Thailand is a country in Southeast Asia known for tropical beaches, opulent royal palaces, ancient ruins and richly decorated temples that contain representations of the Buddha. In the capital Bangkok, ultra-modern buildings alternate with quiet areas on the banks of the canals and famous temples such as Wat Arun, Wat Pho and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew). Not far away, there are beach resorts such as the lively Pattaya and Hua Hin, more fashionable.