Thailand
From Track2Asia
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Overview
Welcome to Thailand – a land of exotic beauty, of awesome temples and palaces, stunning beaches and shopping havens. This is where serenity and traffic-filled streets meet. Thailand has a charm and wealth that beckons the traveler that want something beyond the usual.
History
A unified Thai kingdom was established in the mid-14th century. Known as Siam until 1939, Thailand is the only Southeast Asian country never to have been taken over by a European power. A bloodless revolution in 1932 led to a constitutional monarchy. In alliance with Japan during World War II, Thailand became a US ally following the conflict. Thailand is currently facing armed violence in its three Muslim-majority southernmost provinces.
(source CIA Factbook)
Weather
Thailand is divided into two different climate zones – in the north, you have tropical savanna and in the south, tropical climate is the norm. Aside from the distinct climate zones, there are also three distinct seasons that can be found in the central and northern areas of Thailand – cool, hot and rainy.
Northern Climate
The cool season starts from November to February. This involves moderate and occasional rain showers. The average temperatures are around 26° C (79°F) in the central areas and 16°C (60°F) in Chiang Mai. It can get even lower in the hills - 5°C (41° F). This is the best time to visit Thailand, as there is less humidity and cool breezes. The hot season starts from March and lasts until May. April is the hottest month and there is very little rain, if at all. Average temperatures are in the mid-30s Celsius. Meanwhile, the rainy season is from June to October. This season is dominated by monsoons. This is the most humid season (around 90% humidity). Average temperatures are at 29° C (84° F). At this time, when it rains, it pours. Torrents usually come in the afternoons and in the early evenings and last around 3 or 4 hours. Avoid doing some trekking at this time.
Southern Climate
On the South, in the region of the Malayan Peninsula, rains are to be seen the whole year round, and even more frequently during the rainy season. Average temperatures are at 30°C (82°F). When going to Phuket, the best time would be between November and April. Meanwhile, Ko Samui is great to visit from February to October.
What to Wear
Cool clothes are the order of the day. Make that light cotton cloth. Also wear a hat and plenty of sunscreen.
Culture
Thai culture is heavily influenced by Buddhism. Thai boxing is the national sport in Thailand and its native martial art.
Regions of Thailand
When seen in profile, Thailand resembles the face of an elephant’s head, facing west. The country is about 180,000 square miles (466,200 square kilometers), about the size of France. It runs 1,007 miles (1,620 kilometers) north to south and 484 miles (750 kilometers) east to west at its widest point. It sits in the center of Indochina, with Laos on the northeast, Myanmar (Burma) of the north and west, Malaysia on the south and Cambodia (Kampuchea) on the east. The country is halfway from India and China. It also has miles and miles of coastline (1,143 miles, to be exact), with the Andaman Sea on the southwestern coat and the Gulf of Thailand in the southeastern and southern coastlines.
Thailand is divided into six regions which have their own distinct characteristics.
Isan
Isan is located on the “ear of the elephant” – the northeast plateau. Also known as the Khorat Plateau, it is the least-developed area and has the River Mekong (Mae Nam Khong) as its border. This river divides Thailand from Laos on its north and northeast boundaries. Isan has one of the oldest Bronze Age villages (estimated to be over 5,600 years old). There are also Khmer ruins at Phimai – the prasart hin (stone castle temples). Isan has a lovely landscape of lush mountains, rolling farmland and national parks. The locals at Isan are hospitable, warm, with a fascinating culture and spicy food. They also have a delightful delight.
Western Thailand
Western Thailand’s claim to fame is from the movie, the Bridge on the River Kwai. This river is the spot where thousands of war prisoners died building a section of the Burma Railway, also called the Death Railway. Many history lovers visit this site to pay homage to its importance in the history of Thailand and of World War II.
Southeastern Coast
This coast is rich not only in absolutely stunning beaches but also in mineral deposits, particularly rubies and sapphires. It also boasts of coral reefs with an amazing marine life, quaint fishing villages, and so much more. Recently, natural gas deposits were discovered in the area.
