Thailand form of government and state structure. What can be taken out of the country

Pictured is the capital of Thailand

Capital: Bangkok

Bangkok is the capital and one of the largest cities of Thailand. Previously, on the site of what is now the largest and most modern city in Thailand, there was a small trading village and part-time port called Bangkok. Translated from Thai - the place where olives grow. The capital is inhabited by about 9 million people.

The full name of the city is: Krun Thep Mahanakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahintarayutthaya Mahadilok Phop Nopparat Ratchathani Burirom Udomratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Piman Avatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Vitsanukam Prasit - the name is listed in the Guinness Book of Records as the longest name in the world. Children at school learn the name of the city by heart, but few local residents are able to remember and repeat the name.

The official language of Thailand is Thai and the national currency is the Baht (THB). The exchange rate of the Baht against the Russian ruble is: 100 THB = 89 RUR.

Thailand is a popular resort among foreign tourists, which attracts with its nature, climate, as well as low prices and fairly high service.

Residents of Bangkok and other Thai cities are religious, they revere the elderly, teachers, and the royal family. A tourist is highly discouraged from pointing a finger at images of the royal family or saying unflattering comments, otherwise he risks going to prison, since the royal family in Thailand is revered as sacred.

The Royal Palace is one of the most beautiful sights in the country's capital. The palace consists of several buildings, some of which are still considered government buildings, but the royal family has not lived here for a long time. The construction of the palace itself began in 1782. The total area of the palace is 218 thousand square meters. You should not enter the territory of the palace in beach or open clothes, since there are also several temples on the territory of the palace, which implies the presence of an appropriate appearance.

The Marble Temple, which is only a little over a century old (and by the standards of Thailand’s attractions, this is not at all a significant “age”), has become one of the favorite temples among local residents. The marble from which the temple was built was brought from Italy. The construction was closely monitored by King Rama V. The entire complex shines with white marble, from which the name of the temple follows.

The crocodile farm is definitely included in the excursion program; this is something that will really make viewers “tickle their nerves”. The crocodile farm not only houses and breeds some of the most dangerous predators, but also organizes spectacular shows. Watching crocodile tamers stick their heads into the predator’s mouth is not a sight for the faint of heart. The nursery houses about 60,000 crocodiles of various species. In addition to crocodiles, you can see monkeys, shooting galleries, and birds here.

Thailand's national cuisine is influenced by three factors: climate, location and culture. Fertile lands, the possibility of year-round harvesting, the absence of religious restrictions on food - all this has shaped the gastronomic picture of the country. The basis of many dishes is rice; side dishes of meat, vegetables, fish are added to it, and all this is seasoned with a huge amount of spices. The latter fact is a big problem for Europeans, whose stomachs are simply not accustomed to such a load. However, when ordering, it is enough to ask “not hot” (“not spicy”), then the tourist will be brought a less spicy version of the dish.

Thailand is famous for its hot and sour soups tom yam and tom kha. The fiery dish with shrimp and spices will not leave anyone indifferent. Due to the large amount of garlic and chili pepper, people with stomach diseases are not recommended to eat it.

When you come to a restaurant, you should also try sauces with curry and coconut milk. They are served with a side dish of potatoes (kaeng karee), peanuts (kaeng massaman) or greens (kaeng khieo).

Another important component of the national cuisine is noodles (rice, wheat and egg). It is boiled, fried, and added to the broth. It serves as a side dish for marinated pork or chicken, meat or fish balls and even dumplings. Pad Thai - fried rice noodles - is one of the most popular dishes among travelers. In addition to the main ingredient, it includes an egg, bean sprouts, garlic, spices, and fish sauce. As an additive, you can choose shrimp, pork or chicken.

Seafood lovers will find many interesting and very tasty dishes for themselves. For example, you should definitely try sea fish baked in salt with palm leaves (Salt fish grilled on charcoal). The meat prepared in this way is very tender and aromatic. Another option for cooking fish is steaming. It is seasoned with lime, garlic and chili, resulting in an unforgettable spicy-sour taste.

Thai dishes

One of the most unusual fruits in Thailand is durian. It has such a disgusting aroma that some establishments even deny entry to people who have previously bought it, so as not to scare away visitors. This spiny green fruit with creamy flesh has earned the title of "King of Fruits." For the first time, it is recommended to eat it by holding your nose, but in the future even the unpleasant smell will not be able to scare you away - its taste is so delicate and unusual.

What to bring as a souvenir and as a gift

When buying souvenirs, foreigners try to choose something that will remind them of the country and the time spent here. Since the tourism business in Thailand is very well developed, vacationers are offered a huge range of souvenirs - from magnets and small ceramic figurines to clothing from world brands.

