Thailand is the only country in southeast Asia that was not colonized by Europe. The Thai flag is striped in red, white, and blue. The country’s official name is the Kingdom of Thailand, and it used to be called Siam. The capital city of Thailand is Bangkok, and it is also the largest city in the country. Thailand is the world’s 50th largest country by total area and the 21st-most-populous country.
Thai is the official language of the country and is spoken by over 90% of residents. A small percentage of Thai people speak Burmese and other languages. Almost 95% of the population practices Buddhism.
CULTURE
Its culture mixes strong Indian influences, Chinese traditions, and elements that are uniquely Thai. A common greeting in Thai culture is “Have you eaten?” following “How are you?”. Thailand is separated into four distinct regions. Despite the overarching strength and unity of Thai culture, each region has its own unique cultural and geographic features. Its culture is heavily influenced by Burmese culture and it carries strong influences from the historical Lanna kingdom. Much of Thailand’s culture comes from the ethnic Thai people. One of the most important influences on Thai culture has been Buddhism. Many of the traditions and beliefs of the people in Thailand stem directly from Buddhist principles.
With its diverse geography, friendly people, and stunning scenery, the “Land of a Thousand Smiles” is a must-see destination in South East Asia.
REGIONS
The regions are: Central Thailand, including the Thai capital of Bangkok, Eastern Thailand, Northern Thailand, Northeast (Isan), Southern Thailand and Western Thailand.
FESTIVALS
New Year’s Day | Children’s Day |Bo Sang Umbrella and Sankhampaeng Handicrafts Festival, Chiang Mai–
Chiang Mai Flower Festival| Chinese Lunar New Year | Valentine’s Day | Trang Underwater Wedding | Burapa Bike Week, Pattaya | Phuket International Blues Rock Festival | MakhaBucha Day
National Muay Thai Day | Pattaya International Music Festival |General Election
Poy Sang Long Festival | Chakri Day | Songkran Thai New Year Water Festival | Wan Lai Festival | Phuket Bike Week
Labour Day | Coronation of H.M King Maha Vajiralongkorn (Rama X) | Rocket Festivals, Isaan | Royal Ploughing Ceremony, Bangkok | Hua Hin Jazz Festival |Chiang Mai Inthakin City Pillar Festival | Ko Samui Yacht Regatta |Visakha Bucha Day
Pattaya International Fireworks Festival| Phi Ta Khon Ghost Festival, Dan Sai, Loei | Asahna Bucha Day | Khao Phansa | Birthday of H.M King Maha Vajiralongkorn (Rama X) | Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival | Phuket Yachting Race Week
H.M. Queen’s Birthday | Por Tor Hungry Ghost Festival, Phuket
Thai National Flag Day
HM King Bhumibol Adulyadej Memorial Day | Awk Phansa | Buffalo Racing Festival, Chonburi
Chulalongkorn Day | Vegetarian Festival
Loy Krathong | Yi Peng Lantern Festival, Chiang Mai |Elephant Round-up Festival, Surin | Monkey Banquet Festival, Lopburi
King Bhumibol Birthday Commemoration Day | Constitution Day | New Year’s Eve
WHY?
Thailand, has been named the hottest city in the world. Travelling to Thailand is a breeze, as the country has a tourist-friendly policy as well as a vast network of infrastructure and hotels that cater to a diverse array of business and leisure travellers. With its diverse geography, friendly people, and stunning scenery, the “Land of a Thousand Smiles” is a must-see destination in South East Asia.
