traveled to thailand

Overview 

Formerly known as Siam, Thailand is found in the center of South East Asia, on both the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea. Thailand has been settled by humans for more than 40,000 years. It has several geographic regions, mountains, plateaus, river valleys and palm lined beaches. The activities are as varied, from sightseeing and shopping in the modern cities like Bangkok, to visiting Stone Age villages in the mountain, from climbing to diving. The most popular time for visitingThailand is between November and February when temperatures a comparatively cooler, between 29 and 33 centigrade.

Climate

Thailand is associated with a tropical climate. This means that the country sees high humidity and warm temperatures throughout the year. January and February are the nation’s driest months with most of the rainfall coming between June and October. In fact, 90% of the nation’s rain comes during this five month period. The monsoons usually occur between this time as well leading to flooding in the north, northeastern and central areas of Thailand. Temperatures will range from 20 degrees Celsius in the coolest month of December to 35 degrees in April. Anywhere from March to May is considered to be the hottest time of the year.

Transportation

For traveling long distances within Thailand, boarding flights is the best way to reach your destination fast. While Thai Airways (http://www.thaiairways.com/) can help you reach almost all major tourist destinations within the country, Bangkok Airways (http://www.bangkokair.com/en/index.php) is ideal to reach Sukhothai and Samui. Budget travelers wishing to access Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai, Phuket and Hat Yai can board flights operated by Air Asia (http://www.airasia.com/in/en/home.html). 

 

You may also use trains operated by the State Railways of Thailand if you are looking for an economical and leisurely travel option. However, the tracks end at Chiang Mai but you can board trains for some interesting excursions and to visit a national park, which is accessible only via train. You can check train schedules at http://www.thaifocus.com/travel/train/index.htm.

 

Buses, especially those that can help you reach provincial destinations from Bangkok, can be another option. Though a superb road network is in place, you may face some problem as road signs in small rural villages and remote areas are often not in English. 

Quick Facts

Official Country Name: Kingdom of Thailand

Capital: Bangkok

Largest City: Bangkok

Official Language: Thai

Area: 513,120 Sq km

Population: 65,998,436

Currency:  Baht (THB)

GDP (Per Capita): 8,643 US $

Calling Code: +66