Figurines and images of elephants

Since the elephant is a symbol of Thailand, tourists most often buy figurines of this animal and objects with its image (masks, kitchen utensils, panels) as souvenirs. You will also be pleasantly surprised by the favorable prices for such little things as beads, handmade boxes, bags and shoes made from natural materials. This will be a great solution for those who need to buy gifts for the whole family.

Alcohol

A great gift for men is Sang Som Thai rum. It is usually drunk with soda water or used as a base for cocktails. Rice wine would also be an interesting option. It tastes a little like champagne, but without the prickly bubbles. For lovers of the exotic, you can buy a tincture of scorpion or cobra (they are simply credited with miraculous properties).

Silk products are something you should definitely buy for your wardrobe. Local markets sell traditional clothes, as well as modern models that you wouldn’t be embarrassed to wear for a walk around Moscow. The best places to buy silk are in Korat and Surin - although the price is a little steep, the quality of the products will be excellent.

Jewelry

Thailand continues to be a leader in the production of gemstones, so jewelry lovers should definitely check out the local jewelry stores. However, when choosing such a purchase, it is important to obtain from the seller a document confirming the authenticity of the product and an export license.

Treasures of Thailand

Silver products

A good and practical souvenir is items made of blackened silver. In Chiang Mai there is a whole street where shops of local craftsmen are located, here you can choose something for yourself at an affordable price.

In Thai markets and stores whose counters are not equipped with cash registers, it is customary to bargain. However, you can save money in large shopping centers. To do this, you need to choose stores where they prepare documents for a VAT refund of 7%. They will be indicated by a sign with the inscription VAT Refund (analogous to the European Tax Free). You can get money in Thailand, at the airport, but in this case it is better to arrive at the gate a little earlier: the procedure takes some time, and there may be a queue near the window.

What can be taken out of the country

Carried away by shopping, many tourists forget that customs has clear restrictions on the export of goods from the country. For example, you can only take a liter of alcoholic beverages per person. Exotic fruits are best placed in the luggage compartment. To export seeds or plants from Thailand, you must have a special permit. The same applies to animals or products made from their skin and wool.

To avoid unpleasant misunderstandings that will end with all purchases remaining at the airport, it is important to familiarize yourself with the list of what is prohibited from being taken out. So, it is better to refuse the purchase:

drugs, weapons;
stuffed animals;
durian fruit;
ivory, turtle shells and products made from them;
religious objects and Buddha figurines above 13 cm;
unprocessed gold bars, precious stones, corals (products made from them must be accompanied by certificates);
rare representatives of flora and fauna.

Money of Thailand

The national currency of Thailand is the baht (THB), and the small change is the satang. As of November 2, 2015, the baht to dollar exchange rate is 1:0.03. The best way to exchange currency is at banks or licensed exchange offices. Airports and hotels tend to have the least favorable deals. You can also withdraw cash from ATMs. However, in this case, in addition to the loss of interest on conversion, you will also have to pay a commission of 150 THB.

Credit cards are accepted in restaurants and shops. However, when paying in cash, it is easier to keep track of your expenses, since the exchange rate constantly fluctuates.

It is recommended not to accept banknotes (both baht and dollars) that have visible damage: it will be difficult to pay with such bills in the future. They can only be exchanged at certain branches of Bangkok Bank Public Company Limited or Thai Farmers Bank, and this, in turn, is a waste of time and money.

Where to stay in Thailand

Thailand offers a huge selection of options for accommodation for any period of time. In large cities, even small guest hotels offer quality service, and the price will be a pleasant surprise. In the provinces, it is better to stay in trusted hotels belonging to global chains.

Bangkok

The most popular streets in Bangkok among tourists choosing accommodation are Sukhumvit and Silom streets, as well as Siam Square and the surrounding area - the largest shopping centers and restaurants are located near the hotels. These areas are also convenient because Rattanakosin is nearby, a real tourist mecca with a lot of attractions.

When choosing a hotel room, it is better not to skimp on comfort. The fact is that such amenities as air conditioning and the availability of cold and hot water are simply necessary in hot climates.

Of the five-star hotels in the capital, President Solitaire, Landmark, Royal Orchid Sheraton and InterContinental received the best reviews from guests. They are located in the city center, additional services include swimming pools, massage and spa salons, gyms, and there are also shops and restaurants on site.

The Ariyasom Villa 4* hotel is an excellent option for those who decide to plunge into the atmosphere of Thailand without giving up their usual comfort. The hotel rooms are decorated in a traditional style, using natural materials - wood and silk. The restaurant offers a vegetarian menu as well as fish dishes.