Southern Peninsula
This is where the elephant’s trunk should be. This is a thin strip that stretches south to the Malaysian border. Its shores are embraced by the Gulf of Thailand on the east (1,125 miles) and the Andaman Sea on the west (445 miles). This region, with its gorgeous beaches and dazzling coral reefs, also enjoys tropical weather. This is where you will find the best of Thailand’s beaches and resorts. There is the glamorous island of Phuket, as well as the western islands of Ko Tarutao, Ko Pi Pi, and Krabi. On the east coast, there is Ko Samui, which is similar in beauty with Phuket. This region is also home to most of the country’s Muslim minority.
Central Plain
Also called the “Rice Bowl of Thailand”, the Central Plain boasts of the distinction of being one of the most fertile farmlands in the world. It is irrigated by the Chao Phraya River, which is also host to floating markets. The Central Plain is a treasure trove of historical sites – Sukhothai (Thailand’s first capital), Nakhon Phatom, Bang Pa-In, Saraburi, and Lopburi.
Northern Thailand
This is the forehead of the elephant. It is bordered by Laos and Myanmar and is a mountainous region located at the Himalayan foothills. This region covers what is known as the Golden Triangle. Elephants used to prowl its thick forests to harvest hardwoods such as teak. The area is also rich in culture – it is home to exotic hill tribes, with their gay and gaudy festivals, and stunning temples. It has rich farmlands – asparagus, peaches, strawberries, and other fruit grown in profusion. The temperature is cool, particularly during the months of March until May.
Places to See
Here are some of the main attractions in Thailand:
Khao Yai National Park (Northeast region)
This is the country’s most popular park, and it’s oldest. It houses a host of wildlife, including tigers, some 300 bird species, and of course, elephants. The park has nature trails, camp sites and high watchtowers (from where you can observe the birds in their natural habitat). All these facilities are there to help you appreciate the nature at its best.
Ayutthaya
This is the old capital of Siam. It was a grand city – one of the largest and advanced during its time. Alas, it was ransacked by the Burmese in 1756. However, it still retains some of its grandeur and beauty, with its temples with its majestic Buddhas, museums and parks. Some of these ruins have been painstakingly restored. You can also find the humongous Buddha image (Phra Mongkhon Bophit). Ayutthaya is considered one of the country’s historical gems. It is about an hour’s ride from Bangkok.
Phang-Nga Bay
Very picturesque, this is the perfect setting if you simply want to relax and indulge in watersports. It boasts of sheer limestone cliffs jutting out of a tranquil ocean. It is a great place to go canoeing. You can also explore the secluded islands in the bay. It has become a bit crowded but it is still worth a visit. This is definitely a must-see when in Thailand.
Driving from Chiang Mai to Mae Hong Son
The route leads to the Himalayan foothills, but it is not only the destination that you will enjoy. The journey is a great experience in itself. Enjoy the sight of misty hills as seen from the mountaintops. There are also scenic farms and rice paddies.
Sukhothai
This city is called the Dawn of Happiness and it was the first independent Thai kingdom. At its height, there were fabulous temples and buildings. At present, it has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Sukhothai sits on the lower rim of the northern region.
Khao Sok
This is simply amazing! The place is sheltered by a rainforest while limestone mountains majestically extend to provide a breathtaking view of valleys, lakes and caves. This place is best seen by kayak, but you can also go trekking, ride an elephant or take the jeep safari. Here, you will see a rare collection of wildlife – including tapirs, hornbills, bears and, sloths. Khao Sok lies in the mainland, between Krabi, Khao Lak and Phuket.
Wat Phra Kaeo
Located in the historic center of Bangkok, Wat Phra Kaeo is a shrine dedicated to the Emerald Buddha, which is considered the most sacred in Thailand. The temple complex is characterized by the richness of the details, as well as the bright, whimsical colors. The main building houses the Emerald Buddha.
Wat Yai Chai Mongkon
Wat Yai Chai Mongkon at Phitsanulok is the sight of many pilgrimages made by devout locals. It is also among the most holy temples in Bangkok. It houses the bronze image of Phra Buddha Chinarat. This is rare as it is one of the few Sukhothai images that survived the turmoil and conflict that is etched in the history of Thailand.
