The Orient - Thailand - Country Information

The Kingdom of Thailand draws more visitors than any other country in southeast Asia with its expansive natural parks, fertile plains, remote jungles, beaches washed by turquoise waters and tropical islands bathed in endless sunshine. With the stupa-studded mountains of Mae Hong Son, the pulse-pounding dance clubs of Bangkok and the tranquil villages situated along the Mekong River, Thailand offers something for every type of traveller.

Key Facts
Full Country Name	Kingdom of Thailand
Area	513,115 Sq Km
Population	62,860,300
Capital	Bangkok
Time Difference	GMT +7
Visa	Visa not required
Currency	Baht
People	Over 79% of the population are Thai of mostly Siamese and Laotian descent with the largest ethnic minority the Chinese who account for 14% of the population.
Language	Thai
Dialling Code	+66
Electricity	220V

Visas:

British citizens do not require a visa in order to visit Thailand. A full 10 year passport is required and it must be valid for at least six months after your arrival back into the UK. If your passport is not valid for six months it will be necessary to obtain a new one.

Health risks:

Hepatitis A & B, Japanese encephalitis, Malaria, Typhoid

When to Go:

Northern Thailand is a mountainous region with fertile valleys; while the central region is dominated by the Chao Phraya River system with rich farmland while to the south is the peninsula area, which is mainly rainforest.  Thailand's climate is ruled by monsoons, resulting in three distinct seasons: hot (March to May); rainy (June to October); cool and dry (November to February).  Our winter months are the best time to visit.  Overall the climate is very humid, apart from in the north, where it will be cold at night during the cool season.