Phuket

On the island of Phuket, travelers will find a wide variety of offers for long and short-term stays. It is best to stay in hotels for a few days. Thus, tourists who have vacationed on the island more than once recommend JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa 5* and Centara Grand Beach Resort 5*. Among the inexpensive options, the hotels Kamala Beach Resort 3*, Thanthip Beach Resort 3* and Bamboo House 3* stand out.

Pattaya

A large selection of housing in different price categories is available in Pattaya. Quite a few affordable hotels and guesthouses are located on Soi Buakhao and the surrounding area. Room prices vary depending on the proximity of the coastline and the season.

Royal Cliff Beach Terrace 5* is a hotel designed for a romantic getaway. It is simply surrounded by greenery, and the sound of the surf gives peace and serenity.

Travelers choosing a beach holiday may prefer the Pinnacle Jomtien Resort & Spa 3* hotel. The water in this part of the coastal zone is much cleaner, and if there is a storm at sea, visitors can swim in one of four pools located on the territory. However, this hotel is not suitable for those who plan to frequently travel to the city - the journey to the parking lot with a taxi or tuk-tuk will take about 15 minutes. Sabai Lodge 3* also earned good reviews from tourists.

Samui

Finding accommodation on Koh Samui depends on the preferences of travelers. For example, young people who love fun parties and nightlife are better off staying in the Chaweng area. Hotels Bhundhari 4*, Poppis 4*, located on the coast, offer quality service at a competitive price. The five-star Nora Buri Resort & Spa is a luxury hotel. There are both regular rooms and private villas.

Along Lamai Beach, which is just beginning to gain popularity, you can find both fashionable large hotels and more colorful economical options. For example, when choosing Rummana Boutique Resort, guests rent not a room, but a bungalow. On site you can rent a bicycle or car, as well as book a diving tour.

Transport

Travelers who have purchased a tour to Thailand from an agency can count on a transfer to the hotel. If vacationers planned their trip on their own, they have a choice of how to travel to the city. You can get from the airport to the center of Bangkok either by taxi or by train. The first option is the fastest, but also the most expensive. The approximate price will be from 300 to 400 baht (THB) (including clerk's surcharge).

The most economical form of transport is City Line trains. The cost of the trip is from 15 to 45 THB depending on the distance, but the tourist will have to put up with a large number of intermediate stops, and the journey will take half an hour. There are also direct Express Line buses from the airport, which will take you to the city center without stops in 15 minutes (fare 150 THB). Public transport boarding takes place on the ground floor of the airport, so there is no need to leave the building. Tickets are sold in vending machines near the platform and ticket offices, and for this you will need local money, which can be bought at exchange offices on the upper floors.

Stops in the city center are Makkasan (MRT Petchaburi Station) and Phaya Thai (BTS Skytrain Phayathai Station). It’s convenient to plan your next route from them.

Those who fly to Bangkok for the first time will be pleasantly surprised by how well all the directions are marked - knowing English even at the most basic level, it is very difficult to get lost here. If you have an international driver's license, you can rent a car. There are windows of companies providing similar services in the airport building.

Visa information

Russians do not require a visa to visit the Kingdom of Thailand for up to 30 days. All you need to enter the country is a foreign passport (for minors - a birth certificate) and a completed migration form. If children are not traveling with their parents or guardians, you will also need a notarized power of attorney.

Good news for those whose travel is not limited only to Thailand: the authorities have lifted the ban on the so-called visa wounds. That is, tourists whose stay in the country may exceed 30 days have the opportunity to avoid additional fees. All they have to do is cross the border with Cambodia and return back - they will no longer need a visa.

Safety

Tourist police urge foreign citizens to be vigilant and keep a close eye on their property. Pickpocketing is common in public places, and particularly absent-minded travelers risk losing even their suitcases.

Despite the hot tropical climate, the sanitary and epidemiological situation in Thailand is under control. Of course, this does not mean that you can forget about basic security measures. So, drinking raw water and eating street food is quite a big risk, just like in any other country.

When going for a night walk, especially in nature, it is worth taking repellent with you: there are mosquitoes that carry malaria and dengue fever, for which there are no vaccines.

You should also be careful when interacting with wildlife. Monkeys, jellyfish, sea urchins - these are the animals that most often do not reciprocate people’s attempts to take pictures with them and can cause minor but very painful wounds.

Another way to get into trouble is to commit a crime, even without malicious intent. It is important to remember that in Thailand it is prohibited to smoke in public places (fine 2000 TNV). In addition, it is important to choose expressions when speaking on the topic of religion and power: insulting the king and Buddha is punishable by law. This also applies to the desecration of their images and statues.

