Thailand - from ancient kingdoms to Bangkok
General information
Thailand is one of the most popular destinations in Southeast Asia, and for good reason. The country combines lively cities, ancient temples, tropical islands, mountains, national parks and a cuisine that has become a favourite around the world. Its official name is the Kingdom of Thailand, and Bangkok is both the capital and the largest city.
The country lies in the centre of mainland Southeast Asia and borders Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia and Malaysia. To the west and south it opens onto the Andaman Sea, and to the east and south-east onto the Gulf of Thailand. This location explains the variety of coastal landscapes in different parts of the country.
Thailand is a constitutional monarchy, and Buddhism has a strong influence on society and everyday life. Golden temples, statues of the Buddha, monks in orange robes and the small shrines seen almost everywhere are part of the country's characteristic look.
Climate
Thailand has a tropical climate and is usually divided into a dry and a rainy season, but conditions differ across the country. Overall, November to February is one of the best periods to visit, as the weather is drier and temperatures more bearable.
March and April are hotter, and from May the wetter season begins. Rain, however, is often brief and does not necessarily mean days of non-stop downpours. When planning a beach holiday it is important to choose the right coast, as the seasons on the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand are not exactly the same.
Culture and history
Thailand's history is linked to several great kingdoms, among them Sukhothai and Ayutthaya. Sukhothai flourished in the 13th and 14th centuries and is often described as the first great Thai kingdom. Today Sukhothai Historical Park preserves the remains of the ancient capital - temples, statues and religious complexes set among greenery.
Ayutthaya succeeded Sukhothai as the centre of power and became one of the most important capitals in the region. For centuries the city was a wealthy international trading centre, before it was destroyed in the 18th century. Today the ruins of the ancient capital are among Thailand's most important historic sights and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Modern Bangkok is a completely different world. The city is huge, noisy and dynamic, but among the skyscrapers and busy streets are some of the most beautiful temples in the country.
Among the most famous is Wat Phra Kaew - the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, within the Grand Palace complex. The Emerald Buddha is one of the most revered religious statues in Thailand, and the temple complex itself impresses with its intricate decoration, golden details and characteristic Thai roofs.
The Grand Palace was the official residence of the Thai kings for more than 150 years. Although the royal family no longer lives there permanently, the complex remains one of Bangkok's most important symbols.
On the other bank of the Chao Phraya River stands Wat Arun - the Temple of Dawn. Its tall central tower is decorated with colourful ceramic pieces and is especially impressive at sunset or when the temple is lit up in the evening.
Bangkok is not only temples. The city is known for its markets, street food, river boats, modern shopping centres and lively nightlife. One of its most characteristic areas is Chinatown, where narrow streets, restaurants and markets create an atmosphere that changes completely after sunset.
In the north, Thailand offers a completely different landscape. Chiang Mai is the cultural centre of the region and is known for its temples, markets and calmer atmosphere. The city is surrounded by mountains and is a good base for visiting traditional villages, nature parks and mountain routes.
Among the best-known temples in Chiang Mai is Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, on the mountain above the city. A long staircase leads up to it, and the complex offers a panoramic view of Chiang Mai.
The north is also known for its festivals. Yi Peng is especially impressive, with paper lanterns released into the sky, while Loy Krathong is celebrated with small decorated floats set adrift on the water. The festivals are linked to Buddhist and local traditions and show the living side of Thai culture better than any museum exhibition.
The south of the country is the face of Thailand that most often appears in travel brochures - islands, white beaches and limestone cliffs rising straight out of the sea.
Phuket is the largest island in the country and one of its main tourist centres. It offers a wide choice of beaches, hotels, restaurants and entertainment, but also has a historic old town with architecture influenced by Chinese and Portuguese trading traditions.
Krabi is known for its dramatic limestone cliffs and beaches. From here you can visit islands such as Koh Phi Phi, which has become one of the symbols of Thailand's tropical landscapes. Maya Bay on Phi Phi Leh became world-famous after the film "The Beach", making the area one of the most popular attractions in the country.
On the east coast lies Koh Samui, which offers a combination of beaches, tropical vegetation and resort infrastructure. Around it is the Ang Thong archipelago - a national marine park with dozens of islands, hidden lagoons and limestone formations.
Thai cuisine is an essential part of the experience. Pad Thai, Tom Yum, green and red curry, Som Tam and mango sticky rice are among the dishes most associated with the country. Thai cuisine is known for its balance of sweet, salty, sour, spicy and aromatic flavours, and street food is an important part of everyday culture.
Traditional Thai massage also holds a special place. It has a long history and is linked to traditional healing practices. Today massage is widely available both in specialised centres and in hotels and spas.
Why and when to visit?
Thailand suits a trip that can be entirely cultural, entirely beach-focused or a combination of the two. Bangkok and Ayutthaya offer history and architecture, Chiang Mai culture and mountains, and Phuket, Krabi and the islands opportunities for relaxation and sea adventures.
November to February is usually the most convenient time for a first visit, especially if the route includes Bangkok, the north and the Andaman coast. In other seasons it is best to match the route to the specific islands and weather conditions.
One of Thailand's greatest advantages is that a trip can have very different rhythms. A morning can begin with a visit to an ancient temple, the afternoon continue with a stroll through a lively market, and the next day move to a tropical island.
Thailand does not rely on its exotic appeal alone. Its strength lies in the combination - ancient kingdoms and modern cities, Buddhist temples and bustling markets, mountains and tropical islands, traditional cuisine and a contemporary way of life. It is this variety that makes the country a destination many travellers return to more than once.
