TEFL Thailand
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Teaching in Thailand
Capital city – Bangkok
Population – 67,764,000
Language – Thai
Main religion – Buddhism
Currency – Baht (THB)
History
Due to a history of very able Thai rulers, Thailand is the only country in Southeast Asia to have never been colonized. It is a nation which has developed from trade, beginning with its neighbouring countries such as China and India, then later with European countries.
During the 19th century Thailand suffered from conflicts with Western nations in disputes over land territories.
After WWII Thailand allied themselves with the United States but went through turbulent times and political instability during the Cold War. During the 1980s, Thailand eventually progressed towards stable prosperity and democracy.
Geography
Located in the middle of Southeast Asia
Borders with - Cambodia, Laos, Burma and Malaysia
Land features – mountainous regions in the North, Central Thailand is a large, flat river valley, the South is narrow, creating a land bridge to mainland Asia.
Climate – May to Sept – warm and cloudy monsoon. November to March – dry cool monsoon.
Culture
Art – Mainly based upon Buddhism with a number of very distinct styles.
Literature – Heavily influenced by Indian culture
Music – Classic and folk music often accompanied by Thai dance. Also pop music is common.
Sport – Football is the main team sport but professionally it is still in its infancy. Muay Thai is a traditional form of boxing and is the country's national sport.
Top things to do
- Watch the impressive skills of the Kite Fighters.
- Attend a Muay Thai boxing match.
- Visit the Thai temples and meditation centres.
- Ride an elephant through remote Northern Thailand.
- Dive with sharks in Bangkok’s Siam Ocean World.
- Admire the infamous Thai Lady boys who perform in many clubs around the country.
- Kayak through the famous islands in Phang Nga Bay.