Useful addresses and telephone numbers

If a vacationer finds himself in an unpleasant situation, for example, he was robbed or there is a threat to his life and health, you can always count on help. Most offenses are dealt with by the police - tourist (telephone 1155) and local (123 and 1644 - English-speaking). The emergency telephone number is 191, the fire service is 199. On the islands and in the provinces, the tourist police telephone numbers are different: o. Phuket – 07 633-50-15, o. Samui - 07 742-12-81, Chiang Mai - 05 324-89-74, Surat Thani - 07 642-53-61.

If a citizen of the Russian Federation loses his passport, he must contact the Embassy, where he will be given a free certificate to return to his homeland. To do this, you need to provide a police report on the loss of your passport, an identity card and two photographs. The document is issued absolutely free of charge.

The Russian Embassy in Thailand is located at 78 Sap Road, Surawong, Bangrak, Bangkok 10500, the entrance to the consular section is from Soi Santiphap, emergency phone number - (+66 90) 403-36-45, email - [email protected].

Honorary Consul of the Russian Federation in Pattaya (Chonburi and Rayong provinces) - 353, Pra Tamnuk, Pattaya, Chonburi 20150, Royal Cliff Beach Resort hotel, Royal Cliff Grand building, 1st floor. Tel: (+66 38) 25-04-21 (ext. 2888).

Honorary Consul of the Russian Federation in Phuket (Phuket, Krabi and Phang Nga provinces) 75/149, Patak Road, Chalong, Phuket, 83120. Telephone/Fax: (+66 76) 38-44-69.

How to get to Thailand

The capital receives the majority of international flights. The presence of a direct connection between Moscow and Bangkok greatly simplifies the journey. Aeroflot ships operate daily from Sheremetyevo to Suvarnabhumi, departures are at 19:40 and 21:35, the approximate flight time is 8 hours 50 minutes. In addition, Thai Airways operates direct flights several times a week. If you buy a ticket shortly before departure, the price will be just over 43,000 rubles (as of November 2, 2015), however, if you book in advance, you can find more profitable options. Also significantly cheaper are flights with transfers from S7 and Qatar Airways.

Useful information for tourists about Thailand, cities and resorts of the country. As well as information about the population, currency of Thailand, cuisine, features of visa and customs restrictions in Thailand.

Geography of Thailand

A state in Southeast Asia, on the Indochina and Malacca peninsulas. It borders Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, Malaysia. It is washed by the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand in the South China Sea. The north is covered with green mountain slopes and hills, while the south has luxurious beaches and picturesque islands. The highest point is Mount Doi Inthanon in Chiang Mai province (2596m).

State

State structure

Constitutional monarchy since 1932. The head of state is the king.

Language

Official language: Thai

Used: Chinese, English, Malay.

Religion

94.6% of Thai residents profess Buddhism. 4.6% are Muslim - mostly Malays living in the south of the country.

Currency

International name: THB

One baht is divided into 100 satang. The 25 satang coin is commonly called saleng. Banknotes - 10/20/50/100/500/1000 TNV.

In large cities, currency exchange can be done at any time of the day. However, in Thailand only US dollars, euros, British pounds sterling and Swiss francs are exchanged. Banks are open all days of the week.

History of Thailand

The ancient land of Thailand saw the first man about half a million years ago, and for a very significant period of time, in the favorable natural conditions of this country, he remained at the stage of a primitive communal system.

The earliest class formations on the soil of Thailand began to emerge only from the 1st millennium AD, and from the 7th century there are already references to the existence of the large empire of Dvaravati (Lavo). The presence of new state formations led to constant feudal wars, which weakened all these countries. As a result, in the 11th century, the Cambodian Khmer power conquered Lavo. In the 12th–13th centuries, new principalities appeared on the outskirts of modern Thailand, spreading Buddhism. In the 13th century, united, they defeated the Khmers and created a new empire, Sukhothai, which collapsed in the 14th century. At the same time, the Principality of Siam was gaining strength. In the 17th century, it opened its trading posts to the British and Dutch. European countries took this as a pretext to conquer Siam and launched a war against it at the end of the 17th century. By the beginning of the 18th century, Siam was forced to close all ports and cut off communications with Europeans. The departure of the British resulted in continuous wars with its neighbors, which ended for Siam in 1767 with a short-term capture by the Burmese. In 1775, Siam gained freedom, and in the middle of the 19th century the British returned here, having imposed an unequal treaty in 1855, granting them preferential rights in trade. By the beginning of the 20th century, feudal remnants were abolished in Siam and administrative management on a European model was introduced.