Wat Arun
Located at Thonburi, it is also called the golden “Temple of Dawn”. It is aptly named because of the absolutely gorgeous sight of the sun rising over the Chao Praya River. The sunsets are just as stunning. Be sure to look at the porcelain pieces that have floral designs on top of its tower (prang).
Wat Mahathat
Wat Mahathat in Nakhon Si Thammarat is significant as the city was Theravada Buddhism’s first city convert. This Thai capital opened the way for other kingdoms to also be converted to Theravada Buddhism. An image of the Buddha that was imported all the way from Sri Lanka is housed in the temple’s main chedi. It was brought to the city around a thousand years ago.
Wat Ko Keo Suttharam
This temple in Petchaburi boasts of a historical mural that is to be found in the walls of the main hall. The mural depicts the entrance of the first Westerners into the country. This was painted in the 1730s.
Erawan Shrine
This is the site where you can find dedicated believers who live what they believe. Though the shrine itself is not large and is almost unassuming, its devotees will awe you with their veracity. Rarely do locals pass this shrine without proffering a wai (bow) to show respect.
Beaches
Ah, the beach!
Thailand is renowned all over the world for its beaches. And many a tourist have found their paradise in the white shores of Thailand. Here are some of the beaches you can visit:
Nai Yang(Phuket)
World renowned Phuket is a tourist hotspot and is almost always buzzing with travelers going about their business of having a great time. It’s not exactly the place you would go to if it is solitude you are looking for. Surprisingly, however, Nai Yang (which is still in Phuket) is cultivated as a wildlife preserve and as such, has a deserted beach. Great for some quiet time and for snorkeling.
Patong Beach (Phuket)
Also in Phuket, this shows a more commercial and modern side – with its great choices when it comes to restaurants, shops, bars and clubs. The fun begins when the sun goes down. There are some seedy areas but hey, if you are game and ready to have some raunchy fun, this is a good place to be. The beach isn’t as striking as the rest of Phuket, but it still is one hopping place come nighttime.
Mae Nam (Ko Samui)
Located at Ko Samui, this exudes a tranquil and cozy mood. The atmosphere is best for relaxing. It only ha a few hotels and some smaller bungalow resorts. This small bay is best for swimming.
Chaweng Beach (Ko Samui)
Also in Ko Samui, combines beach relaxation with modern amenities. It has a wide selection of shops, restaurants, clubs and bars. In fact, it is comparable to Patong Beach in Phuket. This is where you dance the night away and meet lots of fellow tourists out to have a great party. The crowd here tends to be on the youngish side.
Pattaya (Eastern Seabord)
This has gained notoriety for its red-light district. This is where guys flock to ogle beauties in girlie and bear bars. Pattaya traces its roots to the U.S. troops who fought in the Vietnam War. This was where they went to get some much-needed R&R.
Ko Chang (Eastern Seaboard)
Ko Chang is five hours away from Bangkok but the journey is worth it as it has some of the isolated and tranquil beaches in Thailand. It is also the third largest island in the country. As of now, the area is being developed to provide for more amenities as this area is gaining popularity with tourists.
Haad Rin (Ko Phangan)
This beach is on the southern tip of Ko Phangan. It is the site of the notorious Full Moon Party (and its spin-offs – the Black Moon Party and the Half Moon Party). This is held at the Sunrise Beach. The other beach is called Sunset Beach. Haad Rin have long since attracted the young and the reckless (mostly backpackers) who are in search of an all-night rave. It started out with a small group of travelers dancing the night away under a full moon, but world traveled about the party, and it now draws a crowd of over 10,000 partygoers every full moon. However, this party has recently been associated not just with fun but also with illegal drug use.
Getting Around in Thailand
Thailand provides a wide variety of options for you to get around the country. It all depends on your budget and your sense of adventure. The domestic transport system is very reasonably priced, efficient and easy to use.
