Writing the recent article about Thailand's coffin ceremony for the living reminded of another unusual story I saw on Thai television a few years ago. The Thai reporter was investigating the folklore in parts of north and north-eastern Thailand which talks of mysterious ‘widow ghosts’ or lai … [Read more...]
Thailand’s Coffin Ceremony for the Living
June 2, 2011 By
There aren’t many things in Thailand that surprise me any more. After a while living in Thailand you know that just about anything is possible. However, I must admit I did raise an eyebrow this morning when I saw the latest news from the campaign trail. In an attempt to increase their chances … [Read more...]
Bless This Vehicle
May 23, 2011 By
Going on any journey in Thailand can be an eye-opening experience and not just because of the more 'relaxed' attitude to safety compared to the West. Getting in a vehicle in Thailand also provides an intriguing insight into Thai superstitions with its mix of Buddhist, Brahmin and animist beliefs … [Read more...]
Gasoline in Whisky Bottles
April 21, 2011 By
When travelling around Thailand you may notice small carts or stalls at the side of the road with whisky bottles. These can be seen outside some small independent shops or restaurants, but although the bottles are labelled as 'Johnny Red' or '100 Pipers' the original contents have long since been … [Read more...]
Thailand’s Blind Musicians and Singers
March 3, 2011 By
If you stay in any big town or city in Thailand for long enough you are likely to encounter the country’s street musicians. Many of these street singers are blind and this is how they earn a living. With a microphone in hand and an amplifier hung around the neck, the blind singer is usually guided … [Read more...]
Monk Baskets
February 28, 2011 By
If you are out and about shopping in Thailand you may notice some shops selling orange baskets or buckets which contain a number of everyday items like soap, detergent and toothpaste. These buckets are bought by lay-people who then donate them to monks or to the temple. By doing this, the person … [Read more...]
Keeping Up Appearances
January 19, 2011 By
Personal appearance is important to most Thai people and there are plenty of reminders to this fact if you look around you on your visit to Thailand. Every town and city in Thailand seems to have an over-supply of beauty salons and barber shops. They serve as a testament that for a number of Thai … [Read more...]
