The kingdom of Thailand lies in the heart of Southeast Asia, making it a natural gateway to Indochina, Myanmar and Southern China. Its shape and geography divide into four natural regions : the mountains and forests of the North; the vast rice fields of the Central Plains; the semi-arid farm lands of the Northeast plateau; and the tropical islands and long coastline of the peninsula South.
The only word to describe Thailand is "amazing". The amazing Thailand drives you to the whole traveling forms of itself through seven travel themes called the "Seven amazing Wonders of Thailand". The wonders binding the country from its Thainess to the cultural treasure; from the beautiful nature to the scenic beaches; from the mind blowing trends with the never ending festivals and the miraculous health & wellness. The "Land of Smiles" welcomes you to share the blend of religions, the unforgettable attractions and activities, the traditional and international cuisines, the world class accommodation and of course, the healthy smile from the world-renown hospitality country.
Despite the recent global decline in international tourism, the number of visitors who travel to Thailand continues to increase; with Thailand tourism chiefs reporting visitor arrivals topping the thirteen million mark for 2005.
There are many reasons why a Thailand holiday appeals over other destinations, not least of which is the friendly, peace-loving nature of the Thai people. However, a significant part of the Thailand's tourism success lies in the convenience and diversity of Thailand tour opportunities. The country offers a wealth of exotic and culturally distinctive destinations spread throughout its 76 provinces, and those who travel to Thailand tour with the knowledge that - from the mountainous north to the sultry south - every experience on a Thailand holiday will be unique and fulfilling. The number of foreign visitors to Thailand has steadily increased over the last 10 years, resulting in the "Golden Decade" of Thai tourism during the period 1987-1996.
As the region's chief aviation hub, and served by over 80 international airlines, travel to Thailand is only rivaled by the ease and frequency of air travel around the country with most of the principle Thailand tourism destinations only an hour flight from Bangkok. Of course, no Thailand holiday would be complete without a visit to the country's splendid capital. Famed for its many shopping opportunities, fantastic cultural landmarks, Thailand property and vibrant nightlife, Bangkok is the jewel in the crown of any Thailand tour.
Tourism policy in Thailand supports not only promotion of its own destinations but of those of its neighbors in the Greater Mekong Subregion (Lao PDR, Cambodia, Vietnam, Myanmar, Yunan Province of China and Thailand); BIMST-EC (Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Sir Lanka and Thailand), and those of all Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries. The Tourism Authority of Thailand has worked closely with other government agencies and the private sector to develop a sophisticated array of tourism products for visitor. From sports to eco and agro tourism, shopping to health spas, culture, property in Dubai and temples, heritage and architecture. Thailand offers something for everyone.
Tourism has been Thailand's largest source of foreign currency. At least one million Thais work in the tourist industry. Many thousands more make a living producing and selling handicrafts to tourists. Tourism brings international prestige to Thailand. Earnings from tourism help to pay for improvements to Thailand's infrastructure - new airports in Bangkok and Chiang Mai, new highways, better water and sewage systems.
In 1998 the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) ran an 'Amazing Thailand' campaign to bring more visitors into the country. Between November 15th and December 15th a 'Grand sale' was held. Shopping centers, department stores and street stalls joined together to offer discounts of up to 70% on retail goods. Tourists also came to attend the 13th Asian games which were held in Thailand during December 1998.
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