ABOUT  THAILAND


 

With over 10  million  visitors each year,  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 makes for an exceptional travel experience that you won’t soon forget.  Thai is the main language spoken throughout Thailand however English is widely understood and spoken in major cities.

 

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.  The population of Thailand is approximately 62 million yet there is enormous cultural and social unity, Cleary evident in the Thais’ respect for other people, their gentle nature and warm hospitality.

 

So much to see and do

 

Few islands can boast of such an abundance of sandy beaches and clear waters as Phuket. The winding coastal roads along the west coast of this 540-square-km island offer stunning views and easy access to some of the world’s finest beaches.

 

Whether one wants to sample the frenetic pace of Patong or find solitude on a remote stretch of sand in the north, Phuket’s beaches have it all for the sun seeker.

 

While there’s plenty to see on Phuket, several smaller surrounding islands, each offering unique sighs of their own, are easily accessible within an hour or two by boat.   Many have excellent snorkeling and diving sites, while others simply offer nice patches of sand on which to spend a quiet day.

 

There’s a lot more to Phuket than just sea, sand and sunshine. The island also boasts a long history, interesting architecture, lively markets, fascinating religious sites and more.  Phuket’s unique culture is yours to discover.

 

 

 

Thai food and dining

 

Thai food is world famous and whether spicy-hot or comparatively mild; harmony is the guiding principle behind each dish. Thai cuisine marries eastern and western influences to create something uniquely Thai.

 

Visit Phuket’s fresh product market to experience the rich variety of flowers, spices, fruit and   vegetables. The abundance of fresh seafood, vegetables, herbs and fruits adds a healthy aspect to the already robust and flavorful cuisine.   Tropical fruits such as mangos teen, mango, pineapple, guava, ramboutan, jackfruit, durian, rose apple and many others can be enjoyed throughout the year.

 

Phuket has a number of excellent local restaurants. Of course, all major cuisines of the world are available in Phuket including halal and vegetarian meals.

 

Shopping

 

Phuket is a shopaholic’s paradise! The island has a great variety of shopping, from bustling open-air village fold markets, noisy night   markets, street stalls and local shops to western style department stores and upmarket specialist shops. With traditional handicrafts, beautifully designed clothing, jewellery, antiques, housewares and much more to choose from.

 


Copyright © 2006 Asia Pacific Society for Neurochemistry
Last modified: 04/28/09