For years, its warm climate, inexpensive cost of living, and laidback lifestyle in Thailand have attracted tourists and expats from around the world for both short-term and long-term stays.
Some of the world’s most beautiful beaches are located in the south of the country. From the bustling seaside resorts of Koh Samui and Pattaya, to the more tranquil islands of Phi Phi and Lanta, there is something for everyone who dreams of retirement in the tropics. Some expats prefer to live in the smaller villages that dot the coastlines on both sides of the country, where accommodation costs are much less expensive and life is slower paced. It is still possible to find furnished townhouse and condo rentals within five minutes of the beach for less than $500 per month.
Bangkok the center of the country, both geographically and financially. From a small trading post in the 15th century to a metropolitan area with a population of over 14 million, this massive city dwarfs Thailand’s other urban centers. Some foreign retirees have chosen to live in this populous capital and enjoy the hubbub atmosphere of the city. The colorful markets, modern shopping malls, numerous entertainment venues, and efficient transit system are just a few of its inherent benefits.
Others prefer the serenity and inexpensive lifestyle of Chiang Mai in the northern part of the country. The “old city,” now the center of a sprawling metropolis, is surrounded by a deep moat and remnants of a wall that once offered protection against the armies of the Mongol Empire. This Lanna cultural center of Thailand boasts over 300 colorful Buddhist temples, and several universities and technical colleges. Chiang Mai appeals to many expats because it has managed to retain its local traditions and culture while providing all the modern amenities that are sought after by its newest residents.
Although lacking in beaches, the northern part of Thailand is dotted with several large national parks. Here you will find Doi Inthanon National Park, where the highest mountain peak in the country is located. Those who enjoy the outdoors flock to this area of the country to partake in mountain biking, hiking, camping, and touring the local mountain roads to visit the many interesting hillside tribe villages.
As with most other Southeast Asian countries, Thailand is alive with festivals throughout the year. During the Loi Krathong festival, thousands of people throughout the country assemble floating banana-leaf containers decorated with incense sticks, flowers and a candle, and float them on local waterways. This coincides with the Yi Peng festival in northern Thailand where thousands of glowing rice paper lanterns are released into the sky to produce a spectacular sight. The annual Chiang Mai flower festival showcases the flora and fauna of the region. The highlight of this celebration is the flower festival parade that draws thousands of tourists each year to the city.
Thailand is a great place to live—full- or part-time. After spending time in the country, many expats are told by their friends that they look 10 years younger. With the wonderful weather, great food, inexpensive healthcare, and friendly local residents, it is not difficult to understand why many choose to call Thailand their second home.
Where is Thailand?
So, where is Thailand? It’s situated in a central position in the Southeast Asia continent. Laos sits to the northeast, Myanmar (Burma) to the north and west, Cambodia is situated to the southeast and the far south is where the Gulf of Thailand meets Malaysia and the Malay Peninsula.
The Andaman Sea and the Indian Ocean are found off the western shores of mainland Thailand, while the Gulf of Thailand laps against the eastern seaboard and Gulf islands, for which millions of international travelers visit each year.
The Kingdom of Thailand’s coastline measures 2,000 miles and the country occupies a geographical land mass of approximately 196,912 square miles, making it the 51st largest nation in the world, about the same size as Spain.
There are road connections from Thailand to Cambodia (and on to Vietnam) in the east; Laos or China from the northern Thai borders; and into Myanmar (Burma) to west and north-western Thailand. The rail network within Thailand allows for ease of travel to any of the six major regions.
Jump on a plane from any of a dozen international airports across Thailand and you can be anywhere else in Asia within a few hours. Looking outside Asia, Australia, for example, is only a nine-hour, direct flight away.
A unified Thai kingdom was established in the mid-14th century. Known as Siam until 1939, Thailand is the only Southeast Asian country never to have been colonized by a European power. A bloodless revolution in 1932 led to the establishment of a constitutional monarchy, which remains to this day.
With a population of approximately 68.5 million people, it is the 20th most populated country in the world, just topping countries like France, the United Kingdom and Italy. The currency of Thailand is the baht (THB) and the people of Thailand are referred to as Thai. 95% of Thai people identify as Buddhists. Thai is the national language, with English now starting to be taught in schools.
The kingdom has Bangkok as the nation’s capital. The metropolis is the country’s political, industrial, and economic center. It is easily the largest and most populated city in Thailand, with well over 8 million citizens. Bangkok nestles in the country’s central plains in the Chao Phraya River delta, which in turn flows into the Gulf of Thailand.
Government organizations divide the country into six regions.
Northern Thailand—Geographically characterized by several mountain ranges, which continue from Myanmar in the west to Laos in the northeast. Its relatively high elevation and latitude contribute to more pronounced seasonal temperature variation, with colder winters than the other regions. Historically, it is related to the ancient Lanna Kingdom and its history, culture, and distinct cuisine. The provinces of Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, and Chiang Rai fall within this northern region.
Northeastern Thailand—This region is often referred to as Isan and covers 61,776 square miles, making it about half the size of Germany. The Phetchabun Mountains denotes the western boundary of this region, with the Khorat Plateau coinciding with the natural limits of Isan. The Mekong River marks the northern and eastern borders of Thailand with Laos and Cambodia respectively. Major cities in the region include Udon Thai, Khon Kaen, Nakhon Ratchasima, Sakon Nakhon, and Ubon Ratchathani.
Central Thailand—This region covers the broad alluvial plain of the Chao Phraya River. It is separated from northeast Thailand (Isan) by the Phetchabun mountain range. The Tenasserim Hills separate it from Myanmar to the west. The Gulf of Thailand just below Bangkok is its southern border. This area was the heartland of ancient Siam, with the now UNESCO World Heritage listed cities of Ayutthaya and Sukhothai within these central plains. Central Thailand also contains the Thai capital, Bangkok, and is the most populated region in the country.
Eastern Thailand—The region of Thailand bordering Cambodia on the east, north-eastern Thailand in the north and central Thailand on the west. Influences of the ancient Khmer kingdom can still be found within this region. This region also borders the Gulf of Thailand to the south and southwest. Pattaya, one of the most visited international Thai tourist destinations, sits within this region. Islands off eastern Thailand’s coast include Ko Sichang, Ko Lan, Ko Samet, and Ko Chang.
Southern Thailand—This region encapsulates the Thai-Malay Peninsula, bounded with the Kra Isthmus, the narrowest part of the peninsula. The western part, with its steep ranges, has Myanmar (Burma) as its western border. As you come south, the Andaman Sea laps the coastline of the west. Thailand’s biggest island, Phuket, is located off the southwest coast. The east coast has the Gulf of Thailand lapping its shores and the tourist-friendly islands of Ko Samui, Ko Phangan, and Ko Tao within easy reach.
Western Thailand—This is a region of Thailand bordering Myanmar on the west, southern Thailand on the south and central Thailand on the east. It includes the area of Kanchanaburi to the west, where “Hellfire Pass” and the Bridge on the River Kwai can be found. The northern gulf coastal regions include the provinces of Phetchaburi and greater Hua Hin (Prachuab Kiri Khan) where Vivien and I, plus many other expats, call home.
