The Thais are great lovers of all kinds of sports. They are fun-loving people and are fond of spending their time in frolic. Thailand is a country with a long coast and it is very natural that water-sports have always been popular there. The country's defence needs prompted the growth of Muay Thai or Thai kick-boxing.

Thai Kick-boxing or Muay Thai
Thai Boxing or Muay Thai is an ancient martial art, hugely popular in all parts of the country. The matches are made colorful by lively music and elaborate ceremonies.

The country has thousands of professional boxers, most of whom started their career as Muay Thai boxers. The game is known for strong spiritual and ritualistic dimension. The game which evolved as a necessary self-defence art, has now become a favorite pastime of not only the Thais, but also of the tourists.

Watersports
Long coast of Thailand makes it an ideal destination for water sports. Few people in the country fail to enjoy the watergames. Here is brief information about watersports popular in the country:

Diving-Windsurfing-Snorekelling
The country is highly popular for diving and snorkelling. Two most popular diving centers in the country are Pattaya and Phuket. Both the places offer access to numerous offshore islands and coral reefs, and have all necessary facilities. No surprise that both are thronged by the local and international tourists alike in any part of the year.

Similan and Surin islands, both located on Andaman Sea, can be picked for reef diving. Phang Nga, Koh Samui and Koh Tao, all located in the Gulf of Thailand, lure divers. Koh Chang and Trat are also moving high on the popularity ladder. The Burma Banks and the islands off Trang Province are becoming popular as diving destinations. Live-aboard dive cruises, equipment rental and certified diving courses are available. Beaches like Kata and Karon (on Phuket island), Jomtien (south of Pattaya), Chaweng and Lamai (on Koh Samui), and Hua Hin are nice for windsurfing.

Sailing
Many islands in Thailand are accessed by sailing. Phuket serves as the main base for sailing trips in the Andaman Sea, while in the Gulf of Thailand, Pattaya is used as base.

Yachts can be chartered either with crew or without it. The presence of fish like barracuda, wahoo, tuna, swordfish or marlin, lures game fishing enthusiasts. Inland raft trips can be arranged on many rivers.

Trekking
Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai and Mae Hong Son boast the best trails in Thailand. This is also the land of Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Laos and Myanmar meet. Treks run through picturesque forested mountains inhabited by hill tribes. Trekkers have distinct experience while staying in these villages.

Chiang Rai is a favoured destination of the visitors who wish to witness the fascinating lifestyle of the hilltribes dwelling in the region. Tourists like to purchase the goods made by the hilltribes. There is no better way to admire these tribes than trekking. The treks include hiking, elephant rides and rafting.

Spectator Sports
Several sports are popular in Thailand. Horse races are held on regular intervals at the Royal Bangkok Sports Club on Saturday and at the Royal Turf Club on Sunday. Takraw or Siamese football is another spectator sport loved by masses.

In this sport, a small woven rattan ball is kicked around by players standing in a circle and often performing spectacular moves. The players try to keep the ball off the ground. One can use any body part save the hands for this purpose.