Thailand is a country full of culture and tradition. Thailand is well-known for being exclusive and open to all kinds of local and international brands and clothing when it comes to fashion.

If you’re concerned about what to wear in Thailand, while there are some restrictions, there are also unlimited options of what you can wear in the country.

Thai people follow strict protocols for covering their shoulders and legs when visiting temples and religious institutions. However, when going to malls or visiting beaches, you can practically wear whatever you want. Thai people also wear their cultural clothes for specific occasions.

Let’s look into the dress code, beach essentials, and the perfect materials to wear while enjoying your time in the country. Moreover, it is essential to learn about the culture of Thailand and what both men and women wear for traditional festivities.

Is there a “dress code” in Thailand?

Although you will mostly see locals and international foreigners wearing whatever they want across the country, there are certain places where you need to be somewhat careful. Temples, museums, and historical locations have rather strict dress codes.

On the other hand, malls, beaches, and outdoor events do not follow strict protocols. You will get somewhat used to seeing under-dressed foreigners and locals, especially considering Thailand is a hot country. However, that doesn’t mean the government is not modest. People are rather respectful about covering up when needed (3). 

When visiting Thai temples, you are expected to dress appropriately. Women should wear skirts longer than their knees or long pants (1). Moreover, long pants have to be worn by men as well. Both men and women are required to cover their shoulders as well.

What should you not wear in Thailand?

While visiting respected territories, landmarks, or institutions, you should be cautious about what you decide to wear. It is not respectful to wear tight-fitted or see-through clothing, especially when going to a religious area to pay respects or pray. 

Another rule is that clothing should not be too loose or tight but convenient enough for worshippers to pay their respects at the temple (1). If you are not appropriately dressed, Thai locals often charge a fee or allow you to buy shawls that can help cover your legs and ankles (1). For this reason, you should avoid wearing shorts and skirts to the temple.

Moreover, you must also take off your shoes, hats, and sunglasses before entering the praying area. However, you can continue to wear your socks (1). Thai people do not like it when you show the bottom of your feet.

What to wear at night in Thailand

Nights in Thailand come with mosquitos and humid weather conditions. You should pack lightweight and neutral color clothing that slightly covers your body and protects you from those bites to stay protected. Women usually opt for maxi dresses that cover their legs at night, while men aim for chinos or light-weight trousers.

You will not see a casual person wearing a bikini during the night. The dark brings casual and formal attire; restaurants and romantic cuisines are open for the chance for couples to have some downtime.

What shoes should you wear in Thailand?

In Thailand, the most common shoes you would need are sandals and flip-flops; easy slip-on for the poolside, the beach, and outdoor activities. Moreover, you can also pack dressy shoes such as loafers, wedges, or heels for the nighttime.

Thailand is a tropical location; however, that does not mean you should only pack open shoes. Sneakers are the norm; worn with shorts and dresses, and particularly popular for tourists, you will always need a pair to keep you comfortable on your trip. Sneakers are also a fan favorite for Thailand’s popular hiking locations.

The typical essentials to pack in your suitcase 

Thailand is the perfect tropical destination. This means you should always be careful when bringing in essentials that help save you from the heat on your trip.

Essentials for hot weather:

Here are some essential items you would need to wear while going out in the summertime: (3).

1. Mosquito-repelling bracelets 

2. Anti-theft bag 

3. SPF 30 lip balm 

4. SPF 30 mineral primer 

5. Beach towel 

6. Waterproof case 

7. SPIbelt pocket 

Essentials for women: 

• Maxi dress 

• Rayon skirts 

• Linen button-downs 

• V-necks

• Jogger pants

• Leggings 

• Bikinis 

• Shorts 

• Beach pants/traveler pants

• Hats 

• Cotton tanks

• Beach cover-ups 

Essentials for men:

• Boat shoes 

• Sunglasses 

• Wicking polo

• Linen pants and shirts

• Teva flip-flops

• Slip-on water shoes

• UPF 50+ sun hat 

• Swim trunks 

Types of materials 

Linen

Linen is the way to go when spending the day out in the sun. This is possibly the best tip you can ask for before coming to Thailand. Whether it be 100% linen or a cotton/linen blend, you will freely be able to roam around on the beach and visit the islands (3). Oversized linen shirts can be worn by both men and women-especially when you need something loose and comfortable when it’s hot. Linen doesn’t cease to amaze when it comes to pants as well. You can find comfortable men’s and women’s pants in the material (3). 

Wicking and quick-drying fabrics

Another perfect material to wear in Thailand is quick-drying fabrics. While going out and about and doing adventurous activities, everyone needs to protect their skin without needing to wear something heavy (3). Wicking fabrics mostly come in polo shirts. You can quickly test out these materials in the water and see how quickly they dry (3). 

Rayon and light cotton

Another fabric to wear in Thailand is thin cotton. Rayon is a material that is lightweight and also dressier compared to linens. However, it is not wrinkle-proof, so be careful to iron it out before wearing it to your special occasion (3). 

Skin-protection fabrics

The most crucial aspect of considering clothes in Thailand is the sun. As the country experiences the same tropical weather all year round, it is important never to burn yourself out and be protected when going outside (3). You can do this by wearing SPF 30, carrying a hat along, or wearing UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) clothing such as shirts and pants when going in the water (3).

Materials not to wear

You should not go for anything lined with polyester, which will melt you to the core. Bring loose clothing rather than relying on tight-fit jeans and uncomfortable options (3).

Embrace traditional Thai clothes on your trip

We tend to wear the same clothes all year round, so why not change things up while you are away from home?

When visiting Thailand, it is an opportunity to immerse yourself in local customs and learn about culture and religion. This includes wearing Thai traditional clothing.

Here are some options for you to try:

Traditional Thai clothes for men:

• Suea Phraratchathan: “Royalty-bestowed shirt” was invented in 1979 for the rulers of the country. The shirt comes in long-sleeves and short-sleeves (2). 

• Chut Thai: Known as a Raj Pattern costume, which includes a pha chung hang or pants, with a shirt, a pha biang, and optional knee-length white socks. 

Traditional Thai clothes for women:

For women, there are eight formal Thai national costumes:

1. Chakkri: one of the most famous outfits, considered to be elegant and formal. It consists of a long tube-style skirt called a sinh alongside a silk top and sabai (2).

2. Chakkraphat: This is a formal Thai shawl made for conservative wives of emperors. You can wear it as an embroidery style to look elegant at ceremonies (2).

3. Boromphiman: Known as evening attire, boromphiman is an ankle-length tube skirt called a sinh, that comes with a long-sleeved neck blouse that is buttoned at the front or back. Moreover, you can also make it a once-piece dress (2).

4. Siwalai: Known as formal evening attire, a siwalai is almost identical to the last piece called the boromphiman. However, this one is mainly worn at super formal events and royal ceremonies (2).

5. Amarin: This is known as the evening dress for royals. Known as quite luxurious clothing, the dress consists of a  brocade sinh and a full-sleeved blouse, with buttons that go down at the center (2).

6. Chitlada: Chitlada is a formal dress worn at daytime events. It consists of a long sinh and a long-sleeved silk blouse with silver or gold buttons running down at the front (2).

7. Ruean Ton: This is considered one of the most casual Thai female outfits. It is worn at non-formal events where a standard dress is required. It is a long-tube sinh skirt with a long-sleeved blouse, with buttons at the center and no collar. The skirt is usually plain or striped (2).

8. Dusit: Dusit is a westernized version of a Thai dress. This is more westernized but also worn at less formal events. It includes a round neck and blouse with no sleeves. You can wear it as a one-piece dress or buy the skirt and blouse separately (2). 

What to wear FAQ’s

Can you year white or black in Thailand?

Black is usually worn head to toe to respect the Monarchy or recent King, Bhumibol Adulyadej, who passed away. Civil workers were required to wear black for the month after the King’s death during the mourning season.

White is also an appropriate color for funerals. However, it is also a primary color worn around the summertime in Thailand. White linen trousers, dresses, and shirts are worn all year round. 

Can you wear all kinds of western clothing?

It is acceptable to wear all kinds of western clothing, such as sleeveless shirts, skirts, crop tops, shorts, leggings, and ripped jeans in Thailand. Especially in the main center of Bangkok, you will spot locals and tourists, young and old, dressed in shorts and cropped shirts.

You will feel as if you are back home, however, you might not want to wear something revealing to a religious area such as a temple or established institution.

The perfect place to experiment

Thailand is a beautiful country full of culture and tradition. Tropical weather allows you to dress casually and formally for the type of events you hope to attend. Summer wardrobe can be relatively straightforward; however, sometimes, it can come with restrictions.

In Thailand, it is a place that requires modest clothing at temples. However, you can practically wear what you want for tropical resorts or vacations, bringing in all essentials.

Or, as the proverb goes “when in Rome do as the Romans do”, well, Thailand is the perfect place to experiment and learn about new cultures and customs by wearing traditional Thai attire.

References

1. Monaworld. “Visiting Temples in Thailand: Etiquette, Dress Code & Temple Rules.” THAIest, thaiest.com/blog/etiquette-for-visiting-temples-in-thailand/.

2. “Thai Traditional Clothing and Dress (Chut Thai).” Thai Traditional Dress, Formal Thai National Costume, and Wedding Clothes, www.asiahighlights.com/thailand/traditional-dress/.  

3. “What to Wear in Thailand? Learn the Thai Dress Code for Bangkok, Beaches, Temples & More.” The Koh Samui Guide, 3 Nov. 2021, https://www.thekohsamuiguide.com/what-to-wear-in-thailand/. 

Thailand is known for its delicious cuisine and local street food. Thai food is found on almost every corner, making it natural to try everything during your stay. There’s an endless supply of cuisines, from low-cost street vendors to luxury restaurants and themed dishes.

However, one of the essential details to remain cautious of is health; sanitation and freshness are crucial components we look for when buying food. So, what should you not eat while in Thailand?

Thailand might have some delicious local cuisines and unique flavors but there are definitely some foods you should not try. For those with a weak stomach, eating unusual food can cause serious health concerns. These must-not tries include various types of water, meats, salads, liquor, and insects. 

If you want to make sure you have the perfect staycation in Thailand, then keep reading to discover what foods you should avoid on your trip and why.

What you should not eat in Thailand?

1. Goong Ten (Dancing Shrimp)

Goong Ten is a dish that originated from the Isaan region of the country. The dish is made of raw shrimp, herbs, and spices. Eating raw shrimp is not uncommon in many countries, but this one is unique- the shrimps in this dish are alive!

The name ‘dancing shrimp’ comes from its preparation- shrimp are wildly flapping around in the bowl while being made. Additionally, the seller will put the freshwater shrimps in a bowl, then add chili, lime juice, fish sauce, and herbs to them (yes, all while they are alive!). Moreover, they are marinated and served to the customer (2). 

There are high chances that the shrimp may still be alive when served. Therefore, this ‘Dancing Shrimp’ dish is not for everyone, and even if you are brave enough to try live shrimp, raw seafood can give a nasty stomach ache or, worse, diarrhea. For a more enjoyable trip experience in Thailand, Goong Ten is probably not the perfect recommendation. 

2. Yum Khai Maeng Da (Horseshoe Crab Salad)

One of the most famous types of Thai cuisine would be the ‘salad’ or ‘Yum.’ Yum is usually made with meat, fish, or seafood mixed with fish sauce, chilies, lime juice, and herbs (3).

However, you should avoid one type of Yum- the Yum khai maeng da or Horseshoe Crab salad. Horseshoe crabs are scary-looking creatures that are closely related to spiders and scorpions. The only edible parts of them are the roes, which are the main ingredients of this dish.

The crab roes are usually mixed with unripe mango, seasonings, and herbs. Although some say it’s very delicious and tastes just like other types of Yum, it is safer to avoid eating horseshoe crabs for several reasons. 

Horseshoe crabs, in general, contain toxic substances, and some of the horseshoe crab species are also very harmful to the humans who consume them. When cooked or cleaned not correctly, the customers are at the risk of ingesting the toxins from Horseshoe crabs.

There were many cases of people falling ill after eating Yum khai maeng da, and in some extremely unfortunate circumstances, eating horseshoe crabs can even cause death (4).

Therefore, it is best to stay away from this dish. After all, there are many other delicious and safe Yum dishes for everyone to try!

3. Lao Khao (Moonshine)

Lao Khao is a traditional Thai liquor made from fermented rice. The taste of Lao Khao is sweet at first but later burns your throat once the alcohol kicks in, leaving a very unpleasant aftertaste in your mouth and nostril (5).

Every small village in Thailand has its illegal distillers who make very potent Lao Khao, making it a ubiquitous drink among the locals. It is very cheap, easy to find, and can get you drunk quickly. Friendly locals often offer a bottle to their visitors. 

While legally made Lao Khao are safe to consume, unlicensed versions are potential health hazards. Illegal distillers of Lao Khao usually use all types of recycled bottles to contain the drink and are likely to produce the glass incorrectly.

Many of these illegal distillers use metal stills that react with the liquids and produce methanol as a by-product (5). Therefore, a high percentage of methanol is mixed with ethanol, causing blindness and even deaths every year to those who consume a large amount of Lao Khao (6).

4. Dog meat

Understandably, a controversial food is dog meat. It is pretty rare in Thailand as it is considered ‘dirty’ and ‘cruel.’ Only a very few people, such as day laborers and rice farmers in rural parts of the country, eat dog meat. Laborers, however, face a lot of criticism. There have been cases where a few have been arrested.

Furthermore, police forces have cracked down on the dog meat market and suspended or fined the dog meat sellers, deeming the act as inhumane (1).  Moreover, even local people look down on those who eat dog meat. Therefore, it is better to avoid the potential charges of trying dog meat. 

5. Fried insects

Fried insects like scorpions and crickets are popular street foods in Thailand markets. Many people have called this snack ‘ delicious’ despite the creepy visuals of deep-fried insects put on sticks.

While it is usually safe to eat deep-fried insects, you must avoid unwanted incidents. For deep-fried scorpions, make sure that the stinger part at the tail has been removed as it is full of venom and hazardous to consume when not cooked correctly (7). 

Also, make sure to buy from places you can trust as some sellers might not clean the insects or properly cook them, which can put your health at risk.

Insects also have similar proteins to crustaceans, such as shrimp and crabs. Therefore, eating insects may trigger allergic reactions, especially for people who have shellfish allergies (5).

6. Shark fin soup

Shark fin soup is usually targeted for its harm to the endangered species of the ocean. Despite being banned in many countries and protests from animal rights groups, you can find the soup in many Chinese restaurants or seafood restaurants across Thailand (6).

The right thing to do would be to avoid ordering shark fin if you dine at one of these restaurants. 

Shark fins are harvested through an unethical process. And due to overfishing, many shark species are at the risk of extinction. Also, shark fins are very expensive despite having low nutritional value.

On top of that, shark fin itself is tasteless; the soup’s flavors come from the broth and other ingredients the cooks use to create the famous jelly-like texture of the dish (7). If you are curious about the taste, the best way to try is to find and order the artificial versions of the dish.

7. Larb Leuat Neua and Larb Dib

‘Larb’ is a popular dish in Thailand, especially in the northern and northeastern regions. Larb is a kind of meat salad mixed with fresh herbs and spices, and it is usually spicy yet delicious.

However, these types of Larb are something you do not go near. Larb leuat neua is made with raw meat and a vast amount of raw blood.

Some people even add guts, bile, and bile juice to the dish; hence, it is not similar to the popular versions of Larb. Larb dib is also made with raw beef or pork and seasoned in spices and mint (5).

Both dishes are usually accompanied by a shot of whiskey or a glass of cold beer and are known as bar snacks because locals believe that alcohol will kill the bacteria and parasites from the raw meat (7).

However, food poisoning is common for foreigners who are not used to eating these dishes, and bare flesh and blood carry a considerable risk of bacterial infection.

8. Luu Moo (Pig Blood)

Pig blood is often disregarded as one of the worst dishes in the country. Luu Moo has a deep red color that can be mistaken for tomato soup or chili soup from a distance, but the color comes from raw pig blood.

Yes, it is a dish made with uncooked, fresh pig blood!

The pig blood is mixed with herbs like holy basil and lemongrass to get rid of the blood smell and seasoned with various spices to add the flavors; the thick concoction of pig blood is poured over noodles and considered a ‘men’s dish’ in northern Thailand (5).

Sometimes, raw pieces of offal such as raw pig’s kidney or neck fat are also added into the dish. This dish is not recommended for foreigners as eating raw blood, and the pig’s innards can cause severe and fatal health risks such as bacterial and parasite infections.

Also, it is difficult to stomach raw pig blood no matter how many spices and herbs have been added to it.

9. Tap water

Although less harmful than other dishes, tap water remains one of the top toxic concerns. Unlike Singapore, where tap water is generally safe to drink, tap water in Thailand is not recommended.

Local authorities say that it is safe for consumption; however, tap water has traveled through pipes and can fill poorly maintained systems with microbes and other nasty particles that have the potential to make you sick.

If you are looking for more reasons why tap water is not safe in Thailand, check out our article: Can You Drink the Tap Water in Thailand?

An excellent alternative would be bottled water, which is available everywhere. Moreover, Thailand also has water filtration machines around the city for those who wish to refill their reusable bottles.

It’s best to play it safe…

And there you have it – a list of foods in Thailand that can potentially cause health risks, leaving your vacation trip in ruins. No matter how unique or exciting a dish may sound, it is essential to look at how the food is prepared, what water is used, and the ingredients used. After all, not everyone is prone to eating the same foods for a reason!

References

1. Thomas Fuller. Dog Meat Trade In Thailand Is Under Pressure And May Be Banned. The New York Times. [Online] May 1, 2014. https://www.nytimes.com/2014/11/02/world/asia/dog-meat-trade-in-thailand-is-under-pressure-and-may-be-banned.html/.

2. Wiens, Mark. WATCH: Thai Dancing Shrimp – A Serving Of Thailand’s Most Lively Dish! migrationology. [Online] March 24, 2011. https://migrationology.com/thai-dancing-shrimp-serving-thailands-most-lively-dish/.

3. McDermott, Nancie. Thai Seafood Salad (Yum Talay). Fine Cooking. [Online] https://www.finecooking.com/recipe/thai-seafood-salad-yum-talay/.

4. Caitlin Ashworth. Phuket Woman Dies Shortly After Eating Mangroe Horseshoe Crab. Thaiger. [Online] October 5, 2020. https://thethaiger.com/news/phuket/phuket-woman-dies-shortly-after-eating-mangrove-horseshoe-crab/.

5. Cita Catellya. Food And Drinks To Stay Away From In Thailand. Thaiger. [Online] September 16, 2021. https://thethaiger.com/guides/best-of/food/food-and-drinks-to-stay-away-from-in-thailand/.

6. Ian. 29 Things To Avoid In Thailand. I Am Kohchang [Online] https://iamkohchang.com/blog/things-to-avoid-in-thailand.html/.

7. Sarah Williams. What Not To Eat And Drink In Thailand. The culture trip. [Online] April 30, 2021. https://theculturetrip.com/asia/thailand/articles/12-things-not-to-eat-or-drink-in-thailand/

Thai ladyboy culture is strong in both quality and quantity. No matter where you go in Thailand, you’re bound to meet at least one beautiful ladyboy.

So, you might be wondering, why are there so many ladyboys in Thailand?

Ladyboys are common in Thailand because their society is open to gender fluidity. The main reasons that support this openness are Thai attitude, Thai Buddhism, Thai media, Thai beauty Contests, and Thai cosmetic surgeries. All five reasons work together and push Thailand to be even more welcoming toward LGBTQIA2S+.

But of course, there is more depth to the story. The members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community in Thailand also struggle with their daily lives. Read on to get a bird’s eye view of the ladyboys’ situation in Thailand.

***For the sake of convenience, this article will refer to LGBTQIA2S+ as LGBT.***

5 Cultural reasons why Thailand has so many ladyboys

Ladyboys are everywhere. They are not just a group of people in Thailand but are also present in your neighborhood. The thing is, they might not be expressing themselves to the fullest.

There is no definitive answer to why the ladyboy culture in Thailand blooms more than in the neighboring nations or even most countries. But the general reason is that Thailand is more open to gender fluidity.

To a certain degree, Thai people just accept ladyboys as who they are. Most Thai understand that ladyboys don’t become ladyboys because they choose to be; they become ladyboys because that is how they function. It’s like having 10 fingers. You don’t decide to have 10 fingers — you just have.

However, this kind of acceptance doesn’t come naturally. Thai people took time and effort to suppress the discrimination too. They just did it efficiently. 5 factors make Thailand embrace ladyboys, gender fluidity, and LGBT better than many other countries.

