The Kingdom of Thailand, nestled in the heart of Southeast Asia, is a natural gateway to Indochina, Myanmar and Southern China. It is bordered to the north by Laos and Myanmar, to the east by Laos and Cambodia, to the south by the Gulf of Thailand and Malaysia, and to the west by the Andaman Sea and Myanmar.

The unique geography of the country is divided into four regions--each with it's own personality. For the visitor, Thailand offers one surprise after another. Misty mountains in the north shelter verdant valleys and exotic hill tribes, while in centers like Chiang Mai, traditional customs and crafts have been preserved over generations. Along the picturesque coastlines of the east and south, lie some of the world's most beautiful beaches and off-shore islands. Scattered over the northeastern plateau are superb khamer monuments from the time of Angkor Wat, and natural parks teeming with wild life. In the Central Region there are ruins of ancient Thai capitals, and bustling Bangkok with its dynamic and modern attractions.

Thailand is a constitutional monarchy with His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej, or King Rama IX, the ninth king of the Chakri Dynasty, the present king. The King has reigned for more than half a century, making him the longest reigning Thai monarch.

The country is one of the most strongly Buddhist countries in the world, although all religions are allowed full freedom of expression. Buddhism has a strong influence on daily life. Senior monks are highly revered and, in towns and villages, the temple (wat) is the heart of social and religious life. Meditation, one of the most popular aspects of Buddhism, is practiced regularly by numerous Thai as a means of promoting inner peace and happiness.

Thai food, which is immensely popular, is known for its use of fresh herbs and spices and fish sauce. A Thai full meal usually consists of either a single dish with many complementary dishes served concurrently. Steamed rice is accompanied by highly aromatic curries, stir-frys and other dishes, incorporating sometimes large quantities of chillies, lime juice and lemon grass. Noodles, are also popular.