Thailand:
Food & Culture

Thailand is a Southeast Asian kingdom located between India and China. Divided into six major regions and with approximately 65 million residents, it is the fourth most populous country in Southeast Asia. Approximately 8 million people reside in the capital - Bangkok, also known as the City of Angels. Covering 198,114 square miles Thailand is the third largest country in Southeast Asia. The country is a constitutional monarchy, with the king as head of state and the prime minister as head of government. Known as Siam until 1939, Thailand has an ancient history and a rich unique culture.

About 95 percent of the Thai people are Buddhists, retaining the most traditional practices of Buddhism. Every Thai male is expected to join the Buddhist brotherhood, usually between finishing school and joining the workforce. Most spend several months learning scripture, discipline, and meditation as a monk, and this time is considered one of the most important in any man's life. There are more than twenty thousand Buddhist monasteries in Thailand, and approximately 200,000 monks, many of whom are ordained. Various religious festivals and holidays are celebrated openly throughout the country and are a significant element of life in Thailand.

Nearly 80 percent of those living in Thailand are ethnic Thai. About 15 percent are Chinese, while the remainder includes Malays, Cambodians, Lao, Burmese, Vietnamese, and various hill tribes. The villages of rural Thailand are centered on a wat (Buddhist temple-monastery), which serves as the religious and social center of the community. Village life traditionally has been organized around religious and agricultural rituals and festivals.

Today, the Thai Culture considers the wai - a bow with the hands pressed palm-to-palm near the face - a sign of respect as well as a gesture to say hello. It is the most important of the many social customs that are used in Thai society. The wai is learned in early childhood and is second nature for a Thai.

Thailand is a culturally rich and diverse nation. Its art, architecture, literature, and dance are world renowned. Thai cuisine is famous for its range of flavors and spices, and is extremely popular in the West. Although the country is increasingly influenced by Western culture, traditional Thai values remain important to everyday life. The Thai are known for their friendliness as well as their interest in foreigner travelers. Thai is the language spoken by almost all people in the country. English also is taught in schools and often is used in business, government practice and the service industries.

Offering visitors a great deal, Thailand is a beautiful kingdom with everything from jungles to deserted beaches, and ancient temples to modern cities. There is superb dining, shopping, and entertainment to fill the days and nights. Thai people are extremely friendly with their unrushed lifestyles taking time to welcome a stranger, especially in the countryside.