Thailand

ASEAN member since August 1967

Capital: Bangkok
Head of State: His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej
Head of Government: Prime Minister General Surayud Chulanont (Ret.)
Languages: Melayu, English, Chinese, Tamil
Area (sq. km): 513,254
Population: 64,763,000
GDP (USD): 206 billion (2006 estimate)

The Kingdom of Thailand is a deeply religious nation, where orange-robed Buddhist monks are common sights and beautiful wats (temples) abound. Thais’ profound respect for King Bhumibol, has earned him the title of the most revered monarch in the world. Despite the King’s lack of political power, he remains an important symbol of unity and national identity. This strong respect for social hierarchy and longstanding tradition of Theravada Buddhism has shaped the renowned Thai hospitality and generosity.

Sandwiched between Laos and Cambodia to the East and Myanmar to the West, Thailand is a newly industrialized country blessed with a range of natural resources, and a gloriously diverse landscape. The agriculture industry remains very prominent, making Thailand the world’s top exporter of rice. Homegrown crops and spices greatly enhance Thai cuisine to create some of the region’s most complex flavors and dishes. A piping hot bowl of tom yum soup is the perfect blend of distinct sweet, salty, sour, bitter and spicy flavors accented with a generous helping of fresh lemongrass, tamarind and coriander leaves.

Although Muay Thai is the national sport, soccer is a close second in fervent popularity. These athletic capabilities are complemented by the gentleness that marks the ancient tradition of Thai massages. It is a soothing and spiritual experience, which has earned fame around the world. Such seeming contrasts are mirrored in the landscape of the country, which features rolling verdant hills and valleys in Chiang Mai to the north, an urban shopping and clubbing playground in the capital city of Bangkok, and perfect diving and relaxing spots of the many limestone islands studding the crystal clear waters of the Andaman Sea to the south.