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Currency

The baht is the official currency of Thailand. One baht is broken down into 100 satang.

The currency was originally called 'tical', which was used in the English language until 1925. 'Baht' was established as the Thai name by the 19th century. Tical and baht were both units of weight originally; coins were issued in silver and gold, valued by their weight in baht.

Interesting facts

The Grand Palace in Bangkok is home to the Thai royal family who are deemed sacred to Thai people. Built in the 1780s, after the Capital of Thailand was moved to Bangkok due to a number of wars with the Burmese, the Grand Palace boasts an interesting mix of west and east in its architecture. Because of its royal status, visitors are expected to adhere to a dress code of modesty –– which means trousers or long skirts. Aside from the grandiose architecture, there are several appealing displays relating to the Thai royal family, including ceremonial costumes, various art pieces and old weapons. The Grand Palace in Bangkok opens daily at 8:30am and closes at 3:30pm. If possible, try to get there when it opens as it can get really busy with busloads of tourists later on in the day.

Like many countries in South East Asia, Thailand has some magnificent natural landscapes with an immensely rich variety of animals and botanical life. If you're interested in a week-long hike through the jungle or simply a day trip to see some wild animals in their natural habitat, Thailand has something to offer you.

Geography

Thailand is situated in Southeast Asia, bordering the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea, southeast of Burma.

Climate

Tropical weather prevails; warm, wet, cloudy. In southwest Thailand, monsoon season is mid-May to September. The climate is cool and dry in the northeast, with monsoon season November to mid-March; southern Thailand is hot and humid.