Discover Thailand (21): The health care
Health care in Thailand is generally of very good quality. There are many qualified doctors, often trained abroad, and modern medical facilities available, especially in major cities such as Bangkok. Many hospitals offer, according to international standards, medical specialties such as surgery, cardiology and oncology.
Discover Thailand (20): The climate
Thailand is a country with a tropical climate, where the average temperature is around 30 degrees Celsius all year round. There are two main seasons in Thailand: the rainy season and the dry season. The rainy season runs from June to October, during which there is often heavy rainfall and flooding can occur. The dry season is from November to May, during which the humidity is still high.
Discover Thailand (19): the traffic
Traffic in Thailand is chaotic, especially in the larger cities such as Bangkok. Many roads are congested and the driving behavior of some motorists and motorcyclists can be unpredictable. Moreover, traffic rules are not always properly observed. An average of 53 people die in traffic every day. So far this year, 21 foreigners have died on the roads.
Discover Thailand (18): Expats and retirees
Thailand has been an attractive destination for expats for many years. An expat is a person who lives and works abroad temporarily or permanently. Usually an expat moves to another country to work for a company or organization, or to experience a new lifestyle. Some people are expats because they are looking for new challenges or adventures, while others move to be with their partner or family who already live in Thailand.
Discover Thailand (17): the Economy
Thailand's economy is one of the strongest and most diverse in Southeast Asia. The country is the region's second largest economy after Indonesia and has a growing middle class. Thailand is a major exporter of goods such as electronics, vehicles, rubber products and agricultural products such as rice and rubber.
Discover Thailand (16): The Thai culture
Before we discuss Thai culture, it is good to define the concept of culture. Culture refers to the entire society in which people live. This includes the way people think, feel and act, as well as the traditions, values, norms, symbols and rituals they share. Culture can also refer to specific aspects of society such as art, literature, music, religion, and language.
Discover Thailand (15): The population and demographics
The Thai population consists of approximately 69 million people and is one of the fastest growing populations in Asia. Thailand is a diverse country, with people of different ethnic origins, including Thai, Chinese, Mon, Khmer and Malay. Most people in Thailand are Buddhists, although there are also small minorities of other religions such as Islam, Hinduism and Christianity.
Discover Thailand (14): Tourism
Thailand is a popular destination for tourists from around the world. The country offers a rich and diverse cultural experience, with beautiful temples, delicious food and breathtaking landscapes. Tourism is an important source of income for Thailand and has a major impact on the country's economy and society.
Discover Thailand (13): National Parks
Thailand is rich in beautiful nature and has some of the most impressive national parks in Southeast Asia. These parks are an important part of the Thai landscape and offer a unique opportunity to admire the country's fauna and flora.
Discover Thailand (12): Hill Tribes, the hill tribes
The hill tribes of Thailand are ethnic minorities that mainly live in the mountains of the north of the country. These groups have their own unique culture, language and traditions that differ from those of the dominant Thai culture. There are several groups of hill tribes in Thailand, including the Hmong, Karen, Lisu and Lahu.
Discover Thailand (11): Animism (belief in ghosts)
Animism is an ancient form of religion that sees nature as animate and sentient. It is a belief that every living thing has a soul. This means that even things like trees, rivers and mountains have a soul according to the animist tradition. These souls are seen as guardian spirits who help to make life run in harmony.
Discover Thailand (9): The Islands
Thailand has a wealth of beautiful islands along its coasts. These islands are popular with tourists for their beautiful beaches, clear blue waters and relaxed atmosphere. They also provide a great place to enjoy outdoor activities such as scuba diving and snorkeling and to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
Discover Thailand (10): The Thai language
The Thai language is the official language of Thailand, spoken by approximately 65 million people in the country and abroad. The Thai language is a tonal language, which means that the accent and pitch of the words are important to the meaning of the sentence. This makes the language sometimes challenging for foreigners to learn, but also unique and fascinating.
Discover Thailand (8): Buddhism
Buddhism is the main religion (actually a philosophy of life, because Buddhism has no God) in Thailand and has a long and rich history in the country. Buddhism came to Thailand through neighboring countries and Indian migrants and has played an important role in Thai culture and society ever since
Discover Thailand (7): The History
Thailand is a country in Southeast Asia with a rich and diverse history dating back to over 1000 years ago when the country was known as Siam and ruled by a series of royal dynasties. The country is named after the Tai people, who were the original inhabitants of the area. Over the centuries, Thailand has had many influences from other cultures, such as India and China, and has developed a rich and complex history.
Discover Thailand (6): The nightlife
Nightlife in Thailand is world famous for the countless bars, clubs and other entertainment venues the country has to offer. From the bustling night markets and rooftop bars in Bangkok to the beach parties and Full Moon parties on Koh Phangan, there is something for everyone when it comes to nightlife in Thailand.
Discover Thailand (5): the capital Bangkok
Bangkok is the capital and largest city of Thailand. With a population of approximately 12-15 million, it is one of the most densely populated cities in the world, and is also one of Asia's most popular tourist destinations. The city is located in the central part of the country, on the Chao Phraya River. The capital is known for its chaotic traffic, bustling streets and abundance of shops, restaurants and nightclubs.
Discover Thailand (4): Thai massage
Thai massage is an ancient form of massage developed in Thailand, based on traditional medicine and yoga. The massage is performed by a masseur or masseuse, who uses his or her hands, elbows, knees and feet to massage the muscles and nerves and stretch your body. The massage is intended to reduce tension and possibly pain, with the ultimate aim of relaxing the body and mind.
Discover Thailand (3): The Thai kitchen
Thai cuisine is world famous for its unique flavors and combinations of herbs and spices. Thai cuisine is very varied, with influences from other Asian countries including China, India and Laos, and has a reputation for its use of spicy herbs and garlic. Thai cuisine is also known for its use of fresh fruits and vegetables and for the many street food options that can be found there.
Discover Thailand (2): The Temples
Thai temples, also called Wats, are an important part of Thai culture and play a central role in the daily life of the Thai people. The temples are not only places of worship, but also places of meeting and gathering, and they are often surrounded by beautiful gardens and architecture.