Thailand

The Southeast Asian country of Thailand borders Laos, Cambodia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Vietnam, the Andaman Sea, and the Gulf of Thailand. Formerly known as Siam, it possesses a rich culture. With a population of 68 million as of 2014, and an area of 198,270 square miles, the region attracted Hindu and Buddhist traders, Indian pandits, Buddhist monks, and Persian adventurers in premodern times. In the colonial era, there was an influx of European traders, but Thailand maintained its independence under the rulers of the Chakri Dynasty. The country became a constitutional monarchy in 1932.

In spite of political instability and a series of coups in recent times, tourism has flourished in Thailand. The direct contribution of travel and tourism to GDP in Thailand was 8.6% of total ...