Destinations
Amazing
Thailand!
An unforgettable, life-changing experience in Thailand
Thai Tourism Industry
Tourism is a major economic contributor to the Kingdom of Thailand. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) uses the slogan “Amazing Thailand” to promote Thailand internationally. The number of international tourist arrivals to Thailand in 2018 reached 38.12 million people, up 7.1 percent year-on-year.
Nearby beach resorts from the capital Bangkok include bustling Pattaya and fashionable Hua Hin. Southern Thailand includes many of Thailand’s most famous resorts on both the west-facing Andaman Sea coastline and the east-facing Gulf of Thailand coast south of Chumphon.
About Thailand
Thai Culture
Pen Rai (never mind) is the Thai expression which characterizes the general focus of life – to enjoy. Thais are happy with what they are and what they have. They are smiling, pleasant, humble and patient people who laugh easily, speak softly and are slow to anger. Thais are very proud of their cultural heritage and enjoy talking about it with visitors, and that they have never been ruled by any Western power.
Thais greet each other with a “wai”. If a local gives a wâi to you, it is appreciated to wâi back. Foreigners are not expected to initiate the wai gesture, but it is an insult not to return the wai.
Fact About Thailand
Thailand is very cheap, though the north is far cheaper than Bangkok and the southern islands.
The average cost of a basic Thai meal in a restaurant is 90 – 150 baht (around USD 2 – 4). Seafood invariably costs more. A plate of noodles in a basic restaurant in Sukhumvit, an exclusive district in Bangkok, is around 100 baht (around USD 3). There are bustling street food vendors and night markets all around, so you may end up snacking during the day!
IMPORTANT: all our programs in Thailand are inclusive of students’ benefits, including but not limited to: monthly allowance (stipend), accommodation, transportation, on-duty meals, assistance with visa and work permit.
Must-see, Must-visit
The land of smiles is well known for tropical beaches, lavish royal palaces, stunning ancient ruins, and beautiful temples displaying figures of Buddha. Thailand is one of the most visited countries in Southeast Asia. It has a lot to offer to tourists including:
Temple tour at the Grand Palace & Wat Prakeaw – Located adjacent the Chao Phraya River are two of the world’s most visited attractions, the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew. This stunning site was built next to the river strategically in order to help defend the palace from possible invasions.
Experience the Thai floating markets – The floating markets in Bangkok are now one of the highly-flocked tourist areas in the country. Tourists can ride on a boat and shop fruits and vegetables, fresh coconut juice, and local food cooked right on the boat.
Enjoy the lovely beaches in Krabi – Located in southern Thailand’s west coast, Krabi boasts its limestone cliffs, dense mangrove forests, and more than a hundred offshore islands. Some of its most popular beach destinations include the Phi Phi Islands.
Most travelers enter Thailand through Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok. You can also arrive at Chiang Mai, or Phuket. You will only be allowed into Thailand if your passport is valid for at least six months after arrival, with enough pages for embarkation stamp upon arrival, and must show proof of sufficient funds. Participants for our Cultural Exchange Programs are asked to arrive in Thailand with a valid non-immigrant visa.