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A Guide to Vacationing in Thailand  
Visit Cities in Thailand:
Bangkok
Chiang Mai
Phuket

Thailand is the most popular tourist spot in all of South-East Asia. Its popularity is due to the fact that the country offers something for everybody. It is an eclectic mix of culture and a collection of beautiful shining beaches. Thailand also has thick jungle areas, exotic animal life and tasty cuisine. It is a country that offers cheap living and yet the important modern amenities that you would expect from a home-country resort. The people in Thailand are carefree and fun seeking.

Though Thailand has been inhabited by humans apparently back to the Paleolithic period, the modern start of Thailand takes place in the 13th century with prospering states like Tai, Mon, Khmer and Malay. The first Thai state was thought to be Sukhothai, founded in 1238, after the decline of the Khmer empire. Sukhothai was then overpowered by Ayutthaya in the mid 14th century, and then Ayutthaya fell to the Burmese in 1767. Interestingly, despite heavy pressure to the contrary, Thailand is the only Southeast Asian nation that never colonized by the Europeans. The people's survival is credited to the savvy of their rulers who were able to exploit rivalries and position Thailand as a buffer state. The Thailand of today is a very friendly country and one open to tourism.

Thailand does not require a visa from most countries, so as long as the trip is tourism related and is not expected to last longer than 30 days. Passports are the only item required in these cases, and visa-on-arrival is available for about 20 different nations. Keep in mind that overstaying your welcome is frowned upon and could even get you in trouble with the authorities. If you want to stay longer than planned (which is permissible in itself) then get a legal extension or do a visa run to the nearest border. Flying is the most preferred means of travel in Thailand and the carriers you will be dealing with are THAI Airways and Bangkok Airways. If you live in Asia, then you may be able to travel to Thailand by boat or train.

The weather in Thailand is typically tropical, so expect conditions to be hot and humid almost all year round. You may also find some relief in the northern mountains of Thailand. When should you plan on visiting Thailand? There are three seasons to take note of, the cool season, which lasts from November to February, the hot season, which is from March to June, and the rainy season from July to October. The peak season is May through October, so plan your trip accordingly.

What are some of the highlights of a Thailand vacation? East Thailand is known for its beaches and islands, including the very popular resort called Pattaya. Ayutthaya is an historical city, while Chiang Mai is the heart of Lanna culture. Kanchanaburi has the famous Bridge over the River Kwai, and Ko Chang, a quiet island that is also rich on tourist amenities. Finally, enjoy a bit of Thailand nature with the Ang Thong National Marine Park.

A Thailand vacation has something for everybody and can provide you with many exotic memories for years to come.