Thailand, originally called Siam, is situated in the center of Southeast Asia. It covers an approximate area of 5,133,115 square kilometers. It is geographically divided into two areas, the large expanse in the north and the comparatively smaller peninsular portion in the South. The country is bordered by Burma on the west, Laos on the north and east, Cambodia on the southeast and the Gulf of Thailand on the south.
Thailand occupies the western half of the Indochinese peninsula and the northern two-thirds of the Malay Peninsula in southeast Asia. Its neighbors are Burma (Myanmar) on the north and west, Laos on the north and northeast, Cambodia on the east, and Malaysia on the south. Thailand is about the size of France.
Thailand Tourism
Thailand is discovered by millions of visitors, drawn to its pristine beaches and aquamarine seas, as well as its rich culture, glitzy shopping malls, chic boutiques and colorful markets crammed with bargains.
With its enticing mixture of established destinations such as Phuket and Hua Hin, and out-of-the-way palm-fringed islands, Thailand appeals to the most varied of travellers, whether they are craving barefoot luxury or hippy chic. From staying on a converted rice barge, clambering into a jungle tree house or bedding down in a hill tribe village, Thailand offers a wealth of choice for every taste and budget.
People of Thailand
Several stories revolve around the origin of Thai people. Some say they came from China. Others believe that they came from Vietnam. Wherever they came from, there is an undeniable influence of Chinese culture over their lives. There is also a blend of other cultures arising from various dynasties and clans, such as Mon and Burmese people from the west, Javanese from the south, and Khmer from the east. In addition, there was a tinge of Indian influence as well. So armed with a blend of various cultures, it has developed a culture, which is unique to Thailand yet faintly reminiscent of other cultures.
Religion of Thailand
Buddhism is the basis of religion and spirituality of Thailand. The country is dotted with numerous Buddhist temples.
Culture and Art of Thailand
To appreciate the art of Thailand, one should look at the beautifully sculptured images of Buddha in temples. The temples also reflect the typical Thai architectural style as indicated by the multiple-structured temple compounds. The temple and the idols are adorned with ornaments gilded and embedded with glass mosaic, gold leaf, mother of pearl, and so on.
Traditional Thai music bears a lot of resemblance to Laos and Cambodia musical forms. Phi Phat, Kruang Sai, and Mahori are the major orchestral types that played in theaters, village festivals and by solo vocalists.