Thailand Vacations - Etiquette While Traveling in the Kingdom

Thailand vacations can be exotic, beautiful, sunny, unique and very rewarding. To get the most out of your vacation, learn about the customs and traditions that are expected of visitors and tourists to Thailand. With these tips can help you become one of their beloved guests. Reading through this list will help you understand the proper ways to conduct yourself in frequent situations. This will help you show respect for the people and their country. These basic principles will also keep you from unintentionally offending your gracious hosts.

Thailand Vacations Can Be More Than Just a Party
Thailand can be a truly unique and rewarding cultural experience. And it can be a great party. With relatively cheap prices, warm weather and friendly people, some places in Thailand has become overwhelmed with partygoers. Our recommendation is to have fun, party some, but consider what you will be missing if that is all you do. Also consider that this is the ancient home of your hosts.

Greeting people in Thailand with the Wai
One very important custom that is used in Thailand is the Wai. This is the accepted way of greeting others throughout the country. The Wai is performed by placing your palms together and letting your fingers point upward (in a prayer position). When you do this you also bend your head at the neck, to show respect to the people that you are meeting. Thai natives will appreciate your using the Wai while visiting with them because it is their tradition and accepted way of greeting another person. Every person in Thailand is familiar with this type of greeting, and will immediately respond in kind to this gentle and polite gesture. They will also be happy and flattered that you are showing honor by using the Wai while in their country.

Graeng Jai ... The Polite Thai Art of Refusal
Graeng Jai is a somewhat difficult concept to understand, as there is no good word or phrase in English. One you think you have it translated, Graeng Jai comes up in different forms. Some attempts at translation are, "don't want to impose on others", "over-polite", "don't want to say what you are really thinking", and "fear of disrespecting authority," "high respect for authority, elders or parents." While frustrating at times, it has a very important role in the culture.

Throughout Thailand whenever you are invited to join someone for dinner at their baan (house), turning down the offer is a gesture of graeng jai. To do this signifies is that you are being considerate, and not rude. To refuse the gesture means that you are trying not to cause anyone any extra bother or inconvenience. This term is actually used quite commonly for any occasion where refusal of different invitations is seen as being respectful of others. It is an old Thai tradition and a means of saving face. While offering to share meals or money with another person is standard, there may not be anything much to share. When the person refuses there is no embarrassment to anyone on either side. If the person really wants to share something with you and it is not an imposition, the request will be emphatically repeated, at which time you can accept with a clear conscience and good manners.

Respect Thai Customs
Thailand does have a long list of "must do" and "don't dare" actions. The Thai people are very gracious and hospitable so they won't get mad if you do not observe all of their traditional rules and customs, but it is a good idea for any traveler to be familiar with as many of these as possible. You would appreciate visitors to your own country showing the same respect for your own customs.

Inappropriate Dress In Thailand
Improper attire is one thing that Thai people frown upon. However, because of their graciousness and Graeng Jai, they may not say anything to you. So it is up to you to learn about it before you go and observe what others are doing. Some of the younger citizens are not as strict about dress codes, but the older people are. A general rule is to not bare shoulders or go shirtless in Thailand public places. On the beach, of course, it is no problem. But elsewhere, more traditional clothing is appreciated. Just remember to follow the "not too" reminders when it comes to your dress choices. Not too small, not too tight, not too skimpy and not too revealing.

Thailand's Spiritual Leanings...Buddhism
Buddhism is a very important part of Thailand life and culture and you should also respect their religious and spiritual beliefs while you visit. This belief and faith is shown in many ways. In Thai families when a son reaches the age of around 20 he will actually spend a short time as a monk. This is because it is believed that this action will send the mother and father to a heavenly destination when they die. Becoming a monk for any amount of time is one of the ways that these young men are able to demonstrate their faith in their spiritual beliefs. The temples are very holy structures to Buddhist believers.

Always show respect to any statue depicting Buddha, which means no climbing on them, no sitting beside them for a photo-op, and never put a Buddha figure on the floor.

Temple Traditions and Etiquette
In a temple setting rules and tradition are very strict. Your clothing must be acceptable in order to enter the temple. Modest dress choices are your best bet. There are usually sarongs available at all temples that can be worn by both men and women if your clothing is not accepted or is questionable.

