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Thailand- Introduction
Thailand's islands and beaches are magical
destinations for a fun filled holiday in the sun. While,
ruins, temples
and deserted cities are an indication of the ancient
stature, the urban Bangkok is the polar opposite in
terms of new-age entertainment, crowds, pollution, energy
and cultural treasures The Kingdom of Thailand covers
a total area of 517,000sq km with a population of 62
million people. It is a mix of the predominantly Thai,
and then Malay, Mon, Phuan and Karen minorities. Buddhism
is most widely practiced religion and Thai is spoken
all over the country. Thailand has an efficient transport
system and provides cheap accommodation. The Thais are
a friendly and hospitable people who like extending
their hospitality to strangers.
Major Tourist Destinations
Bangkok
Bangkok is one of Asia's most exciting cities, which
offers a wide range of activities even though it is
choked with traffic jams, pollution, annual floods and
humid weather. The Wat Phra Kaew and the Grand Palace,
Wat Pho and Wat Traimit must be visited here. This latter
is the Temple of the Golden Buddha, and houses the 3m
tall, 5 1/2-tonne solid-gold Buddha image. Other tourist
sights include the Wat Sai floating market in Thonburi,
a boat trip through the city's extensive network of
canals (klongs), the Saovabha Institute Snake Farm and
the renowned Oriental Hotel.
Nakhon Pathom
Nakhon Pathom is regarded as the oldest city in Thailand
and is host to the 127m, orange-tiled Phra Pathom Chedi,
the tallest Buddhist monument in the world.
Ayuthaya
There are 16th-18th century temple ruins at Ayuthaya
dating to the most flourishing period of Thai history
have been declared a World Heritage Site. The magnificent
ruins tell a tale of splendor and glory of the ancient
kingdom.
Chiang Mai
Chinag Mai is Thailand's second-largest city and very
traveler friendly. It is well known for its restaurants
and guesthouses. Its evenings are cool and shopping
at the central Night Bazaar is an exciting experience.
Chiang Mai is a good base for mountain treks to visit
the hill tribes that live in the surrounding area.
Ko Samui
This beautiful island off southeastern Thailand is covered
with coconut plantations and circled by (call us clichéd
but it's true) palm-fringed beaches. The most popular
beaches are Hat Chaweng and Hat Lamai with swimming
and snorkeling facilities.
Phuket
Also known as the 'Pearl of the South', Phuket is Thailand's
largest island. Connected to the mainland by a bridge,
it has retained a distinct culture. There are good beaches,
tropical vegetation and a pleasant, relaxed atmosphere
here. The main resorts include Patong, Karon and Kata
with other beaches scattered all around the island.
Chachoengsao
Chachoengsao is home to one of the most sacred Buddha
images in Thailand, the Phra Phuttha Sothon. The image
is said to be associated with a famous monk with holy
powers who supposedly predicted the exact moment of
his death. Chachoengsao makes a great excursion to to
experience provincial Thai life.
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