Thailand history SIAM เมืองไทย

HISTORY
Throughout its 800-year history, Thailand can boast the distinction of being the only country in Southeast Asia never to have been colonized. Its history is divided into five major periods
Nanchao Period (650-1250 A.D.) The Thai people founded their kingdom in the southern part of China, which is Yunnan, Kwangsi and Canton today. A great number of people migrated south as far as the Chao Phraya Basin and settled down over the Central Plain under the sovereignty of the Khmer Empire, whose culture they probably accepted. The Thai people founded their independent state of Sukhothai around 1238 A.D., which marks the beginning of the Sukhothai Period
Sukhothai Period (1238-1378 A.D.) Thais began to emerge as a dominant force in the region in the13th century, gradually asserting independence from existing Khmer and Mon kingdoms. Called by its rulers "the dawn of happiness", this is often considered the golden era of Thai history, an ideal Thai state in a land of plenty governed by paternal and benevolent kings, the most famous of whom was King Ramkamhaeng the Great. However in 1350, the mightier state of Ayutthaya exerted its influence over Sukhothai.
Ayutthaya Period (1350-1767) The Ayutthaya kings adopted Khmer cultural influences from the very beginning. No longer the paternal and accessible rulers that the kings of Sukhothai had been, Ayutthaya's sovereigns were absolute monarchs and assumed the title devaraja (god-king). The early part of this period saw Ayutthaya extend its sovereignty over neighboring Thai principalities and come into conflict with its neighbours, During the 17th century, Siam started diplomatic and commercial relations with western countries. In 1767, a Burmese invasion succeeded in capturing Ayutthaya. Despite their overwhelming victory, the Burmese did not retain control of Siam for long. A young general named Phya Taksin and his followers broke through the Burmese and escaped to Chantaburi. Seven months after the fall of Ayutthaya, he and his forces sailed back to the capital and expelled the Burmese occupation garrison.
Thon Buri Period (1767-1772) General Taksin, as he is popularly known, decided to transfer the capital from Ayutthaya to a site nearer to the sea which would facilitate foreign trade, ensure the procurement of arms, and make defense and withdrawal easier in case of a renewed Burmese attack. He established his new capital at Thon Buri on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. The rule of Taksin was not an easy one. The lack of central authority since the fall of Ayutthaya led to the rapid disintegration of the kingdom, and Taksin's reign was spent reuniting the provinces.
Rattanakosin Period (1782 - the Present) After Taksin's death, General Chakri became the first king of the Chakri Dynasty, Rama I, ruling from 1782 to 1809. His first action as king was to transfer the royal capital across the river from Thon Buri to Bangkok and build the Grand Palace. Rama II (1809-1824) continued the restoration begun by his predecessor. King Nang Klao, Rama III (1824-1851) reopened relations with Western nations and developed trade with China. King Mongkut, Rama IV, (1851-1868) of "The King and I" concluded treaties with European countries, avoided colonialization and established modern Thailand. He made many social and economic reforms during his reign.
King Chulalongkorn, Rama V (1869-1910) continued his father's tradition of reform, abolishing slavery and improving the public welfare and administrative system. Compulsory education and other educational reforms were introduced by King Vajiravudh, Rama VI (1910-1925). During the reign of King Prajadhipok, (1925-1935), Thailand changed from an absolute monarchy to a constitutional monarchy. The king abdicated in 1933 and was succeeded by his nephew, King Ananda Mahidol (1935-1946). The country's name was changed from Siam to Thailand with the advent of a democratic government in 1939. Our present monarch, King Bhumibol Adulyadej, is King Rama IX of the Chakri Dynasty.

Thailand Travel. แนะนำแหล่งท่องเที่ยวทั่วไทย

AYUTTHAYA :
The ancient city Ayutthaya, or Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, was the capital of Siam for 417 years, and remains one of Thailand's majior tourist attractions. Founded by 'King U-Thong or Ramathibodi I' in 1350, the city possesses many ancient ruins and art which were left behind when the Thais were forced southwards after being sacked by the Burmese in 1767.
