The Thrill Of Thailand: Fascinating Facts About The Land Of Smiles
Thailand is a stunning country blessed with mesmeric natural beauties, iconic temples, a wide range of cuisines, and lovely weather, which places it at the top of many people’s travel wish lists.
Though the land is seen as an idyllic holiday destination, Thai society is quite modest and traditional, with unique cultures in different regions. You’ll quickly notice many differences in lifestyle when touring the country. The society is full of captivating idiosyncrasies due to the seemingly countless cultural beliefs that influence what the Thais do, how they go about their daily activities and their personalities.
To give you more insight into the fascinating culture in the Land of Smiles, we’ve compiled a list of interesting facts about the ways of life of the citizens of Thailand. Read on to learn and enjoy!
1. Family Comes First
For the majority of Thais, family is the cornerstone of social life. They strongly believe in maintaining good family relationships, and the culture encourages people to stick together and help each other during tough times. That’s the reason why families live close to one another there.
Families usually include members of the extended family, close friends, and sometimes even close neighbors. It is so beautiful that you won’t be able to tell who’s part of the family and who isn’t because everyone is treated with love. The rest of the world should consider adopting this.
2. Education Is Cheap In Thailand
Public universities in Thailand are much more affordable when compared to Western countries. For international students looking to study abroad, Thailand is an excellent place to start. The country has numerous cheap universities, with prices varying depending on your course of study.
One added advantage of studying in Thailand is that the cost of living is cheaper compared to many most countries. An average of 45.8% lower than in the United States! Also, it is a peaceful country to live in since people don’t typically carry guns in public.
3. Thailand Has A Different Date For The New Year
For most countries and cultures, January 1st marks the beginning of a new year. But that is not the case for Thailand. In a season of new hope and new beginnings where people celebrate and chart goals and resolutions for the year, it is just another day in Thailand.
Over there, the New year is commemorated on the 13th of April according to the Buddhist calendar, and the festival continues till the 15th of April. The Thai water event held to purify the land is an exciting activity to look forward to during this time.
4. Monks Are Highly Esteemed
Since Thailand is the home of The Great Buddha, you shouldn’t be shocked that there are many monks there. You will undoubtedly come across many of them inside and outside the temples – in streets, buses, festivals, and other public places.
In Thai culture, disrespecting monks is a big no-no since they are greatly cherished, respected, and appreciated. If you misbehave near one, you should expect the locals to promptly point out your mistakes and express their disapproval. So, remember to be on your best behavior.
5. The Locals Are Quite Friendly
Discrimination is one of the major reasons travelers don’t enjoy their vacations. In most countries, people are usually not willing to help strangers for reasons best known to them, and this makes tourists end up feeling lonely, especially solo travelers.
However, this is not the case in Thailand. The people don’t shun strangers and are always eager to help. If you love to travel but have encountered unpleasant locals during your trips, take a trip to Thailand. It could be just the thing you need to purge that awful feeling of being discriminated against.
6. Myths About Wall Geckos
Geckos are typically found in the ceiling or walls, and they help get rid of mosquitoes and insects in the house. These animals are harmless, but with the Thais being a superstitious society, the people have attached paranormal attributes to them.
They believe that if a gecko sounds from the back when you want to leave the house, that’s a warning you will have a bad day. But it’s all good if the sound comes from the front of your house. Surprising how geckos can mean so much to one culture and nothing to another.
7. Thai People Can’t Get Enough Of Rice
Did you know that almost all Thai food, including popular desserts and noodles, is made of rice? This may surprise you, but it’s true. Rice, regardless of its shape or form, color or method of preparation, is Thailand’s most important staple food.
As important as bread is to Western nations, rice also plays an integral role in Thai culture. It is the food of choice for most people since they will eat it with almost every meal they take, be it soup, fruit, grilled chicken, or even ice cream!
8. Banknotes Receive A Lot Of Respect
The Baht is the official currency in Thailand. And it is tendered in two forms; coins and banknotes up to 1000 Thai Baht. They are not only a medium of exchange, but they also symbolize royalty because they feature the picture of the king.
This is why you must treat the banknotes with respect in this country. The locals even frown on putting them in your back pockets because they believe you will end up sitting on the notes, which is disrespectful to the king!
