This is the first comprehensive critical study of Western literature about Thailand. It offers a broad view, covering literary attempts to describe Siam in the 13th century, through the formative phase of Western engagement in the 16th century, the various competing European imperialisms in the 19th century, to today's era of mass tourism and the global reach of mobile, economically and culturally powerful First World populations. This will appeal to those interested in Thailand, critiques of travel writing and the Anna Leonowen's legacy.