Shoes come off before ever entering a temple. Some times you may see a man at temple wearing a tank tee and shorts, but this is taboo for a woman at the temple. Whether kneeling or sitting in a temple you must not let the soles of your feet face toward the altar. Women are not to touch or hand any objects to a monk at any time. If you need to return something to a monk you should place it on a nearby table where he can then retrieve it. Some monks have a more liberal viewpoint on this and have no problem with touching a woman's wrist to tie a string around it or a gentle touch on the shoulder. But always follow the monks lead.

Be respectful of The King and the Royal Family
In addition to respecting the Buddhist customs, travelers should understand the respect Thai's have for King Phumipon Adunyadet and the Thai Royal family. Remember to not make any disparaging or sarcastic comment about the king and his family. Not only would Thai's be deeply offended and outraged, it is illegal and carries consequences. This might seem outrageous to people who come from countries where they are free to criticize their leaders, however, it is not wise to challenge it (at least within Thailand). For the most part, this law is well-accepted and welcomed by Thais themselves, which suggests the enormous respect they have for their King. Their King and Queen have helped the country prosper and have been instrumental in converting opium production to organic farming, they have gracefully brought Thailand into the modern age while maintaining much of the old tradition, and are generally considered benevolent.

Basic Etiquette in Everyday Situations
If you are entering a Thai home please remember to remove your shoes first, this is their tradition. You may even be asked to do this in public restaurants, shops and stores. It's fun to do and you may want to continue this at your own home. Pointing with fingers and hands is considered rude behavior by Thai people. If you are sitting or kneeling across from others do not let the soles of your feet face them, as this is also considered rude and insulting. Never point at anything or any person with your foot when you are in Thailand. This is considered extremely rude because they consider the feet to be the lowest part of the body. To use them to indicate something is insulting to them. Refrain from touching someone else's head, even if it is only to remove a leaf or smooth their hair. Thais consider the head to be the highest and most respected part of the body. It is considered to be very rude for someone else to touch their head. Public displays of any affection are also extremely rude. Refraining from public shows of kisses or hugs is much appreciated.

Be Observant!
There are so many new sights, sounds and smells in Thailand. When arriving, you will probably be on sensory overload. But as you senses become more accustomed to your surroundings, observe what people are doing and how they are acting. As crazy as it sounds, try to fit in instead of stand out. Observe your body language, your voice volume levels, your group size, your presence. Then compare it with others around you - Thai and foreigners in your group. See if you can start to melt into the madness. Don't think of it as constricting - think of it as a gentle learning with Thailand as your teacher.

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By Steve Suranant

Travel Thailand: A Farang Fashion Faux Pas

I arrived in Bankok in April, knowing it would be hot, but was knocked out by the average 106° weather. After a chaotic trip to my guesthouse, through the most amazing traffic, I collapsed on the bed in nothing but my birthday suit. Prior to arriving in Thailand, I had researched what to pack. I wanted to bring comfortable clothing, but also pieces that would be appropriate for the various wats or temples I planned to visit.

To Thais, being sabai jai means having a contented heart, referring to a calm disposition. Foreigners or farang are thought to behave in a contradictory manner, being easily frustrated and exhibiting a quick temper or jai rawn.
I promised myself that I would blend in to my new surroundings and maintain an inward tranquility so prized in the Land of Smiles.

On my second day in Bankok I was headed to the former Thai capital Ayutthaya and the Royal summer palace, Bang Pa-In. Forgetting all of my carefully selected couture, I threw on the coolest pieces I had. Dressed in a sleeveless tank and black cotton skirt that hit above my knee, off I went. That was the end of my inner and outer tranquility.

As soon as I stepped on the bus, I became acutely aware that I had forgotten the dress code, but it was too late. My seatmate was an impeccably dressed British woman who looked appalled by my very presence. She avoided conversation and eye contact with me, and we rode to Ayutthaya in silence.

