Thailand

Thailand is one of the modern countries in South East Asia. The Thai beaches are beautiful and inviting, and the temples and deserted cities offer a unique look into the past. Many Christian missionaries faithfully proclaim the Gospel here, and other Christian missionaries turn to Thailand as a place to refresh. Certainly one of the easiest of the South-East Asian countries to navigate, it is a popular destination for travelers. Because Bangkok can provide an ideal gateway into South-East Asia, it is the start of many missionary journeys. Visas, travel packages, cheap food and anything else a traveler needs can be found there.

Country Profile

Full Country Name:Kingdom of Thailand
Area:517,000sq km
Population: 62 million
Capital city:Bangkok (pop 6 million)
People:75% Thai, 11% Chinese, 3.5% Malay, also Mon, Khmer, Phuan and Karen minorities
Language:Thai
Religion: 95% Buddhism, 4% Muslim
Government:: Democratic constitutional monarchy

Money & Costs

Currency: Baht
Exchange Rate: US$1 = 43

Relative cost:
Budget Meal: US$ 2-4
Budget Room: US$ 3-150

Budget living anywhere in Thailand can be as low as $15-25 a day. Living at a mid-range level would cost about $20-30 outside of Bangkok and as much as $40-$60 in Bangkok, which brags some of the world most luxurious hotels.

When exchanging money, banks and legal moneychangers offer the best rates, and travelers' checks will get you a better rate than cash. Several merchants now accept MasterCard, and even more accept Visa. ATMs can be found in the larger cities.

On the Move

Buses in Thailand are known for being very fast, as well as a comfortable means of transportation. Trains are another common method of travel, although they can be slow. Vehicles can be rented in Bangkok and other tourist locations. One way to get around the city is by tuk-tuk, the Thai rickshaws. Decorated with flashing lights and glitter, the three-wheeled scooter cars zoom around the city, giving their passenger a good tour of the city and quick ride. In June 2000, women-only buses were revived, as the government sought to protect female passengers from crime and harassment.

Religion

Thailand is a stronghold of Theravada Buddhism. Commonly considered to be orthodox Buddhism, Theravada Buddhism claims to follow the original teachings of Buddha. People burning incense on street corners serves as a constant reminder of the Thai people's need for Christ. Although there is little religious persecution, family pressures keep many people clinging to Buddhism. The government has established quotas for the number of missionaries allowed into Thailand (400 Catholic missionaries, 623 Protestant missionaries and 10 Islamic missionaries), but the many unregistered missionaries are just as welcome as the registered missionaries.

Call to Missionaries

Compared to other South East Asian countries, Thailand is an easy place to live. It is easy to get around and the people can be very welcoming. Despite the large amount of Christian work being done, there are very few Christians in Thailand. The work is not without success, however. Several northern hill tribes have accepted the Gospel. The need is strong for workers in the harvest. Prayer is needed for the Thai people, that God would soften their hearts and send workers to preach the good news of Jesus Christ.