1. Thai attitude

As you probably know, Thai people love to conform to groups and communities. But while conformity dictates many parts of their behavior, they are also paradoxically easygoing.

This means while Thai people are quick to call out anything out of the ordinary, they are even quicker to forgive and let things go. 

The most obvious example is the red light crossing. There could be as many as 122,000 cases of red light violation a month. And that is in Bangkok alone. (Source)

Of course, the violators were punished, but the punishment was insignificant. They will just live on and commit it again. That’s why Thai people ignore red lights like it’s normal.

So when it comes to ladyboy culture, Thai people figuratively see it as yet another red light crossing. At first, they see men acting like women as traditionally unbecoming. But the more they see it, the more ladyboys become “normal.”

Unlike red light violation, being a ladyboy is not a crime. It doesn’t hurt anyone. So, Thai people have an easier time accepting it.

Another Thai characteristic that helps people accept the ladyboys culture is humor. Most ladyboys play clowns in a group, lighting up the mood and atmosphere. And Thai people love that. As a result, ladyboys are usually beloved in groups of friends.

2. Thai buddhism

When you hear an argument against LGBT, you often hear about religions as part of the reasons. Of course, this happens in Thailand too. However, it is not as harsh and brutal as in other Christian or Muslim countries.

One thing to note is that Buddhism has sects and other variations. This means that the practice and ritual differ depending on the region. For example, Shaolin monks have a more aggressive and violent image than monks from Tibet. This concept of differences is similar to Catholicism and Protestantism in Christianity.

In Thailand, the locals practice a variation of Theravada Buddhism (which is considered “less strict”).

Some Thai people believe that being LGBT is a form of punishment. They argue being neither male nor female was caused by your sin of sexual immorality in a previous life. (Source)

Of course, this is impossible to prove. 

But regardless of the legitimacy of their claim, the state of being an LGBT is not a sin itself. So, it is awkward to use Thai Buddhism to argue against ladyboys. And if you did, you would probably rouse more sympathy rather than hatred. Repenting for the sins of the unknown previous life would sound unfair to most people.

3. Thai media

In the modern world, the media holds virtually limitless power.

And with such power to influence people, Thai media plays a significant role in setting up the stage for ladyboys to shine.

The first appearance of Thai ladyboys in the media is difficult to pinpoint. However, it might go back further in time than you think. In 1954, there was already an indie silent black & white film about “Katoey,” or ladyboy, in Thailand. This film was called “กะเทยเป็นเหตุ” (Katoey Pen Hade) or “It’s All Because of Katoey.” (Source)

This film depicts the unrealistic relationship between straight men and a beautiful ladyboy. Since Thai people love humor, the film has a comedy vibe in its storytelling. (Source)

But this comedic aspect also shows that Thai people of the time see ladyboys as a laughing stock.

But as time passed, ladyboys gained more presence in the entertainment media. Most of them started off with a focus on comedy. However, many also succeed in healthcare, fashion, and other lifestyle TV programs.

Seeing ladyboys appear in the media every day eventually becomes normal to Thai people. And their attitude starts to change. Ladyboys are no longer just a laughing stock but talents rivaling those of straight men and women.

4. Thai beauty contests

On a worldwide scale, you might have heard of Miss International Queen. It is arguably the biggest pageant for trans women in the world.

In Thailand, these kinds of pageants exist as well. And they offer a variety of contests for the audience to attend and enjoy.

Mr. Gay World Thailand

As the name suggests, this is a contest for gay men to flex their appearance supremacy in fancy costumes. But that’s not the only thing they do. 

All participants must undergo trials like written tests, interviews, societal campaign proposals, and more. These processes guarantee that the winner is not only a looker but also a kind-hearted person ready to change society for the better. (Source)

Miss Tiffany Universe

You will hear of this contest if you are interested in Thai ladyboy culture. Why? Because this is the stage where the most gorgeous trans women in Thailand gather together. 

The winner of this event will continue to compete in the Miss International Queen. (Source)

Miss ACDC

You might wonder what a legendary rock star has to do LGBT beauty contest. No, ACDC here is not a rock band. It stands for “Alternative Creature’s Devoted Creation.” (Source)

This contest’s highlight is not the beautiful faces of the participants. It’s the creativity and humor of how they present themselves. The audience of Miss ACDC is bound to laugh every minute. You can almost think of it as a parody contest.

These contests are another factor that encourages all the LGBT in Thailand to express themselves. They also help Thai people accept the concept of gender fluidity faster.

▸ Want to learn more about Thai Beauty Contests? Check out our articles on “Miss Thailand” and “Miss Universe Thailand

5. Thai gender-affirming surgery

Thailand used to be a world-class destination for those seeking ladyboy surgery. (Source)

From genital removal to breast transplant and augmentation. Thailand has almost everything a ladyboy would need.

Since there is no official survey, it is impossible to name the number of cosmetic surgery clinics and hospitals that perform gender-affirming surgery in Thailand. But it is safe to say that it reaches hundreds or even thousands.

The most famous name among these hospitals is Yanhee. They position themselves as a “beauty hospital,” focusing their technology on cosmetic surgery and other beauty-related treatment. (Source)

If you asked a ladyboy where to get Gender-Affirming surgery, about half would say, “Yanhee.”

Of course, this type of surgery only saw a boom because of the high number of ladyboys in Thailand. They wouldn’t be this popular otherwise. On the other hand, these medical procedures also encourage the LGBTs to express themselves further. It’s a loop that makes Thailand more accepting of gender fluidity.

How are ladyboys viewed in Thailand?

The position of ladyboys in Thailand is quite complex. On the surface, the locals accept them as an integral part of society. But if you dig deeper, you will find that such a thing as 100% acceptance doesn’t exist.

Many parents are still skeptical about seeing their sons behaving like a girl. And that is understandable. After all, Thailand had been a patriarchal society for a good chunk of history. Many old-school parents still hold on to that image of a “masculine leader.”

With such conservative parents, the ladyboy-to-be children and teens will hide their gender orientation away from their families. But that doesn’t mean they don’t show their tendencies at all. They usually express themselves openly at schools where friends and teachers are more understanding and accepting.

In a sense, these kids are living a double life. They behave like women during the day at school and act like men at home during the nighttime.

Of course, it is only a matter of time before their parents find out. And once they do, it usually ends in a big argument. However, the parents usually can’t do anything. All they could do was express their disappointment or frustration.

Even though they don’t condone LGBT, they understand that this is a new age. Things are not the same anymore.

Some parents escalate the matter by declaring they wouldn’t financially support their child anymore. Some even send their child to a psychiatrist. But in the end, most of these parents have to accept the reality one way or another.

In the working adult world, ladyboys are culturally accepted, especially in the creative, art, and fashion field. However, this acceptance isn’t 100%. Many LGBT people find building trust in the workplace difficult, notably in the education field, where most personnel are somewhat conservative. (Source)

Interesting facts about Thai ladyboy culture

LGBT marriage is impossible in Thailand

Culturally, Thailand is open toward LGBT, ladyboys, and gender fluidity. On the legal front, however, it’s a different story.

As of 2019, there were around 3.6 million Thai LGBT (around 5% of the population). (Source)

But despite such a number, Thailand’s government still hasn’t legalized marriage between two people of the same sex.

As a result, most LGBT couples just live together. They aren’t recognized as a married couple by law and don’t receive the benefits the married do.

Ladyboys are unacceptable in the southern border provinces of Thailand

As mentioned, Buddhism plays a crucial role in Thai people’s attitude towards ladyboys. However, the people in Thailand’s southern border provinces are mostly Muslims. As a result, you don’t see many ladyboys in that region.

As you may or may not know, Muslims are serious about gender orientation. So, people there might react negatively to ladyboys and other LGBTs.

However, this negativity doesn’t stop some LGBTs from coming out. They chose to be branded as a sinner to express who they are. (Source)

Ladyboy culture and Thai culture

It is unclear why Thailand has so many ladyboys. But the factor you cannot overlook is the Thai Culture itself. Without the flexible attitude and lax Buddhism of Thai people, it is hard to imagine a boom of ladyboys and LGBT in this country.

Of course, the media, the contests, and the surgery also play a crucial part in this. But these three factors came after ladyboys became influential in Thailand. They are additional factors that encourage the locals to express themselves further.

As of 2022, ladyboys and LGBT are still not 100% accepted in Thailand. But if the current trend continues, you might see a day when Thailand is fully open to gender fluidity — culturally and legally.

Besides being known as the center for tourism, from beautiful islands to historical monuments, Thailand has still yet to escape the fear attached to its name. The 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami put stress on the region to prioritize security precautions in case of natural disasters.

But was Koh Samui one of those Thai islands hit by the tsunami?

Koh Samui is known as Thailand’s second-largest island. Known for coconut groves, mountainous rainforests, palm-fringed trees, and luxury resorts, the landmark is considered Thailand’s safest spot. Ko Samui is located in the Gulf of Thailand off the east coast of Kra Isthmus, protecting it from tsunamis.

While there has been tremendous damage from previous natural disasters, the more dangerous parts of the country are more prepared.

Yet, there is a low-level risk of further tsunamis impacting the region anytime soon. The 2004 tsunami, however, left no impact on Ko Samui, as other societies were destroyed and left in ruins.

History of disasters in Thailand

The 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami occurred at 7:58 local time on 26 December, hitting the epicenter of the west coast- northern Sumatra, Indonesia.

Occurring at a magnitude of 9.1-9.3, it took a staggering 230,000 lives in just a few hours (1). Under a total of 2 tidal waves, the tsunami waves hit Thailand at 19.60 meters, killing 8,212 people in the region (2).

It was the day after Christmas, an occasion when most Europeans and Americans make time to travel abroad and enjoy their vacation on a tropical island. However, none were aware that Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia would be hit by a deadly underwater earthquake (1).

The tsunami first hit the city of Banda Aceh in Indonesia. An impossible sight to imagine a 100-foot mountain of water engulfing a city of 320,000 people. Only sometime later, buildings were folded like houses of cards, and trees and cars were swept up.

It was only a little while after that the fold reached Thailand, hitting the coastal provinces of Phang Nga and Phuket (1). Despite the time difference, locals and tourists were busy with activities such as swimming and walking down by the beach when the waves struck.

The last victims of the disaster were found in South Africa, swimmers who moved 5,000 miles from the quake’s epicenter. The 900-mile earthquake stretched along the Indian and Australian plated 31 miles below the ocean floor, releasing as much power as atomic bombs (1).

Thailand’s tourism industry fought back just months after the tsunami. Hitting resorts, beaches, and killing locals and foreign guests had a huge personal effect on people, such as Naorng Chairdum; his family lost their income from two tourist shops in Naiyang. Other entrepreneurs like Mr. Chaidum went out of business. Additionally, 100,000 people in the tourism sector lost their jobs, and employers were on unpaid leave (3).

In the long run, ILO worked with Thailand’s Ministry of labor to apply for enterprise within the smaller businesses. This helped create a meeting that allowed workers to express views and combat problems from the tsunami.

After full reconstruction took place, Phuket would once again be known as the tourist attraction it is today.

Koh Samui was and is safe

Although the Indonesia earthquake hit the region under extreme measures, thousands of tourists visiting Koh Samui were unharmed. Home to resorts, hotels, waters, moon parties, and underwater life, the island was too far off the side of Thailand to face the consequences of the tsunami (4).

According to a report at the NationalTurk, the Indesonia quake hit the region of the far east and paradise islands, not devastating but hitting one island on the Indian Ocean (4).

On the other hand, Koh Samui is known as the safest region of Thailand; it can not be affected by the shocks of earthquakes and tsunamis due to being settled on the Gulf of Thailand; protected from harm that may one day come across the Andaman Sea and the Indian Ocean.

The positions of the main earth fault line lie between the Bay of Bengal and the west coast of Myanmar, Indonesia, and Thailand- Koh Samui, located on the opposite side, is the safest place to be in the time of an earthquake-induced tsunami (5).

In light of crystalline waters, rich animal life, plants, and full moon party scenes, Koh Samui is mostly popular for the sole reason of being safe (4). Many tourists have been afraid to travel to Thailand since the 2004 events, which leaves room for some locations that promise security and protection.

In addition to its tropical features, Koh Samu is noticeable for its traditional feel; there are no buildings that exceed the height of a coconut tree (6). All this together makes Koh Samui a first-class holiday location.

Tsunami risk on Koh Samui is statistically low

While Koh Samui was not affected by the deadly aftermath of the tsunami, the chances of repeating that horrifying disaster are remote; the risk of tsunamis in the Gulf of Thailand is even smaller than to nearly impossible.

Nonetheless, Thailand has awakened from this disaster. Experts, authorities, the business sector, and citizens in tsunami risk locations demand strict disaster response and evacuation plans (7).

Regardless of a tidal wave being unlikely to hit the coast soon, Paiboon Nuannin, a geophysics lecturer at Songkla University, noted that earthquake disasters are beyond human prediction; public preparedness will save lives in an unforeseen emergency situation (7).

Concerns over the tsunami re-emerged recently on social media. After a deadly tsunami that recently hit the Indonesian city of Palu, Thai people became fearful of having a similar news headline as the 1200 people killed (7).

There is a caution that Thailand’s two coastlines- the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand are not entirely safe from tsunami disasters. Paiboon discusses the long subduction zone beneath the Andaman Sea, which could have enough capacity to regenerate an earthquake, triggering a tsunami in the Andaman coast once again (7).

However, interviews with elderly from the Andaman provinces suggest that no one could remember a tsunami disaster hitting the Andaman coast in their lifetime, even before the tsunami that hit Thailand in 2004.

Ultimately this means that the period of a tsunami in the Andaman sea is over 100 years old or simply rare.

How Thailand’s islands focus on tsunami safety

Even thirteen years later, Phang Nga in southern Thailand, famous for its exquisite beaches and islands, remained fearful of the tragic events.

Near the popular destination Phuket, it was hard to imagine that both places were once submerged with debris and floodwater. Families still face loss and suffering (8). Although islands across the Gulf Coast like Koh Samui were not affected, islands like Phuket were in ruins.

Schools were destroyed, resulting in their re-construction and implementation of evacuation drills. Yet, educational systems are still working to provide emergency procedures and evacuation plans (8).

The United Nations Development Programme implemented a regional project around 18 countries in the Asia-Pacific region-under funding by the Government of Japan. This would focus on the five tsunami-prone schools within the province (8).

Thailand also worked closely with the Department of Disaster Preparedness and Mitigation, the Ministry of Education, the Thai Red Cross Society, and the Phang Nga Primary Education Area Office to analyze hazards and tailor preparedness plans.

Secondly, students with physical disabilities were put in an equal squall; under the principle of Leave No-One Behind, disability experts trained the Thai people on disability-inclusive disaster risk reduction. This would help disabled students be a part of evacuation plans.

Training also brought community representatives, politicians, and teachers together; surprise drills have been conducted where students follow innovative methods to ensure a calm evacuation and bring younger students down with them.

Additionally, Thailand implemented scenarios to test school authorities and teachers in unforeseen instances, such as ensuring teachers realized when their students were missing (8).

Enjoy Koh Samui

Koh Samui was amongst the islands that faced no harm from the tsunami. It is nearly impossible to see a future tsunami hitting the Gulf Coast with its safe location and infrastructure.

However, the fear amongst Thai people is still prominent even after seventeen years. With further precautionary measures, practice drills, and system evacuations, we can only hope that other islands within Thailand can withstand the damage of tsunamis.

References:

1. Roos, Dave. The 2004 Tsunami Wiped Away Towns With ‘Mind-Boggling’ Destruction. HISTORY. [Online] September 18, 2020. www.history.com/news/deadliest-tsunami-2004-indian-ocean/.

2. WorldData. Tsunamis in Thailand. WorldData. [Online] [Cited: November 1, 2021.] https://www.worlddata.info/asia/thailand/tsunamis.php/.

3. Organization, International Labor. After The Tsunami In Thailand, The Tourist Industry Fights Back. International Labor Organization. [Online] April 11, 2005. https://www.ilo.org/global/about-the-ilo/mission-and-objectives/features/WCMS_075558/lang–en/index.htm/.

4. Murat. Koh Samui Is The Only Island Tsunami Cannot Reach In Thailand. Tourism Travel Vacation. [Online] May 20, 2020. http://www.turizmtatilseyahat.com/en/koh-samui-is-the-only-island-tsunami-cannot-reach-in-thailand-4619/.

5. Brewis, Alan. Has Koh Samui Ever Had A Tsunami? Samui.TV. [Online] October 13, 2021. https://www.samui.tv/has-koh-samui-ever-had-a-tsunami/?v=5b79c40fa7c2/.

6. Samui. Koh Samui Island The only Island Without Tsunami Hazard. Holiday In Samui. [Online] July 15, 2020. https://www.holidayinsamui.com/en/koh-samui-island-the-only-island-without-tsunami-hazard/.

7. Thaiger. Tsunami Risk Is Statistically Very Low. Thaiger. [Online] October 5, 2018. https://thethaiger.com/news/national/tsunami-risk-is-statistically-very-low/.

8. Chaivichian, Aticha. 13 Years Later: Is Thailand Better Prepared For Tsunamis? UNDP in Asia and the Pacific. [Online] August 22, 2018. https://medium.com/undp-in-asia-and-the-pacific/13-years-later-is-thailand-better-prepared-for-tsunamis-ff1cc45dffdf/.

Thailand is well-known for being a culturally colorful country, having everything from museums, temples, palaces, exquisite cuisines, and traditional clothing. You will spot color wherever you look.

While this might seem exciting and adventurous, it is also an excellent spot for earning knowledge. Color in Thailand is so much more than picturesque imagination.

Color is more than just an appreciation for style and aesthetic purpose. Thai people value colors for their symbolic references. Not only are various colors considered lucky or purely spiritual, but others are considered bad luck if worn on specific days. Thailand colors also have a connection to everyday life.

You will spot the unique use of color in various dimensions of Thai social life, from the national flag to the use of the color palette in everyday life. Moreover, color plays a significant role in Thai political debates, historical attributes, and royal importance. 

Color of Thailand’s national flag 

Thailand has changed the colors and design of its flag several times throughout its history as a nation. However, each time Thailand changed its flag, the country did it according to particular metaphorical references (1). 

For example, the current flag is a tricolor flag; the three-colored and five-striped flags are referred to as Thong Trairong. The colors represent the nation, the religion, and the country’s King (1). 

In the Thailand flag, the red color symbolizes blood; the violence and bloodshed by Thais used to maintain their nation’s independence from start to end. (1).

Moreover, the white color represents the purity of religion; Buddhism is regarded as the national and most popular religion in the country (1). 

Lastly, the blue color in the flag stands for the country’s monarchy. Blue also shows Thailand’s solidarity with its World War I allies: Britain, France, and the United States (1). 

Color in Thailand’s everyday life

Thailand follows a fascinating chart for wearing specific colors coordinates for each day in the country. Depending on the lucky color of the week, you can dress according to the chart. This way, you can spend your day in Thailand with good luck, as well as fit in with the community (1). 

These colors are not chosen by random choice but based on Thai traditions, primarily through knowledge of Hindu mythology. Sunday, for one, is red as the god of Sunday is Surya, who is red in color (1). 

Lucky colors of the week

Sunday: Red – According to history, there is the belief that Phra Isuan, who was a high God in Hinduism, captured six lions and grounded them with powder. Afterward, he wrapped a red cloth over them and sprinkled Nam Amarit, which is known as a holy powder, thus creating the Sun (2).

Monday: Cream or yellow- In Hinduism, Phra Isuan is believed to have captured fourteen angels, who he used for infinite powers to turn them into powder. Afterward, he wrapped them all with yellow cloth and made the Moon (2).

Tuesday: Pink- Pink is known as being the creation of Saturn. This was when Phra Isuan was believed to have caught eight buffaloes that he turned into powder. He created the new planet by wrapping them in soft, light red clothes (2).

Wednesday: Green for daytime and gray for nighttime- On this day, Phra Isuan rounded seventeen mystical elephants and wrapped them in a green leaf, thus creating Pluto (2).

Thursday: Orange or brown- Phra Isuan captured nineteen hermits and wrapped them in orange, creating Mars (2).

Friday: Light blue: As for the creation of Venus, Phra Isuan captured twenty-one bullocks and wrapped them in blue (2).

Saturday: Purple or black: On Saturday, Phra Isuan caught ten tigers and wrapped them in purple cloth, thus creating the planet Saturn (2). 

