They have a reluctance to disturb others, and a history of peacefully co-existing with other cultures. With strong cultural influences of Asia Chinese and Indian systems, the land is brimming with beautiful art, literature, and music. Much of the art is dedicated to Buddha, and murals of his life and teaching can be found in temples and palaces throughout the country. Because of their mild manner and accepting religious beliefs, Thai people are exceptional hosts to travelers looking to experience rich culture and friendly people.

Thailand is an agricultural society in an extremely fertile region. Plenty of rainfall and lush vegetation allow Thai crops to flourish year-round. Thai people are very content with the bountiful natural resources of their motherland.

Language

The language of Thailand is a complicated blend of several sources. English, Chinese, Pali, Sanskrit, Khmer, and Malay all have influenced Thai language. Confusing many foreigners, Thai is a tonal language with five different tones. For the adventurous travelers who would like to attempt the language, it is important to remember that all phrases should finish with the correct polite ending. For women, the word is “Kha.” For men, the word is “Krap.”

Other common words and phrases:

• Hello/Goodbye: sawatdee (Krap or Kha)
• How are you?: Sabai dee reu (Krap or Kha)
• Fine: sabai dee (Krap or Kha)
• Thank you: Kaup khun (Krap or Kha)
• Excuse me: kaw toord
• What is your name?: khun cheu aria?
• My name is…: phom (chan) cheu…
• I want…: ow…
• Please bring: kaw…daw (Krap or Kha)
• Menu: rai gann aharn

Customs Regulations

It is important to note a few important things when taking souvenirs from Thailand:

• Exports of Buddha, genuine works of art, and antiques require a special export license from the Fine Arts Department.
• Foreign tourists are allowed to take out, but not import, gold ornaments free.
• Narcotics, firearms, and obscene literature are prohibited
• Pirhana, and certain species of plant are not to be exported. (See Agricultural Regualtory Divison for details: tel. 02-579 15 81, 02-579 85 16)
• One still camera with 5 rolls, one movie-camera with 3 rolls of unused film and household effects may be brought in free of duty.

Celebrations
Festivals are an important aspect of Thai life. Many of the celebrations follow the lunar calendar and are moveable, while others have set annual dates. However, there are so many celebrations throughout the year that no matter when you visit, you will probably have the opportunity to experience at least one!

Songkran Festival- April 12-16
The traditional Thai New Year. This festival is an occasion for much merrymaking. Anyone who attends can expect to get soaked, but all in good fun of course!

Asarnha Bucha Day- full moon day of the eighth lunar month. This day is set aside to commemorate the Buddha’s first sermon to his first five disciples after attaining enlightenment.

Buddhist Lent Day- one full day after the full moon day of the eighth lunar month.Marks the beginning of the annual three-month Rains Retreat when the Buddhist monks stay inside their monasteries to study and meditate.

H.M. The Queen Birthday-August 12 Public buildings are decorated in honor of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit’s birthday.

Naga Fireball Phenomenon-
the full moon day of the 12th lunar month (On the Nong Khai Mekong River). Enjoy the unexplained and magnificent natural fireballs spewing from the river. Many other festivities accompany the fantastic spectacle.

Loy Krathong-the full moon day of 12th lunar month Homage is paid to the Mother of Waters. A quieter, more romantic event where people gather around rivers and lakes to float small lotus-shaped offerings called krathongs containing incense, candles, and coins.

Phuket Vegetarian Festival-(Sept 26-Oct 4, 2004 and Oct 14-22, 2004)
An annual festival in which residents of Chinese ancestry undertake a ten-day vegetarian diet, and participate in ceremonies at local Chinese temples.

H.M. The King Birthday-December 5
Thai people deeply revere their king, many would say, more so than any other country in the world. Buildings around the country are elaborately decorated in honor of the king. The palace is spectacularly illuminated.

Royal Regatta-December
(In Phuket) This annual event takes place in the waters of the Andaman Sea and is sponsored by the Phuket Yacht Club as well as other groups. Many competitors come to compete from several countries.
 

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Last Updated: 15 January, 2005

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