A unified Thai kingdom was established in the mid-14th century. Known as Siam until 1939, Thailand is the only Southeast Asian country never to have been taken over by a European power. A bloodless revolution in 1932 led to a constitutional monarchy. In alliance with Japan during World War II, Thailand became a US ally following the conflict. Thailand is currently facing armed violence in its three Muslim-majority southernmost provinces.

The capital of Thailand is Bangkok, and the climate is hot and humid during the summer. Unemployment is at 1.5% and 10% of the population is below the poverty line.

POPULATION
Population of the country is estimated at 65,444,371 (July 2005 est.) and the population growth rate is 0.87% (2005 est.) About 7 million people reside in the capital city of Bangkok.

ETHNIC GROUPS
Thai (80%), Chinese (10%), Malay (3%), and the rest are minorities (Mon-Khmer, Tibeto-Burman, Meo-Yao).

LANGUAGE
The first official language is Thai. English is the country's second official language. English is widely understood, particularly in Bangkok where it is almost the major commercial language. English and some European Languages are spoken in most hotels, shops and restaurants in major tourist destinations, and Thai-English road and street signs are found nationwide.

RELIGIONS
Buddhist 94.6%, Muslim 4.6%, Christian 0.7%, other 0.1% (2000 census)

CURRENCY
The currency used is baht (THB).

Foreign currencies can be exchanged at banks (which have the best rates), hotels (which charge high commissions) and, in larger towns, bureaux de change (generally open 0800-2000). Outside large towns and tourist areas, notes higher than Bt500 may be difficult to exchange, so visitors are advised to carry small change.

American Express, MasterCard and Visa are widely accepted, while Diners Club has more limited use. Check with your credit or debit card company for details of merchant acceptability and other facilities which may be available.

Travellers cheques are accepted by all banks and large hotels and shops. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travellers are advised to take travellers cheques in US Dollars, Euros or Pounds Sterling.

VISA AND TRAVEL DOCUMENTS
All tourists visiting Thailand need a visa to enter the country, with the exception of the citizens of 40 countries and Hong Kong SAR. Tourists from these countries can stay in Thailand for a period not exceeding 30 days. Visit website http://www.mfa.go.th/web/12.php for the list of visa-free countries.

Visitors can obtain their visa at any Thai Embassy or Consulate-General Offices near their country. Visit website http://www.thaiembassy.org for the list of Thai Embassy or Consulate-General Offices in foreign countries.

Tourist visas are valid for 60 days starting from the date of issue, and are valid for three months. Submit your visa application form, along with two standard passport photos, your passport (with at least six months validity) and visa fee of 1,000 baht.

For more information on visa applications, visit website http://www.mfa.go.th/web/12.php or inquire directly with the Thai Embassy or Consulate-General Offices in or near your country.

ELECTRICITY
The electric current is 220 volt AC (50 cycles) throughout the country. American and European-style two-pin plugs are in use.

TAP WATER
Tap water is clean but drinking from it directly should be avoided. Bottled water is recommended.

VACCINATIONS
Not compulsory for Thailand unless travelling near the boarders. Precautions against Malaria, Hepatitis B and typhoid vaccinations are recommended if you plan on travelling onwards to Northern Thailand.

CLIMATE
Generally hot, particularly between March and May. The monsoon season runs from June to October, when the climate is still hot and humid with torrential rains. The best time for travelling is November to February (cool season).

TIME
GMT +7

CLOTHING
Light, cool clothes are sensible and a jacket is needed for formal meetings and dining in top restaurants. Shorts (except knee length walking shorts), sleeveless shirts, tank tops and other beach-style attire are considered inappropriate dress when not actually at the beach or in a resort area.

Sources:
The world fact book
Tourism Authority of Thailand
Thailand Country Guide

Useful Links:
Exchange Rates