The tradition of color started in Thailand from Hinduism in India, which played a role in forming Buddhism as the central religion in the country. Since ancient times, Thai people have believed that there is significance between colors, planetary bodies, and astrology (3).

Assuming that there is a strong connection between planets ruled by certain Gods, the colors associated with days would influence our thoughts, actions, and destiny (3). 

For this reason, local people follow the chart and hope that they attain good luck and follow through with the right path.

Unlucky colors of the week

There is also a list of unlucky colors that you should not wear on particular days and the connection to their celestial body and God of the day (3). This can tell you what to not wear on a specific day as it would go against the particular God. 

Sunday: Blue, the Sun, Surya 

Monday: Red, the Moon, Chandra 

Tuesday: Yellow, Mars, Mangala

Wednesday: Orange-red, Mercury, Buddha

Thursday: Purple, Jupiter, Brihaspati 

Friday: Black, Venus, Shukra

Saturday: Green, Saturn, Shani 

Colors with royal connotation

Many colors are loved in the royal family. Despite the apparent love for yellow in honoring the King’s birth, we can see many beautiful colors used. The light color blue is typically worn on Thai Mother’s Day, known as the Queen’s color (1).

Moreover, the former King Bhumibol Adulyadej struggled with an illness which is why he was always seen leaving the hospital wearing a pink suit (1).

The former personal astrologer had informed the press that pink was the King’s lucky color, so he wore it as much as he possibly could before he passed. You would usually come across monarchy supporters wearing pink to support the King (1). 

Lastly, the color black is often worn in Thailand to respect someone’s passing. During the events following King Bhumibol’s death in October 2016, Thai people were seen wearing black for days and months, showing respect and mourning towards the King (1). 

Colors in Thai politics 

Colors are also used to emphasize political recognition and opinion in Thailand. Political activists use different colors to make particular statements. One such example is seen in the red and yellow shirt dilemma (1).

Anti-former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra and pro-monarchy supporters are frequently seen wearing yellow shirts, while pro-Thaksin, anti-monarchy, and democracy supporters wear red shirts (1). 

Although there can be detrimental consequences to wearing such colors during political protests, that does not mean that you can’t wear them at all. Thailand respects and values all cultures and beliefs, especially when it comes to tourists visiting the country (1). 

Moreover, yellow is also used for other occasions, such as celebrating Father’s Day or honoring the King every Monday of the month (1). From this, we can gather that Thai people have true appreciation for colors when it comes to honoring their respected royal families and their desires.

Conclusion 

We can see that color plays a huge role in shaping Thailand’s unique culture and tradition. Whether you visit as a tourist or an e-xpat, you will find Thailand a colorful dreamscape of knowledge.

The color palette is used as a sweet escape, but it instead defines what it means to be Thai. You can see the historical significance that color plays in the national flag. Moreover, colors are used as good and bad luck charms for locals.

For others, colors are used to define their political stance and opinion. For most, color is used to highlight the most essential aspects of Thailand’s status: religion and love for the royal family and monarchy.

References:

1. Hulme, Kyle. “Rainbow Nation: What 10 Colours Represent in Thai Culture.” Culture Trip, The Culture Trip, 11 May 2018, theculturetrip.com/asia/thailand/articles/rainbow-nation-what-10-colours-represent-in-thai-culture/. 

2. School, Duke Language. “Did You Know That in Thailand, There’s an Auspicous Color for Every… – Thai Language School Bangkok: Duke Language.” Thai Language School Bangkok | Duke Language, 25 Mar. 2014, dukelanguage.com/2014/01/color-meaning/.

3. “What Do Different Colors Mean in Thailand?” Color Meanings, 3 Oct. 2021, www.color-meanings.com/color-meanings-symbolism-thailand/. 

Thailand, famously known for freshwaters, beaches, and beautiful sceneries, is also considered one of the cleanest countries in Asia.

However, Thailand suffers from water safety, pollution, and health hazards. Water sanitation is essential for taking care of ourselves and enjoying our dream vacations. Yet this can be problematic as the water is a necessity.

So, the common question is, can you drink tap water in Thailand?

It is not recommended that you drink tap water in Thailand. Although water from the tap might seem clean, it actually comes through dirty water pipes and polluted waters. While most people brush their teeth using tap water, it is not the most sanitary option. It is better to resort to bottled water.

Let’s delve deeper into why drinking water from the tap may not be the best choice in Thailand. Additionally, there are many other ways the lack of clean water is causing other health concerns in the country.

Should you drink water Thailand’s tap water?

You should not drink water in Thailand but stick to boiled or clean water. You can find bottled water and purified ice from all stores. Tap water, according to WHO (World Health Organization) and CDC (Center for Disease Control), is safe to drink in Thailand (2). However, even if that means the water from the tap is just as safe as the one coming out from taps in London or Los Angeles, that is not precisely the case.

The water in Bangkok is unsafe as it is coming through old and broken types before entering your tap (2). For this reason, the water gets contaminated by the time it reaches your house or hotel. Keeping hydrated is extremely important. Regardless of poor tap service, hotels recommend bottled water. Additionally, people who live in Thailand are accommodated by water companies and purified monthly refills (2). 

The water supply for Bangkok is known as the cleanest when compared to other countries in Asia, after Tokyo and Hong Kong. In the long run, however, there have been drug contamination and pollution incidents in the city, making the risk of health more unfortunate (2). Drinking BPH or bath salts made of baking soda and other chemicals can be deadly.

If you are a traveler hoping to travel to Thailand or enjoy the nightlife, make sure that you bring along a clean water supply. It is advisable to purchase a clean water bottle of BPH packaged water (2). It would help if you always depended on your water source in the house or kept a bottle that you could fill. Many places around Bangkok offer free water (2). 

Currently, the water infrastructure is aging, and the supply or quality of water is deteriorating. With a strong smell of chlorine from tap water, it also gets rather cloudy and would need to be filtered. The three alternatives to drinking tap water are bottled water, boiled water, and filtered water (1).

Can you brush your teeth with the tap water?

While most people brush their teeth with tap water in Thailand, it is not always the most sanitary option. Water can easily be contaminated from dirty pipes; it could be just as unhealthy to brush your teeth with that water as drinking the water.

Most people say they brush their teeth with tap water and later rinse their mouth with bottled drinking water or mouthwash, such as Listerine. 

Bottled water in Thailand

The best choice for visitors living in Thailand is bottled water. Most people living in the country have prepaid plans with international and local companies that deliver water to the house. The most popular brands in the country include: (1)

1. Nescafe

2. Dasani

3. Evian

4. Fiji

5. Aquafina 

Where does the tap water in Thailand come from? 

The sources for drinking water for locals are surface water and groundwater sources. In Bangkok, the primary surface water is the Mae Klong River and Chao Phraya River (2). Moreover, the largest groundwater source is the Lower Central plain that surrounds Bangkok. To serve freshwater in the region, The Metropolitan Waterworks Authority started operations in 1967 (2). 

The process is straightforward. The raw water pumped through stations passes through the influent channel to the clarification section, making the water quality better, which activates the sedimentation efficiency. Moreover, chlorine is also added to stop the growth of algae (2). 

Bangkok water safety 

One of the biggest concerns in Bangkok is water safety. Commonly, people get sick when visiting Thailand for vacation, especially since there is such a large population (2).

Bangkok’s water sources are very polluted, making it unsafe for people to swim. For this reason, people wear protective masks when taking a dip into the pool or check the level of pollution in the reservoir where they are staying (2). 

Traveler’s diarrhea

Thailand is a high-risk destination when it comes to water illness. Alongside drinking water, you have to be careful about swimming in it. Traveler’s diarrhea is a common problem caused by several various organisms. It is the result of many factors, including the host and the treatment of water resources and different tourist destinations (3).

The food, age, alcohol, and stress of traveling to a goal can also result in a traveler’s illness. However, the main symptoms are described for lasting at least 3-4 days and can bring bloody stools, nausea, and vomiting (3).

When it comes to an illness such as diarrhea, it can be hard to avoid, especially when visiting a hot country like Thailand for the holidays. It is estimated that around 20-60% of travelers experience diarrhea on their vacation, usually in places with poor sanitation and where it is not advised to drink tap water or use it for cleaning teeth (3). In Thailand, you will find that most people drink bottled water with the fear that the water in cities like Bangkok is still unsanitary.

According to the Metropolitan Waterworks Authority in Bangkok, they follow the World Health Organization standards for providing safe drinking water in the city. However, public areas such as swimming pools can also be another source of contamination and the reason for travelers’ diarrhea (3). 

What issues can tap water in Thailand cause? 

1. Cholera: Cholera can be transmitted through food and water. In Thailand, travelers are at low risk of getting cholera. However, if you travel to risky areas, it is better to stay cautious of the water you drink and make sure you get a cholera vaccine (3). 

2. Schistosomiasis: This is another infection that has been reported in Thailand once before. However, WHO (World Health Organization) says that it is pretty risky for travelers to catch this disease. It mostly comes from a parasite called Larvae, which is released from freshwater snails in rivers and lakes (3). The larva penetrates the healthy skin and results in schistosomiasis. Moreover, you can be exposed to the disease from bathing, swimming in rivers and lakes, and washing clothes in streams. To avoid this, you should use insect repellent before exposure to water (3). 

Best stick to bottled water…

All in all, tap water is not the safest option in Thailand. It is better to go for other methods to stay hydrated and healthy. Several international and local water companies offer purified options to keep you fit on your trip.

Whatsmore, there are tips and ways to avoid getting sick from water contamination.

By looking at a long history of water reservoirs and the diseases that can come through them, it is safe to say that tap water is not the cleanest. It would help if you stuck to clean bottled water when drinking and brushing your teeth.

References: 

1. “Can You Drink the Water in Thailand?” Ramblingj, 30 Oct. 2021, ramblingj.com/can-you-drink-the-water-in-thailand/. 

2. Drew. “Is Bangkok Tap Water Safe to Drink?” Tap Safe, 28 Dec. 2021, www.tapsafe.org/bangkok-tap-water/.  

3. “Homepage.” AXA Health, www.axahealth.co.uk/health-information/wellbeing/water-safety-in-thailand/.

Thailand, most commonly known as a tropical resort destination, is famously unique for its name. Used in popular cuisine titles, traditional references, and religious practices, “Thainess” is embraced by people worldwide.

However, Thailand was not always the country’s name. The country was once recognized as ‘Siam‘ or ‘Syam‘ – a Sanskrit word adopted from its early rule. But when did Siam change its name to Thailand, and why?

Siam changed its name to Thailand on the formation of a new dictatorship led by Phibun in 1939. The aim was to modernize and emphasize a unique Thai identity. Although the name change took place seven years after Phibun’s new government, it was changed back to its original name once, in between his two-year gap of pure dominance.

The name Siam itself is more than just a simple historical name changed by a man in power. People are often curious about where the name ‘Thailand’ derived from and what pursued Phibun (in full, Luang Phibunsongkhram) as the primary leader to initiate a significant transformation during a struggling rule.

This has a lot to do with cultural change and Thailand’s history of challenging Western influence and playing a role in uniting religious and cultural norms within their society. 

When Did Siam Become Thailand?

Siam is not only an old name but is also seen as an exonym, a different name outside of its native context.

Uniquely, the term Siam is thought to have come from various theories. The first myth is that Siam is believed to be a Sanskrit word meaning Samaya, which translates to dark and brown. The name comes from the skin color of natives in Siam, who were darker in skin tone compared to the other parts of Southeast Asia.

Another theory is that the word Siam comes from the Pari language of the Indian subcontinent. Here, the term translates to Land of Gold.

The third theory is that Siam belongs to the Mon language of native Thai, translating the phrase to Land of Strangers. 

It is often questioned why Thailand became such a famous name, although Siam is what the country was known for to the entire globe for years to come. The Portuguese started to use the name Siam in a global sphere, a unique attribute that brought the country to stardom.

Praise was the name that Siamese people used to pay tribute to their culture and national language. Kings themselves referred to their reigns as Kings of Siam. In the Thai language, Siam was known as Meyong-tai (the land of the Thais) 

However, after a long reign as Siam, the early 20th century brought differences in governance. The land of Thailand, which once was claimed from Laos, Malaysia, and Cambodia, was surrendered to the French.

The angry Thai people were frustrated by the political sphere of the country. Moreover, this allowed for the formation of the 1927 radical political party known as “The People’s Party” to be formed.

Led by army officer Phibun, the group was founded in 1932 and led a coup against the King of Siam. Although the monarchy remained safe from harm, Phibun’s party took over the country under a dictatorship in 1938 and formally changed the name from Siam to Thailand in 1939.

The military government justified the name change to represent the country’s majority and move on from the past name that carried on for 800 years.

In 1944, Phibun was forced to resign, temporarily changing the country’s name to Siam. In 1948, the country was permanently named the Kingdom of Thailand. (Source)

Why Did It Change from Siam to Thailand?

The country changed its name from Siam to Thailand for several reasons. Phibun was a leader who enjoyed nationalism and culture.

However, he did not like that the world knew Thailand by a foreign name. To boost the morale of his people, he thought the name Thailand was more suitable for identity. Thai means “free” or “free people.”

In that case, Thailand is known as the land of the free people or the land of the free.

The importance of freedom in slogans is also something other western countries, such as the United States, also go by. Thailand is also known as the only Southeast Asian country not to have been ruled by a western power. (Source)

How Did the History of Siam Change?

Before, Siam was known as an independent monarchy with a mixture of both Eastern and Western ceremonies.

Siamese was seen as happy people with a couple of modern-day improvements that led to their success.

The country Siam was known for being shaped like the head of an elephant. You might have also heard of Siam in comparison to Western countries such as Italy.

Bangkok was referred to as the “Venice of the East.” Today, the capital is called the Jewel City of Asia. 

Laced with canals and waterways, Siamese people built homes on boats as they did on their lands. Floating markets were seen with beautiful front yards; these factors became the main passions of women in the country. The river life was full of vegetables and fruits and a favorite location for the women.

An essential element to note was the evolution of Siamese women. Short hair on ladies was common morale, dragged on by decades of women assaults and army raids. Women were now left to characterize themselves as solid and resilient. 

The history of Siam has still significantly impacted what it is now, in the name of Thailand. Religion remains a prominent factor; Buddhism is considered the most critical factor of the country’s identity. Thai people are proud of their faith in philosophy as the doctrine of religion. (Source)

Siam vs. Thailand: The Aftermath of the Name Change

At the time of the name change, Phibun launched a modernization campaign and promoted Thai culture, language, and education across the region.

The transformation pressured Thai-Chinese relations. The slogan “Thailand for the Thai” was considered anti-Chinese. Moreover, Phibun cut down immigration from China, set up Thai businesses, and limited Chinese studies in educational institutions.

While implementing a western calendar, a new flag, and a brand new national anthem, Phibun also demanded that Thai people wear western-style clothing.

After Thailand allied with Japan during the Second World War, Phibun was forced to resign. Although he returned to power in 1948, Phibun was ousted nine years later. (Source)

Do Thai People Prefer Siam or Thailand as Their Country Name?

Today, most people in the country refer to the country by its new name: Thailand.

However, Siam is known for its historic character. Siam is still a common name used for providing tourists with an exotic look of Thailand, a far-off land it once used to be.

The historical name can be seen used in various locations such as Siam Niramit. These are traditional dances and performances put on by Thai people to showcase their historical evolution. The use of Siam for branding is shared within the country. (Source)

You will also note that even the capital of Thailand, Bangkok, has a unique history and is called by different names. Known in the Thai language as Krung Thep Maha Nakhon, or Krungthep, Bangkok is seen as the City of Angels. (Source)

However, Bangkok has a more symbolic significance and a much longer Thai name. As seen in the famous song Asanee-Wasan Chotikul, a paragraph is used to describe what Bangkok means in Thai.

According to the Guinness World Records, this makes it the longest name for a place in the world. (Source)

Nevertheless, the country’s name still carries some controversy today. Even then, Thailand enjoyed support from rulers who noted cultural uniformity and the need for one national structure.

However, others still hope to restore the name ‘Siam’ with the sense that political and religious pluralism still deems the right to exist; people of different beliefs, backgrounds, and lifestyles should be able to coexist together in the same society. 

The Land of Smiles

Siam, now Thailand, has a long history of name changes. People from all over the world will remember the country by these two notable names in history. It is also known by foreigners as ‘The Land of Smiles.’

The names of Thailand and its cities all have Thai and English meanings prescribed to suit these values. There is symbolism and cultural importance behind every name being a voice for the people.

With significant influence from the west and Phibun’s need for rich nationality and a unique identity, Thailand’s evolution as a traditional and western power has led to its uniqueness and charm. The influence of western morals and Thai identity stays behind even after Phibun’s period of rule.

As a matter of fact, Phibun’s changes are still widely debated and discussed. He serves as one of the most influential people to have created change in Thailand.

As you probably know, the Thai language is pretty unique. Speaking any language will require at least a basic understanding of grammar and a sizable lexical memory — which takes time to build up. So, how long does it take to learn Thai for an English speaker like you?

The time it takes to speak Thai fluently depends on the learner’s purpose. If the goal is to hold a daily conversation, it can be attained in 3 months. But if the goal is to communicate in business settings or other intricate scenarios, achieving it can take over 1,000 hours of study.

So, your Thai study session length actually depends on you. But are there any ways you can shorten the study time a bit? Read on to find out some tricks to learn Thai faster.

How long does it take to learn Thai fluently?

As mentioned, it could take you around 1,100 hours to master spoken Thai. And that’s about 1 and a half years if you study for 2 hours a day. However, these numbers are only rough references for an average native English speaker. Some factors can make these numbers shrink. (Source)

Your 1st language

If you are a native of other languages, the hours might shorten significantly. Why? Because your mother tongue might be more similar to Thai than English. 

For example, Cantonese sentence structures and grammar are close to Thai ones. If your first language is Cantonese or something similar, you will learn Thai faster than others.

Your experience

Another factor is your language learning experience. If you have learned a second language before, you might have understood Thai linguistic logic faster. Why? Because you have already broken through the language barrier once.

Learning a language is not easy. You have to step out of your comfort zone and wrap your mind around something that doesn’t even make sense initially. But if you have done it before, you will start to see a pattern. And that pattern will help you acquire more languages in the future.

A bit of luck

Finally, your innate language learning aptitude. Some people are born with what many call a “language gift.” If you were one of those lucky people, you might breeze through the Thai language.

With these factors in your favor, you can master intermediate Thai as fast as three months. At this level, you can perform greetings & farewells, introductions, instruction, and daily conversation.

Advance Thai might take longer than that, but you might not need that in the first place. If your goal is to communicate with your Thai friends or enjoy Thai media, intermediate Thai would be more than enough.

6 Hacks to learn the Thai language fast

As discussed before, learning a language is no simple feat. But usually, people want to do it fast. So, are there any tips and tricks you should perform alongside your Thai study? The answer is yes.

Here are 6 tips to speed up your spoken Thai study:

1. Make a Thai friend

This one might be difficult if you live in the 1860s. But it’s the 21st century, and making international friends is just a few clicks away. Just go online and post on your social media regularly. You might attract a Thai person into your life.

Once you have Thai friends, you will be more eager to learn Thai to communicate with them. You can ask them to teach you some essential slang unmentioned in a book. Or you can even let them check your pronunciation.

The most essential advantage of having Thai friends is the exposure to original accents and real-life vocabulary. You will hear it all the time in a conversation circle. And your brain will pick them up fast.

2. Watch Thai films, series, and TV shows

If you have basic Thai knowledge, it is recommended that you give Thai movies a try. You might have added K-dramas to your watchlist already. So, adding one more show from another language wouldn’t hurt.

When you watch Thai media, turn on the subtitles. You might have to rely on it for a long time. But when that moment you notice an error in the subtitle comes, the satisfaction is beyond imaginable.

Learning Thai from entertainment media will make the process less stressful. Reading a book might bore you to death, but watching TV will keep you up for hours.

The recommended Thai movie is called “Bad Genius.” For the series, “Kahon Mahoratuk” is a great choice. And for TV shows, “The Wall Song” is arguably the best.

3. Listen to Thai music

With Thai music, you don’t have to go for old folk songs and nursery rhymes. (But if you like them, that’s fine too.) You can listen to any tune that sounds good and resonates with you.

Learning Thai from songs might be tricky, but it will be worth your time. You will learn many “poetic” languages, and word plays this way. Many Thai slang and memes originate from music. So, you will catch up with the newest language trend this way.

And besides, everybody loves music. Learning a language from something you enjoy will encourage you to learn more and more. You might end up becoming a big fan of a Thai indie band.

