Thailand, the "Land of Smiles", is one of the most fascinating and vibrant destinations in the world. A land of golden temples and stunning beaches, Thailand's strategic location within the Asia Pacific region combined with its geographic, social and cultural diversity make for an exceptional travel experience that you won't soon forget.

Thailand, formerly known as the Kingdom of Siam, is a democratic nation. King Bhumibol of the Chakkri Dynasty is the revered symbolic head of the country. Thai is the main language spoken throughout Thailand, however, English is widely understood and spoken in major cities.

Population of Thailand is approximately 62 million people and is made up of Thai (80%), Chinese (10%) Malay and several other minorities (Laos, Mons, Khmers and hill tribes).

It’s People

Thais are well-known for their friendliness and hospitality.  No wonder their country is also called the “City of Smiles”.
 
A large majority of over 64 million citizens of Thailand are ethic Thai, along with strong communities whose ethnic origins lie in China, India and elsewhere. About 8 million people reside in its capital city – Bangkok.

Thailand is also considered a melting pot.  You can meet people from different countries of different colors of different nationalities.

 It’s Language

The official language, spoken by almost 100 percent of the population, is Thai. Thai is a tonal, uninflected, and predominantly monosyllabic language borrowed from Khmer, Pali, and Sanskrit.  Chinese and Malay are also spoken in some areas, while local dialects are common in rural communities. English is widely spoken in Bangkok and other major metropolitan areas.

It’s Climate

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.

It’s Religion

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.

It’s Ways, Roads and Means of Transportation

The state owns the Thai railroad system and it runs along a total of 3870 km of track.  There is a network of railway lines that go from Bangkok to surrounding cities in all directions.  It goes to Chiang Mai in the north to the frontier of Malaysia in the south.  There is another line available that extends to Myanmar in the northwest. The highways in Thailand were improved upon in the 1970s and are comprised of roads totaling about 65,000 km.

Means of Transportation:

Passport & Visa

Official Carrier

Thai Airways International has been appointed as the official carrier for the Congress. Please contact your nearest Thai International office for your trip arrangement.   For more details about Thai Airways, please click here

Official Travel Agent

Airport Transfer

Suvarnabhumi International Airport is approximately a 30-minutes drive via a modern motorway to the city center.  Metered taxis are also available outside the terminal at ground floor level. Alternatively, a public Airport Shuttle Bus operated between the airport and city is also available.

Insurance

Participants are requested to make their own arrangement with respect to health and travel insurance.

Traveler's Cheques and Credit Cards

Major credit cards, such as VISA, Master Card and American Express are acceptable in hotels and shops. Traveler's cheques can be conveniently cashed at all commercial banks and authorized money exchanges.

Currency

Only Thai Baht is acceptable at stores and restaurants. Foreign currency exchange services are available at major banks and hotels. Banking hours are from 8.30 - 15.30 hours from Monday to Friday.

Electricity

Voltage in Thailand is 220V AC using two-pin sockets.

Time Difference

Thailand time is GMT plus 7 hours.

Bangkok Map

Please download the map here

Where to go in Thailand

Thailand is known for its beautiful tourist spots, shopping spree and admirable sceneries.  For more information where to go in Thailand, please visit TAT

Security

Compared with many other cities, Bangkok is considered one of the safest cities in the world. From airports to various hotels and venues, tight security measures equivalent to international standard have been implemented throughout the city. Computer tomography x-ray (CTX) machines have been implemented at the capital's new "Suvarnabhumi Airport" in order to thoroughly check travelers' belongings and baggage. Moreover, in numerous buildings and venues in Bangkok, there are different kinds of security systems to be seen.