Thailand's Geographical Tapestry
Encompassing 513,120 sq km, Thailand is the world's 50th-largest country, comparable in size to Spain. Its distinctive shape has been likened to an elephant's head, with varying landscapes from mountains to tropical beaches.
The Land of Free
Thailand, known as Siam until 1939, is the only Southeast Asian country never colonized by Europeans. The name Thailand means 'land of the free', reflecting its enduring independence throughout history.
Diversity in Unity
Despite a homogenizing national identity, Thailand boasts significant ethnic diversity. Hill tribes like the Karen and Hmong live in the highlands, while the southern provinces are home to a large Muslim population.
Monarchy's Unique Continuity
The Thai monarchy, founded in 1238, is among the world’s oldest continuous royal lineages. King Vajiralongkorn, Rama X, currently presides as the head of state under a constitutional monarchy.
Culinary Regional Delights
Thai cuisine offers more than just Pad Thai and green curry. Each region has its specialties, like Isaan's spicy som tam (green papaya salad) and Northern Thailand's khao soi (curried noodle soup).
Economic Tiger's Evolution
Since the 1980s, Thailand has transformed from an agriculture-based economy to an export-dependent one, becoming the 'Rice Bowl of Asia'. It's now a hub for automotive and electronics manufacturing.
Festivals of Vibrancy
Unique festivals abound in Thailand, such as the Lopburi Monkey Banquet, where macaques are treated to a feast, or the vegetarian festival of Phuket, which features extreme body piercings.
What's Thailand's global size ranking?
Larger than Spain, rank 45
50th-largest country worldwide
Smaller than Spain, rank 55
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