Background
History
Following Japan's defeat in WWII in 1945, Thailand tried to create a democracy, but with political instability and U.S. aid, in 1949 Thailand became a kingdom with military control. For the next few decades, there were various coups and more instability. In 1973, the Thai Student Uprising occurred and tried to create democracy. More instability ensued until 1996, where Thailand finally became a democracy.
Culture
LanguagesThai is Thailand's official language, however, other colloquial languages are spoken. Khmer is common around the the eastern Cambodian border; Karen is common along the northern Burmese border. Lastly, Malay is spoken around the southern Malasyian border.
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ReligionBuddhism is Thailand's predominant religion, constitutes ninety five percent of the population's beliefs. Four percent of the population practices Islam, while the other one percent constitutes a mixture of Christians, Hindus, Taoists, and Confuscists.
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Thai Food
![Picture](/uploads/1/9/8/8/19886995/651086757.jpg)
Appetizers are uncommon in Thailand. Main course dishes consist of dishes consisting of rice, noodles, meat/fish, and vegetables, such as curry. Thai deserts can be simple, such as fresh fruit, or it can be more complex, such as rice cakes, depending on the region.
Attractions
AyutthayaFormerly a trade capital between China and India, Ayuthaya's walls and buildings still stand. You can visit the tuins and explore Thailand's ancient history.
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The Grand PalaceThe Grand Palace was built for royalty to honor Thailand's kings. It contains many unique, beautiful architectural styles. It also holds the Wat Phra Kaew, or the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. It is thought to be Thailand's holiest temple.
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Koh Phi PhiKoh Phi Phi is a archipelago in Thailand surrounded by the beautiful ocean on both sides. It's a very active spot in Thailand with much to do. You can take a ferry ride, go rock climbing, diving, or do many other activities.
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Expenses
Food: The price of food largely depends on the venue. Street food costs around 20-40 Bahts, food from a small restaurant can charge around 40-120 Bahts, and a meal from a tourist or high end restaurant ranges from 150 to 500 Bahts.
Travel: Taxis charge between one and five dollars depending on the distance traveled. The underground and elevated trains cost around $0.50 - $1.50. The buses fares are between $0.20 - $0.60. Air Asia's flights are very cheap. For example, a flight between Bangkok and Phuket could cost between $30 - $40.
Hotels: Cheap rooms costs anywhere between 100-1000 Bahts per night, depending on their quality and air conditioning ($3 to $35). Luxury hotel rooms charge around 2000 Bahts per night (about $65).
Travel: Taxis charge between one and five dollars depending on the distance traveled. The underground and elevated trains cost around $0.50 - $1.50. The buses fares are between $0.20 - $0.60. Air Asia's flights are very cheap. For example, a flight between Bangkok and Phuket could cost between $30 - $40.
Hotels: Cheap rooms costs anywhere between 100-1000 Bahts per night, depending on their quality and air conditioning ($3 to $35). Luxury hotel rooms charge around 2000 Bahts per night (about $65).