Bangkok - The Kingdom of Thailand
The Kingdom of Thailand, previously known as Siam, is situated in the
heart of Southeast Asia with Bangkok as the capital city. It shares a
border with Cambodia to the east, Laos to the northeast, Myanmar to the
west, and Malaysia to the south. Thailand, with its shape resembling a
head of an elephant, is around 198,114 square miles. The Kingdom
borders two bodies of water—the Gulf of Thailand to the south and the
Indian Ocean to the west.
Thailand is divided into four natural regions: the north, northeast, the central plain, and the south. The north is a mountainous region comprised of ridges, natural forest, and deep, narrow alluvial valleys. The northeast is an arid region characterized by a rolling surface and undulating hills. Central Thailand is a lush, fertile valley and possesses the richest and most extensive rice-producing area in the country. The south is hilly with thick forests and rich deposits of minerals and iron ores. The southern region is also the center for rubber production and the cultivation of other topical crops.
Thailand has a warm, tropical climate affected by a seasonal monsoon. Thailand experiences a rainy season from June to October and a dry season for the rest of the year. Temperatures average 75 to 92 degrees Fahrenheit, with the highest temperatures occurring from March to May and the lowest appearing in December and January.
Buddhism is the faith of approximately 95 percent of the population. Islam, Christianity, Hinduism, and other faiths are also openly practiced and protected under the Constitution.
Bangkok, The City of Angels
Bangkok, also known as "Krungthep" meaning 'the City of Angels', is ranked as one of the best city in the world in 2008 by "Travel and Leisure Magazine". Bangkok is famous for its temples, the Grand Palace as well as some of Asia's largest shopping centers and Asia's largest outdoor week-end market (Chatuchak). All sites can comfortably be reached by Skytrain (BTS) or Underground (MRT) .Bangkok is highly appreciated for its wide choice of restaurants, from authentic street-side eateries to a number of fine dining establishments.
Pattaya, Nice Beaches
Pattaya’s sights are mainly modern, much reflecting the town itself. Sights often double-up as activities but there’s still an array of interesting things to see, especially if you’re willing to travel a little. The beaches, several impressive temples and entertainment venues all combine to make Pattaya sightseeing a worthy activity.