Thailand, Siam, The Land of Smiles . . .

However it is known to you,Thailand (literally Free-Land) is famous
the world over for its remarkable hospitality, friendliness and rich
culture. Nestled in the heart of Southeast Asia, the country offers an
abundance of destinations, from modern city life to the exquisite scenery
of lush green mountains and warm blue seas. 

Throughout history, the Thai people have maintained their precious qualities
of kindness, generosity and hospitality. Indeed, "Take good care of your
guests, make the best for them" is a traditional Thai saying.

For the adventurous, a journey to Thailand can be the trip of a
lifetime. In the North and West, take an elephant ride, explore
exotic tropical forests, raft down remote rivers, trek through
mountains and make friends with the kindly hill tribes.  In the
South, climb steep cliffs, scuba dive beneath the warm blue sea,
and relax on a perfect sandy beach.

The two great historical sites of Sukhothai and Ayuthaya, both one-
time capitals of ancient Thailand, have been beautifully preserved
and proclaimed as world heritage sites by UNESCO. There are also
a host of other fascinating ancient monuments and relics, as well as
prehistoric paintings and dinosaur bones, especially in the Northeast.
There is a long list of festivals and special events to enjoy, commonly
related to the Buddhist religion, the cultural heritage, and to show
respect to the much loved Royal Family.

One thing that should not be missed is the wonderful Thai cuisine,
which can be traced back to the Siam Royal courts hundreds of
years ago.   For shoppers, Thailand is without a doubt a paradise;
from glamorous city malls to friendly street vendors, everything
from authentic art and crafts to top foreign brands is available at
reasonable prices.

Thai people are of gentle heart but have a strong spirit.   While Thailand
is a modern nation that has embraced science and technology, Thai
people have retained their exquisite traditions and rich culture.  The
country has never been colonized, which may account for the easy-going
nature and national pride of the Thai people.
   
Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand, is not known by the name Bangkok to the Thai people   The actual name in Thai is “Krungthepmahanakorn Amornrattanakosin Mahintrayuthaya Mahadilokpob Noparat Rajataniburirom Udomrajanivej Mahasatharn Amornpimarn Awatarnsatis Sakatadtiya Wisanukamprasit,"  which is, interestingly enough, registered in the Guinness Book of Records as the city with the longest name.   Fortunately, this name is abbreviated for daily use to "Krungthep" or "Krungthep Mahanakorn," meaning "City of Angels."

The city was created in 1782 when King Rama I moved the capital from Thonburi across the Chao Phraya River, with the river serving as a natural line of defense against the ever-threatening Burmese invaders. Back then, Bangkok was still only a small village, with canals instead of streets. Though you may find that Bangkok has become a very modern city in every sense of the word, many of the fascinating ways of the original settlers are still in vogue, adding to the city's charm.   For example, you will still find food vendors on virtually every street serving up a quick and economical meal to office workers, laborers, and millionaires alike.  Water taxis and water buses still navigate the river and canals, serving commuters from suburban residential areas.  Floating markets are still a normal way of obtaining daily needs of the people living along, or even on, these waterways.  Bangkok may be a big city, but the Thai culture and customs are still very evident everywhere you look. This sprawling, dynamic and frustrating capital offers more variety, sights, and wonders than any other destination in Asia.

 

Udon Thani,  a Northeastern province covering 11,730 square kilometers, is a prime business center of I-San.  Located 564 km northeast of Bangkok,  Udon Thani is probably best known for its archaeological wonders —  paramount among them is the World Heritage site of Ban Chiang, where the world's first Bronze Age civilization is believed to have flourished more than 5,000 years ago.

The Vietnam War transformed this sleepy provincial city into a booming support center for the nearby American air base, from which World Team '06 will stage its operations.  Since the withdrawal of US troops in 1976, Udon Thani has continued to grow as an industrial and commercial center within the region.  Today, Udon Thani supports several tourist destinations, and is the transportation and communications hub of upper Northeast Thailand. 

Udon Thani (pronounced Oo-Don-Tdawny) is located on a plateau approximately 187 meters above sea level, and is mostly covered with rice fields, forests, and hills. The Ph Pan mountain range and the Singh River are the province's two main natural resources.  The locals are mainly engaged in agricultural activities, though the wholesale and retail trading industries are on the rise.  Don Thai's provincial seal depicts God Wets, King of the Giants and Keeper of the Northern Heavenly Gate. 

 
Thailand copy and facts courtesy of Turismo Asia