Thailand for me

I am deeply captivated by all things that provide me with a sense of discovery. Colors, sights, smells and sounds of a unique culture fascinate me and draw me in. Thailand offers attractions suitable the best of all my interests. My dream vacation is one that would provide me with an authentic and unforgettable experience as I explore the foreign culture.

Thailand

(source:Google Images "map of Thailand)

Thailand is a country that lies in the heart of Southeast Asia. Bordered to the north by Burma and Laos, to the east by Laos and Cambodia, to the south by the gulf of Thailand and Malaysia, and to the west by the Andaman Sea and the southern extremity of Burma. The exotic landscape and flawless beaches combined with the historically rich culture of the area make Thailand a place hard to resist.

Why Thailand?

Thailand is known for its great food, tropical climate, fascinating culture and beaches. It attracts travelers seeking adventure and beauty and is the most popular tourist destination in Southeast Asia. Thailand has a diverse landscape that ranges from thick green jungles to crystal blue beaches and exotic culturally rich destinations and glamorous luxurious hotels sure to provide something for every visitor’s interest. As a traveler I find it hard to resist any destination that is so rich in history, and culture. A magnetic force draws me to the bluest ocean waves crashing on white sandy beaches under scorching hot sunny rays and is a temptation I could never resist. This description is my paradise. A trip to captivate my senses in a far away region is my dream. A destination so exotic I would never forget. I wish to one day be able to visit the most beautiful destination I have ever read about. Thailand is where I dream about being. My dream vacation includes the best of Thailand’s culture, sacred sites and beaches exploring the islands of the Andaman Sea.

History and Culture

The region once known as Siam is the only Southeast Asian country never to have been colonized by a foreign power. There are four major notable time periods significant to Thailand’s history.
1. The Sukothai period (1238-1438)
2. The Ayutthaya period (1351-1767)
3. The Thonburi period (1767-1782)
4. Rattanakosin period (1782 to present time)
Each period left behind temples, shrines, palaces and ancient sites with unique architectural styles and designs. The area was heavily influenced by the culture and religions of India. Thailand’s national religion is Buddhism. There is several thousands of Buddhist temples spread around Thailand. The Thai name for the temples is “Wat”. A typical Wat Thai consists of 2 parts the” Phutta-Wat” the area dedicated to Buddha and the “Sangha-Wat” containing living quarters of the monks. The temples are largely decorated in gold and multicoloured with numerous roof tiers.

(source: http://www.discoverythailand.com/history.asp)

Some Holidays

Makha Bucha: commemorates the spontaneous gathering of thousands of people before Buddha who were enlightened by the event.
Songkran: celebration of the Thai new year, known as the “world’s largest water fight” lasting for 3 days to wash away the sins of the prior year
Loy Krathong: a thank you offering to the river goddess who gives life to people by floating flowers and candle laden banana leaf floats

(source:http://www.unseenthailand.org/)

Climate

The temperature in Thailand is rather tropical (hot and humid) and ranges between 28-35 degrees Celsius year round. The cooler temperatures appear around the months of November to the end of February marking the peak season for travelling. The hotter temperatures that can go as high as 40 degrees are between March and June. The rainy season is reported from July to October when tropical monsoons hit most of the country.
(source:http://www.amazing-thailand.com/Climate.html)