9. Red Fanta Is Used As A Sacrifice To The Gods
Thais are superstitious and believe in ghosts and paranormal powers. So, one thing you will find in every house in the country is a well-decorated spirit structure that is placed right outside the building or in the yard. As strange as that sounds, it’s not even the most shocking part.
They believe spirits are capable of making their lives good or miserable, so they worship them with food and red Fanta. Apparently, since they can’t always use blood for sacrifice, strawberry Fanta does the job just fine. Vendors and manufacturers must make a killing out of this!
10. Greeting Is By Wai Gesture
Touching one another is not a common thing among the locals in Thailand. You won’t even see couples walking hand in hand or people shaking or hugging to extend greetings. If you come from a country where that’s common, it could take a minute to adapt. They greet each other by adopting a particular gesture.
While there, you will notice people bowing to themselves with closed palms directed towards their chin. This is called the Wai greeting, and it is the official way of greeting people. If you like to feel pompous, Thailand will make you bow!
11. University Students Wear Uniforms
The longest a child has to wear a uniform to school in most countries is until high school. But Thailand has very different school customs from other cultures. One that stands out is that there is a general uniform designed for university students throughout the country.
As long as you are still an undergraduate student in Thailand, you must wear this uniform. You can’t even flaunt trendy clothes to school as an adult, which is a pity. So, before you apply for University there, consider this interesting fact.
12. Great Buddha Of Thailand
One of the tallest sculptures in the world is the imposing Phra Buddha Maha Nawamin. It’s a 92-meter-tall gold-plated Buddha statue located in the Ang Thong Province. It is considered Thailand’s most popular statue. If you ever visit Thailand, you should try and check it out during your stay.
Also, get insight into the history of these statues by visiting the Wat Traimit temple in Bangkok, where you can locate the largest solid gold, Buddha. However, remember to focus on the tour and not the gold, so banish any ideas of a grand heist!
13. Trail Track Market Is A Thing
If you haven’t seen a market centered around rail tracks before, then you should look out for the Maeklong Railway Market during your visit to Thailand. The 100-meter railway offers you a unique market experience of seeing trains in the middle of a busy market.
Vendors are often seen selling goods like fresh fruits, fish, and many others right next to the rail line. Shopping here is fascinating as you get to experience the rush scene where people protect their goods by packing them back when the train comes and displaying them again after it leaves.
14. The Head Is Sacred
Among the Thais, the head is the most spiritual part of the body. Since it sits above all other parts, it’s treated with corresponding respect. You should never touch someone’s head or hair without their permission. It is considered offensive.
It is best you keep your hands to yourself when dealing with the Thais. Imagine landing yourself in trouble because you playfully ruffled a kid’s hair! If this happens by accident, apologize immediately so you don’t end up offending the locals.
15. Thailand’s Food Is Universally Considered One Of The World’s Finest Cuisine
Food is a significant cultural asset in Thailand. The cuisine there lays a great emphasis on bold flavors and healthy ingredients. It is also famous for its distinctive spices, herbs, and fresh produce, which help to define the Thai identity.
The country’s local dishes are unmatched worldwide. Once you savor a plate of spicy shrimp soup and Thai stir-fried noodles, complete with a cup of iced tea, we are confident you will bid your country a bitter yet heartwarming farewell!
16. There Is A Special Festival For Monkeys
November is the peak season for tourists in Thailand. It is also when the Lopburi Monkey Banquet Festival is celebrated. Therefore, if you are in Thailand at this time, make sure you don’t miss the chance to take part in the unique festival.
This feast is conducted in honor of Lopburi’s numerous macaques, who are believed to bring luck to the neighborhood and its residents. The guests are the monkeys who live in the town. So, watch out, or you could be caught up in a food fight!
17. Toilet Paper Is Multipurpose
As a visitor, you would be shocked to find out all the ways in which toilet paper is used in Thailand. It is often used for random things instead of napkins because they don’t usually make use of napkins there.
Don’t be surprised to find it on dining tables or in the toilets to clean your hands. Some even save it in their bags to blow their nose. So much burden for soft paper. We wonder how they coped with the toilet paper shortage three years ago.
