Thailand

Thailand often referred as “Land of the free” is the only country in Southeast Asia that was never colonized by a European power. One of the most sought after tourist destinations, Thailand does not fail to satisfy the quench of travelers looking for diversity.

Introduction:
Thailand offers many exciting tourist attractions and boasts of islands, beaches, caves, hills, waterfall, natural forests, and historical places. Bangkok is the capital city and acts as the hub of political, industrial and cultural activities. It is also the seat of Thailand’s revered Royal Family.

Geography:
Located in the midst of Southeast Asia, Thailand comprising of 76 provinces acts as a passageway to Myanmar, Indo-China and Southern China. Furthermore Thailand is characterized by the mountains and forests in the North; the vast rice fields in the Central Plains; the semi-arid farm lands in the Northeast plateau; and the tropical islands and long coastline of the peninsula south.

Climate:
Thailand experiences both tropical and humid climate for most part of the year. Northern Thailand is characterized by dry weather during November to February and March to May whereas Southern region enjoys only two seasons- wet & dry.
By and large the southern parts of Thailand get by far the most rain with around 2,400 millimeters every year in comparison to central and northern regions of Thailand, both of which experience around 1,400 millimeters.

Flora & Fauna:
Thailand boasts of a diverse flora & fauna, although this biodiversity is highly endangered. 70 % of all plant species of Thailand are liana, moss and fern.

Increased clearing of wildlife habitat and wide scale hunting has led to the fauna being highly affected. Although Thailand boasts of the highest fishing rates in the world most of the fish species are already heavily obliterated and a great deal of the habitats in the wetlands of the coast and the upcountry are destroyed by the expanding crustacean- and fish farms.

Must see Destinations:

Bangkok:
Bangkok is Thailand’s capital in true sense of the term. The Royal Family of Thailand resides in Bangkok and acts as the center of government, administration, and is the hub of industrial, cultural & commercial activities.
Bangkok’s skyline is predominantly reflective of high-rise offices, luxury hotels, shopping malls and buildings.

Founded as the capital in 1782 by King Rama I. Bangkok has successfully blended the old and new. It is reflective of the Thais’ lasting respect for tradition and involvement with progress.

Pattaya:
Situated 145 km southeast of Bangkok, Pattaya has emerged as an undisputed beach resort in Thailand. Alive with different activities, Pattaya leaves a lasting impression on the tourists. Infact, tourists are spoilt for choices in Pattaya.

There are abundant provisions for all kinds of water-sports be it sailing, water-skiing, windsurfing, para-sailing, water cable skiing, snorkeling, scuba diving and deep-sea fishing. You name it & you have it. Infact one can also avail of a course in scuba diving and gain a proficiency certificate during a week’s stay. Experts are also available to teach the tricks of windsurfing.

If water sports are not what one is looking for, one can choose from motor racing, go-karting, shooting, ten pin bowling and snooker.

Phuket:
Shaped like an irregular pearl and measuring approximately 21km wide by 48km long, Phuket is Thailand’s largest island and a province in its own right. Sparsely populated outside Phuket town, the landscape is one of lush green hills, coconut groves, rubber plantations and a coastline dotted with a dozen spectacular beaches. Set against a backdrop of palms and casuarinas, each idyllic stretch of sand has a character and charm of its own.

Among the sea sports Scuba diving is the most sought after, followed by Yachting and deep-sea fishing. One can also opt for bungee-jumping or golf. Horse riding and go-kart racing are other options.

Ko Phi Phi:
Ko Phi Phi located 48km from Phuket & 42 km from Krabi comprises of two islands, Phi Phi Don known for its beaches and Phi Phi Le comprising of cliffs. Ko Phi Phi is well known among diving lovers from all over the world. The coral reefs and clear waters along with the colorful fishes swimming in their natural habitat are a sight to behold. One has to avail of a boat to reach the island. Infact tours to Phi Phi Le are done on board kayaks

Chiang Mai:
Thailand’s second largest city Chiang Mai is situated 700 kilometers north of Bangkok. Various temples, rivers, mountains, and adventure escapades has made Chiang Mai a major tourist destination.

Phang Nga Beach:
Phang Nga is known for its limestone cliffs protruding out of green water. Mystifying caves, exotic lagoons and serene beaches is in store for the travelers.

Patong Beach:
Patong Beach located in Phuket Island, is the most well known beach of Thailand. Apart from exquisite beach, the place offers remarkable nightlife experience, exhilarating adventures and frenzied shopping.

Krabi Beach:
An area of ethereal scenic splendor, Krabi is popular for its palm-fringed beaches, invigorating spas and stunning limestone caves.

Ao Phang Nga National Park:
The National Park is one of the well known wildlife spots for the birdwatchers and admirers of marine life.

Hat Thai Muang National Park:
The Park comprises of a beach with turtles, waterfall and a forest full of wild creatures, making it a must watch for nature lovers.

Muang Boran:
It is the largest outdoor museum in the world displaying the replicas of monuments gathered from all over Thailand. The open museum is designed on the map of Thailand.

Suan Pakkad Palace Museum: It is known for its inimitable combination of traditional architecture, remarkable number of collections and blossoming gardens.