Thailand: Overview

Sun, tôm yam and spiritual enlightenment.

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 - Conflict in Southern Thailand - Myanmar Border

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.

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

European plug with two circular metal pins Japanese-style plug with two parallel flat blades
220V 50Hz

Languages Spoken

Official: Thai

Time Zones

GMT/UTC +7 (Indochina Time)

Country Dialing Code

+66

Weights & Measures

Metric

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Traveller Tips & Discussion

Thorn Tree Forum

  • Thailand
    Post by: paolotripmaitrop, 02 May 07
    3 Replies
    Last reply: 377 days ago
  • Thailand
    Post by: LizzieMc, 17 Sep 07
    18 Replies
    Last reply: 239 days ago
  • Thailand
    Post by: feta, 02 Aug 07
    22 Replies
    Last reply: 285 days ago
  • Thailand
    Post by: anada, 30 May 07
    18 Replies
    Last reply: 350 days ago
  • Thailand
    Post by: Green_and_Red_Light_, 06 Jan 05
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    Last reply: 1223 days ago

View more Thorn Tree threads ›

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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.

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