Thailand Country Information

Country Information
Thailand draws more visitor than any other country in South East Asia. This country is well known in Western countries because of its unique tradition and culture. Tourism plays a major role in country’s business. Every year, thousands of foreigners came to visit this country.
Thailand is quiet a large country that is similar to the United Kingdom, bordering Cambodia and Laos to the east, Malaysia and the Gulf of Thailand to the south, and the Andaman sea and Myanmar to the west.
Thailand Fast Fact
· Capital: Bangkok
· Major Language: Thai
· Major Religion: Buddhism
· Population: 65,444,371(July 2005 est.)
· Area: 513,000 km
· Currency: Baht
· Time Zone: UTC + 7
· Internet TLD: .th
· Calling Code: +66
Thailand is the 49th largest country and it is home to a distinct geographic. If you will go to the north, you will see that it is a mountainous area: Doi Inthanon, the highest point with 8,451 feet. The center of the country is dominated by Chao Phraya River which runs to the Gulf of Thailand. The south consists of a narrow land bridge, known as Kra Isthmus that connects to the Malaysian Peninsula.
Thailand's climate is tropical. high in temperature and humidity, and dominated by moonsoon. April and May are the hottest months, but June is the beginning of rainy season and it usually ends in the month of October. From November until the end of February, the climate is cool especially in Northern Thailand.
The year of 1997 was the time when Thailand's economy collapsed. Baht currency reached it's lowest point of 56 from 25 against the US Dollar. Many foreign investors closed it's door, resulting for many Thai people to lose their jobs. Banks were bankrupt. Stocks and prices fell dramatically. After PM Thaksin Shinawatra won the 2001 election, there was a rapid growth in the country's economy. He implemented various domestic programs known as Thaksinomics. Foreign investors open it's door again for business, and tourism industry was in its peak.Thailands natural resources like tin,rubber,timber etc, also helps and contributes to the country's economy's GDP.
Thailand is a Buddhist country. According to the latest census, more than 95% of Thais are Buddhist. Islam is also the second largest religion in the country. You can see lots of Muslims in the south of Thailand, particularly in Yala,Pattani, and Narathiwat. There are also some Christians, but it only represents a few percent of the population.
Thailand is also a constitutional monarchy. His Majesty the king Bhumibhol Adulyadej is the most respected and the world's longest reigning monarch. He celebrated his 6oth anniversary of ascension on the throne last June. Thais have a deep respect with their king, including the other members of the royal family. Telling a joke or a jest to the Royal family is a grave insult for the Thai people and its country

Ecotourism in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai has many tourism spots in terms of such natural attractions as mountains, cultural and historical sites which reflect the glories of Chiang Mai civilization and a sophisticated infrastructure. Chiang Mai has been proud of the city’s 700 year history. Its rich traditional heritage and unique culture is a perfect foundation for the development of the city. Thailand government is now looking forward to the policy about tourism development with emphasis in community participation, safety of tourists and non-exploitation. The national parks system in Chiang Mai has great opportunities for the ecotourism industry.Tourists can enjoy trekking, elephant shows, cycling tours, rafting and bird washing. Chiang Mai offers unique opportunities for the adventures. Lush hills and virgin forests are scenic backdrops that will make tourists trekking by foot or on elephant back truly memorable. The most popular trails are in Doi Inthanon National Park where over 300 bird species and a wide variety of orchids and other flowers can be seen. Chiang Mai also has a lot to offer to bird lovers. Its forests, perfect wildlife sanctuaries, are good observation spots for bird watching activities. Among several popular places are Doi Inthanon and Doi Suthep. Chiang Mai’s mountainous terrain and scenic destinations make the province perfect for both cycling and mountain biking. Alternatively, it is possible to experience the scenery along Maenam Ping which flows peachfully through villages, old temples, farms, etc. Chiang Mai, as well as, provides good opportunities of rafting using bamboo or rubber rafts, as there are lots of rivers and streams flowing throughout the province. All rivers flow throughout the province. All rivers flow through lush forests and hill tribe settlements.Tourists can also buy hill tribe products. Exotic, traditional and unique, products are sold by hill tribe people dressed in traditional costumes. It is not possible to resist buying one of the hand-made silver ornaments, bracelets, necklaces, pendants, hairpins, pipes, and embroidered items that are available.Ecotourism in Chiang Mai can be both natural and cultural ways in the same times. Tourists can enjoy traveling during helping nature and local people