The Thai Smile, Jai Yen and Jai Rawn
I thought I’d write about a couple of incidents I’ve seen in the past week which confirms one stereotype of Thailand and dispels another. …
Culture & Etiquette
Sanuk
Most guide books to Thailand will tell you about the Thai concept of sanuk which often gets translated as meaning ‘fun’. But sanuk is more …
Lucky Number 9
I’m not superstitious (touch wood), but plenty of Thai people are and spending time here it soon becomes apparent just how many superstitions …
Being Polite
Good manners are important in Thai society, but politeness isn’t always demonstrated in the same way as it is in many other countries. Although …
Chingchok Update and One More Thai Superstition
For all those animal lovers out there, you’ll be pleased to know that the chingchok that fell on my head has suffered no ill effects from his …
Falling Lizards, Friday 13th and Thai Superstitions
Picture the scene. It’s 2 o’clock in the morning, I’ve just switched off my computer and I need some shut-eye. I venture into the …
Thai Greeting, the Wai
Whether they’ve been to Thailand before or not, most people will be familiar with the traditional Thai form of greeting, the wai, in which the …
Learning the Thai Language
Whatever country you visit, local people usually appreciate if you make at least some effort to speak their language. Thailand is no different in this …
Farang in Thailand
The term ‘farang‘ (often pronounced as ‘falang‘) is a general term used by many Thais when referring to Caucasian visitors. …
Visiting Thai Temples
Visitors to Thai temples (wats) may find the atmosphere surprisingly relaxed as they often serve as local community centres. Within the temple grounds …
Jai Yen – Don’t Lose Your Temper
Thais have a philosophy of keeping their cool and not losing their temper; jai yen (cool heart). To raise your voice and lose your temper is not good …
Body Language in Thailand
Despite Thailand’s apparently laid-back and relaxed attitude, it can be surprisingly easy for unaware visitors to cause offence. Manners are …
Land of Smiles
Thailand is famously known as the ‘Land of Smiles’, and for good reason. But a Thai smile does not automatically mean that the person is …
Buddhism and Merit-Making
Thailand is pre-dominantly Buddhist (over 90% of the population are Buddhists). I am far from being an expert on Buddhism, but living in Thailand it …