4. Read Thai novels

You might think that reading novels doesn’t help with speaking. However, Thai fiction will expand your vocabulary and help you learn sentence structure faster than you think.

Plus, you can learn many fancy words and quotes to impress your Thai friends from novels.

If you don’t know where to start, Win Lyovarin is arguably the best gateway. He has won many S.E.A. Write Awards, and his books cover various topics that you might find interesting.

5. Switch your computer/phone language

Sometimes, it takes force to make progress. And by switching your devices’ language, you’re forcing yourself to learn.

Keep in mind that this method is recommended for those who already know Thai to an extent. Why? Because it can backfire horribly. If you changed your device language to Thai and found that you didn’t understand a thing, it could be back-breaking to switch back.

So, make sure that you’re ready before you commit.

6. Go to Thailand

This is the equivalent of the “cold turkey” of language acquisition.

You can force yourself to speak Thai by living in a Thai-spoken environment. This way, your speaking skill will improve fast since your survival depends on it. And if you slack off, you will be punished immediately.

Of course, not everyone can afford to go to Thailand. So, please use this tip only if you have the budget. If you don’t, the five tips before will suffice.

Master Thai at your own pace

At the end of the day, learning Thai will take time. No matter how excellent you are with language study, you cannot acquire one instantly.

So, study at your own pace.

Rushing through everything might be nice, but you might miss some practical nuance of a word or grammar. Think of learning Thai as a journey and enjoy the view as you go.

Remember, you’re not learning just the language; you’re witnessing the beauty of Thai cultures and values too.

Are you interested in learning about different cultures and thinking about embarking on a spiritual journey to pose profound questions about your life? Well, visiting Thailand is an excellent place to start. Thailand is packed full of the most unique spiritual places. They have been around for centuries and are significant to many people.

Thailand is considered to have plenty of highly spiritual and sacred places based on the traditions, cultures, and beliefs of the people for centuries, especially Buddhism, supernaturalism, and superstitions or spiritualism. These places also consist of various phenomena and important events involving Thai’s lifeways and mindsets, as well as thousands of years of history and significance attached to them.

When visiting these places, you will understand Thai culture and its people deeply through the perspective of tangible things, whether it is man-made places such as buildings or architecture, and natural sites with faith and myth stories created by local people.

Not only this, but you also might feel energy, connectedness, knowledge, inner peace, and tranquility since the presence of faith elevates these spiritual places, making them more than mere places.

Here are some important spiritual and sacred places in Thailand, categorized into two types: culture and nature. They are ready for you to discover.

5 Spiritual Places in Thailand Where You Can Connect with Culture

The numerous spiritual and peaceful places offering solitude to most travelers primarily relate to Buddhism. Buddhist temples and religious sites amount to approximately more than 40,000 in Thailand (1).

In Bangkok, the 3 most famous places where Thais always visit to worship and pay homage to the Buddha images enshrined inside the temples (during different important religious days) are Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Pho, Wat Arun. They are packed full of tourists on a daily basis.

1. Wat Phra Kaew, Bangkok

Wat Phra Kaew “วัดพระแก้ว,” officially called Wat Phra Si Rattana Satsadaram or commonly known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, is the most famous landmark in Bangkok. It was built in 1782 during the reign of King Rama I to enshrine the Emerald Buddha, which was made in the 15th century. It still holds tremendous significance for Thailand and the Thais.

This image is adorned with three different sets of gold seasonal costumes; a diamond-encrusted gold robe in the summer season, a gold-plated monk’s robe with headdress in the rainy season, and a solid gold robe in the winter season (2). The King of Thailand changed the clothes three times per year in a ceremony at the ceremonial costume change of the seasons around March, August, and November. There are also many other Buddha images inside the temple and beautiful mural painting on the walls surrounding the Ubosot that depicts the Ramakien, based on the Indian Ramayana epic.

This is the most important and sacred Buddhist temple in Thailand. It is still used for official events. Several royal ceremonies and state functions are held within the temple every year. The royal ceremony takes place to bring good fortune throughout the upcoming season, making people gather together on such a special day. It also is believed that those who come to worship the Emerald Buddha will receive a blessing for life, intelligence enhancement, and endless wealth and prosperity (4, 5, 6).

2. Wat Pho, Bangkok

Wat Pho “วัดโพธิ์,” officially called Wat Phra Chetuphon, or commonly known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, is one of the most well-known landmarks for travelers. The construction of the temple was built in the Ayutthaya period. It was renovated in 1832 during the reign of King Rama III to be the center of education and art, making it Thailand’s first university (3).

It is on the list of six temples in Thailand classed as the highest grade of the first-class royal temples and has been registered by UNESCO’s Memory of the World (MOW) (7). Most importantly, it is the birthplace of the much valuable wisdom. This includes the historic inscriptions involving Buddhist precepts, literary works on traditional medicine and herbs, and mural painting on the walls showing traditional Yoga postures and traditional massage. It is now recognized as the famous learning center for meditation and traditional Thai massage, where people can learn techniques of various natural remedies for health.

Wat Pho holds the dual honors of having Thailand’s largest reclining Buddha image and the greatest number of Buddha images. These originated from the ruins of the former capitals Ayuthaya and Sukhothai in Thailand. The Wihan houses the highly impressive gold-plated Reclining Buddha, which is designed to illustrate the passing of the Buddha into nirvana, measuring 46 meters in length and 15 meters in height. The feet and the eyes are engraved with mother-of-pearl inlays of 108 auspicious signs of Buddha that combine India’s and China’s beliefs [6]. It also is believed that those who come to pay homage to the Reclining Buddha will receive fortune and abundance and live with happiness and peace.  

3. Wat Arun, Bangkok

Wat Arun “วัดอรุณ,” officially called Wat Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan, or commonly known as the Temple of the Dawn, is one of the most published images of Thailand. The temple was built in the Ayutthaya period known as ‘Wat Makok.’ It was first promoted as the royal temple by King Taksin in Thonburi Period under the name ‘Wat Chaeng’ before being renamed to ‘Wat Arun Ratchawararam’ during the Reign of King Rama IV (8, 9).

The temple consists of a magnificent elongated Khmer-style Phraprang (pagoda), 80-85 meters in height, decorated with colorful glazed Chinese porcelains, tiles, and seashells. It is surrounded by four smaller pagodas, Giant statues, the Ordination Hall, the Bell Tower, and many Buddha statues (10).

Most interestingly, Wat Arun’s pagodas were built and located to simulate the Buddhist Cosmology and Traiphum. The story of the three planes of existence describing the basic ethos of traditional Theravada religion (11). You will understand the Buddhist Cosmos through their architecture and buildings when visiting here.

Although the temple is one of the most popular tourism attractive places, it is also an important place of worship for Buddhists. It is believed that those who make merit at this temple and pay homage at the beginning of the year to the principal Buddha image will have a glorious life like the rising sun or the bright dawn. Each year, the ‘Royal Tod Kathin’ ceremony is still held at Wat Arun. By the end of the three-month lent period for Buddhist monks, the King of Thailand travels downriver in a Royal Barge Procession to present new robes to the monks to conserve religion and culture.

4. Wat Sri Chum, Sukhothai

Wat Sri Chum or Wat Ruesi Chum is a part of the Sukhothai Historical Park, one of the most impressive World Heritage Site registered by UNESCO. Sukhothai was the capital of the first Kingdom of Siam during 13 – 14^th century that consisted of numerous historical remains illustrating the beginnings of Thai architecture, known as the Sukhothai style, and Buddhism (12).

Wat Sri Chum was built in the late 14^th century and houses a huge 11.3 meters width and 15 meters height seated Buddha statue wearing a serene facial expression called “Phra Achana.” This symbolizes a person who is unshaken, stable, or a person worthy of respect and worship. The wall of the passageway features 700-year-old paintings, while on the ceiling are more than 50 engraved slate slabs illustrating the life of Buddha (Jataka) scenes (13).

This large Buddha image is well-known as the legend of the speaking Buddha image “พระพุทธรูปพูดได้.” During the second half of the 16^th century, there were many wars with the Burmese. The King wanted to boost the morale of his troops, so he ordered them to climb the narrow stairway that enshrined the Buddha image. Unnoticed by the other soldiers, he delivered a speech to his troops, making them believe that the voice was actually from the Buddha.

While another version of the legend says that the Burmese armies fled in fear upon approaching the Buddha image (14). Because of this, this temple is very famous for its sanctity, charm, and uniqueness, inviting tourists to visit and worship uninterruptedly.

5. Wat Mahathat, Ayutthaya

Wat Mahathat, commonly known as the Temple of the Great Relic, is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was a royal Temple of the Ayutthaya period located in the center of old Ayutthaya, where the Kings had hosted many important royal ceremonies.

It is one of Ayutthaya’s most important temples that enshrined Buddha relics and was the seat of the Supreme Patriarch of Buddhism. Thus, the center of Buddhism in the Ayutthaya Kingdom (15, 16). When the Ayutthaya Kingdom failed in 1767, Wat Mahathat was severely damaged by fire and was since abandoned. Nowadays, the large monastery features pagodas, octagonal pagodas, a royal hall, small temples, murals under a Bodhi tree, and the famous sand-stone Ayutthaya-style head of the Buddha image in a tree’s root (17).

Most interestingly, the temple’s main pagoda (Phra Prang) represents Mount Meru – the center of the universe surrounded by the ocean, which was built to symbolize the Hindu and Buddhist views of the universe (18). While the style head of the Buddha image in a tree’s root is also known for miraculous beauty, becoming the world-famous photographed object known as UNSEEN Thailand.

5 Spiritual Places in Thailand Where You Can Connect with Nature

Buddhist temples and other spiritual sites can be popular destinations for connecting with nature, especially with the breathtaking landscapes shrouded in mystery and tranquility. Here are 5 spiritual places in Thailand where you can connect with nature or just admire the environment’s natural beauty.

1. Wat Tham Suea, Krabi

Wat Tham Suea or Tiger Cave is a Buddhist temple surrounded by stunning rainforests, large trees hundreds of years old, and the 360 panoramas encompassing the Andaman Sea. The most interesting things are the ‘footprint of the Buddha,’ which lies on the terrace, and ‘tiger footprints’ on the floor of the lower temple. The temple is also the meditation center of a Buddhism form called Vipassana that can help to focus on more spiritual matters (19, 20).

2. Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat Phrachomklao Rachanusorn, Lampang

Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat Phrachomklao Rachanusorn is one of the newest attractions from the ‘Unseen Thailand’ campaign, which is becoming the most famed destination. It was built over ten years ago by a revered monk from Lampang and 46 dedicated workers. They spent two years carrying materials and equipment to build these temples in rugged terrain.

The temple is a spectacle unlike anywhere else in Thailand, with golden and white pagodas spread throughout the sharp peaks and upon precipices. One of the exciting parts is that the visitors will pass by a footprint that is believed to be the footprint of Buddha. They will be surrounded by stunning 360 panoramas of nature and the shimmering stupas in bright sunlight (22, 24).

3. Wat Pa Phu Kon, Udon Thani

Wat Pa Phu Kon was built between 2010-2013, with the funds used for construction from a Thai donor in honor of King Rama IX. It follows the footsteps of the late King in keeping forests fertile. It is an outstanding forest temple that is unlike most religious buildings.

Although this temple lacks history itself, the architecture is beautiful in appearance and set in idyllic surroundings with sculptures and artworks that represent some mystical, philosophical, or other meaning related to Buddhism. The temple also serves as a place of pilgrimage for practitioners of the Buddhist faith (21, 22).

4. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Ratchaworawihan, Chiang Mai

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Ratchaworawihan is one of northern Thailand’s most sacred temples and was built in 1383 to enshrine a piece of bone said to be from the shoulder of the historical Buddha. A legend states that the King entrusted a white elephant with a magical relic necessary for the temple to be built. And people followed the elephant up to the Doi Suthep Mountain, and the exact place where the elephant died marked the spot where the temple had to be built.

Visitors need to climb the staircase flanked by naga to reach the temple. The climb is intended to help devotees accrue Buddhist merit. It also has the Vipassana Meditation Center within the temple that conducts various religious outreach programs for visitors (22, 23).

5. Thamma Park (Ban Khao Na Nai), Surat Thani

Thamma Park (Ban Khai Na Nai) is a popular Buddhist temple with astonishing architecture – the 9 top arch gates called Bhuddhawadi and the sky pagoda containing Buddha’s relics. It is located on a limestone hilltop, almost 300 meters. The main highlight is the temple’s arch gate, where sunlight shines on the gates in the early morning, making a stunning, mysterious scenery between nature and man-made structures (22).

5 Etiquettes to Remember While Visiting the Spiritual Places in Thailand

These spiritual places are places of worship and holy ground for people. Thus, it is essential to remember that you are expected to act with due respect when visiting, such as:

1. Take off your shoes and hats before entering the buildings.

2. Avoid improper or unacceptable clothes and ensure that your clothes cover your shoulders and your knees.

3. Ask permission before taking pictures, and do not take too many photos even if you are allowed (only applies to active places of devotion and worship).

4. Do not touch or climb on top of the Buddha statues. Buddha statues are religious objects, and you are expected to treat them with the utmost respect, and not lean on, sit on, touch, or point their feet towards them.

5. Do not touch Buddhist monks, especially if you are female. Women are not allowed to touch monks, as well as to hand items to monks.

Conclusion

As you can see, with numerous spiritual places based on Buddhism, Thailand is a dream destination for travelers seeking a spiritual journey. Thailand is a country where you can intensively study the nature of reality, grow your understanding of people’s beliefs, and rejuvenate your mindset.

You are truly spoilt for choice. This article has covered some great places to start and use as inspiration for your own odyssey.

References:

1. Buddhism), สำนักงานพระพุทธศาสนาแห่งชาติ (National Office of. จำนวนวัดในประเทศ ปี 2555-ปัจจุบัน. สำนักงานพระพุทธศาสนาแห่งชาติ (National Office of Buddhism). [Online] August 03, 2021. https://www.onab.go.th/th/content/category/detail/id/805/iid/9905/.

2. GRAND PALACE & EMERALD BUDDHA. THE EMERALD BUDDHA SEASONAL COSTUME CHANGING. GRAND PALACE & EMERALD BUDDHA. [Online] [Cited: January 25, 2022.] https://www.emerald-buddha.com/costume-change-emerald-buddha/.

3. Thailand, Amazing. 9 Sacred Sites In Bangkok. Amazing Thailand. [Online] July 2017. https://www.amazingthailandebook.com/files/book_182/4c5704efd21aeded3771e643e832cbfa1559117901509.pdf/.

4. Faiththaistory. พระแก้วมรกต ความศักดิ์สิทธิ์ที่หลวงปู่มั่นได้บอกไว้. Faiththaistory. [Online] July 10, 2017. https://www.faiththaistory.com/emerald-buddha/.

5. User : GLS***83. 6 เรื่องน่ารู้ก่อนเที่ยววัดพระแก้วกรุงเทพฯ 2020. Trip.com. [Online] Ocotober 27, 2020. https://th.trip.com/blog/things-to-know-wat-phra-kaew-2020/.

6. Bangkok Biz News. 9 “วัด” 10 พระพุทธรูปสำคัญแห่งเกาะรัตนโกสินทร์ ทำบุญไหว้พระรับ “ปีใหม่”. Bangkok Biz News. [Online] January 1, 2022. https://www.bangkokbiznews.com/lifestyle/980364/.

7. Sullivan, Boris. UNESCO Registers Wat Pho As A “Memory of the World”. Thailand Business News. [Online] December 27, 2011. https://www.thailand-business-news.com/tourism/34124-unesco-registers-wat-pho-as-a-memory-of-the-world.html/.

8. หอสมุดแห่งชาติ กาญจนาภิเษก สงขลา. ประวัติวัดอรุณราชวราราม. หอสมุดแห่งชาติ กาญจนาภิเษก สงขลา. [Online] [Cited: January 25, 2022.] https://www.finearts.go.th/songkhlalibraryk/view/15356-ประวัติวัดอรุณราชวราราม/.

9. กองโบราณคดี (Office Of Archaeology). วัดอรุณราชวราราม ราชวรมหาวิหาร ปีงบประมาณ ๒๕๕๖ . กองโบราณคดี (Office Of Archaeology). [Online] [Cited: January 25, 2022.] https://www.finearts.go.th/archae/view/9365-วัดอรุณราชวราราม-ราชวรมหาวิหาร-ปีงบประมาณ-๒๕๕๖/.

10. Thailand, Amazing. Wat Arun (Temple Of Dawn). Tourism Authority Of Thailand. [Online] [Cited: January 25, 2022.] https://www.tourismthailand.org/Attraction/wat-arun-temple-of-dawn/.

11. นายรอบรู้ นักเดินทาง (Nairobroo). วัดอรุณฯ คุณเคยรู้สิ่งเหล่านี้หรือไม่. นายรอบรู้ นักเดินทาง (Nairobroo). [Online] [Cited: January 25, 2022.] https://www.nairobroo.com/travel/tips-travelers/wat-arun/.

12. UNESCO. Historic Town Of Sukhothai And Associated Historic Towns. UNESCO. [Online] [Cited: January 25, 2022.] https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/574/.

13. Sukhothai. อุทยานประวัติศาสตร์สุโขทัย. Sukhothai. [Online] [Cited: January 25, 2022.] http://www.sukhothai.go.th/tour/tour_01.htm/.

14. Museum Thailand. พระพุทธรูปพูดได้. Museum Thailand. [Online] [Cited: January 25, 2022.] https://www.museumthailand.com/th/2075/storytelling/พระพุทธรูปพูดได้/.

15. Renown Travel. Wat Mahathat “The temple of the Great Relic”. Renown Travel. [Online] [Cited: January 26, 2022.] https://www.renown-travel.com/historicalsites/ayutthaya/wat-mahathat.html/.

16. History Of Ayutthaya. WAT MAHA THAT (วัดมหาธาตุ). History Of Ayutthaya. [Online] January 2015. [Cited: January 25, 2022.] https://www.ayutthaya-history.com/Temples_Ruins_MahaThat.html/.

17. Amazing Thailand. Wat Phra Mahathat. Tourism Authority of Thailand. [Online] [Cited: January 25, 2022.] https://www.tourismthailand.org/Attraction/wat-phra-mahathat/.

18. หรีด ณ วัด. สืบประวัติวัดมหาธาตุ แห่งอยุธยา วัดที่ต้องไปสักครั้งในชีวิต. หรีด ณ วัด. [Online] February 3, 2021. https://www.wreathnawat.com/วัดมหาธาตุ-อยุธยา/.

19. Krabi Tourism. Wat Tham Sua ( Tiger Cave Temple). Krabi-Thailand. [Online] [Cited: January 25, 2022.] http://www.krabi-tourism.com/krabi/watthumsua.htm/.

20. Hotels.com. Krabi Tiger Cave. Hotels.com. [Online] [Cited: January 25, 2022.] http://www.krabi-hotels.com/seedo/tiger-cave.htm/.

21. Jonesy In Thailand. Wat Pa Phu Kon Temple. Jonesy In Thailand. [Online] [Cited: January 25, 2022.] https://jonesyinthailand.com/nong-khai/attractions/wat-pa-phu-kon-temple/.

22. ทรัสต์. รวม 10 วัดบนเขาเมืองไทย สวยจับใจ ต้องไปให้ได้สักครั้ง. tripgether. [Online] January 6, 2021. https://www.tripgether.com/อัปเดตเรื่องเที่ยว/รวม-10-วัดบนเขาเมืองไทย-ต้องไปให้ได้สักครั้ง/.

23. Lonely Planet. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Lonely Planet. [Online] [Cited: January 25, 2022.] https://www.lonelyplanet.com/thailand/chiang-mai-province/chiang-mai/attractions/wat-phra-that-doi-suthep/a/poi-sig/1243262/357655/.

24. HongKhao Village. Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat Phrachomklao Rachanusorn. HongKhao Village. [Online] [Cited: January 25, 2022.] https://www.hongkhaovillage.com/Attractions/wat-chaloem-phra-kiat-phrachomklao-rachanusorn.html/.

Every country has its own unique culture and beliefs that make them different from others. Some ideas are based on tradition, while others are based on religion and superstitions.

As Thailand is an Asian country with the majority of local people being Buddhists, many Thai people are very superstitious and have a lot of unique beliefs.

Thailand is home to various myths that are based on a variety of different phenomena and religious events. From wanting to know about pregnancy scares, color codes, mysterious festivals, or the perfect day to cut your hair, there are myths about some of the most peculiar, random, and humorous topics. 

Curious to know more? Keep on reading to learn about Thai superstitions and unique beliefs, such as how to avoid an old husband or how to steer clear of bad luck.

