Fast Facts about Thailand
| Facts at a Glance |
| Area |
514,000 sq.km. |
| Capital City |
Bangkok (Krung Thep in Thai) |
| Population |
Approx. 61 Million |
| Language |
Thai (official), English (business) |
| Religion |
Buddhism |
| Climate |
Tropical; rainy, warm, cloudy southwest monsoon (mid-May
to September); dry, cool northeast monsoon (November to mid-March);
Southern isthmus always hot and humid |
| Local Time |
GMT +7 |
| Currency |
Thai baht |
| Business Hours |
Monday-Friday; 9.30 am-3.30 pm (Banks),
9.00 am-5.00 pm (Businesses),
10.00 am-9.00 pm (Most department stores) |
| Tipping |
It is customary to tip porters and hotel personnel who have
given good personal service. A 10%-15% tip is appreciated
in restaurants, particularly where service charge does not
apply. |
| Nightlife |
Bangkok's colourful nightlife is generally safe, but avoid
seedy bars and live-show joints where drinks may turn out
to cost more than one thinks. The Thai Dinner with Classical
Dances is a popular evening tour. Large hotels usually offer
their own entertainment. |
| Electricity supply |
220V, 50Hz |
| Photography |
International film manufacturers operate photo-finishing
services with standard prints ready within an hour. Films
are available countrywide at reasonable prices. |
| Tourist Information |
Tourism Authority of Thailand's information centre at Tel:
(66-2) 694-1222 (80 lines), Fax: (66-2) 694-1220/1, |
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