Geography

Thailand is situated in South-East Asia, covering an area of nearly 513,115 square kilometres. It is roughly the size of France. It shares land borders with Myanmar (Burma) in the north and west, the Andaman Sea in the west, Laos in the north and north-east, Cambodia and the Gulf of Thailand in the east, and Malaysia in the south. The shape of the country is similar to the profile of an elephant with a long trunk stretching down the peninsular. At school, students are taught that their country resembles the shape of an ancient axe with the peninsular being the handle.

(Source: www.thailandguidebook.com)

Tradition & Culture

Thailand is a country of scenic diversity and ancient traditions, of tranquil temples and modern urban excitement. With and independent history going back more than seven centuries, it has managed to absorb
a variety of cultural influences and blend them into something uniquely and memorably Thai. (Source: www.tourismthailand.org)

For example, instead of shaking hands when greeting one anothers, Thais generally greets in a prayer-like gesture called a wai by pressing the palms together. Generally, a younger person initiates the greeting with a wai, and the elder one would return the gesture.

Thai Foods

Thai food is known for its enthusiastic use of fresh (rather than dried) herbs and spices as well as fish sauce.

Thai food is popular in many Western countries especially in Australia, New Zealand, some countries in Europe such as the United Kingdom, as well as the United States, and Canada.

Instead of a single main course with side dishes found in Western cuisine, a Thai full meal typically consists of either a single dish or rice khao with many complementary dishes served concurrently. (Source: www.tourismthailand.org)

Weather

Thailand enjoys a tropical climate with 3 distinct seasons - summer from March through May, rainy with plenty of sunshine from June to September and cool from October through February. The average annual temperature is 28 C (83 F), ranging, in Bangkok, for example, from 30 C in April to 25 C in December. (Source: www.thailandguidebook.com)

Bangkok Mass Transit ( http://www.bts.co.th )

The BTS Skytrain is the safest, most comfortable and convenient way to get around Bangkok. In service since December 5, 1999, it has transformed the face of public transportation in the Thai capital, for the first time offering both residents and visitors a comfortable ride through central Bangkok - lifting commuters above the chronic congestion, noise and pollution of the streets below.

Our modern electrified trains transport Bangkok's commuters in wide air-conditioned cars, saving them time with quick, reliable service. The BTS SkyTrain's high-capacity operating system ensures almost no breakdowns and a virtual 100% punctuality. Each train can carry over 1,000 passengers while a similar number of people would use 800 cars, making the BTS Skytrain the most environmentally friendly mass transit system in Thailand.

Currently there are two routes, the Sukhumvit Line and the Silom Line. They cover much of the central city and its many commercial, residential and tourist areas, with extensions planned to outlying areas. The trains run daily between 6:00 am and 12:00 midnight with frequent service throughout the day, increased during rush hours. The fare is based on the distance traveled.

Tourism Information for Bangkok and Surrounding Areas

Here are some of the famous tourist attractions in Bangkok and surounding areas. For more information please visit the Tourism Authority of Thailand website or Bangkok Tourist

The Royal Grand Palace

The Royal Grand Palace, with its collection of pavilions, gilded chedits and golden spires can only be described as an Oriental masterpiece. Inside the Royal Chapel is the Emerald Buddha, which has been carved from a solid piece of jade. This half-day also includes a visit to a loval Gems Factory.

Ancient Ayuthaya and River Cruise

Ayuthaya, the ancient capital of Siam was said to have been one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Here you will see ruins of over 400 stone temples and Buddhist statues. At the Summer Palace at Bang Pa-In see the mixture of Thai, Chinese and Gothic architecture. A leisurely cruise takes you back to Bangkok.

Siam Niramit

Help yourself to a delicious buffet before setting down to enjoy an award winning spectacular stage performance of Traditional Thai arts Culture. This captivating show will take you back in time to mystical bygone eras to uncover the history, customs&cultural treasures of the Kingdom of Siam.

Floating Market and Rose Garden

All the famous "Damnoen Saduak" Floating Market see hundreds of wooden boats full fruit, vegetables and spices. At the rose Garden enjoy a buffet lunch and a cultural show including classical dancing, Thai boxing and a traditional wedding. Watch the elephant show and even have the chance to ride one