Geography
Thailand is the same area as France, 514,000 km2 but with almost 70 million inhabitants. The longest distance is 1860 km between the golden triangle (Laos, Burma and Thailand) and the extreme south on the Malaysian border. Bangkok is the capital of Thailand, it covers more than 1 500 km2, which is 15 times the size of Paris. Thailand also has a cultural capital in the north, called Chiang Mai.
The country is one of the most diverse climates of Southeast Asia. Mountain and jungle in the north, fertile plains in the center and tropical islands in the south. You want further information about this region? Feel free to check the official website: ASEAN
Climate
The climate in Thailand is marked by the monsoon, not to be confused with tropical hurricanes, or other storms. There are three seasons in Thailand: The rainy season, the dry season and the warm season.
In Bangkok and its periphery, during the rainy season (May-October), average temperatures range from 24 to 32 degrees, humidity 87 percent, and raining of 200 mm per month. It does not rain all day but it rains hard, very hard... Rarely more than two hours, causing flooding in some parts of Bangkok.
The dry season is the most pleasant (November-February), perfect temperature, little humidity, and blue sky.
During the dry season, you will live with air conditioning constantly, temperatures exceeding 35 degrees, humidity reaches 75%.
It should be noted that the south suffers less of the variation of season, due to its proximity to the equator. The north is mountainous and the temperatures are cooler. The air more breathable than Bangkok.
Religion
90% of Thai are Buddhists, according to the latest figures, Muslims represent the largest minority of the kingdom with 7%, originating from the south, they are found in Bangkok. There are also many Hindus, Sikhs and Christians. Thai people are very tolerant with all religions, the public space authorizes any religious practice. You will see very few thai atheists. The Buddhism is felt everywhere, in the streets, malls, condominiums.
Government and monarchy
Thailand is officially a monarchy, the king is a living god respected by all. Rama 10, does not lead the affairs of the kingdom, but enjoys an enormous popularity among the population, arbiter political conflicts and largely contributed to the development of the country, launching massive investment policies. Further information about this monarchy? Feel free to check the Wikipedia page: Monarchy in Thailand
The army
The army is steering the country firmly. Some approve, some not… At least they stopped the crisis between the yellows and the reds, and brought a social peace to the country. General Prayuth has been running the country since 2014.
Law
You will feel safe in Thailand, aggression or crimes against foreigners are rare. You may feel safer than in your own country. The danger is mostly on the roads, the country is the world record of road insecurity.
Thailand remains a very important tourist destination, so pay attention to scams, thefts… If you are in doubt, politely refuse any invitation, do not hesitate to call on the tourist police, who speak English. Drug use are severely repressed in Thailand.
Some Places to Visit in Thailand
In Bangkok, you will not be disappointed to visit the Royal Palace and its magnificent emerald Buddha status.
Visit the various temples such as Wat Arun or Wat Pho, containing many statues and outstanding architecture.
You can also go to the Golden Mount to enjoy a panoramic view of all Bangkok.
On weekends, there is a market with 15,000 stalls where you can find anything you want. It is the biggest market in Thailand if not in Asia.
In the north of Thailand is the city of Chiang Rai where you can admire the white temple, Wat Rong Khun. Symbolising the purity of Buddhism with its white glow and reflections, it is considered one of the most impressive temples.
You can visit another northern city, Chiang Mai, where you will find the majestic Doi Suthep temple.
East of Bangkok you can make a diversion to the Isan region where one of the most beautiful parks in the world is located, the Khao Yai National Park, which covers more than 2,000 km2 and is home to many wild animals.
Next door is the town of Nang Rong where you will be amazed by the ancient Khmer temples.
If you want to relax on heavenly beaches, Thailand's coastline is littered with them. Visit Phuket, Krabi, Koh Phi Phi or the island of Koh Lanta where you'll find postcard-perfect beaches.
Time difference
The time difference with France is plus 5 or 6 hours, depending on the summer or winter time. So when it is 00h in France, it is 6h due morning in Thailand.
Local customs
When you arrive in Thailand, you must remove your shoes in front of each temple or house so as not to dirty the place.
Do not enter a temple without covering your shoulders and legs.
It is very bad form to get angry in public or in the street.
The national sport is Muay Thai, also known as the "eight limbs" sport.