By Plane
If your time is short, take the plane. The fare is quite reasonable. Bangkok is a large country and so sometimes, if you only have so much time during your vacation, taking a plane is advisable.
The major domestic airlines are Thai Airways and Bangkok Airways. Bangkok Airways has its own airports situated in Trat, Sukhothai and Ko Samui. The airline provides good value, particularly with their Discovery Airpass. Bangkok Airways (02229-3456) directly connects Phuket with Ko Samui. It also has flights to ChiangMai, Ranong, Sukhothai and U Tapao.
Meanwhile, Thai Airways use Bangkok as a hub for all their domestic flights. It services 28 domestic cities, including Mae Hong Son, Phitsanulok, Surat Thani, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai and Loei.
Other airlines include Air Asia (02515-999), Air Andaman (02251-4905), Hua Hin Air Shuttle, Jetstar Airways and Nok Air.
By train
The Railway system in Thailand is an extensive network that covers a considerable part of the country – from the Malaysian border to Chiang Mai. The railway system also offers three types of accommodations: first class (air-conditioned with two sleeping compartments), second class (sometimes air-conditioned, sometimes with sleeper berths or reclining seats, fare is sometimes matched with first class buses) and third class (this is the most economical way of getting around Thailand, it has wooden seats and offers an interesting view of the locals riding the train on their way home). These trains run at a different speed. The Special Express is the fastest service and is good for long-haul traveling. The next fastest train would be the Rapid Trains.
In Bangkok, the trains stop at Hua Lampong Railway Station. This station is equipped with all the basic amenities – public phones, toilets, food court, a post office, information counter, ATMs, and baggage check area. There are also convenience stores and restaurants.
The SRT (State Railway of Thailand) connects Bangok to Pattaya, Chiang Mai, and other points in Thailand. It also services the route to the country’s southern border. From there, you can get connected to Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad and from then on to Penang up to Singapore.
Please be alert and be on the lookout for your belongings – thievery is common, especially during overnight trips. Also, try to book in advance, especially for the sleeper berths.
For getting around the city, try the Skytrain (plying the major roads of Bangkok, Silom and Sukumvit) and the Subway (also in Bangkok).
By Bus
Buses in Thailand are inexpensive as well as efficient. These are great for short-haul trips and for traveling on a budget. The Thai government runs its own line (BKS or Baw Kaw Saw) and has a terminal in almost all of the cities. As with trains, buses differ by class. The higher the class, the better the amenities – air-conditioning, more legroom and less stops.
We recommend that you get only VIP tickets from government-run buses. Some unscrupulous tour operators sell VIP tickets but actually book you on a standard bus, or worse, a cramped minivan with very little legroom. The real VIP buses have fewer seats for more legroom.
The buses are classified according to these types:
- Local (very slow, with a lot of stops, but it gets you around very cheaply).
- Express (simple, no frills and a few less stops as the local, usually orange in color)
- Second Class (these blue and white with orange stripe buses take a more circuitous route than do first class and VIPs buses).
- First Class (more direct routes, with fewer stops, boasts of a toilet on board, blankets, and snacks)
- VIP buses (has first class amenities with fewer seats, it also offers meals)
- Super VIP (If VIP buses have 32 – 34 seats, the SVIP has only 24, this is great for overnight services).
Some reminders:
- Front seats are reserved for monks. So even if you get a front seat ticket, you may have to yield your seat to the monk.
- Some buses have loud TVs so if you are aiming to get some shut-eye, earplugs are a good idea.
Bangkok has three main terminals. The Southern Bus terminal is found in Thonburi and services bus lines headed for Ko Samui, Phuket, Hua Hin and other points in the south. The Northern Bus Terminal are for buses headed for Chiang Mai and other northern points. The Eastern Bus Terminal is for buses headed to Rayong, Trat and Pattaya.
By Car
You can easily rent a car in Thailand. It’s the driving that makes traveling by car a bit tricky. It certainly is not for the faint-hearted. Although the road conditions are very good, you still have to deal with reckless passing, drunk driving and speeding. Add to this the traffic situation, especially in the city, and you are in for a frustrating and scary ride. One other thing you have to adjust to is the fact that you have to drive on the left side of the road. If you are not used to this you may have to reorient yourself.
