new prime minister, Somchai Wongsawat. The violence escalated on October 7, the day the new government was sworn in, with People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD)demonstrators setting up another blockade outside the parliament building. A car bomb exploded outside the building, police were stabbed, and eventually troops were called in to control the protestors. The violence led to the resignation of the deputy prime minister.
In recent months, demonstrations forced the closure of three airports - Phuket, Krabi, and Hat Yai. Travellers should expect disruptions at airports and rail stations.
Most visits to areas outside Bangkok 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.
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.