18. The Weather Is Warm And Beautiful
Thailand naturally has a humid subtropical and tropical climate, with an average yearly temperature of 30 degrees. Typically, weather conditions over there are characterized by shifting winds and air currents that affect the weather throughout different seasons of the year.
Thailand’s winter is especially stunning since it’s usually cool, making it the ideal season for a beach and sightseeing vacation. Despite seasonal variations in climate, the country never experiences below-freezing temperatures. It is a beautiful warm country, you can visit all year round.
19. Girls’ Education Is Important
Despite having a reputation as a traditional nation where educating a girl child wouldn’t be of any importance, Thailand places a high priority on female education. It is one of four Asian nations that has successfully pushed for girls’ education rights.
Everyone agrees that every girl should have access to education. All parents, therefore, strive to enroll their daughters in school. Also, the government and international organizations have worked incredibly hard to support this endeavor. They are an inspiration for other countries where this is not the norm.
20. Washing Your Feet Is Appreciated
In human anatomy, the feet are the lowest part of the body, and they are treated as such in Thailand. The people do not attach any importance to the feet since they believe that feet are spiritually low and the dirtiest compared to any other parts.
So, it is a normal practice to wash your feet when you get home after being outside. This is such a serious practice among the people that there are numerous designated places provided to wash your feet in public. Thank heavens they rarely wear boots!
21. Thailand Struggles With Air Pollution
Thailand is usually promoted as an excellent holiday destination. However, there’s a negative side of the country that is not often talked about. Allow us to bring your attention to one. Its capital is the sixth most polluted city in the world.
Sometimes, pollution spikes above safe levels and causes a hazy cloud of smoke that makes the eyes burn. This has been responsible for the death of many people in the country. So, be thankful if you have access to free clean air. It is a flex.
22. Gambling Is Illegal
Gambling is one of the biggest get-rich-quick schemes that has ruined many people’s lives worldwide. The worst part is that it is very addictive, so if you are not ready to lose money, protect your sanity by steering clear of this activity.
The Thai government banned both land-based and online gambling to protect its citizens. You can only bet on horse races and the government-sponsored Thai lottery, drawn twice a month. With less access to it, it’s believed that minimal harm would be caused.
23. Loss Of Face And Respect Are Big Deals
As a conservative country, Thais value respect and detest shame, especially in public. Losing face is a bigger deal there than in many other western nations. So, people express respect in several ways, including language and gestures like the wai greeting.
Making jokes at the expense of others or shouting at them in public can be very embarrassing and can make them lose face. Anyone who does this should be prepared to face whatever punishment the community deems appropriate because Thailand is intolerant of rudeness.
24. Everybody Takes Care Of Everybody
Thais crave the warmth and support of group living. Many generations can cohabit in one household in Thailand. It’s rare to see a lonely adult in Thailand, as is the norm in most developed countries where nursing homes are common.
The young look after the elderly, and the grown-ups also look after the young in Thai society. Nobody is left behind, and even the neighbors play a huge role in a child’s upbringing. This shows the importance of inclusivity in the culture.
25. Keep Your Feet On The Ground At All Times
While sitting idle at a desk, there is always an urge to place your feet on the table just to relax. Surprisingly, this is impolite in Thailand. As we mentioned before, feet are considered low and dirty, so you shouldn’t show your feet to anyone.
If you happen to visit, sit properly to avoid offending others. You might not be comfortable with it, but remember you are not at home. So, if you love putting your feet on the table, ensure you do it privately in Thailand.
26. Poy-Sian Inhalers Are Common
You must have seen at least one individual using a nasal inhaler if you have ever traveled to Thailand. The weather there is humid, so people often suffer from stuffy noses. As a result, inhalers are commonly used to relieve this ailment.
Locally, they are called ya dom, which means “medicinal inhaler.” Poy-Sian Inhalers are especially popular among citizens, and it’s not uncommon to see someone with one of them casually dangling from their nose on the street. If you do, remember it’s rude to stare!
27. Respect Is Shown In All circumstances
Have you ever experienced a moment where someone rudely interrupted your conversation with a friend, blocked your view, stepped on your shoes, or caused you any problems on the street? If you have, we bet not all the culprits apologized for the trouble.
