Thailand is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world and is increasingly becoming host to a growing community of foreign residents. It has experienced rapid economic growth over the last two decades and today is considered a "newly-industrialised country" with an emphasis on exports and a flourishing tourism industry.

Thailand is host to famous tourist destinations such as Pattaya, Bangkok and Phuket, however tourism is not all that Thailand offers. The country is also the world's largest rice producer and has a large automobile and petrochemical industry.

With a population of approximately 66 million, Thailand's economy ranks 35th in the world in terms of GDP. The capital Bangkok (known locally as “Krung Thep”) boasts a skyline of high-rise buildings similar to that of any other large international metropolis.

The vast majority of Thai people are devoted to Theravada Buddhism, which teaches modesty and peace and many places of worship have become world famous tourist attractions including Wat Arun and Wat Po.