Welcome to Thailand Originally called Siam, Thailand is a country rich in culture and natural beauty. It has been blessed with expansive natural parks, fertile plains, remote jungles, beaches washed by turquoise waters and tropical islands bathed in endless sunshine. The country has more visible historical evidence of its past cultures than any other country in Southeast Asian. Its history is very complex, involving the invasion of many different peoples, the rule of different kings, the establishment of various kingdoms and the interaction of diverse cultures. The period of time from the mid 1800's until now is probably the most important in terms of the formation of modern day Thailand. King Mongkut, who ruled the country from 1851 to 1868, was a well educated, ex-monk who kept Thailand safe from European expansion. His son, Chulalongkorn, took over in 1868 and continued the enlightenment and modernization of Thailand. King Chulalongkorn made great strides in improving the country, however he refused to allow his people democratic rights. This finally led to a takeover by Thai intellectuals, along with military help, in 1932. The name of the country was changed from Siam to Thailand in 1939 by Prime Minister Phibun Songkhram, mainly because he wanted to disassociate his country from the past. Translated literally, Thailand means "Land of the Free". The Thai race was previously believed to have originated somewhere near Mongolia, later moving southward. However, new theories based on historical discoveries regard the northeastern part of Thailand as the birthplace of the Thai race. Over the years, the country has become home to many immigrants. The Thai people have managed to preserve the traditions of their unique culture, at the same time absorbing the practices of modern living. Nevertheless, the combination of cultures and backgrounds of these immigrants make Thailand an interesting and memorable country to visit. Tourism has become an important industry in the country. More people visit Thailand than any other country in Southeast Asia. In 1999, about eight million people visited Thailand. WEATHER CONDITIONS Thailand has a humid, tropical climate, and it is hot all year round. Summer is from March to May with average temperatures around 93F (34C), but the temperature can reach over 105F (40C) for extended periods. Summer monsoons begin as the warm humid air masses flow towards the north from the Indian Ocean. The monsoons end in the fall when the wind reverses direction with the dry southwesterlies. The rainy season, with periods of sunshine, lasts from June to September, with temperatures ranging from 80F to 89F (27C to 32.&C). The amount of rainfall varies with topography. The northeast receives the least rain, while the south is flooded during the summer months. The best time to visit Thailand is during the cool season, from October through February, when it is not as humid as during the summer and the rainy seasons. The average temperature is around 18C to 32C. During this season, it can be very chilly in the north, with temperatures dropping to 7C) at night. PEOPLE AND CULTURE Over the years, Thailand has attracted many immigrants. The people of Thailand share a rich ethnic diversity consisting of Thai, Mon, Khmer, Laotian, Chinese, Malay, Persian and Indian descendants. As a result, it is not possible to speak of a typical Thai physique. The Thais are, on the whole, a group of people who believe that life should be enjoyed, but no one should infringes on others' rights. The Thais are tolerant and hospitable, and it is easy to get along with. Good manners, common sense and a smile are necessities in Thailand. Women have considerable influence in Thai society. Although the men's role is usually accentuated in public, in private, all affairs such as finances and all other trading transactions are generally managed by women. Monarchy and religion are sacred in Thailand, and it is against the law to criticize them, especially in public. Mocking the monarchy, or joking about it, is a serious offense and is punishable by imprisonment. Ethnic Groups: 75% Thai, 14% Chinese and 11% other. Languages: The national language is Thai. English is widely understood, particularly in Bangkok, where it is almost the major commercial language. English is spoken in most hotels and restaurants and at major tourist destinations. Religion: 95% of the population practice Buddhism, 4% are Muslim and the remainder are Christians, Hindus or Sikhs. LOCAL CUSTOMS The Thais are extremely tolerant and forgiving people with an easygoing approach to life. Nevertheless, there are certain moral, social and religious customs visitors should know and observe to avoid embarrassment and misunderstanding. Never lose your temper or raise your voice no matter how frustrating the situation is. Only patience, humor and chai yen (cool heart) yield results in Thailand. Thais believe that the head is the most sacred part of the body, so never touch or pat anyone in Thailand on the head, even in the friendliest of circumstances. Standing over someone, especially someone older or wiser, is considered rude behavior since it implies social superiority. As a sign of courtesy, lower your head as you pass a group of people. When in doubt, watch the Thais. The feet are considered the lowest part of the body, so don't point at things with your feet. When sitting down, make sure the soles of your feet are not facing anyone. Wearing shorts is considered improper and low-class attire, but acceptable for children. No matter how hot it is, long pants should be worn in urban areas. If you are planning to visit a Buddhist temple, dress conservatively and remember to take your shoes off when you enter the temple. Public display of affection and nudity at beaches are offensive. Never have your picture taken with any Buddhist images. They are  considered extremely sacred, no matter what their age or condition. Buddhist monks must be treated with respect at all times. Women are not allowed to touch the monks nor can the monks accept anything from a woman's hand. Rear seats on buses are reserved for the monks, and other passengers have to vacate these seats when necessary. Never stand over a seated monk, since a monk should always remain at the highest elevation. Business: Traditionally, Thais greet each other not with a handshake but with the wai (a prayer-like posture with the palms of the hands pressed together). Meetings are usually held in offices, hotel lobbies and restaurants. The Thais are sociable and often mix business with pleasure. The person who has extended the invitation pays for the meals or drinks. If it isn't clear who extended the invitation, the senior most person at the table has the honor of paying. Avoid scheduling a meeting after 3:30pm, because the Thais like to get an early start on the evening rush-hour trip home. CURRENCY The unit of currency in Thailand is the Baht. It is divided into 100 satang. There is no currency black market in Thailand. Traveler's checks can be cashed at banks throughout the country - even small towns have foreign exchange services. Visitors are allowed to bring up to B2,000 per person and unlimited foreign currency, although amounts exceeding US$10,000 must be declared. A maximum amount of B500 per person is allowed to be taken out of the country. Copper coins are valued at 25 and 50 satang while silver coins are in denominations of 1, 2 and 5 Baht. A 10-Baht coin is composed of both silver and copper. Bank notes come in denominations of 10 Baht (brown), 20 Baht (green), 50 Baht (blue), 100 Baht (red), 500 Baht (purple) and 1000 Baht (gray). 40 Baht = US$1