Regions of Thailand
Regions of Thailand include North Chiang Mai, Central, Bangkok, North East Issan, East Pattaya, Bangsaray and South, Krabi.
Central Thailand
Central Thailand has the famous floating river market. This is west of Bangkok. The area is very fertile therefore growing rice is easy. Rice is the main source of income for many Thai farmers. Flavours are mainly salty, sour, spicy and sweet. Jasmine rice is often served with many varieties of chili dipping sauces and soups. Shrimp soup with lemongrass is a favourite however pork is also popular.
The Chao Phraya River runs through this area and is a major gate way the the Andaman sea.
Northern Thailand
Chaing Mai is popular destination in northern Thailand. The land is mostly jungle-covered mountains and valleys, therefore not easy to grow rice. Chiang Mai is famous for its Lanna and hill tribe area. The area also has its central city inside four walls.
In the north food is less sweet and spicy curries are popular with sticky rice and steamed vegetables.
Chiang Mai is the largest city in the area. Lampang and Chiang Rai are also popular provinces.
Northeast Thailand
The northeast gets little rain and the soil is less fertile. Food in the northeast tends to be salty, sour and spicy. The area if famous for its salads with papaya. Larb also a favourite is minced pork and onion. Sticky rice and vegetables accompany most meals with a spicy dipping sauce made of fermented fish and chilies.
The biggest city in the region also known as Isan is Nakhon Ratchasima. Khon Kaen and Chaiyaphum are popular provinces.
Southern Thailand
South of Thailand has more coastline therefore an abundance of seafood. The food has a strong taste and is salty. However spicey and sour flavours are also dominant. Coconut and sour curries being most popular in this region. The largest city is Hat Yai and the most popular province is Krabi famous for its beautiful beaches and crystal clear water.
Eastern Thailand
This area is the most popular with many tourists coming to Thailand. Here you will find a melting pot of all flavours. Every cuisine is catered for. Thai food can be mixture of all regions, with so many Thais travelling to the area for work. Therefore bringing their own cooking style with them. The largest city is Chaophraya Surasak located in Chon Buri Province. Pattaya is also a popular city with tourists in this province. Pattaya mainly famous for its wild nightlife, and shopping malls. Bangsaray also in Chonburi is now becoming more popular with the expat retire looking for that slower pace of life.