Unable to fully enjoy the Buddha statues and architecture that spanned centuries, I was consumed by the thought that I was offending past and present Thais. I was especially distracted when all my bare bits were in the company of monks. Overheated, sweaty and blotchy red, we headed to our next stop, Bang Pa-In the colonial-style summer digs for the Royal Family. We were told that clothing would be provided to cover knees and shoulders if we weren't dressed appropriately. I should have taken the offer. Instead I looked in my bag and grabbed a black sundress that I had stashed at the last minute. A frilly flamenco looking number, I looked ready for the stage than a stroll through a revered Thai attraction.

I was pleased with my find, and our Thai guide, always polite, said I looked fine. Off I went, and perhaps overly confident due to my modest attire, instead of opting for the covered golf carts, I joined the rest of the walking tour. I now understood how asphalt feels in the blistering sun. Trying to stay conscious, every so often I would sneak into a stream of water coming out of the sprinklers to keep the expertly manicure lawn looking green. How I envied that lawn.

Eventually I had to retreat from the walking tour and seek some shade. I looked up and saw two chic young Thai women in jeans and cardigans under a lovely umbrella. They were pointing and giggling. I must have looked a site, a large overheated, beet red woman in a formal black dress. I found out later that like Western culture, black is worn for funerals and can be considered bad luck. It was certainly bad luck for me.

I had become the traveler I vowed not to be, but now I knew better. The next day, wearing modest attire, I smugly hopped off the water taxi and headed for the gates of the Grand Palace complex. Unexpectedly, the clothing police directed me to a long line up of farang waiting to enter a small white building. On my turn a woman handed me a pair of socks. I put on the socks, slipped my sandals on and away I went. I walked toward the inner entrance of the Grand Palace but guards stopped me again, pointed at my feet, and gestured back the way I came. I wheeled around and was starting to get impatient, hot and frustrated. My jai rawn was showing up already, my second day in Thailand! As I trundled back in the hot sun, I watched smiling, perfectly poised Thai women dressed head to toe in warm looking clothing. I was so envious of their composure!

Back at the trailer, the attendants looked apologetic and handed me a pair of sport sandals. By the time I made it back to the entrance, I was sweating in the socks, long pants and modest shirt. After a few minutes I was again starting to overheat. I clicked a few photos and rushed towards the wrong exit. At first I thought I wouldn't be let out, but when I kept exclaiming "mai sabai" the guards knew I wasn't well and quickly let me pass. Embarrassed, I revived myself with ice cream and water.

Eventually, I began to adapt. Once I simply stopped to watch how Thais dealt with the heat, instead of trying to recall what I had read, I caught on to loose cotton clothing, and was much more savvy about sun exposure. In Thailand, the state of tranquility or sabai jai transcends physical appearances. It is intertwined with religion and philosophy, and to think I could attain something so intangible overnight was ridiculous. I needed to release the hold on what I thought I knew, in order to find my contented heart.

10 Ways to Beat the Heat in Thailand:

It's hot in Thailand all year round, but if you're affected by extreme heat here are some things to consider when visiting the Land of Smiles:

1. Although Songkran or Thai New Year is fun to experience, you may want to avoid Thailand in April. It's the warmest time of year, with little escape from the blistering sun. I had to miss certain attractions in Bangkok because I simply couldn't function in the extreme heat.

2. Keep hydrated. Buy lots of bottled water and be diligent about replenishing every hour.

3. Bring hydration packets with you. I met a woman from California who gave me this tip for my next trip to Thailand. You can pick up these packets at sports stores or drugstores and are usually used by athletes.

4. Make sure to bring loose, light colored clothing made from natural fibers like linen or cotton. Sport sandals are a must if you plan on visiting the Grand Palace in Bangkok, as well as a few modest pieces to cover shoulders and knees.

5. As soon as you arrive, buy an umbrella to keep the sun off. They're cheap and work well to keep you shaded. They look pretty too!

6. Stay near or on the water. The Chao Praya River in Bangkok, or escape to an island. It's much cooler.

7. Avoid too much sun and wear sun block. If you do get a sunburn, try a first aid vitamin E ointment. It worked wonders on my burned shoulders.

8. Wear a hat if you don't plan on using an umbrella.

9. Get up with the monks and do most of your sightseeing early in the morning.

10. Enjoy the spicy and delicious Thai food! The spice tends to make to salivate and perspire which cools you off and quenches your thirst.

