Thailand

Introduction to Thailand

The Kingdom of Thailand is a country in Southeast Asia, bordering Laos and Cambodia to the east, the Gulf of Thailand and Malaysia to the south, and the Andaman Sea and Myanmar to the west. Thailand is also known as Siam, which was the country's official name until May 11, 1949. The word Thai (ไทย) means "freedom" in the Thai language. It is also the name of the Thai people - leading some inhabitants, particularly the sizeable Chinese minority, to continue to use the name Siam.

The official calendar in Thailand is based on the Buddhist Era, which is 543 years ahead of the western calendar. For example, the year AD 2006 is equal to the year 2549 BE.

On 26 December 2004 the southwest coast of Thailand was devastated by a tsunami following the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake. In places it was as high as 10 meters. It killed more than 5,000 people in Thailand, half of them tourists.

Thailand is home to several distinct geographic regions, partly corresponding to the provincial groups. The north of the country is mountainous, with the highest point being Doi Inthanon at 2,576 m. The northeast consists of the Khorat Plateau, bordered to the east by the Mekong river. The centre of the country is dominated by the predominantly flat Chao Phraya river valley, which runs into the Gulf of Thailand. The south consists of the narrow Kra Isthmus that widens into the Malay Peninsula.

Cultural notes about Thailand

The Culture of Thailand is heavily influenced by Buddhism. Other influences have included Brahmanism, conflict and trade with Southeast Asian neighbors such as Laos and Myanmar, and repeated influxes of Chinese immigrants.

Thailand's population is dominated by ethnic Thai and Lao, the latter concentrated in the northeastern Isan region and making up around one third of the population. There is also a large community of Thai Chinese, who have historically played a disproportionately significant role in the economy. Bangkok's Chinatown is located on Yaowarat Road. Other ethnic groups include Malays in the south, Mon, Khmer and various indigenous hill tribes. After the end of the Vietnam War, many Vietnamese refugees settled in Thailand, mainly in the eastern regions.

Official Canadian government advisories for travelling to, in and around Thailand

Petty crime, such as purse snatching, pickpocketing, and theft, are common. Bags should not be left unattended. Exercise normal safety precautions and ensure personal belongings are secure, especially in tourist areas, crowded markets, and bus or train stations. Thieves sometimes use razors to slit open purses or bags to remove the contents. There are recent reports of criminals causing confusion on crowded escalators to facilitate theft. Only use reputable transportation companies. Thefts have been reported on inexpensive buses and vans travelling from Bangkok to southern tourist and beach destinations. Break-ins frequently occur while tourists are asleep in budget guesthouses. Demonstrations can occur and should be avoided.

Travellers should be particularly cautious during full moon parties. Ensure passports are secure. Never accept food or drinks from strangers. Do not leave food or drinks unattended, particularly in bars. Cases of drugging followed by robbery and assault have increased. Tourists have been approached by seemingly friendly strangers, often posing as fellow travellers, offering drugged food or drinks. Criminals sometimes use the drug scopolamine to incapacitate travellers in order to rob them. The drug is administered through drinks, food, aerosols, cigarettes, gum, or in powder form. The drug disorients the victim and can cause prolonged unconsciousness and serious medical problems. It takes effect extremely quickly and can take several days to wear off.

Sexual assaults against foreign women have occurred. Female travellers should exercise caution at all times.

Travellers arriving by air should use licensed taxis from official taxi stands, limousine services, official airport buses, or arrange to be picked up by hotel shuttle services. Robberies and occasional violence have occurred when passengers engaged unlicensed taxi drivers away from official taxi stands. Do not share a taxi with strangers.

Poisonous jellyfish off Hat Rin beach of Koh Phangan have resulted in deaths in August 2002. Canadians should exercise extreme caution when swimming in the area during the rainy season (see below), particularly at night and during high tide when it may be more difficult to spot the jellyfish. If stung, immediate hospital attention is required. Riptides along the coast near Phuket are strong. There have been a number of drownings.

Travellers who participate in water sports and scuba diving should be aware that diving schools and rescue services may not be consistent with international standards. Water sports equipment should be rented from operators affiliated to major international training organisations.

Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships in Southeast Asia occur. Mariners should take appropriate precautions. For additional information, see the Weekly Piracy