What are the beliefs of Thailand?

1. Don’t play hide and seek after sunset

This is a widespread story that older people tell to young children. The report entails the hideous horrors of children playing hide and seeks after sunset.

It is said that evil spirits will join the game and use their power to shield the hiding children from human sight so that the seeker won’t be able to find them no matter how much they scream or call for help. These evil spirits will take those lost children to the afterlife.

Almost every kid in Thailand knows about this belief, and there are many ghost stories based on its context.

In reality, the origin of this belief is that the parents are concerned about their child’s safety, so they use this story to prevent their children from playing during the night. Judging by how every kid knows this belief, this parent rule seems to be working. (Source)

2. How to avoid getting an old husband

Single ladies, this one is for you!

Thai people believe that if you sing while cooking or eating, you will marry an old husband. This is a common myth that teenage girls have probably heard while helping their mothers and grandmothers in the kitchen.

In the past, Thai ladies had the habit of singing while working in the kitchen, which resulted in them accidentally hurting themselves or burning the dishes. (Source)

So, to prevent such accidents, the elders share this belief with their younger generations. Additionally, it is not a good dining etiquette to be noisy and loud while eating, from where the idea is derived.

3. “Ugly” babies

In any other country, calling a baby ‘cute’ would bring an instant smile to their parents. However, this is not the case in Thailand.

Thai people believe that calling a baby ‘cute’ or ‘adorable’ would attract the attention of ghosts, like the Krause ghost, which is said to be a disembodied head and intestines of a woman floating around to cause harm to little children.

Instead, people will refer to the newborn babies as “ugly” to fool the ghosts by making them lose interest in the babies. Therefore, don’t call babies “cute,” or you will make Thai parents very angry.

Also, don’t feel bad if you are a parent and Thai people call your baby “ugly” because they don’t really mean it and are just protecting them from evil beings.

4. Color codes

The color ‘black’ is often associated with funerals and mourning, so people avoid wearing black-colored clothes when visiting patients. Wearing all black should be avoided when attending joyful ceremonies, such as weddings or birthday parties.

Also, in Thailand, each day of the week has its own particular color that is believed to bring good luck if worn accordingly. This is because many local people, especially the older generations, believe that color influences their feelings and perceptions, and wearing the particular color assigned on the day they were born would bring good luck to them.

Curious to know which color is assigned to your birthday? Below is the list of colors and the days of the week associated with them so that you can find your color, too:

• Sunday: Red

• Monday: Yellow

• Tuesday: Pink

• Wednesday: Green

• Thursday: Orange

• Friday: Blue

• Saturday: Purple

5. Don’t look between your legs

And no, this is not about something sexual. In Thailand, it is believed that if a person bends down and looks between their legs, that person may see a ghost.

This is a widespread and widely known belief among Thai people and has even been used as a plotline in the famous Thai ghost movie ‘Pee Mak.’ In the film, the main character ‘Pee Mak’, finds out the true identity of his wife ‘Nak’ by bending down and looking between his legs. 

6. Bad lizards, good lizards

Huge monitor lizards are everywhere in Thailand, even in urban areas like Bangkok. They mostly live near the water, like swamps, lakes, and rivers, but they are also seen lazing around on tree branches or even invading 7-Eleven stores.

And interestingly, different people have different beliefs when it comes to these monitor lizards. Some Thai people think that these monitor lizards bring bad luck as these lizards lurk around the cemeteries and that spirits may follow them to where people live.

Another reason why some people believe that lizards carry bad luck is because they steal chickens and eggs and can even be a threat to small animals. Therefore, people try to chase them away if they find monitor lizards near their places.

However, some people consider these gigantic lizards to symbolize wealth and fortune. These people believe that if a monitor lizard is found near your home, it means they are bringing good luck to you and your family. Some might even feed or throw coins at them to increase their good luck. (Source)

Good or bad, no matter what kind of luck these giant lizards may bring, one thing for sure is that they can be pretty intimidating when coming across within a close distance. 

7. No haircutting on Wednesdays

This is a prevalent belief among Thai people that one should not get their haircut on Wednesday, and doing so would result in bad luck for that person.

This belief is such a widely known and accepted tradition among local people that many local hair salons and barbers close their shops on Wednesday as rarely any guest would come on that day.

The origin of this belief comes from the fact that in the past, the King and the royal family got their haircuts on Wednesday. Therefore, the commoners were told that they should not get their haircuts on the same day because it would be seen as rather disrespectful towards the royal family.

Another possible reason for haircuts being forbidden on Wednesdays is that in ancient Thai culture, Wednesday was considered the day of agriculture or a day of growing things. Thus, cutting stuff on such a day would bring bad luck to the people. (Source)

However, today, this belief has been questioned and not followed by the younger generations.

8. Bird poops and lizard noises

Bird poop and lizard noises are believed to be a sign of bad luck. If a bird poops on you at the start of a day, that means the rest of your day will be full of struggles and bad luck.

Also, if you hear a house lizard or a gecko making noises behind you when you are about to leave the house, consider staying in for the day because this symbolizes a warning sign that something bad is coming your way.

So, if you happen to encounter any of these signs, be extra careful on that day to avoid any bad luck.

9. Facial cues

Like in many other Asian countries, ‘physiognomy’ is a common belief among Thai people. If a person has a mole on the lower lips, they are lousy and cannot be trusted with secrets.

Birthmarks signify that the person is an old soul and has had a previous life, while those born without marks have new souls.

And all thanks to the fictional character, ‘Khun Chang,’ from one of the most famous works in Thai literature called ‘Khun Chang Khun Phaeng,’ bald people are considered flirty and sneaky as a stereotype.

10. Pregnancy rules

Aside from the usual pregnancy rules made by OBGYN doctors, there are also some traditional rules that pregnant women should follow.

The first belief is that pregnant women should not attend funerals as the spirit of the dead and other evil beings from the cemeteries will disturb the baby in the womb.

Also, pregnant women should not watch another pregnant woman giving birth as this will cause difficult birth for the one watching.

Other pregnancy beliefs also include pregnant women not sitting at the stairways as that might cause obstructed birth, and also not burying anything in the soil during the pregnancy period as it is believed to cause difficult childbirth. (Source)

Myths behind Thai festivals

Other than these superstitions, most of the festivals in Thailand are also based on religious beliefs.

As a country full of festivals all year round, here are two of the most significant festivals in Thailand and the beliefs behind each celebration.

Songkran festival

The country’s most famous festival, Songkran, or the Thai New Year festival, is usually celebrated around the second week of April. The beliefs and traditions behind this festival are that water symbolizes ‘purity’ – pouring fragrant water over Buddha images will bring blessings for the new year.

Likewise, by pouring water over one another, the sins from the previous year will be “washed away” with the water, and more blessings will come in the new year.

Most of the Buddhist temples around the country will hold special events and activities during the festival period. It is a tradition among the local Buddhist people to visit the temples, pour water over Buddha images, and build sand pagodas to increase their good karma for the new year. (Source)

Loy Krathong Festival:

Loy Krathong is another famous festival in Thailand and is mainly known as the ‘Lights Festival’ as candles and lanterns are used to celebrate this festival. The Loy Krathong festival is celebrated to respect the Goddess of Water and the Buddha. This annual festival is usually celebrated on the 12th full moon day of the Thai Lunar Calendar.

During the evening of the festival day, local people gather around the lakes, rivers, and canals to release lotus-shaped rafts and candles into the water as a way of showing their gratitude towards the Goddess of Water. People ask for forgiveness if they have used too much water or contaminated it during the year.

Also, it is a belief among the Thai Buddhists that by releasing the floating candles and rafts into the water, the negativity from the previous year will also be gone into the flowing water, leaving them with good luck for the next year.

Thai superstitions, Thai beliefs

As one may have noticed, many of these superstitions and beliefs are based on Buddhism, ghosts, and ancient traditions.

And as weird or outdated as they might sound in today’s age with advanced technology and science, many Thai people still practice these beliefs, and they even affect consumers and the business decisions of local people. (Source)

Therefore, it is helpful to know these beliefs and understand the origins of each, whether you are a tourist looking to avoid any bad luck during your stay or an expat who is doing business with the local people.

There are two types of Buddhism – Theravada and Mahayana. In Thailand, the prominent form of Buddhism practiced is Theravada Buddhism. Many holidays and festivals in Thailand are based on Buddhism, such as Buddha Day and the famous Loy Krathong festival.

According to estimates, over 90% of the Thai population identifies as Buddhists, and most of them take their religious beliefs seriously. So, to prevent misunderstandings with the locals, it’s helpful to understand the basic code of ethics revered by Buddhists.

What is forbidden in Buddhism?

In Buddhism, the most well-known rules of forbidden acts are known as the five precepts or five rules of training. (Source)

These are the rules guided by the Buddha to help people behave morally and ethically in their lives. It is believed that following these precepts will allow people to achieve enlightenment and reach Nirvana.

Many Buddhists in Thailand follow the forbidden acts more seriously during the Vassa or Buddhist Lent, a period of the Three-Lunar-Month that usually starts around August and ends in October.

The 5 precepts

The ‘five precepts’ advise against committing the following five acts:

1. Refrain from taking life (not killing)

This includes all lives, including the animals. And this rule might cause some confusion as to whether Buddhism forbids eating meat or that all Buddhists need to be vegetarian. This is actually not the case; Buddhists do not necessarily need to be vegetarians – even monks and nuns.

Buddhism forbids making others suffer from malicious intent. Monks and nuns can eat meat as long as they are pre-cooked by others.

For other Buddhists, eating meat is not explicitly forbidden by the religion, although many Buddhists in Thailand, and other Buddhist countries in South East Asia, such as Myanmar, avoid eating meat during the Buddhist Lent period, as doing so is believed to bring good karma.

Many restaurants and 7-Eleven shops in Thailand sell vegetarian meals during these periods as special seasonal meals.

2. Refrain from taking what is not given (not stealing)

Aside from obvious crimes of theft, this also means refraining from borrowing something and also not returning it to the owner. And this rule applies to even family members. Taking something without informing the owner is considered ‘sinning.’

Local people also believe that borrowing money and not giving it back to the lender will make them indebted to them even in the next life. It is also believed that stealing something from the temples or pagodas will bring the worst karma to life and must be avoided at any cost.

3. Refrain from committing sexual misconduct and adultery

The five precepts forbid people from committing adultery or sexual misconduct. It has been stated that lusting over someone already married or in an established relationship is forbidden by religion.

That’s why, in Thailand, having affairs is strongly condemned by society, and monogamy has been adopted into Thai law since 1935, making polygamy marriages unofficial.

However, interestingly, polygamy still exists in Thailand and is also accepted as long as the involved parties agree. Feeling attracted to monks or nuns is considered a big sin, and there were tales from ancient times about people who had to go to hell for lusting over monks or nuns, even for a few seconds.

This rule also applies to situations where one lusts over someone they should not, even when they do so just in their mind and not verbally or physically.

4. Refrain from false speech (not lying)

Yes, telling lies is prohibited, although there are arguably so many gray areas. ‘White lies’ are considered acceptable as those are told without any ill intentions.

Another belief among Buddhist people is that cursing or saying profanities will lessen the good karma as saying those ‘dirty words’ will make one’s guardian angel stay away from the person.

But in reality, it is not easy to avoid telling lies or cursing at all, so most people will try to keep this precept on special occasions such as Buddhist Day or during religious festival periods.

So, try not to curse (or at least out loud) when visiting the temples to avoid being stared at by the locals.

5. Refrain from taking intoxicants that lead to heedlessness

Buddhism explicitly forbids monks and nuns from drinking alcohol and taking intoxicants such as drugs. It is believed that doing so will cloud the mind and cause misjudgments to be made.

For ordinary people who are not monks or nuns, drinking alcohol is not explicitly forbidden by the religion, but it is not encouraged either.

In fact, 7-Eleven shops in Thailand do not sell alcohol on special days related to religion, such as the full moon day of Buddhist Lent, as it is illegal to buy and sell alcohol during Asahna Bucha and Khao Phansa days in Thailand.

And although not explicitly forbidden by the religion, some Buddhists do not drink alcohol for their religious beliefs. Therefore, it’s better to ask before offering drinks to Thai people during social events.

Other rules and traditions

Followed by Buddhists

There are other rules and traditions followed by Buddhists, apart from the five precepts. A few of them are as follows:

Women are not allowed in certain areas of temples

This rule has caused a lot of controversies among non-Buddhists and non-Asians and has seemed like discrimination against women. However, this rule was made because of the superstitions that have existed since long ago.

Many local people believe in the north and northeast of Thailand that their ancestors have kept the divinities and relics buried under the ground of these historic places, such as temples and holy pagodas.

And such areas are claimed as ‘Holy areas’ or ‘Holy grounds,’ and only authorized persons or monks, who are males, are allowed to be there. Hence, restrictions are made only for women in those historical places, such as the relic in Wat Phra That Hariphunchai in Lamphoon and Wat Prathat Lampang Luang in Lampang. (Source)

In Thailand, women are also not allowed to touch monks directly as such actions might cause distractions to the monks in their journey to reach enlightenment. Monks usually receive or give things to women by using a cloth or by their attendants.

So if you are a woman, you need to be careful about this when visiting the temples or encountering the monks in Thailand, even when you are not a Buddhist.

Looming above Buddha statue or image

Yes, even standing above (or worse, stepping over) a photo or painting of Buddha is considered very offensive to the Buddhists. That’s why using Buddha statues or images as decoration is highly condemned in Thailand.

If you visit Ayutthaya, you will see signs that say ‘Do not climb over’ or ‘Do not cross’ at certain places, as there are Buddha statues in the lower areas of those places.

Pointing at Buddha Image with your feet or lying down with your feet facing forward to the Buddha statue and image is also considered very offensive and disrespectful. It is believed that the feet are the dirtiest parts of the human body.

Followed by monks and nuns

Some rules are specifically made for monks and nuns as they are to lead lives where there is no lust or wants for physical things and pleasures. Although ordinary people do not necessarily need to follow these rules, here are a few of them if you are curious to find out.

Monks and nuns need to shave their hair

According to Buddha’s rule, a monk or nun is not allowed to grow his or her hair beyond a certain length or for a certain time period.

This is because becoming a Buddhist monk or nun means accepting an ascetic lifestyle. Shaving their heads symbolizes giving up on worldly attachments to cut off self-interest and attachment to personal appearance. (Source)

And also, shaving their hair gives the monks and nuns more time to focus on reaching enlightenment and Nirvana, which are the ultimate goals of any Buddhist in life.

Therefore, Buddhist monks and nuns will usually shave their heads at least once a fortnight or month, and sometimes more frequently than that, depending on the time it takes for one to grow out their hair.

They also need to use a razor of their own, which is one of the requisites for every monk and nun, and they cannot also use other tools such as scissors.

Dyeing or plucking out the grey hair is also not allowed as well, and as most Buddhist monks do not usually check their appearance in mirrors, they are more likely not to notice the grey hair as well.

Brushing or combing the hair or applying any treatment to the hair, except for medical purposes, is also forbidden. This means that they still have attachments to their personal appearances, which is considered a form of lust. (Source)

In Thailand, Buddhist monks also need to shave their eyebrows, although it is not required in other Buddhist countries like Myanmar.

Monks and nuns do not eat solid food after 12 noon

This is often known as Buddhist Fasting. It is not allowed to eat after midday because monks and nuns reduce as many distractions and physical attachments as possible to focus on meditations and study Buddha’s Dhamma.

So, for them, food is more of just a source of energy to survive and not something to be enjoyed, and they only consume just enough to get energy for their daily activities and hence, only eat breakfast and lunch before midday.

Also, monks and nuns need to rely on other people for cooking as they cannot buy or cook raw meat, and as a way to reduce the burden on people, this practice is applied.

The last possible reason is that monks and nuns lived in the forests or away from civilians in the past and needed to travel every day, so if they were to travel at night, it might endanger them. (Source)

Monks are not allowed to handle money directly

According to Vinaya rules, a monk cannot touch or handle the money directly. Therefore, most of the monks need to have an attendant-of-sort called Kappiya who will oversee and manage the money for the monks on their behalf. It may seem inconvenient to do such a thing, especially in modern times.

However, this rule was made to protect and remind the monk to be mindful of dangerous actions as that can lead his monkhood, also known as Bhikkhu life, to be compromised. (Source)

However, nowadays, this rule applies on a case-by-case basis as things have advanced and monks need to adapt to the modern world.

Respect goes a long way

These rules may sound complicated and complex to follow for non-Buddhists, especially Westerners, but in Buddhism, these are more like guidelines to live a moral and ethical life.

It cannot be said that all Buddhists follow these rules at all times, although some actually do so. But most Buddhists are very mindful of these forbidden acts.

Therefore, by knowing these forbidden acts, you can avoid any unnecessary misunderstanding with the local people. It is always good to be respectful of any religion when you are in their country.

Looking for a gym to train in Muay Thai but unsure of which one to pick? How about the ones in Thailand? People from hundreds of nations go there to hone their skills and strengthen their bodies annually.

But is it that important to learn Muay Thai in its original country?

The main reasons why you should train Muay Thai in Thailand are the stories. The practitioners get to learn about the lineage of their techniques. This might sound minor. But if the learners know its original purpose and evolution, they might find a new way to adapt and improve the art too.

Needless to say, the benefits don’t end there. There are many more to discover. Read on and find 6 reasons to fly to Thailand and train in Muay Thai.

Why do people go to Thailand to train in Muay Thai?

Before getting to the point, let’s prepare you with foundational knowledge about Muay Thai.

• What’s Muay Thai Origin?

• What’s Wai Kru Muay Thai?

• Muay Thai training for beginners.

• Health risks and dangers in Muay Thai.

Ready? Then let’s start with the obvious one.

1. Train with the best

As you know, Muay Thai is the national martial art of Thailand. So, it’s no surprise that the country would have the highest quality training. After all, Muay Thai was born in Thailand, evolved in Thailand, and still lives in the locals’ daily life.

Tons of big names and legends are still fighting in the countries. Like Bua Khao, Phetmorakot, and Tawanchai. Others even open their own gyms to pass down their fighting style.

And speaking of gyms, there are more than thousands of options across the country. Try them all out and choose the best one. But if you’re unsure where to start, here are some recommendations.

2. Discover the tradition

Muay Thai isn’t all about practice. It’s about the heart too.

Training in Thailand allows you to discover the beauty and spirituality of the art. What you find might differ from gym to gym. But what’s common among them is the importance of a teacher.

You probably won’t find any gym outside of Thailand that teaches you how to “Wai Kru.” Don’t know what it is? It’s a dance-like ritual Muay Thai fighters perform before they fight. Each move signifies their gratitude for the trainers, teachers, and coaches.

These dance moves have a strong tie with Thai culture. So, learning them with the locals is the best way to do it.

And besides, you will get to learn more about traditional fighting etiquette. Like how to show respect to your opponent, when to greet the opponent’s coaches, and what is considered rude for Muay Thai fighters.

They might sound insignificant for a real fight. But in the ring, these little details can affect the mood and momentum of each round. So, you better learn it properly.

Of course, you can look these details up on the internet. But that won’t stick in your mind. Training in Thailand will hardwire these little things in your brain so you can auto-pilot through everything.

3. Get in the right mood

Sometimes, Muay Thai training can be harsh. You might lose your fire and feel like quitting. Training in Thailand, however, might make it easier for you to keep going.

Remember that you train in the land of Muay Thai. This means you might get a chance to bump into your idol. It’s not that rare to meet sports celebrities in a supermarket here.

But if luck isn’t your strong suit, force your way through. Book a ticket to one of the many matches in the country and get inspired by the experience. There’s no way your passion wouldn’t rekindle after that.

Now, let’s talk about the sense of belonging a bit.

Being a foreigner in a local Muay Thai camp will make you feel misplaced initially. You will feel the pressure to work harder so everyone accepts you. Let that pressure drive you. It will be super rewarding when your Thai gym mates shake your hand.

And don’t forget to hang out with them from time to time. Practice is important and all, but you need a break as well. Who knows? You might learn some new tricks as you fool around with them. And speaking of which…

4. Learn the local tricks

In a fight, tactics can be as game-changing as strategies. And there’s no better place to learn them than Thailand.

You will get plenty of chances to interact with veteran local fighters. And who knows? They might tell you some little tricks under their gloves. Like when to pull your pants to break the opponent’s momentum. Or how to use the rope/cage to your advantage.

Thai athletes are somewhat infamous for these little tricks. It’s not illegal, per se, but it might disrupt your opponent’s rhythm. So, you might want to learn some tricks for emergencies too.