Jane Arnold is a freelance writer and travel buff. She has spent time in Europe and North America, and most recently traveled to South East Asia. You can read more of her travel stories at [http://www.girlyside.com/girlyside.html] The website is a girl's guide to health, beauty, love and leisure. Sign up for the free newsletter at [http://www.girlyside.com/newsletter.html]

By Jane Arnold

The Land of Smiles - Natural Wonder and Impressive Culture

Throughout her long history, Thailand has absorbed immigrants. Many were skilled as writers, painters, sculptors, dancers, musicians, and architects. These immigrants helped to enrich Thailand's indigenous culture.

Minorities of Thailand include the Chinese, Thai Malays, and the Laotian. Anything between 9% - 15% of Thailand's population is thought to be Sino-Thai (depending on how Chinese is defined). In the early 19th and 20th Century, Chinese immigrants came and settled down here. They married Thai women, took Thai names, most of them adopted Buddhism (although they were not required to renounce their ancestor worship) and learnt Thai. As elsewhere in the region, these Chinese immigrants proved to be remarkably adept at money making and today control a disproportionate slice of businesses.This is an exotic land that is surprisingly convenient and accessible. First introductions are made in Bangkok, a modern behemoth of screaming traffic, gleaming shopping centres and international sensibilities interwoven with devout Buddhism. Even the most cosmopolitan Thais wouldn't dare choose a marriage date without consulting a monk or astrologer. And notice the protective amulets that all Thais - from the humble noodle vendor to the privileged aristocrat - wear around their necks: this is holy fashion.

Sitting upon the crown of the kingdom are misty mountains and Chiang Mai, the country's bohemian centre, where the unique and precise elements of Thai culture become a classroom, for cooking courses and language lessons, for curious visitors. Climbing into the mountain rang are the stupa-studded peaks of Mae Hong Son and villages of post-Stone Age cultures. Sliding down the coastal tail are evergreen limestone islands filled with tall palms that angle over pearlescent sand. Thailand's beaches are stunning, hedonistic and mythic among residents of northern latitudes. But few visitors trudge into the northeast, a region better suited for home stays and teaching gigs than quick souvenir snapshots. In this scrappy region you can dive deep into the Thai psyche, emerging with a tolerance for sparingly spicy food and a mastery of this strange tonal language.

A unified Thai kingdom was established in the mid-14th century. Known as Siam until 1939, Thailand is the only Southeast Asian country never to have been taken over by a European power. A bloodless revolution in 1932 led to a constitutional monarchy. In alliance with Japan during World War II, Thailand became a US treaty ally following the conflict. A military coup in September 2006 ousted then Prime Minister Thaksin. The interim government held elections in December 2007 that saw the former pro-THAKSIN People's Power Party (PPP) emerge at the head of a coalition government. The anti-THAKSIN People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) in May 2008 began street demonstrations against the new government, eventually occupying the prime minister's office in August. Clashes in October 2008 between PAD protesters blocking parliament and police resulted in the death of at least two people. The PAD occupied Bangkok's international airports briefly, ending their protests in early December 2008 following a court ruling that dissolved the ruling PPP and two other coalition parties for election violations. The Democrat Party then formed a new coalition government with the support of some of THAKSIN's former political allies, and Abhisit Wetchachiwa became prime minister. Since January 2004, thousands have been killed as separatists in Thailand's southern ethnic Malay-Muslim provinces increased the violence associated with their cause.

Thailand, the land of a 1,000 smiles, is one place where you can be sure of the warmest welcome. The friendly Thai people certainly have lots to smile about, from the tropical beaches of the south, to historic cities and jungle-clad mountains. On a holiday here, you can spend time in the lively capital, explore the country's varied culture and wildlife, then take your pick of beautiful beaches.