CHA-AM :
This beautiful beach, twinned with Hua Hin of Phrachuap Khiri Khan, is located 40 kms. south of the town or 20 kms. north of Hua Hin. Cha-Am was originally a small fishing village. After a Royal Palace was built near Hua Hin in the reign of King Rama VI, the land was occupied by the Royal Family and the elite. Today, it is very popular among Thais who love superb seafood and comfortable hotel or bungalow accommodation.
CHIANG MAI :
Chiang Mai is blessed with stunning natural beauty and a unique indigenous cultural identity. Founded in 1296 by King Mengrai the Great, it was the capital of the Lanna Thai Kingdom by merging the various city- states in the region, Chiang Mai is today the economic, communications, cultural and tourism centre of Northern Thailand. This pre- eminent regional status has been obtained without losing the essence of its natural environment and culture. The terrain consists mainly of mountainous jungles, parts of which are within fertile and verdant national parks full of all kinds of flora and fauna. Additionally, many sites and locations still exist where tourists can still witness the lifestyle and traditions of the ancient hill tribe people. Chiang Mai is also Thailand's main centre for quality handicrafts. Artisans hone their art in the outlying villages where authentic cottage industries thrive. In particular, along the Bo Sang-San Kamphaeng Road, such handicraft-producing factories give visitors a glimpse of the traditional methods still in use today.
CHIANG RAI :
Chiang Rai is situated in the Kok River basin 416 m above sea level in the northernmost province of Thailand about 785 kilometres from Bangkok. With an area of some 11,678 sq km, the mostly mountainous expanse touches the Mekong River to the north, and borders both Myanmar and Laos. The province is rich in tourism resources, in terms of natural attractions and antiquities, which serve as reminders of an ancient civilisation. It is also home to several hilltribes who lead simple, albeit fascinating, ways of life.
HAT YAI :
Situated 1289 km. southwest of Bangkok, Hat Yai is Thailand's most popular destination for travellers because of its strategic location as the southern geteway to Thailand. The city finds fame as a focal point for vigorous cross-border trading, enjoying the support form Thai folk from all over the country who clamour for Malaysian produce, such as tropical fruit ; pears, apples, Muscat grapes, and products including assorted Western biscuits and chocolates, cosmetics and many other items. Nevertheless, Hat Yai owes much of its charm and attraction to its vibrant, vivacious nightlife which revolves around the nightclubs, bars, pubs, discotheques, karaoke lounges, shopping malls and cinemas.
HUA-HIN :
This beach city located 200 km. south of Bangkok, became popular as a rainy season retreat in the 1920s with the construction of the railway line form Bangkok. Also during this time, King Rama VII selected a special piece of beachfront property to build the Klai Kangwon Palace, or literally 'Haven Far From Worries'. The fact that this palace remains in frequent use by the Royal Family today lends this town an atmosphere quite different from other beach areas in Thailand.
KANCHANABURI :
The mountainous province of Kanchanaburi, Thailand's third largest, covers some 19,473 sq km, and borders Myanmar (Burma) to the west of Bangkok. The compact provincial capital, some 130 km or a comfortable two-hour drive from Bangkok, is both the site of the world-famous 'Bridge Over The Rive Kwai', immortalised in books and movies, as well as the gateway to a region of rugged natural beauty. The countryside beyond the provincial capital is characterised by mountains and fertile river valleys where a labyrinth of dammed reservoirs province's natural beauty.
KHAO YAI :
Khao Yai National Park is Thailand's second largest, covering 2,168 sq km, encompassing 11 districts and 4 provinces; Sara Buri, Nakhon Ratchasima, Prachin Buri, and Nakhon Nayok. It was thailand's first National Park, and was established on September 18, 1962. The park encompasses a wide variety of habitats, including evergreen forests and grasslands. There are also several mountains as tall as a 1,000 m including Khao Khieo. It is host to almost 2,500 plant species, 67 different kinds of mammals and over 300 species of birds. The entire area is criss-crossed by hiking trails, ranging in length from one and a half to eight km In addition, there are many waterfalls, the tallest and most spectacular of which is Haew Narok at 80 m Another waterfall, Haeo Suwat, is located along the upper reaches of the Lam Takhong River.
