Original and Amazing Thailand

It is said that you should not visit Thailand until you have seen the rest of the world since Thailand is the place you will keep returning to. The reason is that it is singularly the most amazing place you will discover on earth. The unique identity of Thailand, warm climate and the attractiveness of the people make it irresistibly unique to millions of foreigners.

The king and Royal Family are highly revered. Negative or disrespectful remarks about the Monarchy are considered offensive and in some cases punishable by law. To Thais, the head is sacred, the feet base. Therefore, it is impolite to touch the head even head a friendly gesture. Likewise, do not point or gesture with your feet and avoid stepping over or across people or things.

Thailand is the 20th largest country in the world, in terms of population, with over 63 million people. 90% are Thai while about 10% are of Chinese origin. 95% of the population are Buddhist with nearly 4.5% being Muslim.

Partly the cause of this, is that Thailand, formerly the Kingdom of Siam, is the one place in South East Asia that as never been colonised by a European power. The extraordinary culture and tradition of the country is shaped by Buddhism and is also very much alive in everyday Thai life. Thai people speak their own language and their quiet, friendly manner has led some to label the country as the 'Land of Smiles.'

Always dress appropriately at all religious sites: shorts or revealing clothes like sleeveless shirts are not permitted.

Thais greet each other with a prayer like gesture called a wai. The wai has far more social significance than a western handshake and in general, the younger person or the person with a junior ranking first offers a wai to an elder or senior, who returns the gesture.

Expressions of anger are regarded as crude Not a tradition Thai custom though gaining wider ages but often the coins in changes. Texi fares rounded to the next 5or 10 bath are normal. Restaurants and hotels, which change 10%, require no additional tip and it is all right to keep the change.