Thailand is a country in Southeast Asia formerly known as Siam. It is tagged as The Land of Smiles, and is predominantly a Buddhist kingdom. It covers a land area of 510,000 sq. Km, and has a population of 64 million, purported to be growing at a rate of 1.5% annually. It is bordered by the countries of Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia and Malaysia and divided into 7 regions the North, Northeast, East, West, South Central Plains and Bangkok, where several commercial establishments, including the Banyan Tree Bangkok is located.
Northern Thailand is abundant with mountain ranges, extending from the Daen Lao of the Shan Hills region, down to Dawna, which is the western border of Thailand. These land formations are mediated by a series of steep river valleys, including the Nan, Ping, Yom and Wang, which all unite to form the Chao Phraya River in the lowlands. It also has some upland areas that border the central plain. Given these features, the northern part of Thailand is not surprisingly agricultural, but a portion of the locals livelihood has also depended on hardwood.
The north-eastern part of Thailand consists mainly of extremely flat and low, rocky hills. During the monsoon season, it is unfortunately plagued with flooding from nearby bodies of water, which is why it is not as active in contributing to the countrys farming industry. During the long dry season, on the other hand, the only crops that can be cultivated in the area are sugar cane, rubber and manioc which makes up majority of its capital, in addition to silk.
Eastern Thailand is characterized by short mountain ranges and small river basins which trickle down the Gulf of Thailand. Unlike its border, the North-eastern Plateau, the east of the country is quite rich in vegetation, producing a variety of tropical fruits. Since it is a coastal location, tourism also plays a major part in its economy.
Another coastal region is Southern Thailand, which is part of a narrow peninsula. It is largely a rice, coconut, and rubber cultivation area, with a distinct climate and terrain for farming. It is surrounded by rolling mountainous terrain which hosts the areas small tin mining industry. And like its Eastern counterpart, it is also a big tourist destination with the rich island of Phuket. Here, several hotels and resorts are located, including the Banyan Tree Phuket Resort and Spa.
The western part of the country is also a mining region with its high mountains and steep river valleys. It is bordered by Myanmar and the Tenasserim Hills, and serves as home to many of the countrys energy systems.
Finally, Central Thailand is considered the Rice Bowl of Asia. It is a developed agricultural sector with complex irrigation systems and road transport. The main water source for the paddy fields is the Chao Phraya. And even though the metropolitan Bangkok is within its territory, it is considered separate from the region to emphasize its main role in the industrial, transport and trading landscape of the republic.
As you can see, there is much to the kingdom than just Buddhist temples and elephants. With the promise of luxurious Banyan Tree Bangkok and Banyan Tree Phuket hotel accommodations, one can feel secure about visiting Siam.
stayphuket0 Community Member 
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