In the First World War, Siam participated on the side of the British. In the 1920s, the pressure of European powers on this country weakened somewhat, and only internal instability, provoked by the increased activity of democratic forces, led in 1932 to a coup d'etat, which transferred full power to parliament. Thus, the bourgeois revolution replaced the absolute monarchy with a constitutional one. In 1935, the king abdicated the throne, however, already from the 1930s, monarcho-nationalist sentiments began to intensify in the government. In 1939 the country was renamed Thailand.

During World War II, Thailand entered into an alliance with Japan and took over Laos, but after being defeated, in 1945 it signed a surrender pact. In the post-war period, the history of this state was characterized by extreme instability, expressed in frequent coups that either weakened the reactionary regime or strengthened it.

Popular attractions

Tourism in Thailand

Where to stay

Thailand is always popular among tourists from all over the world, and today you can find accommodation here to suit every taste and budget. It is worth considering that the difference between apartments in big cities of the country and small rural regions is quite large, so for those who prefer comfort, it is still better to stay in one of the trusted hotels. In big cities, especially Bangkok, you can find hotels from prestigious global chains. There is no official classification of hotels in Thailand, so you should rather rely on the cost of the hotel and its prestige among clients.

In addition to luxury hotels, in this country you can also find a large number of mid-level housing, which is not distinguished by the sophistication of its interiors, but offers comfort and cleanliness. Regarding inexpensive housing, it does not always meet sanitary standards and is more suitable for those who are accustomed to Spartan conditions. Thailand hotels located in resort areas are characterized by a good level of service.

Guesthouses remain attractive for tourists. Here you will be offered good service at relatively low prices. Please note that too low a price in a boarding house may result in a shared toilet and shower on the floor. Cheap and practically unremarkable accommodation is available in Thai and Chinese hotels. As a rule, these are multi-storey panel buildings in which you will be offered the same type, but fairly clean rooms.

If you want to stay with a tent, then in Thailand you can do this in one of the country's national parks. However, it is worth stocking up on mosquito nets and mosquito and mosquito repellents. Conditions in such campsites are much worse than in European ones.

Thai cuisine was largely influenced by two factors - climate and culture, although the history of this country, immigration, and invasions also played a large role. China, Burma and Cambodia had a big influence. The favorable climate allows you to harvest two or even three harvests here annually, and all kinds of greenery grows all year round. Perhaps it is local abundance that can explain such a phenomenon as the absence of the concept of “hunger” in the Thai language. And the fact that the religion professed by the majority of Thais is Buddhism, there are practically no dietary restrictions here. Thais use all types of meat in their cuisine, fish in large quantities, as well as many vegetables and fruits....

Tips

As a rule, tips are given to porters, taxi drivers and those hotel workers who serve you well. In those restaurants where services are not usually included in the bill, tips are usually 10 - 15%.

Visa

Office hours

Typically banks are open on weekdays from 8.30 to 15.30. Exchange offices are often open daily from morning until late evening. ATM instructions are written in Thai and English.

Purchases

It is customary to bargain in markets and tourist shops. This also applies to private, non-metered taxis.

Most shops are open until 21:00 and open at 8 or 10 am. Official working days are from Monday to Saturday. Markets are open from dawn until noon, and in the evening there is trade for tourists.

VAT is set at 7%, which is charged in hotels, restaurants and high-end stores. It is not possible to claim a VAT refund.

Souvenirs

Antiques - sculptures and carved wood or bone images of Buddhist temples, wooden ornaments and various decorations used in the decoration of palaces, puppets, masks, silver bowls, vases, etc.

Cotton products - clothes, tablecloths, bed linen, pillows, carpets, blankets, towels.

Thailand has been one of the leaders in the production of precious stones and jewelry since the early 80s.

Ceramic products are produced by several factories called "Celadon". This is a wide selection of lamps, vases, tableware sets and various souvenirs.

Wood carvings - wood carving as a craft developed in Thailand over 7 centuries, mainly in the north of the country. Products are divided into four categories - furniture, home products (lamps, dishes), decorative items (picture frames) and souvenirs.

Medicine

Officially, no vaccination certificates are required. But it is recommended to get vaccinated against polio, tetanus, typhoid and hepatitis A. For those who are traveling for more than 2-3 weeks or are going to visit remote areas of the country, it is also recommended to get vaccinated against tuberculosis, hepatitis B, rabies, diphtheria and encephalitis. It is also better to stock up on anti-malaria medications.

Safety

There are a lot of swindlers and pickpockets in the country. In transport and public places, not only money, but also things can be stolen. They can put drugs in food or drink and then rob you.