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By Chronus Banev

Traveling to Thailand? - 6 Valuable Tips Before You Go

To make the most of your stay in Thailand, it really pays to put some effort into your holiday preparations by learning a few things about Thai customs and language before you set out. You will find it a much more enjoyable and rewarding experience if you do. There are many excellent travel guides available of course, such as Lonely Planet, Fodor's Guides etc., but here are 6 valuable tips before you go:

1. Thailand is a fascinating country, with an ancient history and culture. It's worth reading a little about that history. It is also worth reading something about their religions, particularly their main religion - Buddhism. Buddhism is very strong all over Thailand, except for some areas in the South (neighboring on Malaysia) which are Muslim and quite militantly so. There are a few Christian churches in Bangkok, Chiang Mai and other centers, and among some of the hill tribes. When visiting a Buddhist temple, it is customary to remove one's shoes. If you squat on the floor, make sure that your feet are tucked away to the side and that the soles of your feet are not pointing towards the image of the Buddha, which would be disrespectful.

2. The people of Thailand are friendly, very polite and welcoming. It is important to be polite in return. Normally the service you will receive there will be excellent, but if for any reason you are dissatisfied with something and wish to complain, remember to do it in a quiet, sober manner without raising your voice or being abusive. NEVER do anything that will humiliate someone in front of others, as this could lead to serious consequences. It is very important for a Thai person not to lose face.

3. In addition to the many good Thai restaurants and western-style food outlets, you will find thousands of fast food stalls on the street, selling all manner of fare. The food from these stalls (including fresh fruit) is very cheap and in 99.9% of cases is hygienically handled and perfectly safe. I have lived in Thailand and have never had food poisoning from eating street food. Just beware of water (other than bottled) and especially ice.

4. The people of Thailand are very proud of their monarchy and the King is very highly regarded and loved by the people. Be careful not to make any remark that may be taken as disrespectful of the King or any of the Royal Family.

5. If you aim to learn to speak a few words in the Thai language, such as hello ('Sawat Dee Kap' when spoken by a man or 'Sawat Dee Kaa' when spoken by a woman) or thank you ('Kap khun kap' spoken by a man or 'Kap khun kaa' spoken by a woman), the average Thai person will be delighted and will respect you for it. However, with some words and phrases, be sure to get the pronunciation and above all the intonation correct. In Thai, the same word can have several different meanings, depending on whether the voice has a low or high tone, a rising or falling tone, or stays on a level tone. For example, the word 'khao' can mean rice, enter, white, mountain, he/she or news, depending on how you say it.

As you might guess, this can lead to some hilarious misunderstandings and very puzzled looks on behalf of the person you are speaking to. For instance, asking a waitress to pour some milk into your cup (sai nom) might be taken as 'would you mind shaking your breasts'! But remember, Thai people understand that foreigners (farang) often get it wrong and will take into account the context of the conversation. In this way, they will probably guess what you really meant to say. So don't give up; have a go.

6. Finally, before you go, to expand your appreciation of the country why not read a novel that is set in Thailand (such as 'The Orchid File'). If you are unable to find the time beforehand, then read it on the flight over. It will further enhance your appreciation of this fascinating country.

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By David J Hilton

The Use and Symbolism of Candles in Buddhism

"Thousands of candles can be a candle lit, and the life of the candle will not be reduced. Reduction of mutual happiness." Buddha

Candles are the old traditional Buddhist ritual. With incense and flowers in temples and Buddhist statues and images of Buddha, as a mark of respect. They are often responsible in the supply of food and beverages. Light a candle to represent the teachings of the Buddha. Candles and incense also cause the state of transience and light change.Their can also say that it symbolizes the Buddha's enlightenment.

Thai Buddhist Candle Festival

"A candle will not burn without fire, can people not to live without a spiritual life." Buddha
Buddhist Lent and predominantly Buddhist Thailand, in March of each year in July and led monks in particular. celebrated days before Lent Candle Day is on Thais. This festival is celebrated throughout the country code, but the ceremony will take place in northeast Ubon Rachathani Thailand (father).

According to tradition, the day began, the Buddhist Lent, because local residents complained about the Buddha. It is said that the number of monks were forced to do well tamboon () and went mountain rice fields. At that time, rice fields were the peak of its development, and go to those who have destroyed crops. Therefore, a legend, Buddha said to the monks every respect, but still within the limits of their temple. Buddhist Lent, today announced that all monks must not only their temple, and three months during the rainy season, which begins on the eighth day of the moon disappears.