This would never happen in Thailand; everyone is aware of their environment, no matter how busy the streets are. If someone wrongs you, they will show remorse and duck their heads to apologize. This is one of the numerous beauties of Thai culture.
28. Fathers Have Good Relationships With Their Daughters
Like all the good parents we know, Thai parents treat their families with love and kindness. They value opinions, respect their children and encourage them with kind words, attention, honor, and every other form of affection parents bestow on their kids.
This is even more important when it comes to a father-daughter relationship. Fathers would do anything for their daughters, and it’s not uncommon for them to live in their parent’s homes until marriage, thanks to this strong bond. It’s sad that that’s not the case for dads and girls everywhere.
29. Fried Insects Are Popular Snacks For Locals
To most people, the idea of eating insects is disgusting. Who would want to put bugs in their stomachs? Well, to this, Thais respond in the affirmative! These guys are insect eaters. To them, fried bugs are considered yummy snacks to be enjoyed over a beer.
Fun fact, insects are quite nutritious and a good source of protein. As a tourist, your itinerary would not be complete without tasting Thai fried insects for their deliciousness. So, don’t hesitate to try this when you tour the streets of Bangkok or Phuket.
30. Squat Toilets Are The Norm
These days, people get too comfortable on the toilet seat. It is even worse when they decide to take their phones with them. Sometimes, you could be waiting for someone to come out, and they end up taking forever in there!
Thailand has the perfect solution to this problem. The locals use a pit toilet where you have to squat while using it. This is actually a healthier option since the posture you adopt makes taking care of your business easier. Let’s see how comfortable you get in there!
31. Women Wear Shorts Under Dresses Almost Always
Thai weather is hot and humid, so people usually wear light clothes to prevent heat. Don’t be surprised when you see women in short dresses and tennis skirts and shorts underneath on the street. It’s solely because these clothes are free and cool in hot weather.
In a modest society like Thailand, short skirts can be deemed inappropriate, so the ladies ‘cover up’ by wearing shorts underneath their dresses. You might find this tacky, especially if you live in a less traditional country, but this helps women feel comfortable in their dresses.
32. Smiles Carry Different Meanings
As already mentioned, Thailand is referred to as the “Land of Smiles,” and with good reason. People perceive Thais as kind, joyful, and welcoming due to their easy smiles. That said, a smile doesn’t always indicate that someone is happy.
Traditionally, Thais don’t show emotions in public, so smiles are occasionally worn as masks. However, this is not to diminish the fact that they are kind and lovely. Rather it’s to show that a seemingly happy face might not always be what you think it is.
33. Bride Price Is Compulsory
During wedding ceremonies, it’s customary in Thai culture that the bride’s family receive “Sin Sod,” or Thai dowry, from the groom as compensation for giving their daughter’s hand in marriage. This is a common practice in some parts of the world.
The essence is to demonstrate to the bride’s family that the groom has the means to support and take care of their daughter after marriage, as all her needs are now the responsibility of her husband. It also explains why marriage is a big deal and a source of pride for Thai ladies.
34. You Must Cover Your Body When Driving
Driving shirtless is not a big deal in most parts of the world, especially in Europe, because nobody cares. But this is not the flex you think it is in Thailand. In fact, it is a crime to drive shirtless over there.
The society cares about what you wear in public, and not even hot weather is enough reason to go around shirtless, let alone drive. Doing this will put you in trouble, so you should avoid the urge by all means.
35. Thailand Takes Its National Anthem Extremely Serious
Stopping in your tracks while going about your daily activities because of the national anthem may sound like a strange thing to many. But in Thailand, you have to get used to this because you are in the Land of patriots.
The National Anthem is played to the public every morning and evening. As long as you are in the vicinity, you must stop to show respect to the country and slightly bow at the end of the song before going about your business.
36. Baby Dolls Are Auspicious
Child angel or Luk Thep doll culture is another fascinating aspect of Thailand’s culture. It’s believed that these dolls are capable of bringing good luck and prosperity. So, people treat them like real babies, and they are adorned, fed, and even celebrated in Buddhist temples.