KHON KAEN :
Khon Kaen boasts a lengthy history and claims to be the birthplace of so many thriving civilisations and cultures. This is an area where the first dinosaur fossils were found in Thailand. Once the quiet capital ofone of the poorest provinces in the Northeast, it has undergone dramatic changes and is now a prosperous, bustling town. Situated right in the heart of the region, Khon Kaen is the focal point of many regional development projects, including the site of the region's largest public universty.
KOH CHANG :
This island prradise is located in Trat province near the border of Cambodia, and lies approximately 315 km. from Bangkok . This wonderful island is thankfully not as exploited as some of Thailand's other islands and remains unpolluted, with white sandy beaches. King Rama V, King Rama VI and King Rama VII usde to holiday on the island and even the present ruler, Kiung Bhumibhol Adulyadej, plans occasional visits. Besides a relaxed beach vacation Koh Chang has various leisure offers for active holidaymakers e.g. snorkelliing, diving or mountain-biking. Many resorts rent out kayaks and arrange jungle treks as well as all day boat tours to the surrounding islands. Islands such as Koh Nham, Koh Sai Kao, Koh Laoya, Koh Vai, Koh Kam, Koh Mak and Koh Kradard also offer tranquillty and natural-beauty. Coral reefs offer diving and snorking on Koh Vai, Koh Kra and the Rang group of islands.
KOH SAMUI :
Thailand's 3rd largest island is a palm-fringed paradise with coastal roads encircling the whole island. Aside from the lovely beaches and coral beds, it is plentiful in coconut plantations and forested hills. The more popular beaches are on the northern and eastern coasts, namely Chaweng Beach, known for its party scene and a combination of luxury accommodations and Lamai Beach. Many international diving schools have been established on nearby Koh Tao (Turtle Island) because of its pristine beaches and abundant coralreefs which contribute to its reputation as the best scuba diving spot in the Gulf of Thailand.
KRABI :
One of the most attractive destinations in Thailand covers an area of 4,709 sq km and is located 814 km south of Bangkok. Krabi's major attractions are located largely along its extensive coastline with several well-known beaches and bays, and numerous offshore tropical islands. Krabi's mountainous physical landscape is broken only by appearances of highlands and plains on the mainland. Natural forest cover is chiefly Mangrove and Cassia trees. The Krabi River flows 5 km through the town and falls into the Andaman Sea at Tambon Pak Nam. http://astore.amazon.com/thailandhot0d-20

Travel Thailand Trips.คู่มือเที่ยวไทย

LOEI TRAVEL :
LOEI,Loei Tourist and Phu Kradung. Loei is a land of water and mountains in the Upper Northeast. The Mekong River divides it and Laos. Some national parks here are major tourist destinations. The climate is cool like that of northern Thailand. Loei is 520 km from Bangkok. It has an area of about 11,426 sq km and is divided into the following districts: Muang, Wang Saphung, Phu Kradung, Chiang Khan, Pak Chom, Tha Li, Phu Rua, Dan Sai, Na Haeo, Na Duang, Phu Luang, Phu Khao, Erawan and Nong Hin.
LOPBURI : Lopburi,formerly known as 'Lawo', was one of the most important towns of the vast Khmer Empire from the 10th-13th century, and so many examples of Khmer art and architecture are easily found in and around the area.
MAE HONG SON : Nestied in a deep valley hemmed in by high mountain ranges, Mae Hong Son has long been isolated from the outside world. Virtually covered with mist throughout the year, the name refers to the fact that the terrain is highly suitable for the training of elephants. Mae Hong Son is one of the dream destinations for visitors who are attracted by its cultural and natural wonders.
