Geography 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.
History A unified Thai kingdom was established in the mid-14th century. Known as Siam until 1939, Thailand is the only South-East Asian country never to have been taken over by a European power, and fiercely proud of the fact. A bloodless revolution in 1932 led to a constitutional monarchy. In alliance with Japan during World War II, Thailand became a US ally following the conflict. After a string of military dictatorships and quickly toppled civilian presidents, Thailand finally stabilized into a fair approximation of a democracy and the economy, hobbled by the 1997 Asian economic crisis, is booming once again. Above it all presides the King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX), the world’s longest-reigning monarch and a deeply loved and respected figure of nearmythic proportions.
In September 2006, a swift and bloodless military coup endorsed by the King overthrew the previous democratically elected but widely criticized government, promising elections in late 2007. Although martial law still applies and political gatherings are restricted, there has been no violence, no curfews are in effect, there is no longer any significant military presence in public places, and all services are functioning normally.
Religion Buddhism (95%), Muslim (4%), others (1%)
People Thai (80%), Chinese (10%), Malay (3%), and the rest are minorities (Mons, Khmers, hilltribes) 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.
Manners Thais are very easy going and would rarely tell you if you are doing something that offends them. However, here are few things to think about before you arrive:
Heads: Never touch an adult on the head. Thais consider the head to be the highest part of the body (spiritually) and would feel incredibly uncomfortable if you were to do so. Children under the age of 10 can be touched on the head in a playful manner, but the best rule of thumb is just to not do so.
Feet: On the opposite side of things, Thais consider the feet to be the lowest part of the body (spiritually) therefore it is extremely rude to do almost anything but walk with them. Do not put them up on chairs, ledges, etc to relax. Do not gain someone’s attention by tapping him or her with your foot.
Naughty Bits: Do not tan nude at any time in Thailand. Thais consider it very inappropriate and rude to expose your private bits and pieces in public. It doesn’t matter if you see others on thebeach doing it – the Thais don’t like it; as mentioned before they are just too polite to tell you.
Royalty: Refrain from speaking publicly about the Royal Family of Thailand. Thais highly revere all members of the Royal Family, to the point that it is almost rude to speak publicly about them out of respect. Never speak about any past or present Royal Family members passing away either.
Monks: Women must never come into physical contact with or directly hand anything to a monk.
Set within a lush tropical landscape, Thailand is a theatre of cultural and sensual contrasts for the visitor. The long, rich heritage and abundant natural resources of this proud Buddhist nation make the country one of the most popular destinations in Asia.
Thailand is located in a fertile monsoon belt midway between India and China, the two civilizations that have moulded Southeast Asia. But the Thais have long delighted in their distinctive culture. For instance, though the Tai (rather than Thai) ethnic group probably originated in Southern China sometime in the first millennium AD, their tonal language is quite unlike any form of Chinese. Moreover, the elegant Thai script, though derived from that of ancient Southern India, is distinct. Its food as well has a world renowned taste and importance, as the Thais have created their own unique method of preparation which produces an astronomical delight.
Blessed with mountains and rivers, beaches and islands, Thailand has something for everyone and at all levels of interest and comfort. You could be trekking in the highlands and riding elephants, and then retiring to your deluxe boutique hotel in the evening. Or spending days studying Thai cooking and learning about the ancient art of massage; Thailand has it all.
The range of products available for shoppers is unsurpassed, as is the gentleness of the Thai people which makes for a great location to spend some time.
Laos is affected by the annual Southeast Asian monsoon cycle. Many travellers prefer Laos outside the dry season; there are fewer tourists, and rainfall is often limited to brief afternoon showers which lend a different atmosphere to the country and towns.
A visa is required for entry to Laos
Citizens of Australia, UK, US, EU Countries, New Zealand and Canada require a visa to visit Laos. All other nationalities should check with the Laotian embassy or consulate in their country of residence. Obtaining a visa
Travellers can easily obtain 30 day tourist visas on arrival in Laos, at Vientiane, Pakse or Luang Prabang airports, or at the overland border points listed below. The price of a Lao visa varies according to nationality and is 30 USD for holders of Australian and New Zealand passports, 35 USD for holders of USA and UK passports, and 42 USD for holders of Canadian passports. For travellers of all nationalities payment should be made in USD cash and a passport photo must be provided. Visas cost an extra 1 USD on weekends and public holidays.
Laos visas can be obtained on arrival at the following border crossings:
It is your responsibility to ensure all visa and entry requirements are met prior to your arrival in Laos. Please Note:
All information provided on this page is correct at the time of writing. Rules and regulations can change suddenly. Travel Indochina will do their utmost to advise you in ample time of any changes but cannot be held responsible for any additional charges incurred. We strongly suggest that you check with the relevant embassies in your country of residence that these guidelines are applicable to you.