Welcome to Thailand, officially known as the Kingdom of Thailand. Located in Southeast Asia, it shares borders with Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, and Malaysia. Thailand is an archipelago consisting of 76 provinces, with Bangkok serving as the capital city. Known for its welcoming people, mouthwatering street food, and stunning temples, Thailand is a destination that captures the hearts of visitors and expats alike.
Expat destinations in Thailand
Demographics of Thailand:
Ethnic groups
Thai: 95% (includes ethnic Chinese and ethnically Malay), other: 5%
Languages
Thai (official): 95% (central Thai); Thai dialects: 1.5%; Hill tribe (Tai-Kadai): 2%; Burmese, Khmer (Cambodian), Lao, Shan, Chinese (Cantonese, Mandarin, Hokkien, Hakka, Hainan, Teochew, Hoipolish, Tat-Monge), French, Malay, Englis
Religion Overview
The majority of the Thai population is Buddhist, including Theravada Buddhism and Mahayana Buddhism. Smaller percentages of the population practice Islam, Christianity, animalism, and indigenous religions.
Major Religions
Climate
Thailand's tropical climate is wet and dry, with significant rainfall during the monsoon season from May to October.
Economy Overview
Thailand is a rapidly developing country with a thriving economy fueled by its dynamic industries. The country's main industries include tourism, agriculture, manufacturing, and finance.
Key Industries
- Tourism
- Automotive
- Hospitality
- Healthcare
- Food Processing
- Sugar Production
- Fisheries
Major Companies
- Thung Thong
- Booth Industry
- Btic Group
- BCPG
- East West Bank
- Krungthai Bank
- PTT
- Chevron Asia Pacific Upstream Ventures Ltd.
- True Corporation PCL.
- AOT (Airports of Thailand)
Culture and Language Overview
Thailand's rich and diverse culture is evident in its traditional dances, music, festivals, and cuisine. The language spoken in Thailand is Thai, which is tonal and uses a distinctive script.
Cultural Highlights
- Songkran (Water Festival)
- Loi Krathong (Floating Lantern Festival)
- Ramayana - Re-enactment of the famous epic Ramakien
- Thai Cooking Classes
- Muay Thai Boxing Matches
- Thai Massages
- Night Markets
Geography and Landmarks Overview
Thailand is a land of contrasts with mesmerizing landscapes ranging from magnificent mountains to picturesque beaches. The main wildlife preserves include Khao Yai and Doi Inthanon.
Notable Landmarks
- Grand Palace (Wat Phra Kaew)
- Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew)
- Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha)
- Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
- Wat Saket (Golden Mount)
- Wat Benchamabophit (Marble Temple)
- Wat Suthat Thep Warai Ratchanatdaram (Suthat Thep Warai Ratchanatdaram)
- Anne Frank House
- The Bangkok Art & Culture Centre
- Chatuchak Weekend Market
- Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
National Holidays
- New Year's Day (January 1)
- Makha Bucha Day (3rd lunar month)
- Chakri Day (April 6)
- Songkran (April 13 - 15)
- Coronation Day (December 5)
- His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej's Birthday (December 5)
- Queen's Birthday (August 12)
- King Rama IX Memorial Day (October 13)
- Thai National Day (December 5)
- Royal Ploughing Ceremony (May or June)
- Asarnha Bucha Day (15th lunar month)
- Loy Krathong (Full Moon of the 12th lunar month)
Political Stability
Thailand is a constitutional monarchy with a formerly military-backed government that changed to democracy in 2019. The major political issues include the ongoing conflicts between the government and opposition groups related to corruption, human rights, and freedom of speech.
Find out more about expats in Asia