As a country with developed sex tourism, Thailand is dangerous for people who practice complete freedom of intimate relationships, as the risk of contracting sexually transmitted diseases is high.

Emergency numbers

Police – 123, 1644 (in English)
Tourist police - 1155
Ambulance - 191
Fire service - 199

National characteristics of Thailand. Traditions

When entering a temple with an image of Buddha, near which believers, sitting on the floor, offer prayers, they are required to take off their shoes. Women are not allowed to enter the monks' quarters or hand them anything directly. Women should avoid appearing in public wearing shorts (especially in temples) or wearing overly revealing dresses.

The work of the government of Thailand. As in any monarchical country, the head of government is the prime minister, and parliament is the legislative body. Despite this, the king can overturn any legislative decision of parliament. Formally, the head of parliament is appointed by the king, but in reality he is often the leader of the majority in parliament. The current Prime Minister of Thailand is Yingluck Shinawatra, the younger sister of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. In addition, she is also the leader of the For Thailand party. Yingluck became head of government in July 2011. As mentioned above, parliament consists of two chambers - the Senate and the House of Representatives. Thailand also actively participates in the activities of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.

The governor is appointed by the Minister of Internal Affairs. Officials, who are also sent by the center, are subordinate to the governor, he directly controls them, even if the official is sent by one or another department. All officials - municipal and provincial - are on the staff of the central government apparatus.

All provinces, in turn, are divided into districts. In districts, the main administrative function is performed by the district inspector. He must monitor compliance with the laws and manage all the affairs of the district, that is, collect taxes, maintain public order in the district entrusted to him and observe how health care and educational institutions work.

His responsibilities include monitoring the protection of public lands, and the criminal situation is also under his jurisdiction. A community in Thailand is the next administrative-territorial unit of the country.

It unites a group from several villages.

Attention

Executive power is vested in the government headed by the Prime Minister, who since 1992 can only be appointed from among the deputies of the National Assembly. The latter is elected for a period of four years. The real king has ruled the country for more than sixty years, which makes it possible to call his reign the longest in the history of the monarchy of Thailand. Largely due to the preservation of such a system, the country has a rich culture and history, and ancient traditions are still alive today. Thailand is the only country in the Southeast Asia, which was able to avoid colonization, which was another reason for the preservation of its original culture. In general elections, 500 members of the House of Representatives and a Prime Minister are elected every four years, as well as 200 members of the Senate every six years.

Citizens receive the right to vote at the age of 18.

Political regime of Thailand

Officials sent by one or another ministry or central department to work outside the capital fall under the direct control of governors. All provincial and municipal officials are on the staff of the central government apparatus. Provinces are divided into districts, in each of which administrative functions are performed by a district inspector. Its tasks include the general administration of affairs and compliance with laws, maintaining public order, ensuring the collection of taxes, monitoring the activities of educational and health institutions, monitoring crime and protecting public lands.

The next administrative-territorial unit is the community (tambon), which unites a group of villages. The head of the community serves as an assistant district inspector and his salary is paid by the central government.

Government and political system of Thailand

The head of the community is the direct assistant to the district inspector. However, his salary comes from the central government treasury.
Villages in Thailand are grassroots units of governance. It is governed by village elders, who are chosen from among the village residents. The head of the community, by the way, is chosen from among the elders. The headmen are also assistants to the district inspector, and they receive remuneration for their labors from the state treasury, like everyone else.

Important

Since 1932, when a bloodless revolution took place, the military began to govern the country and actively participate in its political life. Since then, a military regime has been established in the country more than once and various political parties have been banned - both all and some of them.

These periods lasted from four to five years. Parties, as a rule, are regional and do not receive national support. Permission to create a party is issued by the Minister of Internal Affairs.

Form of government in Thailand

The political system of Thailand
Political regime of Thailand
Government and political system of Thailand
Form of government in Thailand
Government of Thailand
Political regime in Thailand
What is the political regime in Thailand?

The political system of Thailand

June 01, 2014
864 Important Words

Political regime of Thailand. Until 1932, kings ruled the country uncontrollably. Attention Then a bloodless revolution took place, during which a constitutional monarchy came to power. The constitution is the fundamental law of the state - adopted by parliament in 1997. The form of government is a hereditary constitutional monarchy. The political regime is an unstable democracy with elements of authoritarianism. From 1932 to 1997.

Political regime in Thailand

There are up to forty-four ministers, and they are appointed by the prime minister. The government in Thailand today is multi-party.