Besides, learning these tricks will enhance your understanding of the rules. You must know how much is too far and how much is okay. So, this is a guaranteed way to master them all in one go.

5. Find more chances to fight

If you feel like putting your training to the test, join one of the many fighting rings in Thailand.

Thai people love watching Muay Thai, so it’s no surprise promoters keep various tournaments up all year. Some might be broadcast on TV. Some might be community-only. Choose the ones you prefer and test your skills to your heart’s content.

Needless to say, these are also great chances to improve yourself. Feel free to steal a technique or two from your opponent. They might fit in your repertoire better than you thought.

Of course, more fights can also mean more money. If you win, you’ll get cash. If you lose, you’ll get experience. So, you can’t go wrong here.

And if your form is good enough, you might win a chance to start a new career. Famous coaches and fighters attend these events all the time. So, if your skill catches their eyes, they might come to you themselves.

6. Earn the “bragging rights”

This might sound insignificant, but it could give you an edge in the mind game.

Let’s say you decide to return to fight in your homeland. If your opponents know that you’ve trained in Thailand, they might be cautious of your “uniqueness.” Some might even get intimidated from the get-go.

Use that to your advantage. It might be minuscule, but everything counts in an actual match. Remember, fear of the unknown is human’s oldest fear (said H.P. Lovecraft).

If your opponents don’t know how you trained, they will unconsciously fear you.

Muay Thai training in Thailand, it’s just better!

Not to say you should jump on the bandwagon. But if the crowd is going to Thailand to train Muay Thai, there must be a great deal on it. And what’s mentioned here is just scratching the surface.

So if you’re starting your Muay Thai training, give going to Thailand a chance. It might cost you a big buck. But everything will be worth it.

When in “Bangkok,” do as the “Thais” do. That might be a twisted version of the old saying, but you should know there are reasons for such an idiom. You always want to blend in a foreign land. So at least, you should try to speak the local lingo.

But why learn Thai as an expat?

There are many reasons why you should learn Thai while living in Thailand. The most obvious is to form stronger connections with the locals, whether it’s a personal relationship or a group scenario. However, there are more benefits to learning Thai as an expat. So, learn it at any chance you get.

Even though the Thai language can be challenging to learn, it will still be worth your effort. Read on to discover the 12 edges to learning Thai as an expat in Thailand.

Why should you learn Thai when living in Thailand?

1. To form a meaningful connection with the Locals

As mentioned, this reason is the most obvious. But for those who’re still unsure why here’s a quick recap.

The language barrier is real, so you should never underestimate it. Speaking Thai lets you connect deeper with your local neighbors, friends, and colleagues. 

Once the barrier is gone, you will get to know people and learn more about their problems and other things they couldn’t communicate with otherwise. As a result, an acquaintance might become a friend. And your friend might become closer.

2. To be a part of the “Thai community”

While Thai people are very open towards foreigners, you can still feel the distance if you can’t speak their language.

So, the Thai language is the most effective tool to bridge you with them.

Knowing Thai allows you to join a group of Thai friends as “another human,” not as “that tourist.” There’s a huge difference there. Why? Because being a “tourist” is practically the same as being an “outsider.” And you can’t join a group that way.

3. To feel less “ashamed” when you speak

When your time in Thailand exceeds 2 or 3 years, it begins to get “embarrassing” if you can’t speak Thai.

Imagine this. You visited the same Seven-Eleven and met the same clerk every evening. This clerk remembered you and would make a face that said, “Oh, boy. Here we go again. Let me switch to English mode,” every time. Seeing that face often could spike your “shame” and make you feel like an “alien.”

And sometimes, it’s not even because of the locals. You will be self-conscious about it yourself.

4. To gain “credibility” among other expats

If you are an expat in Thailand, you will inevitably spend time with other expats.

In this circle, there will always be “that person” who knows Thai. If that person were you, you would be in for a treat.

Other people in the circle will come to you for help. This will make you feel like a hero among your fellow expats. You can feel the respect other foreigners give you.

5. To surprise the Locals

If you looked like a Westerner and walked like one, Thai people wouldn’t expect you to speak a word in Thai. But if you can pull a fluent “Sawasdee Krab/Ka” out, you will immediately see an exclamation mark on the locals’ faces.

Establish that “I can speak Thai,” and the mood of the conversation will change. Relief, surprise, humility, and welcome — all sorts of emotions will rush your interlocutor’s face. And the tension will disappear.

6. To date a Thai person

As mentioned, the language barrier is real. And you can feel its presence intensifying in a romantic setting.

Even though many Thais can speak English, foreign words and sentences don’t reach their heart as well as their parents’ language. So, they might miss the sweet nuances from your pick-up lines.

Knowing Thai allows you to understand the depth of Thai courting culture. As a result, you will have an easier time stepping into the local’s heart or opening your own.

7. To deal with Thai authorities with ease

Interacting with Thai authorities like police or immigration can be a pain — especially when you don’t know what they are talking about.

Even though many Thai authorities understand English, their speaking pattern is still broken. Sometimes, they might mix a Thai word or two into their sentences.

But if you can at least understand or read Thai, things can proceed smother. You can pull an “Oh. I know what that means” and streamline everything out — impressing the officers and getting them from suspecting you to trying to help you out.

And if you hold an education Visa, these authorities might try to test you too. They will want to know if you have skipped the Thai language class or not. So, you better be prepared.

8. To understand local news

Knowing what’s happening around you is crucial to survival — especially in a foreign land. You don’t want to get to a bar in the evening and learn that the local government started banning alcohol this morning to prevent the spread of COVID.

So, if you understand Thai, you can get the most updated news from various channels faster. These include social media like Facebook and Twitter. You don’t have to wait for someone to bring you up to date at the bar or restaurant anymore.

9. To be able to chat on “Line”

If you have been to Thailand, you would know that Thai people are crazy about a texting application called “Line.” And, of course, they prefer chatting on Line over phone calls.

So, if you know how to read and type in Thai, your life will automatically be more “Thai”. You can communicate with your Thai friend more often, and the conversation topic will be more friendly.

Additionally, the Thai “social media” language or “chat language” is super convenient. The greatest example is the “55555.” Ever wondered what 555 means in Thailand?

In Thai, “5” is pronounced “ha.” So if you see a bunch of “5” in Thai chat, it means people are laughing. 55555.

10. To understand Thai jokes

Thai people are usually humorous. They want you to be able to laugh with them.

Understanding Thai will expand your view of puns, word plays, and linguistic tricks. You will be able to laugh at more things than you imagined. And who knows? You might actually like “dad jokes” when they are in another language.

11. To know when people talk behind your back

Not only are cats curiosity-driven, but so do humans. And, of course, you want to know how people bad-mouth you.

Knowing Thai allows you to catch any locals who gossip about you. It might be positive, sometimes. But as you know, what matters are the negative ones.

If you did catch a gossiper, what to do next is up to you. But you will at least be more aware of how Thai people really see you as a person.

12. To brag about it

Sometimes, all we want in life is some bragging rights. And if you mastered Thai, you have certaintly earned that.

The Thai language is not easy to speak or write. And if you know how to perform those feats, you deserve a certain degree of respect. So, be proud.

Can you live in Thailand speaking English?

You… could. Some Thais are eager to communicate with you in English. But they won’t come up that often. It’s almost impossible to catch a local like that on the street.

In addition, you might have to rely on a personal interpreter or an auto-translating machine daily. And that gets annoying fast.

So, if you have a chance, please learn Thai. Even though Thai isn’t the most effortless language to learn — thanks to its complex grammar and “tonal” nature — studying Thai can give you a rewarding experience. And who knows? You might find a new hobby after your study.

How is that possible? Well. Aside from the 12 reasons above, you will understand Thailand’s unique culture more deeply. 

If you can read Thai, you can immerse yourself in Thai literature. Local books and poems are rich with strange tales of fantastical creatures and mysterious places you cannot find anywhere else. Not to mention the exotic values and new mindsets you can explore.

If you understand Thai, you can also enjoy Thai music and songs at a higher level. You don’t just vibe to the melody and rhythm anymore. Now you know the lyrics. And you can finally sing them out.

Let’s learn Thai

What you just read is only a glimpse of Thai culture you might find interesting. Knowing Thai can broaden your worldview more than you can read in this article.

So, once again, learn Thai if you can. You will thank yourself later.

Have you ever heard of ‘Sex Tourism?’ If you have, you might know that Thailand is on the top list of such countries. But do you know why Thailand is famous for its sex-oriented tourist attractions?

Thailand is famous for sex tourism because it has abundant options that serve the needs of sex-curious tourists. From go-go bars, cabaret clubs, massage parlors, and spas to brothels and the notorious ping-pong shows, people go to Thailand for sex because its red-light districts have something for everyone.

Even if you’re not interested in partaking in such tourism, you might want to know what it’s like. What makes Thailand sex tourism what it is?

Read on to discover the world of lust and desire in this unique country.

Why do people go to Thailand for sex?

When it comes to sex tourism, Thailand has everything. No matter how rare or niche your sex taste is, this country can scratch that itch.

Some of the services or shows can only be found in Thailand too. Like the infamous ping-pong show.

If you don’t know what it is, the following question might give you an idea. “Can you play ping-pong (table tennis) without the paddles, but with your… vagina?” And you can probably guess the answer. It’s called the ping-pong show, after all.

Even such a unique show exists in this country. So, you can definitely find “your thing” here.

Moreover, the Thai sex industry isn’t only about the variety but the quality too.

Every sex-related business in Thailand has fierce competition. If you want your place to survive, you step up your game. The prostitutes will do whatever they can to provide the best services, including masterful techniques, decorations, and substance use.

The last one might sound dangerous to both the customers and service providers. But it shows how far the sex worker is willing to go to “please” you.

However, with high quality comes high prices. You need to pay extra for the top service, or it’s “pay less, play less.” 

And that’s only the surface of Thai sex tourism. If you dig deeper, you will discover a darker side to the business too. After all, the sex trade in any country tends to attract issues such as human trafficking, kidnapping, scams, etc.

Some people go to Thailand to make deals on these shady businesses. And they make a ton of cash. However, if you’re not in the know, you will never see it with your own eyes. You can only hear about it in the gossip or local news.

So, sex tourism in Thailand is not only about pleasure. It can be about money too. This country really has everything.

Who goes to Thailand for sex?

The answer is quite obvious. It’s mostly men.

And the age range is wide too. Some young male tourists come to Thailand to enjoy themselves and go. And there are the so-called “sex-pats.” You guessed it. It’s ex-pats who stay for the sex. Mostly, this group is middle-aged men. But of course, there are the younger ones as well.

But why men? If Thailand really has something for everyone, why not women too?

Well… It’s the nature of these businesses. If you think about it, it’s simpler than you might imagine. When anyone says “brothels,” is “male prostitute” the first thing popping up in your mind? Probably the opposite, right?

Of course, “female prostitutes” attract men more than women. No matter how diverse the services Thailand offers, these businesses will still primarily target men.

And besides, Thai female prostitutes have a reputation for their beauty, personality, and skills.

For foreigners, Thai women are more… exotic.

They uphold different kinds of beauty and values. As a result, they are automatically a mystery worth exploring. And there is a superior female population in Thailand too. So, it’s comparatively easier to find female prostitutes here.

But of course, this doesn’t mean there are no sex tourists of other genders. After all, Thailand has everything. Some women come to have fun with male prostitutes too. Ladyboy prostitution and go-go bars are also a thing, so sexuality is not a problem.

Furthermore, there are “show businesses” that target audiences of all genders too. Like the mentioned ping-pong show. The drag queen and cabaret shows are also non-gender specific. You can enjoy these entertainments for their fashion and aesthetic.

However, no matter how you look at it, men are still the dominant sex tourists in Thailand. It’s just the way things are.

Is Thailand sex tourism legal?

Is it allowed? Yes. 

Is it legal? No.

Okay, this might sound confusing. So here’s an explanation. 

All forms of prostitution and related actions are prohibited by Thai law. Running brothels and similar businesses is punishable. However, the enforcement of this law is weak. The authority would let these businesses operate as if they don’t see them.

But why is that the case?

Well… deception is key. Most brothels operate under different fronts to appear legal — like a hotel, motel, massage parlor, or spa. This allows them to hide in plain sight. As a result, the police can’t do anything about it. They are technically legal.

And besides, Thai people understand that prostitution is not only about right or wrong but also survival.

You see, most prostitutes didn’t choose to do what they do. Their circumstances forced them to. 

Everyone needs to work and make money. But since most prostitutes come from poor backgrounds, they couldn’t afford a good education. So, they lack the crucial skills the workforce needs. That leaves prostitution as their only choice. 

After all, a physical body is a minimum requirement for the job. And everyone has that.

The pay, of course, is also as minimal as the requirement. But it’s enough to keep these poor prostitutes away from starvation. So, if you look at it differently, prostitution keeps these sex workers alive.

If the authority decided to abolish prostitution entirely, these people would be left to die in poverty. Thailand’s social security is far from ideal. Hardly anyone survives without a proper job and money here.

But if the government really wanted to get rid of prostitution, it needed to improve the citizens’ quality of life first. But with the current political turmoil in the country, it’s hard to say that will happen soon.

As a result, Thai sex tourism is “illegal” but “technically allowed.”

The truth about sex tourism in Thailand

Unfortunately, sex tourism is not the most moral thing the world has seen. And like most immoralities, it involves a hideous dark side.

As mentioned, most prostitutes are forced to work as sex workers. And sometimes, the things forcing them are not just poverty and the economy but other people.

Some parents are willing to sell their children to brothel owners for money. Why? Because unwanted pregnancy is also a massive issue in Thailand. 

Many new couples couldn’t afford to raise a child. So when their kids were born, they had to find a way to rebalance their expenses. But what would happen if they can’t accomplish that?

Yes. Instead of sending unwanted children to orphanages, they chose to sell to brothels. After all, the latter pays better.

It may sound like a tragedy from TV dramas, but it’s real in Thailand. And surprisingly, this is not the saddest part of the story.

Some human traffickers even kidnap pretty boys and girls and raise them into prostitutes. 

In the early 2000s, news about mysterious van kidnapping children terrorized Thai parents. Few claimed that they later found their children as beggars on the street. But others weren’t as lucky.

Chances are these missing children became prostitutes somewhere underground. Some of them might even get exported to… who knows where.

These things happen daily in some dark alleys of Thailand, and the solution is still far from reach.

Moreover, this dark side doesn’t end with the prostitute themselves, but also the tourist.

Remember how fierce the competition in this business is? It’s so fiery that those who can’t compete, need to rely on trickery.

They would make a B-grade copy of their competitor’s services and offer it at half price. As a result, many tourists leave Thailand unsatisfied.

The prime example of this practice is the fake ping-pong show.

The real ping-pong show demonstrates more than just how to play ping-pong with your genitals. They also show “weight-lifting,” bottle opening, and much more.

The fake ping-pong show would give you less than half the experience. And some places even use tricks to perform.

Tips for sex tourists

The only tip you’ll ever need as a sex tourist in Thailand is “do your research.”

Even though Thailand has everyone’s niche, you might run into a scam. So, make sure you go to the right place at the right time to get the best experience.

One of the best ways to pinpoint where to go is to talk to the locals. They are the inside men, after all. Nobody knows better than them.

However, choose your conversation partner carefully. Or else you might run into yet another scam.

If your general destination is Pattaya, avoid asking Pattaya people directly. Why? Because they might have their own business. And they might try to convince you to go to their place.

Instead, talk to people who “have been” to Pattaya. They will give you more insight into what to do and avoid. They might share a first-hand experience with scams with you too.

Now. The problem is whether you can communicate with Thai people. If you somehow acquired Thai as a second language, that would be a cakewalk. But if you didn’t, that could be problematic.

Even though many Thais learn to speak English, only a few master it. Their English could be so broken you end up relying on their body language.

So, learning a few tourist phrases in Thai would be a solution.

What is Thailand trying to do to improve its image of sex tourism?

Thailand remains in “denial” mode regarding prostitution and sex tourism. Officials often rebuff the current prostitution issue, as, after all, it is illegal in the eyes of the law. And being a Buddhist country, it is attested that it is impossible for such immorality to be occurring.

So, on a large scale, Thailand hasn’t done anything to improve the situation. And the Thai citizen doesn’t seem to mind it either. It’s business as usual.

On a small scale, however, voices from the younger generation suggest that “we should embrace sex tourism.”

The young Thai seem to think that prostitution should be legalized. Then, the country can fully profit from this business. 

Thailand’s tourism has been declining for many years — especially after COVID-19. The country lost a bunch of tourists to its competitors like Korea, Japan, and even Myanmar. And it’s time to step up the game.

It might be a controversial move internationally. But everyone already knows that Thailand has “sex tourism.” So, better make something out of it.

Even though Thailand wouldn’t be the first country to embrace sex tourism, it will still be one of a few. And the young Thais believe that it will revive Thai tourism.

Of course, there hasn’t been any actual change. The young generation’s idea hasn’t been realized yet. And the progress is lackluster.

You can safely assume that nothing is going to change until 2025. Or even further than that. As of 2023, Thailand is too busy developing its domestic foundation to spare time for tourism of any kind.

So, is sex tourism good for Thailand?

Yes and no.

In its current state, Thailand still needs to handle prostitution more carefully. Even though the profit can be huge, the money doesn’t go to the country. It goes to shady figures behind the scene.

But still. Money is money. Generating cash can liquidate its economy and keep its people alive. And sex tourism still has the potential to bring wealth to Thailand. They just need to play the game right.

So, you have to wait and see what will happen. It’s too early to tell now.

Have you ever wondered who is the best Muay Thai fighter in the world? Tons of different answers are floating around the internet. Some are ranking lists and fight records. Others are videos and fight discussions.

They all look credible and rational. However, do you know the criteria to rank these fighters?

Muay Thai rankings are similar to those of international boxing. Fighters are separated into weight groups, like Flyweight, Welterweight, and Middleweight. Moreover, each fighting stadium/program has its own record with different criteria. So, the global No.1 title is still up for debate.

Now that you know the general criteria, it’s time to see how they order all the fighters. Read on and discover the ins and outs of the Muay Thai ranking system.

How does Muay Thai rankings work?

Before diving further, let’s tune up your understanding.

As mentioned, there are mountains of Muay Thai ranking in this world. And that means the criteria for one list may differ from another. List A might look at 3 criteria, while List B looks at 5. So, it’s natural that your favorite fighter will appear on a different number on each ranking.

However, general criteria like weight or body size are usually the same. 

In this article, the criteria discussed will be based on ONE Championship’s method. They have the most layman-friendly explanation of their ranking system compared to other organizers/stadiums.

The criteria

Weight

Now. Let’s get the obvious one out of the way. The weight criteria in Muay Thai is pretty much a copy of international boxing.

In general, there are 15 weight divisions in Muay Thai. (Source)

• Mini Flyweight: < 104 lbs

• Junior Flyweight: 105 – 108 lbs

• Flyweight: 109 – 112 lbs

• Junior Bantamweight: 113 – 115 lbs

• Bantamweight: 116 – 118 lbs

• Junior Featherweight: 119 – 122 lbs

• Featherweight: 123 – 126 lbs

• Junior Lightweight: 127 – 130 lbs

• Lightweight: 131 – 135 lbs

• Junior Welterweight: 136 – 140 lbs

• Welterweight: 141 – 147 lbs

• Junior Middleweight: 148 – 154 lbs

• Middleweight: 155 – 160 lbs

• Light Heavyweight: 161 – 175 lbs

• Cruiserweight: 176 – 190 lbs

• Heavyweight: >191 lbs

But here’s the thing. You might have heard that Featherweight is a different number, or 126 lbs is called Flyweight.

Well, you are not wrong. Different event organizers (especially in Thailand) call each weight range differently. For example, ONE championship calls 126 lbs or below Flyweight, but Ratchadamnoen Stadium calls the same weight range Featherweight.

In essence, you can see them as the same thing. It’s better to just ignore the naming issues and use weight range as the universal criteria.

In the ranking system, fighters will be ranked among opponents of the same division. Middleweight fighters will not appear in the Featherweight or Heavyweight ranking.

The reason for that is simple. The heavier you are, the more force you can generate (f = ma, elementary physics). It’s unfair to rank the lighter-weight fighters against the heavier ones.

Fight Record

You should know this concept well if you watch soccer (football), football, tennis, or any other sports.

Fight record is pretty much the number of wins VS losses. If you win often, you’ll rank higher. But if you lose frequently, your rank will drop. And that’s it. This criterion is quite self-explanatory. So, let’s move on.

