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Holidayco.co.uk specialises in cheap Thailand holidays, package holidays and late deals to a huge number of destinations. Find out more about Thailand in our guide below.

Holidays in Thailand

Located in Southeast Asia between Myanmar, China and the states of Vietnam, Malaysia and Cambodia, Thailand comprises four main regions. The north is dominated by mountains and forests, with drier farmlands in the northeastern plateau. The central region is a 'breadbasket' area of rice fields. The south comprises a long and narrow peninsula with many tropical islands bordering it.

Thailand (whose name means 'Land of the Free') is a constitutional monarchy. Buddhism is the national religion, though others are freely tolerated and even recognized as protected by the head of state.

The majority of the population are ethnic Thais, but there are significant groups with Chinese and Malaysian origins, plus several minorities. The cultural diversity of the population has resulted in a very varied cultural heritage which can be seen in most regions.

The climate is tropical. On average, it is hot and dry (upwards of 30 ° C) between February and May, somewhat cooler and wetter June to October, and cooler and drier (32-20 ° C) in November to January. The northern regions are cooler at night, while the south experiences near-constant high temperatures.

Thai culture expects a certain level of dress when dining or at other formal occasions. A jacket will be necessary, and it is considered inappropriate to wear beach clothes when not at the beach.

Unlike some other nations, haggling is not a national sport in Thailand, though it is common in markets and some other circumstances. Thais are often happy to bargain up to a point, but dislike quibbling over small amounts.

Thailand Facts at a Glance

Area: 513,115 km 2
Climate: Varied
Terrain: Rain forests in the south. Forests, mountains and farmland in the north.
Population: 68 million
Languages: Thai. English is spoken by many Thais.
Currency: Baht
Time Zone: GMT +7 hours
International Dialling Code: +66

Among the main holiday destinations in Thailand are Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Sukothai.

Bangkok is a huge city with a long history. Parts of it are little more than a modern urban sprawl, but much still remains of the old city, which has been a capital for three hundred years. Shoppers can choose from modern malls or street markets, while those with a taste for foreign food can find almost anything they want among the many restaurants. Bangkok is also famous for its night life.

Among the sights to see in Bangkok are the temple of Wat Phra Kaeo (the Temple of the Emerald Buddha), the temple of Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha) and the Grand Palace. The palace is built in a European style even though it is surrounded by all that is Asian.

The National Museum in Bangkok is the largest in the region. Thailand and the surrounding countries have a long history which is still being discovered, and the museum contains many artifacts from the ancient capitals of the region as well as more modern pieces of history.

Chiang Mai in the northwest of Thailand has over 300 temples and monasteries, and has a long history as an important regional centre. Its oldest temple is over 800 years old, and there is plenty of other evidence of the past to be discovered – some of it even older.

In addition to its own historical attractions, Chiang Mai is an excellent base from which to explore the region. Nearby is the village of Bo Sang, where traditional crafts of the local hill tribes are still practiced and sold. There is also a tribal museum which contains many examples of tribal life and traditions.

Near to Chiang Mai is the Elephant Conservation Centre, where visitors can learn all about these fascinating and intelligent animals close up. The centre offers elephant rides, exhibitions and a chance to give an elephant a bath!

For those interested in nature, there is a national part nearby which includes Thailand's highest mountain, Doi Inthanon. The mountain scenery is spectacular, with many species of wilds birds to observe.

Pushing further northeast, visitors will come to the great sandstone plateau of Isan. This area has great historical significance, some of which is only now coming to light. There are many ruins dating from the days of the Khmer empire.

Sukothai was once capital of Thailand, but was lost in the jungle for many years. The region is now protected as the Sukothai Historical Park which preserves the ancient temples and ruins of the city. Sukothai ruled over the first Thai kingdom during a period of cultural and religious expansion and retains the wonder of those ancient days.

Activities

Thailand is a large country and has a lot to offer. Most large urban areas offer good shopping and night life, plus of course international and traditional Thai cooking. Coastal areas such as the islands and the southern peninsula) offer excellent opportunities for those seeking a beach holiday. Many resorts offer unique extras such as elephant rides.

For those interested in the rich history of this ancient nation, there are many unique attractions. Just a couple of hours' drive from Bangkok is the ancient capital of Ayutthava. Today Ayutthava is a World Heritage site containing palaces and religious sites. Also in the region is the oldest city of Thailand, Nakhon Pathom, and the floating market at Damnoen Saduak.

A more modern, and less pleasant, historical site is Kanchanaburi, site of a museum dedicated to the second world war. Built on the site of the Bridge On The River Kwai, the museum is today operated by monks who also tend the cemeteries nearby.

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