Thailand
Legends of handsome kings, golden temples and incense-burning spiritual offerings that sweeten the hot day have recently made Thailand a desired travel destination. Enjoy blinding white beaches with turquoise lagoons, a beach massage or ice-cold pineapple on a stick brought right to you; or you may lumber through the tropical jungle one pachyderm step at a time and the same day raft the afternoon away on the River Kwai.
Thailand is becoming a major travel destination for Westerners and it is no wonder. World-class food for a few dollars, beautiful, secluded beaches, lush tropical forests remote hill tribes of semi-nomadic people.
Regular tours are widely available, as are the do-it-yourself travel itineraries. With a little knowledge of the Thai culture you will find the Thai people warm, polite and gracious hosts.
Northern Thailand is in the cool mountainous region next to Cambodia and Burma (Myanmar). One to three day 'hill treks' are common and popular among fit visitors. Guides will assist you along the way, introducing you to the various hill tribes and their cultures. Elephant safaris utilize the remaining elephants used to harvest the hard woods in the forest. They are well care for and protected in Thailand.
In Southern Thailand isolated, serene beaches are the main attraction. Accommodation for every budget is available ranging from $3 US to $650 US. Hiring a local boat called a 'long boat' is the usual water transportation between the closer islands, though a ferry service for long distance is available also.
In Bangkok they say, " If you can't find it Bangkok it probably doesn't exist." An incredible mishmash of ultra modern and traditional lifestyles makes this a fascinating place to visit. The city abounds with golden temples, street markets, burning incense, saffron-robed Buddhist monks, food stands, traffic congestion, chaos, mass humanity, the 'Best Hotel in the World 2003- The Peninsula Hotel' and one of the last revered Kingdoms left on earth.
The Thai people love and respect their King, His Majesty King Bhumibol; his picture is celebrated in every household, restaurant, taxicab and shop. He is the longest serving monarch in Thailand's history and he has won the hearts of his country. One of the highest compliments Westerns can make is their approval of the royal family.