Car rental prices are very reasonable and you have plenty of car rental agencies to choose from. The major car rental outfits are Avis (02255-5300) and Budget (02566-5067).
If you want to drive in Thailand, you have to have an international driver’s license. Some smaller agencies may rent their car if you can show your local driver’s license. However, this may get you in big trouble when you figure in an accident. You may be considered liable because of your lack of a license. Now, if you feel you are not up to driving, you can also hire a driver.
As for gasoline, prices are very competitive. Major players include Caltex, Esso, PTT and Shell. There are also curbside vendors who can sell you gasoline poured from the bottle or pumped from a drum.
Other reminders:
- Check if you are covered by insurance.
- Check the car for damages before taking it out. Some agencies may not refund your deposit in full, claiming payment for damages that were already there even before you drove the car.
By Taxi
You can easily hail a taxi in Bangkok, but this may not be the case elsewhere in the country. These are excellent ways to get around, as long as there isn’t much traffic. Also, insist on the meter when you do get one. To get an idea of how much a ride costs, ask your concierge, or the local shop owner.
Other means of Transportation
Here are some more choices when it comes to transportation:
- tuk-tuk: These three-wheeled taxis is something of a symbol of Bangkok, it is recommended that you ride this at least once.
- Songthaew: This is a truck with a couple of bench on the back. Sometimes, these are mini-vans with improvised seats.
- Motorbike: This is a good ay of avoiding traffic but be sure to wear a helmet.
- Ferries: These river buses are to be found mostly on the Chao Phraya river.
Getting There
Now that you know where to go and what to do, how do you get to Thailand in the first place? Here is some practical information on traveling to Thailand.
By Air
There are quite a number of airlines that service this flight, as Thailand is an important hub in Asia. It is best to remember that Thailand has other international airports besides the one in Bangkok. International flights also go direct to and from Hat Yai, Ko Samui, Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Pattaya. Thai Airways is the national airline. But as there are also a lot of airlines, competition is stiff. As a result, you get more value for fares and packages.
By Bus
Thailand is connected to other parts of Indochina by routes that are serviced by private buses. Bangkok itself has three major bus terminals, these can then link you to buses that can bring you to other regions of the country. You can take the bus from Cambodia, Malaysia, Singapore, Laos and Burma and head for Thailand. For more information of getting to Thailand by bus, inquire from the tourism boards in the following countries (Malaysia – Telephone: 603-293-5188; Singapore – Telephone: 800-334-1335).
By Train
You can go to Thailand from Malaysia and Singapore by riding the train. The international train provides you with links to Butterworth (near Penang), Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. For more information on train schedules and flights, call the following numbers: 65/222-5165 (Singapore), 604/323-7962 (Butterworth) and 603/273-8000 (Kuala Lumpur). Tickets to this train are very affordable, yet it can be one slow ride.
Another option would be to ride the Eastern & Oriental Express. This runs one a week and is more comfortable but also more expensive. It is a trip that runs for 3 days and 2 nights from Singapore to Bangkok. The express also makes stops in key areas (such as the River Kwai and Penang). This luxury train has Pullman Cars, state cars, a Presidential car, restaurant cars, saloon and observation cars. Fares vary depending on accommodation. You can avail of the Pullman superior double ($1,440), State Double ($2,130), or the Presidential suite (2900).
Traveling by train is a great opportunity to view the landscapes of Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand from the luxury of your compartments or from the observation car.
By Boat
There are ferries from Langkawi (Malaysia) to Thailand, as well as a car ferry that runs between Tak Bai to Pengkalan. There are also cruises from Malaysia and Singapore that drop anchor in Bangkok and Phuket. The major cruise operators would be Star Cruises and Sun Cruises. This is traveling in the lap of luxury and the cruises are equipped with amenities that see to your comfort. For inquiries on Sun Cruises trips, call 07623-2511.
