Area: 198,000 square miles, including the northern highlands, central plains and the southern coasts with beaches and islands.

Population: 59 million, comprising Thais, Chinese (mostly of Chiu Chow descent) and a variety of hilltribes in the North.

Capital: Bangkok (also known as Krungthep), population 11 million.

Economy: Thailand is still a major agricultural producer, which exports rice, vegetables and fruit; however it has also become a flourishing manufacturer, of garments, pharmaceuticals, electronics, furniture, etc. With modern communications, plenty of hotels in all categories, excellent restaurants and a network of domestic and regional transportation, Thailand has become a leading international tourist destination, and the commercial hub of Southeast Asia.

Climate: Tropical and hot all year except in the North. The rainy season - with regular heavy but brief downpours - is from May to October. Chiang Mai and other parts of the North are cooler and dryer than Bangkok.

Language: Thai and local dialects in all parts of the country. English is widely understood in tourist areas.

Time: GMT plus 7

Currency: Baht.