Thais offers a wide range of products and characteristics of the monks, as well as candles and of course the famous Festival de la Vela. In the past, most churches have no electricity, so candles, an important symbolic role in the celebration, but also a practical everyday lighting. On the other hand they say they represent the wisdom of the divine light during the Festival of Sail was the practice of the Buddhist faith, candle light, and often spectacularly decorated by monks.
Sailing Festival to celebrate: "There are two ways of spreading light: a candle or the mirror that reflects it." Wharton

Days before Lent, to collect a large number of people, their candles, and decorated in the March parade with their design and beauty. Rich and ornate carving beautiful works of art are the strength of will, unity and faith of this community. Candle Procession parade includes the majority of all the clothes. Ubon Ratchathani is also the father of many groups of local artists, musicians and dancers, the candles, because they are accompanied by making the city. Even a beauty contest to select Miss Sail man (as the most beautiful woman in this community.)
The whole country, when the Festival de la Vela. Whatever the weather, the people in Thailand have fun and express their beliefs, 8 July to the beginning of Buddhist Lent.

"The fact that little candle throws rays! Lights is a good deed as a naughty world. William Shakespeare

Candle Meditation

Sitting quietly in a quiet candlelight. This can be any color, but some want a blue or white. Now examine the candle and focus on. Do not let your vision goes out of a candle flame. Observation burns the soul with the thought of his day, everyday problems and concerns filled. You should only begin to break, and after a while, you begin pictures and get ideas that seem to come from your. Take these spiritual guides and interpret their care.

Flame and interfere or attempt to interpret the visions replaced. A typical example is the "see" the onions. At first it may seem insignificant, but in this instance, we can say that we have to follow the path of lifelong learning, peeling layers you can see and experience the existence of a nucleus.

How to go about trying to learn meditation candle, rely on the analysis and understanding of these ideas, reminiscent of sailing. This form of meditation thus acts as an effective tool to focus on priorities.

Try building is five minutes of meditation a day for 20 minutes, and for several months. Your eyes need to adapt to the darkness and after some time, you can make a difference in your thoughts and may be a spiritual leader.

"It is better to light one candle than curse the darkness" Chinese Proverb
"White light is a holy place, and the beauty of a face at the age of" Joseph Campbell
Where is the largest yacht in the world?
"We talk about God and the imagination are one ..How is darker than the light. Wallace Stevens
Digress a bit and introduced Buddhism to find candles, I turned to see the human imagination can bring the world of the candles - that's what I found.

"A good teacher is like a candle - used to illuminate the other way." Immediately
There are many competitors and have a long history of research in the world more glider. The first significant competitor in the global U.S. Sailing - warm glow candle outlet in Centre Ville, Indiana, and argue that more sail around the world. But the exhibition in Stoc kholm in 1897, which was described in the sailing world record has been submitted. Weight of the candle, which was eighty feet high, and measures eight feet in diameter.

Society long Ajello Candles is the second candidate the title of the history of the world's largest sailing. In 1921 he created a candle in memory of Caruso Candle.This five meters in circumference and tapered at the top of 18 inches. This candle is an impressive 18 meters high, and candles burned down, said company continued to 1800 years, burn a day every year the anniversary of the death of Enrico Caruso.

In 2005, Jerusalem, sailed the world's largest Hannukha. Mass of candles, more than eight feet high and 85 cm wide. Pisgah is in the inner city. These are just some examples of what they are older, say, or candles in the world.

Nirvana is the breath of a candle. He extinguished the flame of a candle, because the day has come. "Rabindranath Tagore.

Part of http://www.thebuddhasface.co.uk Buddhism 101 Project - the most comprehensive and entertaining Buddhism resource ever created on the web.
http://www.thebuddhasface.co.uk

Visit Thailand

Thailand, formerly known as Siam, is a country of southeast Asia on the Gulf of Thailand (formerly the Gulf of Siam), an arm of the South China Sea. Bangkok is the capital and the largest city. Population: 59,396,000. Standard Thai is the national and official language of Thailand and the mother tongue of the Thai people, Thailand's dominant ethnic group. Thai comes from the Tai group of the Tai-Kadai language family. The Tai-Kadai languages are thought to have originated in southern China. It is a tonal and analytic language. The combination of tonality, a complex orthography, relational markers and a distinctive phonology can make Thai difficult to learn for those who do not already speak a related language. In addition to Standard Thai also known as Central Thai or Siamese, which is the official language of Thailand, it is home to other related Tai languages and many of these languages are spoken by larger numbers outside of Thailand. Most speakers of dialects and minority languages speak Standard Thai as well, since it is the language used in schools and universities all across the kingdom.

