About Thailand

There's only one country in South East Asia that has never been colonised. Its name means 'Land of the Freedom'. It's Thailand, home to stunning tropical coastlines, gushing rivers, towering mountains and a diverse range of ethnicities.

Thai is the major ethnic group, making up around 75% of the population along with the hill tribes of the north. Chinese make up another 14% and Malays 3%. The common language is Tai or Thai and the country has a population of 63 million with a low density of just 132 per square km.

Thailand is highly dependent on farming, but its economy is slowly becoming more industrial-based. Although the capital, Bangkok, is swelling in numbers, around two-thirds of the population still live in villages.

Bangkok is home to around six million, while other major cities include Chiang Mai, Songkhla, Nonthaburi, and Nakhon Ratchasima.

The most commonly practised religion is Buddhism, with nearly 95% of the populace practising Theravada Buddhism. The remainder are split between Muslims (4.5%) and Christianity (0.7%). Thailand has a workforce of nearly 38 million people and literacy that's almost 93%.

A visit to Thailand is a culturally enlightening experience. As well as the superb architecture, whose best examples include temples and royal palace buildings, Thai cuisine has a worldwide reputation, with its unique blend of salt, sweetness, spice and sour, plus a peppering of herbs and spices.

Music is popular, too, particularly folk and classical music, while dance is split into high art (or classical dance), and low art (or folk dance).

Today, Thailand is a magnet for millions of tourists, drawn to the country's stunning natural landscapes, gorgeous beaches and refined culture. The most popular destinations include Bangkok, economically prosperous and bursting at the scenes with nightlife. If it's beach life you're after, Cha-Am, Ko Samet or the island of Ko Samui are the preferred choices.

Elsewhere, Krabi is a collection of stunningly beautiful islands, Ko Phi Phi and Ko Tai are meccas for scuba diving, and Ko Pha Ngan has a reputation for full-moon parties. There are over 100 National Parks, including While Khao Yai Khao Chong Nature Reserve, Thaleh Ban and Doi Inthanon.

Spectacular ethnic and cultural events and festivals take place all year round. They include Vishakhabuja Day, Songkran and the Rocket Festival. For the adventurous, elephant trekking, scuba diving and kayaking are all popular pastimes.

Today's Thailand truly offers something for everyone.