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Thailand

✨ The land of smiles

Thailand is a country in mainland Southeast Asia, covering about 513,000 square kilometres. It borders Myanmar to the west and north, Laos to the northeast, Cambodia to the southeast and Malaysia to the south. The country has coastlines along the Andaman Sea to the west and the Gulf of Thailand to the east. Its landscape is varied, with mountains in the north and west, the fertile Chao Phraya River basin in the centre, and a long southern peninsula extending between two seas.

The highest point is Doi Inthanon, which rises to 2,565 metres in northern Thailand. Bangkok, located in the central plain near the Chao Phraya River, is the capital and largest city. Thailand also includes numerous islands, particularly in the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand. Its location between the Indian Ocean and the South China Sea has made the country an important geographical link within Southeast Asia. Thailand has a tropical climate influenced by seasonal monsoon winds.

Much of the country experiences a rainy season, a cooler and generally drier period, and a hotter season, although the timing and intensity vary by region. The south receives substantial rainfall and has extensive tropical vegetation, while the north contains mountains and forested areas. Thailand's ecosystems include forests, wetlands, mangroves, coral reefs and coastal habitats, supporting species such as elephants, gibbons, hornbills and many marine animals.

Agriculture remains important, with rice, rubber, cassava, sugar cane and tropical fruits among the main products. Manufacturing, tourism, trade and services also play major roles in the economy. Thai is the official language. Thailand is known for its long cultural history, which has been influenced by local traditions and contacts with neighbouring regions. Its geography, fertile plains and access to surrounding seas have strongly shaped settlement, agriculture and economic activity.

💡 Did you know?

Imagine a festival where everyone throws buckets of water at each other in the street! That's Songkran, the Thai New Year. For several days, cities turn into gigantic water fights. It's a way to purify oneself and bring luck for the year ahead. Even elephants join in by spraying passers-by with their trunks! It's the most refreshing party of the year under the hot tropical sun.

Did you know that in Thailand, monkeys are treated to a royal buffet every year? In the city of Lopburi, residents organize the 'Monkey Buffet Festival.' They set out tons of fruit, vegetables, and cakes on tables solely for the thousands of monkeys living there. It's a way to thank them because they're considered descendants of a courageous god and they attract curious people from all over the world.

If you go to Bangkok, you must try a Tuk-tuk! It is a small three-wheeled motorcycle with a roof and a bench in the back for passengers. They are often decorated with neon lights and bright colors. The driver weaves through traffic jams with agility. The name 'Tuk-tuk' comes from the engine noise of the very first models. It is the funniest means of transport to visit the historic center!