FACT AT A GLANCE
The kingdom of Thailand lies in the heart of Southeast Asia,
making it a natural gateway to Indochina, Myanmar and Southern
China. Its shape and geography divide into four natural regions
: the mountains and forests of the North; the vast rice fields
of the Central Plains; the semi-arid farm lands of the Northeast
plateau; and the tropical islands and long coastline of the
peninsula South.The country comprises 76 provinces that are
further divided into districts, sub-districts and villages.
Bangkok is the capital city and centre of political, commercial,
industrial and cultural activities. It is also the seat of
Thailand's revered Royal Family, with His Majesty the King
recognised as Head of State, Head of the Armed Forces, Upholder
of the Buddhist religion and Upholder of all religions.
Thailand is a constitutional monarchy with His Majesty King
Bhumibol Adulyadej, or King Rama IX, the ninth king of the
Chakri Dynasty, the present king. The King has reigned for more
than half a century, making him the longest reigning Thai
monarch. Thailand embraces a rich diversity of cultures and
traditions. With its proud history, tropical climate and
renowned hospitality, the Kingdom is a never-ending source of
fascination and pleasure for international visitors.
Neighboring countries:
1) Myanmar - west and north,
2) Lao P.D.R. - north and northeast,
3) Cambodia - southeast and
4) Malaysia - south.
Area: 513,115 sq. km.
Topography: Thailand is divided into 4 natural regions:
The mountainous North, with its profusion of multi-coloured
orchids, fascinating native handicrafts and winter temperatures
are sufficiently cool to permit cultivation of temperate fruits
such as strawberries and peaches;
The high Northeast Plateau, which still jealously guards its
many archaeological and anthropological mysteries;
The Central Plain, one of the world's most fertile rice and
fruit-growing areas with colourful traditional culture and way
of life as well as the sandy beaches of the East Coast and
vibrant cosmopolitan Bangkok;
The peninsular South where the unspoiled beaches and idyllic
islands complement economically vital tin mining, rubber
cultivation and fishing.
Population: Thais are well-known for their friendliness and
hospitality. A large majority of over 62 million citizens of
Thailand are ethic Thai, along with strong communities whose
ethnic origins lie in China, India and elsewhere. About 7
million people reside in the capital city of Bangkok.
People: Thai (80%), Chinese (10%), Malay (3%), and the rest
are minorities (Mons, Khmers, hill tribes) Ethnic Thais form the
majority, though the area has historically been a migratory
crossroads, and has thus produced a degree of ethnic diversity.
Integration is such, however, that culturally and socially there
is enormous unity.
Language: Spoken and written Thai is largely incomprehensible
to the casual visitor. However, English is widely understood,
particularly in Bangkok where it is almost the major commercial
language. English and some European Languages are spoken in most
hotels, shops and restaurants in major tourist destinations, and
Thai-English road and street signs are found nationwide.
