The number of tourists visiting The Royal Kingdom of Thailand each year approach almost a quarter of its 66 million population.
Prior to the involvement of US troops in the Vietnam war during the 1960s, Thailand had little or no tourist industry. This invasion under the auspices of Rest and Relaxation for the troops gave rise to the construction of tourist infrastructure in the form of accommodation and food and beverage outlets. This phenomenal growth has continued to the present and the tourist attraction of Thailand continues to increase in proportion to the economic growth of its neighbours which make up 65% of the tourist by nationality.
Thailand offers a panorama of tourist attractions spiralling from its capital Bangkok to the outermost regions of Chang Mai in the North and Muang Song Khia in the South.
Whilst it is argued that the name Thailand means "land of the free" its original meaning relates to an ethnic group from the central plain known as Tai. The new meaning is now accepted into the Thai language however Thailand up until 1939 was knows within and without as Siam. Some still refer to it as Siam and more particularly The Gulf of Siam which lays to the south of the mainland.
Thailand is well known for its abundance of fruits and vegetables and internationally more for its cuisine. There would hardly be a corner shopping precinct in the Western world without the ubiquitous Thai (Chinese and Indian) restaurant.
Thailand's islands offer a pristine getaway from the over populated cities and diving aficionados shouldn't overlook a visit to Koh Samui and Ko Samet.
Illiteracy is rife in Thailand and once outside the major tourist centres English is rarely spoken so be advised to stick to the well beaten paths.