The National Assembly exercises legislative power in Thailand and is bicameral. The House of Representatives has 393 deputies. In elections, candidates can be both representatives of various parties and independent participants fighting for the right to represent their interests in parliament. They can also take place in both single-member and multi-member constituencies. Deputies are elected for a term of four years. The President of the Supreme House or Senate is also the President of the National Assembly of Thailand. The Speaker of the House of Representatives is his deputy, with all the relevant functions assigned to him. All citizens of the country who are 20 years of age or older have the right to vote.

Until 1932, the kings in the country of Thailand ruled uncontrollably and only individually, and there was no other power. But as a result of the revolution carried out by officials and the military, although bloodless, the absolute monarchy was replaced by a constitutional monarchy.

The king, of course, occupies an important position in the country and personifies royal power, but executive power is vested in the government, headed by the prime minister. The king is the head of state, he is also the supreme commander in chief, appoints the prime minister, and approves all members of the cabinet.

Only the king can dissolve the House of Representatives and declare martial law in the country. The executive branch is the responsibility of the government, headed by the Prime Minister, who, since 1992, has been appointed exclusively from among the deputies of the National Assembly.

What is the political regime in Thailand?

Compared to other monarchs of our time, he has been in power for the longest time, his reign is the longest in the country. The role of the Constitution in the monarchical system of Thailand The present Constitution in Thailand has been in force only since 1932. In accordance with it, the king is the leader and national symbol of the country, he is more important than politicians, which is why he takes part in political negotiations and affairs only as a last resort - when people's lives depend on it. The constitution limits the king's power, but his person is completely inviolable. Officially, freedom of speech is established in the country, however, if you insult the king or even simply express criticism of him, you could well end up in prison for a long time. Also, a person who steps on local money will face severe punishment.
An odious figure in the history of the reign of the current king was and remains Thaksin Shinawatra, one of the richest people in the country, who took the post of Prime Minister in 2001 (2001-2006). Form of government in Thailand The capital of Thailand, Bangkok, is governed by an elected governor. Bangkok is divided into 50 khet districts. His Majesty King Rama IX (Bhumipong Adulyadej) was crowned on May 5, 1946. The anniversary of this date is a public holiday in Thailand.

In Bangkok, every year on this occasion, a parade of the Royal Army and Navy is held and an incredibly beautiful fireworks display. It must be said that respect for the royal couple in Thailand is protected by law, so Russian tourists should be careful in their statements about representatives of this family.

A policeman can arrest a person even if he simply smiled while looking at a photograph of the King.

Bangkok is a city of contrasts that has absorbed all the most interesting and contradictory things that Thailand has. The city will make an indelible impression on anyone who visits here at least once.

Bangkok is the capital of Thailand, its air and sea gateway. The total area of the city is 1569 square meters. km.

Bangkok on the map of Thailand

The capital of Thailand is located in the central part of the country, on a flat area in the delta of the Chao Phraya River, which flows through the entire city and serves as a transport route. The river route was at one time supplemented by a canal system, due to which the city earned the name of Eastern Venice. Now some of the channels are concreted.

According to official data, the population is 9.2 million people, unofficially more than 10 million. More than 90% of the residents are followers of Theravada Buddhism, but all religions are tolerated here. The name of the capital consists of two words and is translated as “olive village” (Bang and Kok).

Short story

The history of Bangkok begins in the mid-14th century with the founding of a small trading port on the west bank of the river. In the Ayutthaya era, there was a village here, the population of which literally lived on the water, and olive trees grew along the banks.

In 1767, ruler Taksin built the capital Thonburi here. In 1782, under the reign of King Rama I, the city was moved to the eastern bank of the Chao Phraya River in Thonburi. Since then, Bangkok has acquired its name. The official name is Krung Thep, which means “City of Angels...”, foreigners know it by its old name - Bangkok. The old name of which is evidenced only by the canals of the same name Bangkok Noi and Bangkok Yai.

In 1932, the new Pra Puta Yodfa Bridge linked the two banks, greatly influencing the development of the city of Bangkok. During the Vietnam War, the United States invested huge amounts of money in improving the infrastructure of its ally. The population is multiplying at a rapid pace, which entails a number of urban planning problems that have not yet been resolved.

Today, Bangkok is a significant industrial and business center in Asia, ranking alongside Hong Kong and Singapore. Noisy and crowded, Bangkok remains the center of Thailand.

The main problem of Bangkok is that the city is located in a swamp. The top layer of the soil and aquifers is marine clay. This led to ground subsidence, the rate of which has doubled in recent years. Some areas of the city are already below sea level.

According to some versions, Bangkok will go under water in 15 years.

