Thailand Holidays

Known worldwide as the "Land of Smiles", Thailand has gained an international following of visitors attracted to the country's warn climate, friendly people and relaxed way of life. Welcoming more than 15 million visitors every year, the country is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world and many come back year after year.

The Thai Kingdom has existed since the 14th Century and was formerly known as Siam. Thais pride themselves on never having been colonised by a European power, the only country in Southeast Asia to claim this honour. Home to some 65 million people, the country is of a similar size to France and has become globally known for its beautiful beaches. Due to its varied typography and long shape, the official three seasons: hot, rainy and cool are not set in stone and visitors will most likely be able to find great weather in Thailand at any given time of year.

In recent years, a growing number of Thais now speak English as a second language and the country's well established travel culture makes visiting and travelling within the country easy. A huge proportion of the population is employed in the tourism industry and visitors will find English speaking staff at hotels, restaurants and travel agencies in most major holiday destinations such as Koh Samui, Phuket, Pattaya, Bangkok and Chiang Mai. In more remote areas, English language skills may not be as widespread but hand signals, a few standard phrases and smiles will win the respect of the locals.

One of the greatest tourist attractions in Thailand is its nature. A 3000km coastline provide some of the world's best white sandy beaches and the warm climate has made the underwater world a diverse ecosystem with a wide range of species on display for the diving-inclined. The waters off Koh Tao in the Gulf of Thailand and Phuket on the west coast is a popular place for beginners wanting to take their diving certificate. In Khao Yai north of Bangkok, visitors can drop in at the local wineries after a long day on a trek or opt for a leisurely ride on horseback. In the country's north, in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, protected rain forest and rapid water falls make for excellent jungle trekking either on foot or by elephant. In Bangkok, the Grand Palace never ceases to amaze visitors with its glittering temples and the emerald Buddha in the centre of the palace grounds.

The official religion of Thailand is Buddhism and the majority of Thais practice Theravada Buddhism with many young men taking time out of their busy lives to become a monk for a period of time. The option is also open to foreigners wanting the learn about the ancient religion, which will also provide a unique insight into modern Thailand. No matter what attractions visitors choose to visit while visiting the Kingdom, they are sure to leave satisfied and with impressions to last a lifetime.