The Kingdom of Thailand, to use its official name, sees an influx of 16 million visitors annually. Many of these visitors are tourists and backpackers hoping to explore a culture and natural surroundings very different to their own. Thailand offers up a whopping 3,219 kilometers of idyllic coastline, which gives the mainland, and the many surrounding smaller islands, the gift of pristine sands and endless blue shores. Inland, hundreds of temples and historic buildings steal the skyline.
Despite its major tourism industry, Thailand, a country which deftly avoided colonialism, holds much cultural integrity. While the major towns and cities bear inevitable signs of Western influence, beyond these urban centers, farming remains the typical lifestyle, with 40% of Thai people earning a living from their land, particularly from the exportation of rice (a market Thailand dominates). Buddhism is also a huge influence on the culture of Thailand, with practicing Theravada Buddhists accounting for 85% of the population. This influence reveals itself in the ornate temple rooftops, the full calendar of annual Buddhist festivals and the beautifully robed monks that can be seen all over the country.
For a feel of urban Thai life, head to the capital city of Bangkok for many wild and exciting experiences. The street food here is as good as it gets, and culture can be found in the form of galleries, museums and temples around every vendor-laden corner. Choose to study in Thailand, and when exam time comes around, you’ll also thank Bangkok for its world-class Thai massage and relaxing meditation classes. Bangkok is also where the two highest ranked universities in Thailand are located: Mahidol University and Chulalongkorn University, both among the top 50 universities in Asia according to the 2014 QS University Rankings: Asia.
If the hectic pace of life in the capital begins to take its toll, there are plenty of opportunities to take time out, perhaps by exploring the many islands off the coast, known for their stunning, beautiful beaches and jungles, with opportunities to dive, KAYAK, swim and snorkel. Of these islands, Phuket and Ko Chang are among the most developed, Ko Pah Ngan has the best reputation for partying, and Ko Si Chang, Ko Kood and Ko Mak all remain relatively peaceful.