Climate

The weather in Bangkok is quite brutal most of the year. Average daily temperatures are 30-32 degrees, and do not differ much between months. Night – 25-28. The optimal time for the trip is the dry, cool season: from mid-November to April. From the end of May to November, Bangkok is covered with rain, which pours onto the ground 3-4 times a week and pours for several hours.

Some tourists choose this particular time to travel because prices drop noticeably, and there are still dry pauses between rains that can be devoted to excursions. In April and May, the weather in Bangkok becomes unbearable. The capital of Thailand is turning into a “hot frying pan”. The sun heats the humid air to 35 degrees, while precipitation is very rare.

Attractions

The capital of Thailand has many faces and offers tourists a huge variety of leisure, entertainment, and knowledge. Hundreds of temples, monuments, zoos, traditional markets, malls and restaurants will allow you to create a dense excursion program for 4-7 days. Tourists usually don’t stay here longer, heading away from the polluted, noisy streets to the paradise islands.

If you are limited in time, it is better to visit the most significant places. You can familiarize yourself with them in our article about the attractions marked on it, which will help you optimize your route and not miss all the most interesting things.

The list of the most popular attractions:

National Museum with a large collection of exhibits from the history, culture and traditions of Thailand.
- the main national treasure that appears on all videos and photos of Bangkok avenues. The palace complex includes the Temple of the Emerald Buddha with the most valuable statue of the deity in Thailand.
– a 12th-century temple, a center for the development of science and a university of traditional medicine. The main attraction is the 46 m long Buddha statue.
The Temple of the Rising Sun is an 18th-century Buddhist temple with an 80-meter tall Prang Tower, richly decorated with ceramic and porcelain mosaics.
, home to more than 30,000 underwater inhabitants, including sharks.
Safari World Safari Park with exotic animals in their natural habitat.
Huge with extreme, water and children's entertainment.

Bangkok attracts shoppers with a large number of shopping centers with low prices.

It attracts gourmets who want to taste Southeast Asia.

The city is also famous for its noisy nightlife. With sunset, numerous bars, discos, karaoke, and dance shows open here. And the famous Nana Plaza and Pat Pong Street invite those looking for strawberries.

Accommodation: hotels, inns, hostels

Bangkok is said to offer the cheapest metropolitan housing in the world. A clean room with air conditioning in a guesthouse costs about 500 baht ($15). A room with air conditioning in the hotel will start from 800 baht ($24).

A room for two in five-star conditions will cost no less than 3,000 baht ($88).

Popular hotels include:

Centara Grand & Bangkok Convention Center at CentralWorld 5*;
AETAS Bangkok 5*;
Hua Chang Heritage Hotel 5*;
Best Western Plus At 20 Sukhumvit 4*;
Mercure Bangkok Siam 4*;
Grand Mercure Fortune Bangkok 4*;
Citichic by iCheck Inn 3*;

Novotel Bangkok;

New World City 3*;
Learn Praya Suvarnabhumi 2*;
Link Corner Hostel 2*;
Happio 2*.

But the most famous hotel in the capital is considered to have panoramic platforms that you can climb to to take videos and photos of Bangkok from a bird's eye view.

The most economical accommodation option is the Khao San area. The largest number of cheap guesthouses are concentrated here. In business and shopping areas such as Silom and Siam, housing prices are much higher. The most popular among tourists is Sukhumvit.

There are many hotels and entertainment, but there are no attractions as such. If you want to live within walking distance of most of Bangkok's attractions, it's worth booking accommodation in colorful Chinatown. The Ratchadapishek area has been chosen by the local population as the center of club life.

How to get there

You can fly to Bangkok by direct flight or with a transfer from many major cities of the CIS countries. Planes are accepted by two airports - international and, which serves mainly for communications within the country. There are trains, buses and taxis from both airports to the center of the capital.

The capital, in addition, can be taken as a starting point for traveling around Thailand. The most famous resorts can be reached by flight, by train from Hua Lamphong Central Station or by government buses from Ekkamai, Mor Chit and Sai Tai Mai bus stations.

Urban transport

Urban transport is also well developed. You can get around by above-ground and underground metro, buses, tuk-tuks and taxis. The most convenient way to view the city panorama is from the window of the above-ground metro, which runs at an altitude of 4-6 floors. The trip costs 15-40 baht depending on the distance.

The metro covers all central areas of the city. It is more convenient to get to remote areas by a regular underground metro with air conditioning and broadcast video, or by bus.

There are buses with air conditioning (about 17 baht per trip) and without air conditioning (about 7 baht).

You can get to the opposite bank of the river by water taxi. It’s worth taking a ride along the canals of Bangkok on a sightseeing ferry at least once. Despite the fact that the city looks like an anthill, a map of Bangkok will help you easily navigate the space.