Match quality

Now, this criterion might be a bit ambiguous and opinionated. Why? Because it’s based on the judges’ personal thoughts.

Match quality refers to the fighter’s performance in each match compared to the opponent. This can include forms, stances, techniques, impacts, and strategies.

It is determined separately from the fight record since you can have a superb performance but end up losing in the end. Even Though you’re knocked out in the 5th round, you can still be ranked higher than the winner since you dominate the first 4 bouts.

The opposite also holds true. Winning with terrible performance is not going to boost your rank much.

Now, here’s the problem. The judges can be biased in this regard.

They might be generous with one technique more than others or prefer certain fighting styles more than the rest. That’s why most event organizers invite diverse critics, gurus, and athletes to form the judging panel. This prevents the ranking from being one-sided and unfair.

Holding the champion belt doesn’t guarantee the No.1 spot

Champion titles only certify that you have the most wins in an event.

Ranking, however, focuses on the consistency of your performance. Even though the Champions are usually the better fighters in general, they can sometimes gain that belt because of luck/accidents too.

Top fighters can perform horribly in “that one match” thanks to “a bad day.” This might cost them the tournament, but their ranking won’t fluctuate much. Why? Because one match doesn’t reflect the fighter’s whole career.

You might have heard of the term “the uncrowned king.” Yes, a beast of a man who has never been awarded champion. There are tons of them in the Muay Thai industry. 

Who’s the best?

Now, you should understand how the Muay Thai ranking is made. Let’s look at actual lists to see who’s the best.

But remember, there are thousands of “Muay Thai top fighters” lists in this world.

In Thailand, 3 rankings dominate the Muay Thai industry: Lumpini, Ratchadamnoen, and One championship. So, let’s see how they rank their fighters (Notable weight division only, or this article would be 3,000 words long).

Lumpini Rankings (source)

Featherweight (127 – 130 lbs)

Champion: Songkom Bangkok Alaiyon

#1 Kaona Sj. Tongprajeen

#2 Lamnammoonlek A. Atchariya

#3 Superlek Kiatmoo 9

Welterweight (141 – 147 lbs)

Champion: Rafi Singpatong

#1 Saenpol W. Panyawai

#2 Mathias Seven Muay Thai

#3 Darky Lookmakamwan

Middleweight (161 – 168 lbs)

Champion: Kompikat S. Tawanrung

#1 Tobe Kaewsamrit

#2 Diego Carado

#3 Osan RMB Gym

Ratchadamnoen Rankings (source)

Featherweight (127 – 130 lbs)

Champion: Samingdet N. Anuwat Gym

#1 Lamnammoonlek A. Atchariya

#2 Superlek Kiatmoo 9

#3 Detsakda Sj. Tongprajeen

Welterweight (141 – 147 lbs)

Champion: Jomthong Chuwattana

#1 Petkantat M.yuden

#2 Sansiri J.powerroof Phuket

#3 Ponek A. Kwanmueng

Middleweight (155 – 160 lbs)

Champion: Shinya Hokusei Gym

#1 Eddy Chuuwattana

#2 Taweechai S. Prasopchoke

#3 Yodkunpon Sitmonchai

One Rankings (source)

Flyweight (125 – 135 lbs)

Champion: Rodtang Jitmuangnon

#1 Superlek Kiatmoo9

#2 Panpayak Jitmuangnon

#3 Walter Goncalves

Bantamweight (135 – 145 lbs)

Champion: Jonathan Haggerty 

#1 Nong-O Hama

#2 Felipe Lobo

#3 Saemapetch Fairtex

Featherweight (145 lbs – 155 lbs)

Champion: Tawanchai PK Saenchai

#1 Superbon Singha Mawynn

#2 Sitthichai Sitsongpeenong

#3 Jimmy Vienot

Muay Thai rankings is fact + opinion

Muay Thai rankings are simple yet complex. They are composed of both evidential facts like weight and fight record together with personal thoughts like fight quality. So, it might be best for you to just ignore them and enjoy the fight.

In the end, ranking isn’t going to make Muay Thai better or worse as a sport. You can always watch or even practice it as it is. No need to care about numbers and orders.

However, you can’t deny that ranking is part of the fun too. So, keep what you learned today in mind the next time you see fighter top lists. Don’t let someone’s opinion get to you.

Dating Thai men is different. And you can notice it right away when you do date one.

Thai men’s characteristics are unique even among Southeast Asians. That means their personalities and charms stand out even more when compared to those of the western world.

Unfortunately, almost no one talks about them at all.

In most conversations regarding dating a Thai person, you will most likely hear about “dating a Thai woman” rather than “Thai man.” And that is understandable.

After all, Thai women have been renowned for their beauty and friendly disposition throughout history. And since the majority of the Thai population is female, Thai women would naturally dominate such a conversation.

But what is there to like about Thai guys?

The short answer would be “a lot.” But if you really want to be specific, you can also find the long answer here.

5 Charming Thai men traits

These are 5 traits of Thai men that would make them boyfriends you want to brag about.

1. They enjoy pampering you

Devotion is the name of the game.

Whenever you ask your Thai boyfriend to do something, they most likely respond with an “Okay.” Then, they will start working on the task you have given them like a knight serving his queen. (4)

This might sound like a natural thing to you. Most boyfriends would do anything you say just to see you smile. However, Thai men take that to a whole new level. It almost looks like stupidity when you think about it.

Here is one example scenario when dating Thai men … One day, you suddenly felt the urge to travel to the beach 100 miles away. You then asked your Thai boyfriend to drive you there.

Even though he was busy. Even though he had not prepared. And even though he had no idea how to drive there, believe it or not, he would get you there no matter how. It’s one of Thai men’s characteristics.

This level of devotion has its own origin. There are reasons for it.

Back in the days of absolute monarchy, Thai men loved showing off their wealth. Among the best ways to do that was to pamper their wife (or wives).

If the husband failed to take good care of his wife, gossip would spread around town. He would be put to shame, then his wife and his family would get involved. And if worse came to worst, it could even lead to a demotion in his job.

Even though time has passed, this culture of pampering his partner still lingers (albeit softer in most ways).

The second reason is the cooperative nature of Thai people in general. They love peace and harmony. It is rare for a Thai person to reject you straight out. This is especially true if you are his treasured special one.

There is one warning in this personality. If you happen to get mad at your Thai boyfriend and ask him to do the impossible out of spite, beware that he might actually do it.

2. They are polite in every word they say

Dating Thai men can make you reconsider the definition of politeness. Especially in speech.

Whatever they say, Thai men always exude this aura of passivity and humility in their voice and body language. And it is obvious. The degree of which might vary from person to person, but you could mistake this calm for meekness in extreme cases.

These Thai men traits are a result of the nature of the Thai language.

If you happen to know Japanese, you might have heard of Keigo. It is a system in the Japanese language used to show respect directly from their words. (1)This system is more complicated than just adding “sir” or “madam” to everything you say.

And Thai language has something similar as well.

It is called Racha sub (royal words) and Kham Suphab (polite words). These are lists of synonyms you would use to substitute normal vocabularies when conversing with someone of higher status. Like royalties, monks, and your seniors. Thai people will select the right politeness level and speak accordingly to the occasions. (5)

In addition, the Thai language also has Kham Longtai (ending words). Thai people use these words to finish their sentences, showing respect to their interlocutors. Generally, Thai men use “khrub” while women use “kha.” (6) Think of them as words to show instant politeness. If you are learning Thai, remember to add these behind anything you say.

With these words and concepts in mind, your Thai boyfriend might stumble over his words whenever he talks to you. Do not fret. It is a part of dating Thailand guys.

This speech difficulty happens because he tries to select the best words to use with you, his special one. Even though he speaks English with you, it is still engraved deep in his nature. This characteristic prevents him from speaking to you too casually and impolitely.

3. They hold no grudges on your mistakes

“I’m sorry for making you wait for half an hour”

“It’s fine, don’t worry about it.”

This exchange happens many times when Thai people date. And without a single doubt in their mind, Thai men will forgive such a misstep and never mention it again. This is not just to appear nice. It is just the way they are.

Being late? Forgiven.

Forgetting your promises? Forgiven.

Lying to him? Forgiven.

Cheating on him? Well… That is probably too far.

Unless your mistake is at a degree of homicide or straight-out immoral Thai men will most likely forgive you. And like most behavior traits, there is a cultural explanation for it.

If you have been to Thailand before, you might have heard of this legendary phrase. The “Mai pen rai.” Thai people say it all the time.

The direct translation of this phrase is either “it’s fine” or “don’t worry about it.” The Thais mostly use the phrase to turn down an offer in a polite fashion. But in the right situation, the meaning can also completely change. (2)

However, if you are well-versed in Thai culture, you will know that this “Mai pen rai” is less of a phrase and more of an attitude. It reflects how Thai people value peace and harmony more than anything else.

Because of this attitude, dating Thai men can be more relaxing than you imagine. Thai men put more emphasis on smoothing things over rather than direct confrontation. It is a common characteristic in Thai guys that grows from a peace-obsessed society.

Knowing that arguments and fights can create an unmendable crack in a relationship, Thai men avoid such confrontations to the best of their ability. And to do that, they developed a chill temper and a calm mind. That is why Thailand’s men are extra-forgiving when it comes to mistakes.

Nevertheless, you should never cross the line with him. No matter how forgiving he is, there is a limit to everything. And once you go beyond the limit, there is usually no safe way to return.

4. They laugh all the time

You can also see this point as a continuation of point #3. A point #3.5 if you will.

Thailand is also known as the land of smiles. And there is a reason for that. Not only do people walk around with a smile on their faces, but they also laugh all the time.

As mentioned, Thai people value peace and harmony to the core. Whatever they do, they will try their best to be as least offensive as possible. And that is where the humor comes into play.

At first, it might feel weird to you when your Thai boyfriend laughs at his own failures or other mishaps. You might think something is wrong in his head, but that is not true. That is just another charm of dating Thai men.

Humor plays a big part in the daily lives of all Thai men. It works as a means to socialize, a tool to tackle stress, and a weapon against disharmony. It is one of the most prominent parts of a Thai man’s character.

“Laugh it off” is one of the go-to tactics Thai men use when dealing with emotional issues. (3) For example, if you happened to knock his favorite mug from the cupboard and break it, he would just laugh and go buy a new one with you.

It doesn’t mean that he was not upset. He just does not want you to be upset as well. In an awkward situation like that, bright laughter will dispel all the discomfort and lift everyone’s mood.

Humor is not exclusive to sticky situations either. Thai men generally love making jokes about everything. They will make you laugh at things you might not be aware of as funny. Like religions and jobs.

And if you like puns, you are in for a treat. Thai men love puns. No matter what language it is, if it is a pun, he will laugh. And he will make puns for you as well.

5. They love foreigners like you

Do you know why Thailand is a world-renowned tourist destination?

There are many answers to that question. But no matter where you look, the people will always be one of the answers.

Thai people are friendly and easygoing. Especially to foreigners. That is why dating Thai men is another great option for you to consider.

The country used to be jam-packed with tourists all year round before COVID-19. Thus, Thai men learned to throw away all the discriminating and xenophobic behaviors and embrace foreigners of all origins.

This characteristic does not stop with their welcoming attitude. Once they get used to you being around, they will start treating you as if you were a fellow Thai citizen rather than a tourist. They still acknowledge your differences, but that does not stop them from including you in their personal circle. They will make jokes with you, drink with you, and have fun with you.

And if you manage to get a Thai man to fall for you, you will get something extra. These men are willing to set aside their own business and find time to learn your language and culture. All of these are just to get a better glimpse of your thought process.

Having an understanding boyfriend never hurts. A man who has insight into your background and culture will be an ideal choice if you come from a tradition-rich country or family.

What dating Thai men boils down to…

After reading these five personality points of Thailand’s men, you may have come to realize one thing. 

That is “Thai men are quite considerate.”

They will take good care of you. They speak carefully. They avoid hurting your feelings. They always make you smile. And they are willing to know you better.

These traits take deep roots within all Thai men since they grow up in a country where cultures and traditions focus on people’s hearts and feelings.

If you happen to be looking for a dating candidate, give dating Thai men a chance. You might find yourself unable to stop talking about them once your date begins.

References

1. Cotoacademy.com. 2022. An Introduction to Japanese Keigo | Honorific Form, Humble Form & More!. [online] Available at: <https://cotoacademy.com/japanese-keigo/> [Accessed 6 May 2022].

2. Cavanagh, R., 2022. Mai Pen Rai Means Never Mind. Or Does It?. [online] Thaizer. Available at: <https://www.thaizer.com/mai-pen-rai-means-never-mind/> [Accessed 6 May 2022].

3. Bbc.com. 2022. Why Thai people love to laugh. [online] Available at: <https://www.bbc.com/culture/article/20170915-why-thai-people-love-to-laugh> [Accessed 6 May 2022].

4. Clubsister.com. 2022. ข้อดีของผู้ชาย 7 ประเทศ..เลือกไม่ถูกเลยจริงๆ – Clubsister.com. [online] Available at: <https://clubsister.com/lifestyle/advantages-of-seven-boy> [Accessed 6 May 2022].

5. Kroobannok.com. 2022. คำราชาศัพท์. [online] Available at: <https://www.kroobannok.com/1435> [Accessed 6 May 2022].

6. dailynews. 2022. คำลงท้ายในภาษาไทย. [online] Available at: <https://d.dailynews.co.th/article/192389/> [Accessed 6 May 2022].

So, what side of the road do they drive on in Thailand? Left or right?

If you plan to enjoy a road trip in this country, you need to answer this question first — or you might find yourself sleeping in a cell for a couple of months.

The Thailand driving side is on the left. The reason was that the British, the original left-sided drivers, influenced Thailand heavily on the traffic culture when cars first appeared in the country. In fact, the first driver in Thailand had learned how to drive back when he worked in England.

Now that you know this much, it is time to dig deeper. Uncover the root of Thai traffic, find out “interesting” Thai driving rules, and get stupified by Thai drivers’ misdeeds.

Why do Thai people drive on the left?

As you know by now, Thai people drive on the left. And the reason is simple. However, if you google “why do the Thais drive left-sided,” you might find historically inaccurate answers like these.

Because Thailand was colonized by Britain (wrong)

The answer couldn’t be more incorrect than this. 

It might sound sensible since England is the most famous country to drive on the left. And back in the day, they had colonies all over the world. However, this is not the reason the Thais drive cars this way. Not only has Thailand never been colonized by Britain, but Thailand also has never been colonized at all.

Among the Southeast Asian nations, Thailand is the only one to maintain its independence during the colonial period. So, if you see an answer like this, do not trust it.

Because the first car in Thailand was British (wrong)

Many foreigners seem to believe that the first car in Thailand was a present from the British royal family to the Thais. And that is not true. The first car appearing in the country was nothing as grand as that. (Source)

According to the correspondence between Prince Narisara Nuwattiwong and Prince Damrong Rajanubhab, Chaophraya Surasakmontri bought the first car in Thailand. He bought it from a foreigner whose name was not recorded. The car model and origin were also unknown.

Furthermore, the first Thai royal family car was not of British origin but German — the Mercedes Benz 28 HP. Prince Raphi Phatthanasak bought it as a gift to King Rama V in 1904.

The REAL reason Thailand drives on the left

Thai people drive this way because that is how they first learned it.

Since 1826, Thailand has had a friendly relationship with Britain. Many wealthy Thai families sent their members to study and work in Britain. And among them was Chaophraya Anutootwatee — Chaophraya Surasakmontri’s brother. (Source)

Since the first car in Thailand was manual-driven, and Chaophraya Surasakmontri couldn’t handle it, he needed a teacher. Chaophraya Anutootwatee, who had worked and learned how to drive in Britain, was his go-to person.

And from then, Chaophraya Anutootwatee taught his brother and many drivers that followed. Of course, his teaching was based on the British driving system: driving on the left. (Source)

Will Thailand change from left to right-hand driving?

No, it won’t.

You can probably imagine what would happen had such a change occurred. Yes. Chaos.

Thailand has been driving on the left since 1903. Changing it 120 years later would be difficult. People across the kingdom would be confused, and the law enforcers would probably be too.

Moreover, the budget for this project is going to be massive. The Thais would need to switch sides of all the road signs in the country. Not to mention repainting and rebuilding roads. They also need new buses with doors on the matching side.

Overall, changing the driving side for Thailand seems like an unproductive move. They don’t even have a decent reason to change.

Most countries that have changed their driving side have a good reason to commit. Like in the 1900s, many British colonies switched from left to right after regaining their independence to symbolize their freedom. Like the USA and many Arab countries. (Source)

Another good example is Samoa. They switched from driving on the right side of the road to the left in 2009. The reason was that importing left-sided cars from New Zealand was cheaper than the right-sided Americans. (Source)

Now that you understand the driving-left situation in Thailand, you might want to know more about Thai driving culture and an “interesting” traffic law in this country.

Well… Here goes:

Bizzare Thai driving law

In Thailand, if you take a clear photo or a video of someone violating traffic laws and report it, the police will pay you.

This law was passed in 2018 and became a public phenomenon. Since there are way too many traffic law violators in Thailand, you can make easy extra cash daily. And Thai people loved it.

After you submit your media, The police will give you half of the fine they collect from the offenders. If you catch a big case, you can win big money.

According to Thairath news, there was an elderly man who made a million THB by reporting cases to the police alone. And it took him only 4 years. He said he spent most of his free time as a retiree taking pictures and videos of traffic offenders around Bangkok. (Source)

For those coming from the “right” country, you might want to prepare yourself before you start speeding in Thailand. Try driving on the left in safe areas and get used to it. If that doesn’t work for you, you might want to find a local driver for your trip. Who knows? Your driving on the wrong side might be caught on someone’s camera.

Bizzare Thai drivers’ misdeeds

If you have been to Thailand before, you would know that the country’s traffic can get hectic at the drop of a hat. Not only because of poor road design but also Thai people’s relaxed attitude.

Some Thais are so laid back that they think breaking a few traffic laws is okay. And here are 2 extreme examples.

Driving on the footpath

A footpath was designed for pedestrians. You can walk safely while staying away from fast cars and motorcycles. However, such safety isn’t guaranteed in Thailand.

Not only is the footpath narrow and packed with street food carts, but you might also find unwanted motorcycles there. And they cause accidents all the time.

This offense usually occurs in Bangkok with its busy streets. But you can also spot it anywhere else in the country. Getting caught driving on the footpath would cost you up to 1500 THB (2000 in Bangkok).

Despite the penalty, lots of Thai riders still continue this crime. In 2019, there were 23,421 reported cases. The total fine was 15,566,800 THB. (Source)

Driving on the “right” side

After reading this far, you might think that you will never see a vehicle running on the right side of the road. Well… you would be wrong.

Many Thais, regardless of location, break this fundamental law on purpose. The reason for it is simple. They wanted to get to a nearby destination but didn’t want to drive to the much further away U-turns.

This offense is not limited to motorcycles either. There are reports of pick-up trucks committing the same stunt.

Aside from life-threatening danger, this could cost you up to 500 THB of fine. And if an accident happened, you could get thrown in jail for up to 3 months. (Source)

For more interesting (and strange) laws in Thailand, check out this article on Thailand laws.

In short, just be careful and drive on the left

Since the first car appeared in Thailand, the Thais had been driving on the left. And it will remain this way for a long time. Maybe forever.

Your road trip inside Thailand will be fine. Just don’t forget that you are driving in a foreign land. Respect their law, and they will respect you too.

As you already know, China is a big country. It has immense political power and influences over many regions, like Hong Kong, Taiwan, and other small islands in east Asia.

So, it is natural for some of you to ask, “is Thailand a part of China?”

The Kingdom of Thailand is by no means a part of China. Thailand has its sovereignty, territory, constitution, and leaders. However, the two nations have an intimate relationship. While China heavily influences Thai economics, tourism, and culture, Thai people consider the Chinese their siblings.

The story between Thailand and China goes way back. The two countries have been supporting each other for hundreds of years throughout history — and that relationship doesn’t seem to end any time soon.

Read on and dive deep into the intimacy between Thailand and China.

Is Thailand in China?

Believe it or not, many foreigners believe Thailand is a province in China. And that is not true at all. 

Thailand is a Kingdom located in Southeast Asia. It has a territory of 513,120 square kilometers, 77 provinces, an estimated population of 70 million (as of 2022), and a capital city called Bangkok. The country shares borders with Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, and Malaysia. (Source)

Unlike Taiwan or Hong Kong, Thailand is not directly influenced by Chinese laws and politics. The Kingdom has its own constitution and leaders. Currently, Thailand is under the rule of its 20th constitution with the lead of Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha and King Maha Vajiralongkorn (Rama X). (Source)

Culturally, Thailand also has its own language — both in spoken and written form. Like the English language, Thai uses the alphabet system. There are 79 alphabets in the Thai language: 44 consonants, 21 vowels, 4 tonal indicators, and 10 numbers.

