If
you
look at the map
of Thailand,
you will
notice that it’s shaped like the head of an elephant, which
is
fitting since the elephant is the national symbol of the kingdom.
Covering 513,000 square kilometers, Thailand shares borders with
Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, and Myanmar. It has a population of around 63
million people. Of all the places to visit in the world,
Thailand
tops the list of many travelers with its history and its
beauty.
So book you trip and travel
insurance and be on your way!
Government and Politics
Presently, Thailand is a constitutional monarchy in which King Bhumidol Adulyadej reigns as the Head of State and the Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Armed Forces. The legislative branch of the government is composed of the House of Representatives and the Upper House. Members of Parliament and Senators are elected through popular votes. Meanwhile, the Prime Minister heads the Executive Branch, overseeing the fourteen ministries.
The Arts
In the olden days, Thai art was almost always related to Buddhism. From the Sukhothai era to the Ayutthaya era, a great number of artists were trained to make artifacts and decorations to glorify the Lord Buddha. In time, the focus had shifted to more contemporary ideals and subjects. However, the quality of Thai art is still as renowned as in times past.
Religion
Thais are highly religious. In a country where about 95% of the population is Buddhist, Thailand has more than 40,000 Buddhist temples. The Lord Buddha’s Birthday or Vesak is a major celebration in Thailand.
Energy and Natural Resources
According to a study conducted by World Resources Institute, Thailand’s total energy production in 2000 is over 41 million metric tons. However, the total energy consumption in 1999 is more than 70 million metric tons with energy imports hitting above 40 million metric tons in 1997. Energy in Thailand is supplied by natural resources such as coal, coal products, crude oil, natural gas liquids, and natural gas amounting to over 56 million metric tons in 1999. There is also renewable energy in the form of primary solid biomass which amounted to some 13 million metric tons in 1999.
International Relations
As a member of ASEAN, Thailand maintains close relationships with Brunei, Burma, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines, and Vietnam. Thailand is also allied with China, Japan, South Korea, and India. On a more global scale, Thailand has also developed good ties with the United States as well as a number of European nations such as Germany, England, France, and others.
Agriculture
Agriculture is one of the main contributors to Thailand’s economy. According to a study in 2008, Thailand is the world’s 6th largest producer of rice with more than 29 million tons.
Tourism
Known as the Land of A Thousand Smiles, Thailand is a land of many charms. From the world class beaches to the historical cities to the beautiful temples, Thailand has many attractions. In 2007, more than 14 million international visitors came to Thailand.
Economic Structure
In a study conducted by the Economy Watch in 2004, Thailand’s services sector had the highest percentage share of total GDP at 46 percent. The industrial sector occupied 44.1 percent while the agricultural sector made up 9.9 percent.
Manufacturing
In recent years, the manufacturing sector of Thailand has been a great contributor to the national GDP. In a ten year period from 1995 to 2005, the manufacturing sector has been increasing at a rate of 3.4 percent per year. Thailand is the leading automobile producer in the region.
Despite the recent political turmoil, Thailand is still a very attractive destination for tourists as well as investors.