Thailand The Land of Freedom

23 July, 2010
Source: pattayadailynews

Thailand is a mesmeric, magical land with a magnetism that captivates, enthralling all who visit, making them want to return time and time again. It is apparently the most visited country in the South East Asia.

The Kingdom as it is quite often referred to, is full of stunning beaches, beautiful scenery, has an impressive culture, first class hospitality, temples, ancient ruins and welcoming locals, all sporting a permanent smile, hence its nickname ‘The Land of Smiles.’ They are generally a gentle, hospitable and softly spoken race, who when invited into their home, share what they have. Thai people believe that their souls live in their head and so do not like anyone touching their head, not even a child’s.

Thailand changed its name in 1949 from Siam by official proclamation which means ‘Land of Freedom’. It was ruled by the Mon which was a great Buddhist empire, then later by the Khmer in the 13^th century. The Thais culture and religion is on a par to the Cambodians which they adopted after the fall of the Khmer Kingdom. The Buddhist religion does not believe in killing for the sake of it and have a saying, ‘The only good thing to kill is anger’

South East Asia was never colonized by Europeans as was its neighbors Cambodia, Lao and Myanmar, Burma and Malaysia and so has managed to retain most of its original culture and beliefs. The Chakri Dynasty was founded by King Rama I who established Bangkok as the capital in 1782. The current King of Thailand Bhumibol Adulyadej, King Rama IX, is currently the longest serving monarch in the world and in Thai history.

Thailand is renowned for their white elephants, that are held in very high esteem and all elephants are highly revered, although not all are very well treated. The elephants are considered a symbol of peace and prosperity.

There are some seriously beautiful sights to see in Thailand with Wildlife Sanctuaries, historical towns, waterfalls and has 5 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Bangkok is considered one of the most beautiful places in Asia, a city where East meets West.

Patty Brown