NAKHON RATCHASIMA : Kakhon Ratchasima, or Khorat, is a large province on the northeastern plateau that serves as a gateway to other provinces in the Northeast. It is 259 km from Bangkok and has an area of around 20,494 sq km. The historiural influence, while also has a reputation for producing a varity of quality handicrafts, particularly the popular clay pottery of DanKwian.
NAKHON PATHOM : Nakhon Pathom is a small province which surrounds the 'Phra Pathom Chedi', an ancient religious landmark signifying the first influx of Buddhism into the Kingdom of Thailand. Despite its size, the province contains many places of interest for visitors.
PATTAYA : Pattaya is 147 km southeast of Bangkok and faces the Thai Gulf. It is Asia's premier beach resort and caters with broad appeal to families, couples and single visitors. Accommodation ranges from luxuriously appointed hotels with convention facilities to simple guesthouses. Sporting opportunities abound both on land andwater including some of the finest golfing, game fishing and scuba-diving anywhere in Asia. Theme and amusement parks, offbeat museums and lush botanical gradens offer numerous forms of leisure activities and cultural entertainment for all. After dark, Pattaya offers all the allure and magic of a truly vibrant nightlife with a spectacular variety of restaurants, night clubs, bars, discotheques, cocktail lounges and cabarets.
PHANG NGA : A seaside province by the Andaman Sea with scenic views of forests and islands. The province offers superb natural beauty both onshore and underwater, The province of Phang Nga is located some 788 km from Bangkok and it covers an area of 4,170 sq km. The outer islands of Phang Nga are considered to be one of the world's best scuba diving grounds. Popular trips are live-aboard diving excursions to Similan Islands, home of the most beautiful and colourful soft corals in the world plus a whole range of coral fish, manta rays and other exotic marine animals.
PHUKET : Phuket is Thailand's largest island, approximately the size of Singapore. Lying 862 km south of Bangkok, Phuket is nestled in the balmy waters of the Andaman Sea, Thailand's portion of the Indian Ocean. Phuket is blessed with magnificent coves and bays, palm-fringed poedery white beaches and sparkling island-dotted seas. This lush tropical landscape provides plenty of opportunity to enjoy superb accommodations and seafood, delightful turn-of-the-cen-tury Sino-Portuguese architecture, as well as numerous sporting and leisure pleasures - all of which combine to create a delightful ambience for truly memorable holidays.
RATCHABURI : Ratchaburi, a glorious town of the Dvaravati period, is located on the bank of the Maekhong River. The provincial area abounds in natural attractions and historical sites. It is loocated 80 kms. west of Bangkok and borders on Myanmar to the west having the Tanaosi Range as a borderline. Ratchaburi occupies an area of 5,196 sq km and is administratively divided into nine districts.
RAYONG : Situated 221 km from Bangkok, Rayong is one of the most developed provinces on the country's eastern seaboard, and is reached following an hour's drive east to Pattaya. The province is a popular destination among thai families, many of whom own condominiums by the sea. In addition to the numberous high-rise condos, Rayong's seaside houses a wide spectrum of accommodation options, from first-rate hotels to bungalows on the beach. Rayong's beaches are fairly crowded on weekends, making this province more of a destination for the social sun-seeker. Most of the hotels are located along a 20 kilometer strip, along the beach road between the fishing village of Ban Phe and Laem Mae Pim Beach.
SI SA KET : Si Sa Ket was originally called Muang Khu Khan. Archaeologists believe the city dates back to the time of the Khmer Empire because of the presence of many Khmer ruins. The area around Si Sa Ket also has an abundance of natural beauty to which the numerous forests, parks, and waterfalls can hold testament.
SUKHOTHAI : Founded in the 13th century, Sukhothai (Dawn of Happiness) was the first truly independent Thai Kingdom. The superb temples and monuments of this great city have been lovingly and meticulously restored in the Sukhothai Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see for all travellers to the Kingdom. Sukhothai is located on the lower edge of the northern region, 472 km north of Bangkok or some 350 km south of Chiang Mai.
