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Thailand
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Thailand is a country of natural and cultural wonders, from the mountains in the north to the beaches on the Andaman Sea to vibrant cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai. The country, a constitutional monarchy, draws more visitors than any other Southeast Asian country because of its temples, ruins, and cuisine.
Buddhism, the monarchy (King Bhumibol Adulyadej is the world’s longest reigning monarch), and centuries-old cultures, including the Mons, the Srivijaya, and the Lanna, are just some of the influences on modern Thailand.
Thailand is known as “the Land of Smiles” and although Thais are often depicted as fun-loving, happy-go-lucky folk, they are also very strong-minded and have preserved their spirit of independence for centuries.
Social and Development Issues
Thailand saw an economic boom in the 1980s, but a 1997 financial crisis led to bankruptcies, recession and unemployment. The country is still rebuilding its economy making strides in integrating agriculture and industry.
Thailand has also had a history of military dictatorships. Between 1947 and 1992 the country faced frequent coups, attempted coups, and civilian protests. In late 2006, there was another military coup supported by the majority of Thais, which led to the election of a new civilian government in early 2008.
HIV and Aids are also a major concern for Thailand. A large-scale sex industry flourishes, but Thailand has taken the lead in the region distributing cheaper generic drugs and promoting awareness campaigns to combat the issues. Additional challenges for northern Thailand are educating and empowering communities with skills and environmental awareness.
Chiang Mai
The city of Chiang Mai is considered to be Thailand's second most important city and one of its largest. Despite this, it remains a tenth of the size of Bangkok, with an estimated 400,000 people living in the greater urban area of the city. Eighty percent of the local population is 'Khon Muang' (Northern folk) and they speak a slightly different dialect to the central Thai language.
Chiang Mai, founded in 1296, is constructed as a square with a moat to mark out its boundaries and safeguard the people within with a bastion at each corner. Today these landmarks remain to form the overwhelmingly unique character of the city.
Agriculture, mainly fruit, vegetables and some rice cultivation, is the mainstay of the local economy. In the past ten years, tourism has become an increasingly important economic growth point for the city. Other industries include cottage industry, handicraft production, exporting, small scale business and manufacturing.
Weather
Three distinct seasons dictate the weather in Chiang Mai. The cool season arrives in November and is typified by dry weather and temperatures ranging from 15°C (60°F) to 25°C (80°C) in the valley.
From March onwards, the hot season arrives, culminating in temperatures reaching 40°C (105°F) at midday in April but averaging 30°C (85°F).
The first rains begin in late May and the rainy season continues through to October, with humidity above 80 per cent and daily afternoon downpours. Rainfall tops 250mm in September with lengthy overcast spells and all-day showers.
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