map of Bangkok.ogf2		map of Phuket.ogf2		Patong town of Phuket island		map of Thailand.ogf2

map of Pattaya.ogf2

    Thailand is situated in southeast Asia, bordering the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, southeast of Myanmar (Burma). It also borders Laos on the north and northeast, Cambodia on the east, and Malaysia on the south. Central Thailand is dominated by the Chao Phraya River. The country is divided into 76 provinces.One-fifth of Thailand is covered by monsoon forest or rainforest, and the country has an incredible array of fruit trees, bamboo and tropical hardwoods. There are freshwater swamp forests in the delta regions; forested crags amid the karst topography of both the north and south; mangroves in the south; and pine forests at higher altitudes in the north.

Thailand with its irresistible combination of breathtaking natural beauty, inspiring temples, renowned hospitality, robust cuisine and ruins of fabulous ancient kingdoms is still a budget traveller's dream destination. You can get by on a budget of around 650 Baht a day anywhere in Thailand. Staying in comfortable hotels and eating at restaurants should cost around 750 -1250 Baht a day outside of Bangkok and around double this amount when in the capital. Tipping is not customary in Thailand, although Thais are getting used to the idea of it in upmarket hotels.

Capital is Bangkok.

Currency: Baht.

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).