An Introduction to Thailand

They called Thailand `The Land of Smiles’, and with good reason- for there’s a smile on every face here, a welcoming and friendly smile. The land itself, a completely intoxicating blend of clear azure seas, white beaches, gold-spired temples and serene-faced Buddhas, is welcoming all the way. The sun-seeking, leisure-loving band will love the gloriously white, palm-fringed beaches of Phuket and Koh Samui, Hua-Hin and Pattaya that are perfect as can be.

For a change from beaches and blue seas, travel inland to the historic cities of Sukhothai and Ayutthaya, where ancient ruins stand sentinel, seemingly against the passage of time itself. Take a trip into the mountains, to the pretty city of Chiang Mai, erstwhile capital of the kingdom, or go on a tryst with nature in the Khao Yai National Park.

And, should you get tired of history and culture and natural beauty, head for the national capital, Bangkok. Slick, sleek, raunchy Bangkok, which manages to be home to tranquil pagodas and chaotic bazaars, quiet side streets and the hottest bars in this part of the world. Tread the temple trail through Bangkok’s 400-odd wats; whiz down the city’s canals in a boat; feast on some of the most mouthwatering grub anywhere on earth.

Sawasdee. Welcome to the land of the Thais – to the country of smiles, to a kingdom with a hundred wonderful treasures, each just waiting to be discovered.

Making your way here…
A host of airlines operate regular flights to and from the international airports at Bangkok from the major cities of India and rest of the world.

…and Getting Around
Making your way around Thailand is best done by air as the network is efficient and extensive. Within cities, transport options are abundant, running the gamut from overhead trains (Bangkok’s `Sky Train) and river-taxis to buses, cabs, motorbike-taxis and cars for hire.

A Roof over Your Head…
Thailand’s amazingly popular on tourist itineraries, which translates into a vast range of accommodation options to choose from. Sleek five-star deluxe hotels and resorts; budget hotels and guesthouses are just some of the many places you can stay while in the country.

… a Good Meal, a Great Bargain and more Fresh herbs and seafood, delicate flavours and fiery spices give Thai cuisine a flavour all its own. Tuck into it at posh restaurants, tiny eateries, roadside stalls- you’ll find exquisitely cooked local food virtually everywhere! For those whose taste buds aren’t too adventurous, there are always a number of restaurants serving Continental, Indian or other cuisines. Thailand’s a great place to go shopping for everything from jewellery and cloth (especially silk) to basketry, ceramics, flowers and more.

…and one Last bit of Advice.
Tourists attract touts by the score, and the only way to deal with them is to keep a step ahead. Do not get taken in by those who’ll swoop down on you, offering guided tours, transport and more at huge discounts. Bargain, when you are out at local markets, but remember to smile. It goes a long way in Thailand!

More information on Thailand