Thai Culture: About The People
Thai Culture: About The People
Thai Culture: About The People
Values and Etiquette
Thai people are extremely polite, and skimpy attire is seen to be offense by many. Westerners
have garnered a bad reputation among many Thais due to immodest dress.
Shorts are seen, especially by older Thais, as inappropriate for adults. While attitudes are
changing among the younger generations, you might find a more comfortable and acceptable
alternative to be linen pants. Comfortable linen pants are readily available at street vendors, shops,
and markets in Bangkok and other cities.
Openly sharing your emotions, especially to strangers can seem strange to Thais. While not
offense per se, try to make sure that you’re not making your hosts uncomfortable.
Much as in India, the left hand is considered dirty. It should not be used to eat, receive gifts, or
shake hands.
The Food
Thai people eat with a spoon and fork for most meals, and sometimes with hands or chopsticks
for dishes from India or China, respectively.
Don’t lick your fingers! This is sometimes considered offensive in Thailand, something akin to
what an animal might do.
As part of a traditional Thai meal, you’ll typically be served rice or a rice dish with numerous other
dishes simultaneously. These aren’t side dishes, main courses, or appetizers, but complimentary. The
different dishes will be shared by all (so make sure you watch how you use your left hand when
eating).
Thai food has many regional variations and takes some inspiration from neighboring countries.
One great activity can be taking a couple of Thai cooking courses during your stay. This can
sometimes be very expensive, but if possible is a great way to familiarize yourself with Thai food.
Transportation
Thailand’s transportation infrastructure is very modern. In Bangkok you’ll find a very effective
mass transit system, headlined by the skytrain. This elevated rail system crisscrosses Bangkok and is
very easy to navigate. You can pay per ride and buy a pass during your stay. Frequently, instructions
in English or an attendant who speaks English will be available to assist you.
Trains can get you to any part of Thailand in relatively good time. Taking the sleeper car on a
night train can be an interesting experience and can save you hotel fees you might otherwise pay if you
traveled during the day!
Cabs are metered by law, but make sure it’s turned on when you take a cab. They’re relatively
inexpensive. Tuk-tuks, Samlor, rental cars, motorbike cabs, and buses are other options when
traveling within a city.
Langauge
Thai is the national language of Thailand, and the language of the dominant ethnic group, the
Thais.
It is, however, not the only language spoken. In some parts of the country you might also here
Isan, Phu, Phuan, Thai Dam, Galung, or other dialects and minority languages.
The Thai alphabet actually has its roots in the Khmer script of neighboring Cambodia. Written
Thai began to appear around 700 years ago.
Economy
Though Thailand has a growing and dynamic economy, around 49% of the labor force in Thailand
is still employed in Agriculture.
Tourism also makes a large contribution to the economy, while the service sector generally
contributes almost half of the GDP. Thailand is a relatively modern nation, with pockets of real poverty
and need.
Music and Pop Culture
Thai popular music and culture, from Thai films to Thai “idols”, together are a potent
phenomenon. Modern Thai pop, or string pop, is influenced by Britpop and the popular movements of
other Asian nations, but is very distinctive in its own right.
Thai films are increasingly popular worldwide, but especially in neighboring Laos, where the Thai
language can be readily understand by the local population.
Source: https://globeaware.org/destinations/asia/thailand/item/5801-culture