Steeped in a rich cultural heritage; blessed with a year-round tropical climate, and at peace with its neighbours and the world, Thailand has become the ideal destination for tourists looking for that 'perfect holiday'. And it's these same qualities that have made this exotic country the natural choice for those seeking their own 'home in the sun'.

Being located between the Equator and the Tropic of Capricorn (5 deg.40' - 20 deg.30' North, 97 deg.30' - 105 deg.45' East), means that Thailand has the sun passing directly overhead twice a year. And although this movement does create some climatic changes, the country's seasons are determined more by its monsoon rainfall (or lack of it in the dry season) than by its temperatures.

It has a population of approximately 60 million, of whom 80% are native Thais with the remainder consisting mainly of Chinese, Indians and Malays. And the capitol city of Bangkok alone, is home to an incredible 8 million people. Some 94% of Thais are Buddhists, with 2% being Muslims, while the remainder includes considerable numbers of Catholics, Sikhs and Hindus. Religion plays an integral part of Thai life, with many males spending time (anything from a week to a year) in the Buddhist monkhood.

Thailand is a monarchy, and the Thai Royal Family is greatly revered by the entire nation. The current sovereign - King Bhumibol Adulyadej (he too spent a year in monkhood) - is the world's longest-reigning, living monarch, having ascended the throne 56 years ago. His tireless efforts in creating new projects for helping the poorer regions of his country have endeared him to all Thai's, most of whom proudly display a photograph or picture of him in their home or workplace.

Tourism is Thailand's main source of foreign currency, with millions of people flocking into the country every year. Most visitors stop in Bangkok for a few days sightseeing before heading away from the traffic towards quieter areas. Chiang Mai in the North attracts many with its cooler weather, wonderful flower gardens and access to the remote hill-tribes of the Northwest. Pattaya in the East draws partygoers with its famous nightlife scene, while Phuket in the Andaman Sea is world-renowned for its up-market tourism infrastructure. But it's Koh Samui, Thailand's idyllic 'coconut' island, located in the southern part of the Gulf of Siam that remains the first-choice destination for those wishing to really get away from it all, and appreciate Thailand's unspoilt, natural beauty.