As you can see, none of these has anything to do with China.

However, that doesn’t mean Thailand has nothing to do with China. The two countries have a deeper bond than you might expect.

Is Thai related to Chinese?

There are 3 famous theories suggesting Thai people have come from China.

Theory 1: Thai people are from Sichuan

This theory is proposed by Albert Terrien de Lacouperie, a professor at London University. In 1885, he published the Cradle of the Shan Race. He analyzed the Chinese dialects compared to the languages in Southeast Asian countries.

In his writing, he concluded that the Thai ancestor had been in Sichuan in southwestern China even before the Chinese. This statement is backed by the geographic survey in the Chinese archive.

Theory 2: Thai people are from Altai Mountain

In 1909, an American missionary named William Clifton Dodd proposed this theory. He suggested this idea in his book, The Tai Race: The Elder Brother of the Chinese.

Altai (or Altay) is a massive mountain range where Russia, China, Mongolia, and Kazakhstan converge. Dodd’s idea points out that The Tai race lived in this area. They inherited Mongolian blood and predated the Chinese and Hebrew civilizations.

The theory shook the historian’s circle back when it was published. Thai people had believed in this theory for a long time. Nowadays, with its weak evidence, nobody talks about it anymore.

Theory 3: Thai people are from southern China and nearby regions

Geographically, this theory might look the simplest for the non-scholars. Archibald R. Colquhoun, a British explorer, proposed this theory in 1885 after his travel from Guangdong in China to Mandalay in Myanmar.

Throughout his Journey, he claimed that he met Thai people of Thai ethnicity inhabiting these areas. Hence the origin of the Thai theory.

That said, no one can guarantee you where the Thai is actually from. There are 2 other theories suggesting the Tai race is from somewhere other than China. One claims they were here all along, while the other says they came from Malaysia. (Source)

Nevertheless, it is safe to say that Thai people have a deep bond with the Chinese. So, it is understandable that some people might mistake Thailand for a province in China.

What is the relationship between China and Thailand?

Generally, you can say that Thailand and China have a sibling-like relationship. The two countries have acknowledged each other for hundreds of years. And this bond seems to continue for a long time.

The origin of the Thai-Chinese relationship

It is unclear when Thailand first made contact with China. However, the earliest evidence shows that they had already known each other since the Kingdom of Sukhothai (1238 – 1438). This should come as no surprise for any Thailand fanatics. Since Sukhothai is the first Kingdom in classic Thai history, most Thai “first times” happened here.

There were many efforts from China to contact Sukhothai. They tried to send diplomats to the southeast Asian Kingdom multiple times. However, these diplomats failed because of the harsh road and forces from opposing nations. The first successful contact between the two happened when King Ramkhamhaeng sent his diplomats to China.

China tried to reach Sukhothai because they wanted to spread the influence of their emperor, Kublai Khan. On the other hand, Sukhothai contacted China to gain support against neighboring powers.

Since then, the two kept in touch and established trade routes — land and sea. And when Sukhothai lost its power, China continued to nurture this relationship with the Ayutthaya Kingdom (1351–1767). (Source)

Current Thailand-China relations

Despite a long history together, the “alliance” between Thailand and China hasn’t changed much. The two countries have never had any major conflict to the point of war. Not even a battle. 

The only friction between the two is arguably the trade profit issues. But that had never escalated into anything consequential. So overall, you can say that they are good friends.

Economics

You can almost say that China is Thailand’s trade lifeline. 

In 2019, China ranked 1st as a trade partner of Thailand — number 1 in imports and number 2 in export. As you already know, the Chinese market is massive in Asia. It is only natural that Thailand depends on trading with China for both imports and exports.

During the same year, Thailand ranked 13th as China’s trade partner — number 13 in imports and number 17 in export. (Source)

You might notice a sizable unbalance between the two rankings. But you need to understand that Thailand is a small developing country. Their trade value cannot compete with other giants trading with a global power like China.

Tourism

As you know, Thailand’s economy relies heavily on tourists. Before COVID-19, Thailand saw approximately 30 million tourists annually (Source). 

China only allows its people to travel outside the country under government surveillance. And Thailand was among the first countries the Chinese government allowed people to travel to. They even built the China National Tourism Office: CNTO in Bangkok in 2017.

In 2019, 10.98 million Chinese tourists came to Thailand. They made up more than 28% of all foreign tourists, ranking 1st on the Thai Tourism list. (Source)

Culture

When it comes to culture, Thailand mostly plays the receiver role.

Since more than 10% of the Thai population — around 7 million people — are of Chinese descent, it is no surprise that you can see Chineseness in Thailand. From Chinese temples and Chinese restaurants to Chinese dance schools. You name it. (Source)

There are also hundreds of Chinese-Thai cultural exchange programs. These initiatives are held by both government organizations and the private sectors from both sides. (Source)

Examples of Chinese influences in Thailand

Chinese Community

Like many countries, Thailand has Chinese communities scattered all over the nation.

The one you should have heard of is Yaowarat. It is arguably the biggest and the most famous Chinese community in Thailand. Located in Bangkok, this district is bustling with food shops and restaurants of old Chinese families. Some buildings here are more than 200 years old.

Because Thailand was one of the more famous Southeast Asian sea trade sites, many Chinese merchants decided to settle here. As a result, these Chinese communities popped up all over the place. Not to mention the war and political refugees from mainland China in the old days.

Chinese New Year

Thailand is one of those countries celebrating the Lunar New Year. The locals prefer to call it Chinese New Year since it is related to the Chinese farming season.

Despite the Chinese being the minority, Chinese New Year is a big deal. When January approaches its end, you can notice the Chinese vibe within everything in the country. Stores decorations, televisions ads, street banners, and even radio broadcasts. Everything shifts its focus to the upcoming Chinese New Year.

The celebration itself is divided into three days. Each day has different rituals and practices to be performed. It is a wild sight, and you should see it with your own eyes.

Chinese Corporates

As discussed, there are millions of Chinese descent in Thailand. So, it’s no surprise they own more than a few big companies in the country. One of the most prominent “Chinese” corporations you should know about is the Charoen Pokphand Group or CP Group.

The CP group came from the agriculture industry. Nowadays, you can almost say that they are trying to monopolize many parts of Thai economics. Their power and influence in the country are basically limitless. And here are some examples.

If you have been to Thailand, you cannot miss the many Seven-Elevens around the country. You see them on almost every street. And all these Seven-Elevens are owned by the CP group. They recently took over the Tesco Lotus in Thailand, expanding their influence over the country’s retail sector. (Source)

Now that you understand the serious side of the Thai-China relationship, you might want to look at something more light-hearted. Keep reading to explore the fun side of these two countries.

Thai-Chinese Fun Facts

1. Chinese Thai people refer to their relatives with Chinese terms

Normally, Thai people call their father “พ่อ” (pronounced like “pore” without the /r/). The Chinese-Thai, however, call their father “เตี่ย” (read like “tear” without the /r/), which is a Chinese term. (Source)

This difference occurs with every member of the family. The Chinese-Thai refuse to address their relatives with Thai terms and stick with the Chinese terms to this day. The reason is quite unclear. But you can already feel the Chinese exclusivity from this action alone.

2. Many Thai can speak Chinese

Even though the Chinese language has nothing to do with Thai daily life, many younger Thais still decide to study Chinese (Mandarin).

As mentioned, many big companies in Thailand are owned by the Chinese. These companies often offer better payment to those who can speak their language. As a result, many Thais speak Chinese better than English.

A 2015 article claims that there were 850,000 Thai who studied Chinese. And the number is growing each year. (Source)

3. Even Thai people see Thailand as a part of China

This is a joke among the younger generations.

With many economic policies favoring Chinese investors, smaller investors in Thailand are salty towards the Chinese. But no matter what the locals do, the government doesn’t seem to care. It almost feels like the Thai government is trying to lick the Chinese’s boots.

With this unfairness and the Thai’s love for dark-sarcastic humor, younger Thais begin to call Thailand “Tai Gua” province. It means “Thai people” in Chinese.

At this point, the misunderstanding that Thailand is a part of China should be cleared in your head. However, there might be other misunderstandings about Thailand that still stick. And it is time you clear them out as well.

Misunderstandings people actually believe about Thailand

1. Thailand is Taiwan

This is arguably the most infamous misunderstanding among the three. Even though there are many similarities between the two countries, you must remember, “Thailand is not Taiwan.”

Since the names are similar, this mistake is understandable. But still, it is okay to refer to a Thai person in your neighborhood as “the Taiwan guy.”

2. Thai people ride elephants to work

This one is quite offensive. When the Thai hear this statement, they usually furrow their brows and say “what?” in bafflement. Thailand has cars, motorcycles, buses, and trains. People drive and ride those to work — just like the west.

If you study Thai history, you will know that elephants are the Thai national animal. Some Thai consider them sacred animals and don’t want you to mess around. (Source)

3. Thai people use chopsticks all the time

When eating food, Thai people prefer “fork and spoon.” Unlike Chinese, Japanese, and Korean, they rarely use chopsticks for meals. The only time they use them is when they eat noodles.

Thailand and China: The Unbreakable Bond

Even though “Thailand is a part of China” is a misunderstanding, you cannot deny the intimate relationship between the two. And in a way, it makes sense to think like that.

After all, Thailand receives many cultural practices from China. Its economics also relies heavily on the Chinese market. And their history can be traced back more than 500 years ago.

Learning a language can be tricky. And if the language you want to master is unique and intricate — like Thai — you might need a guideline to help you learn effectively. Because if you don’t, you could get lost from the very start.

So, how should you approach your Thai language learning journey?

The best way to learn Thai is to focus on the basics and build a strong foundation. Start with learning the Thai alphabet, grammar, and pronunciation before speaking. Working with a tutor, taking a course, using a language app, and conversing with a Thai friend are all excellent methods to master the Thai language.

Nevertheless, it also depends on how much effort you put into learning Thai. But if you don’t want all your effort to go to waste, read on and discover better ways to learn Thai.

The 3 best methods for learning Thai

1. Learn to read first

A common question among aspiring Thai speakers is, should I learn to read or speak Thai first?

If you are serious about learning Thai thoroughly, reading is where you should start. This is because reading is the most effective method to build up your vocabulary and understand word formation.

Firstly, you must understand that Thai script uses an alphabet system like English. That means you might breeze through learning Thai, unlike Mandarin or Japanese. (These languages use a Character system)

There are 90 Thai letters you have to remember. 44 are consonants, 32 are vowels, 4 are tonal indicators, and 10 are numbers. It might look like a lot compared to English’s 26 alphabet. But with focus, you won’t take long to remember them.

And once you remember all of the alphabet and can spell words, Thai sounds will start making sense to you. And this is where you can step up your game by moving on to listening and speaking.

Many might argue that you should start with listening since it helps with speaking directly. And that is true. But only on an intermediate level and above. Listening can be a big help with accents. But if you don’t even know what words are being spoken, then you will learn nothing.

Besides, listening forces you to go at the speaker’s pace. And it can be too fast or too slow. With reading, on the other hand, you can go at your own pace. Choose the speed that fits you, and gradually make progress.

Finally, reading also opens up your choice of learning material. If you can read Thai, you can even learn from Thai fiction. After all, learning from real examples is better than anything.

2. Never neglect grammar

As you know, grammar dictates the order of words in a sentence. So, you must understand it to speak fluently and write correctly. Why? Because the wrong order can cause your sentences to be ambiguous — worst case, turn them into gibberish.

However, many Thai learners tend to be lax with grammar. And that is understandable. After all, Thai grammar can be considered “less strict” than English.

The Thai language doesn’t have tense. That means you don’t need to conjugate the verb with time. One verb form works for the present, past, and future. And you can also ignore manners of action such as simple, continuous, and perfect. You can almost say that it is convenient.

However, the lack of tense can confuse you too. Sometimes, you might have to guess the time from the context or look for the temporal adverbs for help. And that might be harder for you in real-life conversations where nothing is written for you to reread.

Excellent grammar leads to effective communication. So, be attentive when learning it. Even though it’s more relaxed than English, it can still be tricky to apply.

3. Regularly develop your ear

This step is crucial for listening and speaking. Why? Because Thai is a tonal language, and you won’t go anywhere if you can’t distinguish the tones.

Thai has 5 tones. The meaning of a word is determined by these tones. And these meanings can be totally different from one another. For example…

• “Cow” in the 0th tone (locals call it “สามัญ” or “Saman” tone) means “smell of meat, blood, or fish.” It could also describe the main course of a meal in different contexts.

• “Cow” in the 1st tone (locals call it “เอก” or “Ake” tone) means “news.”

• “Cow” in the 2nd tone (locals call it “โท” or “Toe” tone) means “rice.”

• “Cow” in the 3rd tone (locals call it “ตรี” or “Tree” tone) doesn’t mean anything.

• “Cow” in the 4th tone (locals call it “จัตวา” or “Chattawa” tone) means “white.”

You would be totally lost if you mistook the first tone for the second in a real conversation. As you can see… “News” and “Rice” have nothing to do with each other (unless it’s news about rice — which is rarely discussed in daily life).

Besides, if you’re tone deft (in a language sense), you cannot simulate the right sound. So train your ears before it’s too late.

What is the most effective way to learn Thai?

Of course, there is no definite answer to the question, “What is the most effective way to learn Thai?” In the end, it depends on personal needs and study style.

However, here are the recommended ways to make your Thai learning more systematic.

The best way to learn Thai for free

If you’re a free learner: Finding a Thai friend would be your best option. Having a native supervisor can help you acquire the language much faster, especially in terms of practical use.

Of course, your Thai friends don’t have to be teachers. Even with zero teaching experience, it will not be too difficult for them to share some vocabulary and check your pronunciation. They are native speakers. They understand the language by default.

You will get all of these benefits for free by making a Thai friend. After all, friendship is “priceless.”

However, there’s also a limit to what your Thai friend can do. So you have to put in the effort as well. Here are some other ways to learn Thai faster.

The best way to learn Thai at a cost

If you’re willing to pay: Taking a course will be the best option. Depending on your preference, it could be both in-class or online.

The best approach to choosing the right course is to know what you want first.

If your goal is to communicate in a business setting or work environment, go for a long course that covers listening, reading, speaking, and writing.

But if your goal is to converse with friends, a speaking course focusing on listening and pronunciation would do.

Choosing the right course can save you both time and money. So, make sure you have a clear goal before you start. And if you need a guideline of which class you should take, here is a list of the best ways to learn Thai online (recommended courses and apps).

Master Thai from the basics

When you learn a language, you better start slowly to build up a strong foundation. The Thai language is not easy. Nail all the basics to progress to the advanced level — you can do it.

Just practice your reading, master your grammar, and develop your ear. When all three are set, the rest is a matter of time.

Have you ever wondered, “why’s my Muay Thai not progressing?” Well, you’re not alone. Many who came before you have asked that question too. Some may have started fast and stuck at intermediate, while others struggle from the get-go.

So, how can you get better fast?

Improving Muay Thai skills requires only focus. While time and effort are paramount to progress. Practice sessions are nothing without concentration and discipline. Pay attention to detail and technique, like contact point and form. Or else improving power, speed, or precision will be laborious.

Now, that’s the general idea of getting better at Muay Thai. There’s no way around practice. But there are ways to train better. Read on and find 8 methods to improve your Muay in less time.

How to get better at Muay Thai fast

1. Go slow first

This might come to your surprise. Go slow to learn fast? That doesn’t make sense, right?

Well… Going slow might take longer initially, but it saves time in the long run. Why? Because you don’t have to revisit previous lessons and correct your mistakes.

Going slow allows you to focus on little details. Pay attention to the little things your teacher taught, like contact points, stances, and forms.

Make sure you get all that right before going full and fast. If you go fast first, you might miss the chance to shape up a proper form. Fixing it later will be a painful and tedious process.

2. Practice like a real fight

This will be the opposite of the previous item. Once you get the hang of your techniques, go full force. Don’t hold back. Don’t reserve your energy. Practice with all you’ve got.

Think of this as programming your brain. Get yourself used to “punch it like you mean it.” If you half-heartedly punch all the time during your practice, you won’t be ready for the real match.

Let’s say, in an actual fight, you decided to go easy during the first round, like when you practiced. It was warm-up time, right? There should be no problem with relaxing a bit. 

Well… NO. Once the bell rings, it’s a real fight right away. Your opponent is ready to take you down instantly.

So, hard-wire your mind to hit the top note from the get-go. There’s no time to chill inside the ring.

3. Ask, don’t assume

Now. This one might be obvious. But you won’t believe how many practitioners fail to do this.

If you’re unsure of what you’re doing, don’t guess. Call your trainers/teachers and ask what to do.

Once you make an assumption, you risk getting it wrong. And once that happens, you’ll get into trouble. Your strikes might get weak. You might violate the rules. Or the worst case, you can even hurt yourself.

More importantly, old habits die hard. Once you start practicing it wrong, you’ll do it wrong forever. It’s like those mistakes now run in your veins. Needless to say, your opponent will punish you for it.

So before you jump the gun and say, “This is probably fine,” check with your teachers.

4. Don’t forget the basics

As you know, you can’t move to B without passing A. 

So, make sure you get all the basics down before moving forward. And once you get it, keep coming back every so often. Don’t leave the old skills to rust. Practice them every week.

Basic techniques are simple. And that simplicity makes them flexible and dangerous. Your opponents know that you’re going to use a straight punch. After all, everyone uses it. 

However, they don’t know how you’re going to use it. Like where you’ll aim or how many times you’ll strike.

And besides, all the advanced techniques are reinterpretations and derivations of the basics. A spinning kick is still a kick. So, master the kick before you spin.

5. Never skip studies

Sometimes, reading books can make you a better fighter, especially the rulebook.

A thorough insight into the Muay Thai rule can win you big points in a real match. How? Well… Do you know that kicks score higher than most punches? How many forms of throws are allowed? If you know these little things, you can use them to your advantage.

If you have watched enough Muay Thai, you might know that the unlikely-win situation is frequent. Like fighters who throw more punches end up losing, or the 2-down side scores higher than the 1-down. 

These things might seem strange initially. But if you understand the ruleset, you’ll know what’s going on right away.

In short, take off the gloves and put on your glasses. It’s time to read.

6. Watch real matches

Watching as a study is among the best ways to learn, especially when you’re a visual learner.

Locking yourself in a gym may get you far, but seeing how to use the techniques in real fights can get you further.

Let’s say you want to know how to do a powerful roundhouse kick. Find a match with a great roundhouse kick fighter and book the ticket. The rest is to watch and focus.

Pay attention to how the kicks can be used as a response, combination, and initiation. Remember the details and try copying once you hit the gym.

Even though you couldn’t pick up anything, you still get to watch for entertainment and inspiration.

7. Join local tournaments

What’s a better way to improve than real experience?

Practicing. Watching. Usually, these two aren’t enough for you to improve your Muay Thai. So, it’s time for the real deal.

Fighting in the ring and practicing in the gym are two worlds apart. The pressure will be intense. Your heartbeat will be crazy fast. And of course, your opponent will do the unexpected.

Even if you can’t take all the differences at once, at least get used to them as soon as possible. Create that switch called “competitive mode.” Develop your fighting instinct. And before you even know it, your techniques will grow.

8. Go to Thailand

If you’re desperate to get better at Muay Thai, how about visiting the home of the martial art: Thailand.

And once you’re there, don’t let your time go to waste. 

Find a gym nearby and attend their lessons. And since the gym is in Thailand, the training quality will be top-notch. Expect your teacher to be detail-oriented and intense. After all, they will want to know your worth as a foreigner.

In addition, the atmosphere will keep you focused. Again, you are in the home of Muay Thai, and you will feel the pressure to improve. And everyone around you, teachers or spar partners alike, expects the same result.

Still on the fence about training Muay Thai in Thailand?

READ MORE ▸ 6 Clear Reasons Why You Should Train Muay Thai in Thailand

Attention to details

Note that 6 out of 8 tips presented ask you to be detail-oriented. This is proof of how much little things matter. So go slow, ask questions, nail the basics, study rules, and watch matches.

When you’re ready to move on, give it all out and find a new experience. And if you want to go further, try flying to Thailand. Do all that, and you’ll be surprised with your progress.

Like always, if you want to discover more about Thailand, stay guided with ThaiGuider. You might learn something you never knew about this unique country.