LOCATION: Southeast Asia bordering Myanmar to the west, Laos and Cambodia to the east, and Malaysia to the south.

SIZE: 198 thousand square miles.  About the size of California.

POPULATION: 63 million people

PEOPLE: 75% Thai, 14% Chinese, 11% other.  Thailand is a devoutly Buddhist country with 95% of the population Buddhist.

GOVERNMENT: Officially Thailand is a constitutional monarchy with His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej, or King Rama IX, the ninth king of the Chakri Dynasty as Head of State, Head of the Armed Forces, Upholder of the Buddhist religion and Upholder of all religions.  However, there have been many military coups over the years.  The last one in 2006 that overthrew the elected government of Thaksin Shinawatra.  A new constitution was approved and elections held but it's still not clear which direction the government is heading or for how long. 

CURRENCY: Thai Baht

LANGUAGE: Thai

ECONOMY: Thailand was at the center of the 1997 Asian financial crisis.  Since then, however, they've had steady growth bolstered by a strengthening currency and steady exports.  Thailand exports more than $105 billion worth of products every year.  They are the number one exporter of rice in the world.  This is becoming increasingly important as the world faces a rice shortage.

TRAVEL: Bangkok is a legendary city.  If you are looking for a good time you will find it.  If you are looking for trouble you will find it.  We recommend sticking to the temples, restaurants and Thai boxing matches.  Thailand has many beautiful beaches around Phuket, and cultural treasures in the hills around Chiang Mai.  It is also one of the cheapest places to travel in Asia.

VISA: No visa required for Americans for stays up to 30 days. Proof of ticket leaving Thailand within 30 days is required. 

GETTING THERE: Direct flights from the United States are provided by Thai Airways.  Cathay Pacific Airlines flies to Bangkok through Hong Kong.  United Airlines flies to Bangkok through its Tokyo hub.