The fact that Thai people are superstitious can’t be overemphasized. Their belief in supernatural powers is so strong that they go to any lengths to satisfy revered spiritual items. We wouldn’t be surprised if these dolls live a better life than we do!
37. Cooking Is Done In The Open
We should mention that in Thailand, before the development of modern facilities like hoods, people had their kitchens situated outside the house because Thai cooking has a very strong aroma, and people didn’t like the smell of chili and garlic lingering in the house.
Another reason for this is that Thai cooking involves a lot of frying, which makes oil splashes a common occurrence. Another contributing factor is the hot weather. That said, nowadays, with modern facilities like air-conditioning, some houses have kitchens inside.
38. It Is Rude To Point Your Finger
Normally, when you are strolling down the street and are asked for directions to a particular place, the first thing you would do is point your finger toward the direction to follow. Surprisingly, this would be considered impolite in Thailand.
You never point your finger in Thailand. If you must point, then you can do that by using your whole hand or sticking out your chin in that direction. All these rules are just to point something out. Indeed, Thai culture is not for the weak.
39. Thailand’s Traditional Dress Is Chut Thai
Every country in the world, no matter how civilized, has its traditional outfit worn for formal or cultural events, and the Thais are not exempt from this. In Thailand, the women wear the Chut Thai for their traditional and cultural occasions.
The outfit consists of a long-sleeved collarless blouse, and a long, tube-style skirt called a sinh, which may be plain or patterned with beautiful embroidery. This dress depicts femininity and refinement, which highlight some of the core values of the culture.
40. Superstitions Are Rife
Thinking about all the dos and don’ts of Thai Culture will probably raise a lot of questions in your brain because you wonder how some of these rules came to be, depending on how strange or ridiculous they sound to you.
Thai culture perceives a lot of normal things as an abomination, and one of those is that they believe you shouldn’t step on the door’s threshold, so you don’t provoke the spirits living inside. That means that each time you go to the temple or visit someone’s home, you have to skip inside!
41. Loy Krathong Serves As Thai Valentine’s Day
Loy Krathong Festival is a traditional event where people release light lanterns into the air and make wishes. The festival is celebrated to honor the Thai Goddess of Water and Buddha. It is also seen as a localized version of Valentine’s Day.
The festival offers a chance for young people to socialize, and it is not unexpected to see a man propose to his partner during this time. With millions of bright lanterns glowing in the night sky, the festival is such a beautiful and romantic setting to say “I do.”
42. Disrespect To The Royal Family Will Put You In Trouble
Thai culture is firmly imbued with love and respect for the royal family. Whenever you walk in Thailand, you can’t miss the photographs of the recently departed King and the new king. These images are highly regarded by the people.
Foreigners visiting the country from nations where there’s no royal family can easily get in trouble for not respecting the royal family worship culture practiced in the country. So, mind your manners in Thailand; you don’t want your enjoyment to end in imprisonment!
43. Always Leave Your Shoes Outside, And Don’t Point Your Feet
Watch where and how you place your feet in public because Thais are very big on cleanliness, and pointing your feet at others is seriously frowned upon. The worst is pointing your feet at Buddha since this is considered ungodly in the land.
Also, piles of shoes at the entrance of buildings are a common sight in Thailand because you can’t wear your shoes to houses or temples. Even if the shoes are new, they are still considered dirty. Remember that next time you’re packing your latest Nikes for a trip to Thailand!
44. Thais Are Very Accommodating
From the name “Land of Smiles,” you should know that Thailand is a very friendly destination where graciousness is of high value. It’s a conservative and kind society that ensures people maintain good relationships among themselves and with strangers alike.
The people are group-oriented and are all about what’s best for others rather than individual interests. Apparently, they don’t even say no to you! Even though they might not later agree to your request, they will still tell you yes. Funny, but that’s the norm.
45. Idyllic Holiday Gateway
It has been said that Thailand is a welcoming country to anybody from different parts of the world. That aside, the icing on the cake for tourists visiting Thailand is the stunning islands found in almost every part of the country.
Watching the sunset on the beach, combined with tons of activities like stargazing and exploring nearby places on a boat, is awesome. Did the movie The Beach with Leonardo DiCaprio come to mind when you saw this photo? The film was set in Maya Bay in Thailand.