SURIN : Surin, located 457 km from Bangkok covering an area of 8,124 sqkm, is famous for the Elephant Roundup and for its many Khmer sanctuaries, being separated from neighboring Cambodia by the Banthat Mountains. However, the city also possesses a wide variety of handicrafts, silk and other cultural arts.
UBON RATCHATHANI : Ubon Ratchathani, the province borders the Mekong River on the east and features scenic views of Ubon Ratchathani. The province is 557 km from Bangkok and covers 15,517 sq km. The emerald Tringle, or the tri-border zone is where the countries of Laos, cambodia and Thailand meet, is located here. Main attractions include national parks such as Pha Taem National park, which is home to prehistoric cave panting and the very popular festival with Thai tourists, Ubon Candle Festival held during Khao Phansa in July.

Bussiness Information :
THAILAND,with a population of 64 million puls, and covering a land area of 513,115 sq km (about the same size as France) receives more than 12 million tourists, including business tourists and visitors to MICE (metings, incentives, conventions, exhibitions) events per year. Foreign investment continues to increase, and in 2006 Thailand's GDP grew by nearly six percent. Time difference is GMT + 7 hours. Head of Bhuimibol Adulyadej, rama IX
GENERAL INFORMATION :
CURRENCY - Thai Baht, with an approximate exchange rate of Bt34 to the US$ (October 2007) comes in denominations of 1,000(grey); 500(purple); 100(red); 50(blue); 20(green); 10(brown). Coins are minted in values of 10; 5; 1; 50 and 25 satang.
TELEPHONES - International Direct Dialling (IDD) is available in most areas. There are two telecom companies, the TOT (Telephone Organisation of Thailand), and the CAT (Communications Authority of Thailand). Independent service providers for mobile telephones include AIS,DTAC; Hutch-True;
MEDIA - There are currently three English language daillies in Thailand, The Banfkok Post, The Nation, and Business Day. Several radio stations broadcast in English.
National TV Channels 3,5,7,9,11, plus independent tiTV, and cable operator UBC for programmes in English.
POSTAL SERVICES - The Head Post Office (on Charoen Krung road, near the Oriental and Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotels) is open from 08.00a.m. to 12.00 p.m. on Saturdays.
GOVERNMENT STORES - Open from 8 a.m.- noon and again from 1-4:30 p.m.,Monday to Friday.
DEPARTMENT STORES - Are found in all urban areas, and are open seven days a week from 10.00 to 21.00. Thai and international branded names.
USEFUL TELEPHONE NUMBERS :
Directory Enquiries - 1133
Long Distance Service - 100
IDD...001+ Country Code+Area Code+
Plus Phone Number Tourist Police - 195, 1699 (Bangkok)
Bangkok International Airport (Don Muang) Tel: [02]535-111
Bangkok International Airport (Suvarnabhumi) Tel: [02]132-1888
BUSINESS/INVESTOR INFORMATION :
BANKS - There are 17 Thai banks with branches throughout the country. They are open from 8:30 a.m. in the morning to 4:30 p.m. in the afternoon. (Monday - friday)
CREDIT CARDS - All recognised major credit cards are generally accepted in outlets and hotels all over the country.
