Thailand's diverse geography offers an impressive range of activities. Northern Thailand's mountainous forests are renowned for their spectacular waterfalls, lush green scenery, caves, birds, and other wildlife. The exotic elephant safaris and trekking with knowledgeable guides to visit remote hilltribes have become very popular.
A wealth of shopping opportunities awaits the visitor, and bargains abound throughout our country in traditional handicrafts, textiles, gems, jewellery and antiques, as well as more contemporary items
There is never a dull day in Thailand. Whether it is the Songkran Festival or the first cool breeze of the winter season, there is always something to make you smile, laugh, cry or get excited about. Thailand is a land of magic and mystery attracting the Western world in seek of advantage and romance. Blessed with a huge allocation of beautiful natural resources and extraordinary culture, it is no wonder that Thais are such fun-loving people.Quite simply, where else can you find pristine beaches, crystal blue waters, an assortment of activities and a choice of modern or primitive accommodations all in one compact package? Take the opportunity to view the destinations below and see what hidden treasures await you.
The fertile flatlands and important water tributaries of the Central Plains, the heart of Thailand, makes it the agricultural food basket of the Kingdom. Also located within this area are beautiful mountains, small and big, pristine forests, spectacular waterfalls, and mighty rivers.
Historical records indicate this area was an important Mon settlement during the Dvaravati Kingdom (6th -11th centuries) until they fell to the more powerful Khmer Empire (11th-13th centuries) from Cambodia. The Khmers established Lop Buri as their center and expanded their empire to be inclusive of Suphan Buri, Phetchaburi, and Singburi. In the mid-14th century, Ayutthaya rose to become a powerful empire and the second capital of Siam. Foreigners were welcomed and international trade and religion prospered. By the middle of the 16th century, Ayutthaya's control spread throughout the entire Central Plains.
With such a diverse group of ethnic backgrounds, a myriad of artistic and architectural styles created cultural wonders that have stood the test of time and have garnered the merit of being national treasures. Aside from the structures, younger generations preserved their unique culture and folk traditions.
Many interesting attractions lie in this region. In Bangkok you'll find it all, from famed palace grounds and temples to entertaining theme parks and cultural centers. The nearby provinces provide nice, one-day excursions, whether you choose to go to Ayutthaya to polish up on your Thai history or throw yourself at Pattaya for some fun and sun.
In popular seaside resorts, a variety of water sports are on offer, from parasailing, waterskiing, windsurfing and motorboat/ jet ski rentals. Inflatable "banana boat" rides have gained in popularity, where a maximum of 5 sitting astride an elongated rubber tube attempt to hold on as the motorboat tugging it sends it into a number of swerves, eventually resulting in a wipe out.
Deep Sea Fishing
Anglers have a choice of excellent facilities for big game fishing at Pattaya and Phuket, where it's almost guaranteed you'll catch a sailfish at the latter destination throughout the year.
Islands
Spectacular off-shore islands dot the azure waters of Southern Thailand and the Gulf of Thailand, providing ample opportunities for frolicking in the sun or for perfecting those tans.
Sailing
The international yachting fraternity love Thailand's dramatic coastline and congregate once a year at Phuket for the annual King's Cup Regatta. H.R.H. The King was once an avid sailor and still shows interest for this sport. Though sailing is possible from Hua Hin and Pattaya, the best facilities and most scenic sights are in Phuket. Charter a yacht, join a crew or even sail one of your own, the choice is endless.
Scuba Diving/ Snorkeling
The Andaman Sea offers some of the world's most spectacular coral reefs, ocean drop-offs, and submerged pinnacles. With numerous wreck dive sites and islands also available on the Gulf of Thailand side, diving is capable nearly year-round. The crystal clear waters enables you to view colorful sea fans and soft corals for up to 100 feet, while the murky waters, full of nutrients, attracts larger marine animals, with numerous sightings of the elusive whale shark. The tropical, warm currents means suiting up in bathing suits is quite adequate.
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| Climate |
The extreme south of the country has an equatorial climate and the centre and north have a tropical monsoon climate. Rainfall is abundant throughout the country and mainly falls between Jun-Oct when it is warm, humid and cloudy. Nov-Apr is much drier with rain falling on a few days. The hottest months are Mar & May. Hot and humid for most of the year particularly during the monsoon season between Jun-Oct. Outside the main rainy season, humidity is lower although temperatures remain high |
| Local Time |
GMT +7 |
| Customs |
Import
Allowances
a) 200 cigarettes or 250gr of cigars or tobacco
b) 1 lit of spirits & 1 lit of wine
c) Goods up to the value of THB 10,000
Currency
a) 200 cigarettes or 250gr of cigars or tobacco
b) 1 lit of spirits & 1 lit of wine
c) Goods up to the value of THB 10,000 |
| Passport & Visa |
The following details relate to holders of adult normal passports (requirements for children may be different), if any other type of passport or travel document is held, entry requirements should be checked with the relevant embassy or consulate
Required, but NOT by the following:
1) Holders of a Hong Kong Certificate of Identity (only green passport type certificate issued to residents of Hong Kong) bearing a Thai visa issued in Hong Kong
2) Holders of a Singapore Certificate of Identity with a visa
Passports must be valid 6 months beyond intended length of stay
The following DO NOT require a visa:
1) Nationals of Thailand
2) For tourist visits up to 30 days, provided holding THB 10,000 per person or THB 20,000 per family & being ordinary passport holders of:
a) United Kingdom
b) Australia, Austria, Bahrain, Belgium, Brazil, Brunei Darussalam, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong (S.A.R. passport holders), Indonesia, Ireland Rep, Israel, Italy, Japan, Korea (South), Kuwait, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Peru, Philippines, Portugal, Qatar, Singapore, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, United States & Vietnam |
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