Thailand is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. It is known as ""the land of smiles,"" where the people extol a charm and grace that is unmatched. These elements serve to beckon visitors who want to explore this incredible land and its people. Thailand has developed its economy at a surprising pace in the last decades of the 20th century and the dawn of the 21st. Even with the Asian financial crisis, Thailand's economy has recovered and continues to step forward. And accompanying this economic surge has been the implementation of a new constitution. However, Thailand also faces major challenges. Prostitution, drugs, and HIV/AIDS are significant social issues, along with rebuilding efforts in the wake of the devastating 2004 tsunami. Environmental problems include deforestation, and water and air pollution. Will the civilian governments be able to address these issues as well as the rise of Islamic militants and separatists in the south of the country? ""Thailand"" is a thoroughly researched, crisply designed book that investigates these issues, as well as the tantalizing physical, cultural, and social features of this emerging nation.

Series edited by: Charles F. Gritzner