Standard Thai is composed of several distinct forms for different social contexts. Street Thai, which is informal and without polite terms of address. Elegant Thai, which is the official and written version, and includes respectful terms of address. Rhetorical Thai which is used for public speaking. Religious Thai which is heavily influenced by Sanskrit and Pāli used when discussing Buddhism or addressing monks. Royal Thai which is used when addressing members of the royal family.

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By Pauline Go

Thailand At a Glance

Thailand, originally called Siam, is situated in the center of Southeast Asia. It covers an approximate area of 5,133,115 square kilometers. It is geographically divided into two areas, the large expanse in the north and the comparatively smaller peninsular portion in the South. The country is bordered by Burma on the west, Laos on the north and east, Cambodia on the southeast and the Gulf of Thailand on the south.

People of Thailand

Several stories revolve around the origin of Thai people. Some say they came from China. Others believe that they came from Vietnam. Wherever they came from, there is an undeniable influence of Chinese culture over their lives. There is also a blend of other cultures arising from various dynasties and clans, such as Mon and Burmese people from the west, Javanese from the south, and Khmer from the east. In addition, there was a tinge of Indian influence as well. So armed with a blend of various cultures, it has developed a culture, which is unique to Thailand yet faintly reminiscent of other cultures.

Religion of Thailand

Buddhism is the basis of religion and spirituality of Thailand. The country is dotted with numerous Buddhist temples.

Culture and Art of Thailand

To appreciate the art of Thailand, one should look at the beautifully sculptured images of Buddha in temples. The temples also reflect the typical Thai architectural style as indicated by the multiple-structured temple compounds. The temple and the idols are adorned with ornaments gilded and embedded with glass mosaic, gold leaf, mother of pearl, and so on.
Traditional Thai music bears a lot of resemblance to Laos and Cambodia musical forms. Phi Phat, Kruang Sai, and Mahori are the major orchestral types that played in theaters, village festivals and by solo vocalists.

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Things to See in Thailand

Thailand has long been a popular tourist destination. Cheap, navigable, family friendly, and with a range of activities, it is easy to see why it is so popular. With the world economy shrinking, Thailand has become an even better choice to visit. Hotel prices have been cut and flights have become cheaper. If that wasn't enough of a reason, here are some others:
Thailand has some of the best beaches in the world. Whether you want empty beaches or lush resorts, Thailand has an island for you. You can choose between Phuket, a popular family destination, Ko Phang Nagn, a popular destination with backpackers, or Ko Lipe, an out of the way destination in the south of Thailand. No matter where you go, you will find wide white sand beaches, crystal clear diving, cheap accommodation, amazing seafood, and great diving.
If beaches and diving aren't interesting to you, Thailand a a variety of other activities for you. There are many historical sites such as Sukkotthai, Lopburi, and Ayutthaya There you can see the old capitals of the Thai Empire. and some stunning Khmer influence architecture.
Keep heading north for lush jungles, hill tribes, and river rafting expeditions. Up north in Chiang Mai you will also find some of the best shopping in all of Thailand at the Chiang Mai night market. Chiang Mai also boasts some amazing temples and is one of the centers of Buddhism in the country. If you head a little further north to Chiang Rai, you can use this city as a base to explore the wild and undeveloped north.
However, the best part of Thailand is its beaches and any trip to the country requires spending a lot of time at one of its many islands. With so many islands, there is bound to be one that suits your travel style. The lesser known and touristed islands such as Ko Lipe, offer travelers cheaper accommodation, more authentic interaction with the locals, better diving, and less crowds to share the beaches with. Most people come here for the sun and there is good reason to. Whatever your reason to come here, you will have a great time with so many available choices.

Matt loves Thailand and has been living in the country for two years. He has seen it all and still loves the beaches the most. His favorite thing to do in Thailand is Travel Ko Lipe.

By Matthew Kepnes