American Express - 273 0022, 273 0044
Diner's Club - 238 3660
Mastercard - 001 8001 18 870663
Visa - 273 7448, 273 7449
VISA REQUIREMENTS ;
* Transit visa - single entry Bt. 800 - 30 days
* Tourist visa - single entry Bt. 1,000 - 30-60 days
* Non immigrant visa - single entry Bt. 2,000 - 90 days
* Non immigrant visa - multiple entry for use with in one year Bt. 5,000
* Diplomatic visa and Official visa - 90 days
* Courtesy visa - 90 days
* Visa on Arrival - 15 days
* Visa Exemption
- Diplomatic and Official passport -30-90 days
- Ordinary passport -30-90 days
- APEC business travel card -90 days
- Aliens entering for a temporary stay on confor ence purpose or international tournament hosted by Thai government -30 days
- Application for visa extension Bt. 1,900
- Application for a single Re entry Permit Bt. 1,000
- Application for a multiple Re entry Permit Bt. 3,800
- Application for a Residence Permit Bt. 7,600
BOARD OF INVESTMENT :
Through the Broard of Investment, the government offers a range of tex incentives, support services and import duty concessions to an extensive list of businesses that are regarded as priority or promoted industries. The BOI, as an investment promotion agency, remains committed to provide not only up-to-date information on various investment opportunities available throughout Thailand, but also to provide attractive incentives, services, and benefits to both existing and potential investors. www.boi.go.th/english Tel:(66 2) 537 8111-55
DEPT. OF EXPORT PROMOTION :
The Department of export Promotion (DEP) provides invaluable support and a host of other important services to international and local businessmen. The DEP is entrusted with the following duties and responsibilities: To promote and expand the market for Thai exports in goods and services by penetrating new markets and to preserve existing ones; to develop and perform activities that promote trade and increase the competitiveness of the export sector, to build a positive image of Thai goods and services, and thereby increase the market's confidence in Thai products, in terms of quality.
The DEP provides Thai manufacturers and exporters, as well as foreign importers, with trade information services.
The DEP also operates a permanent exhibition centre, the Trade Mart, on Ratchadaphisex Road. www. thaitrade.com Tel: (66 2) 5115066
INDUSTRIAL ESTATES AUTHORITY :
The IEAT is the government mechanism for national development, attracting investment and generating employment. At present it accommodates about 2,494 factories, efficiently organized in a systematic, orderly fashion. This represents an investment of 1.2 trillion baht (roughly 27 billion US dollars), and employment of 376,751 people. The IEAT has developed mechanisms for spreading growth and economic progress throughout the country. There are 30 industrial estates in 13 provinces in all regions of Thailand, covering three districts, supported by the Thailand Board of Investment (BOI). www. ieat.go.th Tel: (66 2) 365 9699
STOCK EXCHANGE OF THAILAND (SET) :
The SET is designed to be a liquid secondary market for securities to raise funds and win confidence from all stakeholders.
www.set .or.th/en Tel: 02 229 2000
TAXATION :
Corporate Income Tax Juristic companies and partnerships organised under Thai law are subject to income tax on income earned from sources within and outside of Thailand. The definition of juristic companies and partnerships for income tax purposes are broader than those under the Civil and Commercial Code. Juristic companies and partnerships for income tax purposes include, but are not limited to:
- private and public limited companies
- registered ordinary and limited partnerships
- joint ventures
- foundations and associations.
A branch of a foreign corporation is taxed only on income derived form sources within Thailand. Tax is imposed on the net profits of juristic companies and partnerships, ascertained in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, subject to conditions imposed by the Revenue Code of Thailand.
VALUE ADDED TAX (VAT) :
VAT 7 percent on the value of goods sold and services rendered at every level, including on importation. Certain categories of goods and services (eg exports) are to zero percent. In addition, other categories of goods and services (eg sales of agricultural products) are exempt from VAT.
WORK PERMIT :
A foreign citizen is legally able to work in Thailand if he or she has a proper passport visa, a valid work permit, and the individual performs no work which violates the Alien Employment Act BE 2521 (AD 1978). Established governmental procedures exist which allow a non-Thai national or alien to obtain all of the requisite approvals for legally performing work in Thailand. Before applying the person must hold a non- immigrant B class visa.
The Department considers six factors, which it believes constitute an economic benefit to the country. These areas are the promotion of foreign currency importation, exportation of goods, skilled personnal, employment of local labor, new technology, and tourism. This list is not conclusive, and an applicant can attempt to demonstrate that his or her employment will benefit the Kingdom in other ways.