Thailand is a modern nation and a multicultural society. Thailand is often called the "land of smiles", and really so because you can see more smiling people here than anywhere else in the world. The literacy rate of Thailand is high at about 94% and the average life expectancy is 66 for men and 72 for women. Thai people are very friendly and tolerant. The official language is Thai, but English is widely spoken in all major tourist locations. However if you are travelling around Thailand it is a good idea to buy a phrase book.