The Kingdom of Thailand is spread across 513,115 square kilometers. It is equal to the size of France and a little smaller than Texas. The capital of Thailand is Bangkok. Other cities of Thailand are Nakhon Ratchasima, Chiang Mai and Muang.
Population of Thailand is more than 63 million. Most Thais are Buddhist while there are also Muslims, Hindus and Christians but are in the minority. The language of Thailand is Thai. However, English is spoken in isolated pockets.
Thailand has rich soil conducive for agriculture and most people in the rural areas make their living by cultivating rice in the central, northern and north-eastern part of Thailand. The climate of Thailand is tropical. However, Thailand is developing and industrialization is taking place resulting in a lot of people migrating from rural areas to cities.
The Thai language is similar to Tai, the language spoken by the people who live in Southern China. This has led to a belief that the Thai originally came from southern China before migrating to South East Asia in the 6th or 7th century. Until 1938, Thailand was called Siam. It has a very close relationship with United Kingdom which signed the Treaty of Amity and Commerce in 1938 with Thailand and ended up being the first time that this country was recognized by a western power.
Japanese occupied Thailand during World War II. In 1945, after the Japanese were defeated, Thailand started having close relationship with the United States, which helped the communist regime to come to power.
Economy of Thailand is based on exports. Rice is the major cash crop and it is exported to many countries around the world. Fishery and other affiliated products are a major industry and along with rubber, corn and sugar it forms a large part of the export market.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/
Facts About Thailand
By Pauline Go
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Facts About Thailand
Saturday, May 17, 2008
Phuket - Natures Own Amphitheater of Entertainment
Breathtaking scenery silhouetted with the most amazing tropical sunset- this is Phuket, home to Asia's most spectacular beaches. Phuket is Thailand's largest island sprawling with travelers round the year to to be a part of the fun-filled sandy beaches of the blue ocean. The most famous beach in Phuket is undeniably the Patong Beach, which is an ideal place to play during the day and exhaust yourself partying hard at night.
Centered around tourism, Phuket has left no stone unturned to amaze you with fun and adventure popping up at even the most unlikely of places. There are loads of other beaches as well which promise entertainment, but often preferred by individuals and families seeking a relaxing and serene environment.
It's not only the beaches which attract travelers, but there are other enticements as well which draw them to the travel paradise. Phuket waterfalls attract a lot of people who seek a cool and soothing place for a great dip and at the same time, want to top it up with a picnic! The waterfalls are mostly located in the surrounding tropical forests and require a bit of trekking which offers the chance to peek at the wildlife. The Khao Phra Thaeo National Park and the Sirinath National Park offer travelers with a heavy dose of adrenaline laced adventure which includes trekking, elephant safari, and canoing or rafting.
There are several viewpoints from where you can get a panoramic view of the tropical sunsets or sunrises, but for people who like to enjoy the beauty of nature in seclusion, it's best to go in the early morning. Phuket has its own share of history and a visit to the beautiful Wat Chalong Buddhist Temple gives you a glimpse of the life of the legendary Buddhist monk, Luang Poh Cham. The island of Phuket is full of adventure and it actually grabs the attention of the traveler who loves to let out that extra bit of sweat to discover the uncharted attractions of a place.
An extra yard from the sandy beaches of Phuket, lies the adventure of scuba diving, letting you discover the underwater life along the beautiful coral reefs. Jet-skiing and para-sailing are equally popular and offer the promise of a pure adrenaline rush. Another attraction of Phuket is the electrifying marvel of Muay Thai, locally known as Muay Thai, held in a specially built stadium on Soi Bangla.
Travelers can witness the pure passion of Thailand's historic sport amidst the cheers of the crowds and the strains of drums and trumpets accompanying the fight right from the beginning to end. For travelers who like to play it cool and clean, can go for the international standard golf courses in Phuket, each one of which offers a spectacular scenery which makes every moment cherished and makes you crave for more!
Anxious about where you can put up! Phuket hotels offers a wide range of accommodation options from budget to luxury stays. Nearly all the hotels in Phuket are in set in admirable locations and offer an easy access and getaway with the availability of taxis and rental cars, or even bikes to explore the island of Phuket.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/
Phuket - Natures Own Amphitheater of Entertainment
By Alexs Albert