ThaiLand

Key facts

Official name: Kingdom of Thailand

Capital: Bangkok

Geography: 76 provinces and two special local territories – Bangkok and Pattaya

Land area (2019): 513,120 sq km

Population (2019): 66.6 million

Head of government: Prime Minister General Prayut Chan-o-cha

National language: Thai

Currency: Thai Baht (THB)

Gross domestic product (GDP) (2019): 16,879 billion baht

GDP per capita (2019): 228,373 baht

Introduction Thailand is situated in the heart of Southeast Asia, bordered by the Laos and Cambodia in the east; the Gulf of Thailand and Malaysia in the south; the Andaman Sea and Myanmar in the west; and Laos and Myanmar in the north. It is spread over 513,120 sq km

Demographic profile

The total population of Thailand was almost 66.6 million in 2019. Around 48.96 percent (32.61 million persons) were male and 50.98 percent (33.95 million persons) female. Most of the population lived in the northeastern region (33.05 percent), followed by the northern region (18.2 percent) and Bangkok (16.42 percent). Majority of the population are Buddhists, followed by Muslims and Christians.

Tourism

Thailand is home to Buddhist temples, exotic wildlife and spectacular islands. It is also known for its fascinating history, unique culture and delectable local food. The tourism industry plays an important role in the Thai economy and contributes an estimated 18.4 percent to the national GDP. The tourism sector not only depends on foreign visitors but also domestic tourists whose number dwarfs that of foreign tourists. In 2019, Thailand had 39,797,406 visitors.

So what makes Thailand a popular tourist destination? Let's find out.

The Sites - as one of the world's most visually stunning countries, Thailand's cities have the perfect blend of outdoor enchantment and architectural awe.

What's Thailand's most distinctive trait? Let's take a look.

Bangkok - the capital city is home to amazing structures like the Grand Palace, the Wat Arun temple, and our Damnoen Saduak floating market tour where 10,000 boats are masterfully navigated by vendors selling fresh Thai ingredients.

Phuket - Thailand's largest island drifts along the Andaman Sea, with nearby beaches drawing in visitors thanks to its thriving water sports culture.

Chiang Mai - Welcome to the largest city in Northern Thailand! Millions flock to this province for various reasons, including the 117 temples, and vibrant nightlife.

Chon Buri - Not too far from Bangkok (80 kilometers), this seaside settlement is a seafood lover's dream.

Ayutthaya - This UNESCO World Heritage center is home to several ruins of the Siamese Kingdom. Touring this archaeological site takes you back to the 14th-18th century.

The Food - It's no secret that Thailand is the King of street food. It's so beloved that most residents prefer eating out to cooking at home. Here are some Thai treats to add to your culinary bucket list;

Pad Thai (Thai fried noodles) - This world-famous dish has its roots in Thailand. With tender flat rice noodles, sweet sauces, umami flavor, and crispy fried eggs, it's often considered Thailand's signature meal.

Som Tam (Spicy Green Papaya Salad) - Popular throughout the country, this Northern Thai classic highlights the crunchy and sharp green papaya mixed with carrots, chilies, lime juice, green beans, and so much more!

Gaeng Keow Wan Gai (Thai green curry) - Coconut is a beloved Thai ingredient that shines bright in this savory, slightly sweet, and fragrant curry.

Khao Niew Mamuang (mango with sticky rice) - Cleanse your palate with this traditional sticky rice dessert. Thailand's staple grain is enhanced with creamy condensed milk and fresh mangoes.

Satay (skewered meat) - You'll find some form of skewered, fire-roasted meat on every corner. From sweet and sticky pork to chicken heads, there are enough flavor combinations to last a lifetime.

Travel Treat: You may have seen dramatic videos on the internet highlighting Thailand's exotic snacks, but it's all true! Thai people take pride in knowing how to transform critters like cockroaches and grasshoppers into savory delights. 

The Nature - Nowhere else will you find a landscape so diverse it houses both the second largest land mammal (Asian elephant) and the smallest one (the adorable bumblebee bat). Looking to enjoy Thailand's beautiful nature? Here's how.

Jet Skis and Beach activities at Saigaeo

Elephant Trekking in Phuket

Catamaran Yacht Ride in Pattaya

Waterfalls & Caves in Chiang Mai Travel