Many people think of Thailand as a warm, happy, and welcoming nation because of the constant smiles. Indeed, Thailand is known as the Land of Smiles! But... Smiles in Thailand don’t always show happiness and are sometimes used as a mask. That’s not to detract from the fact that many Thai people are, in fact, … Continue reading Thainess Part 10: The Thai Smile
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Thainess Part 9: “No Problem”
Thais rarely display strong negative emotions, with bouts of anger, tantrums, and public crying somewhat unusual. This doesn’t mean they aren’t displayed in private, or that the emotions aren’t there, simply that a person does not want to lose face by showing their feelings in public. Thais are often seen as being super laidback because … Continue reading Thainess Part 9: “No Problem”
Thainess Part 8: Bathroom Basics
When I moved to Thailand some 18 years ago, many of the public toilets -- even those in more touristy areas and shopping malls -- were quite bad. I can vividly remember my first use of a squat toilet when an alternative was not possible. It was on the overnight train between Bangkok and Chiang … Continue reading Thainess Part 8: Bathroom Basics
Thainess Part 7: Attire & Prohibitions
I am quite a fan of traditional Thai clothing, chut thai (ชุดไทย), which literally means "Thai outfit". Generally, the items are made of colorful silk or hand-woven cotton and consists of several elements. For women, the parts are the pha sin (ผ้าซิ่น) in northern regions of Thailand which is a handmade traditional tube skirt, the … Continue reading Thainess Part 7: Attire & Prohibitions
Thainess Part 6: Family & Nicknames
Family Matters A Thai family eating in one of the many houses built on stilts on the banks of the Menam Chao Phya River in Bangkok, circa 1955. (Photo by Three Lions/Getty Images) Family almost always comes first in Thailand, with a much greater emphasis placed on the extended family than it typically is in … Continue reading Thainess Part 6: Family & Nicknames
Thainess Part 5: Superstitions
Often connected to the belief of ghosts and spirits, Thailand is a land of superstitions. It is customary for people to consult a fortune teller or monk for an auspicious date before arranging a wedding, buying a home, test driving a car, and other situations. There are superstitions related to spirits housed inside the body … Continue reading Thainess Part 5: Superstitions
Thainess Part 4: Spirit Shrines
Various animist practices have also been integrated into Thai religious life. Belief in ghosts and spirits is strong in Thailand, stemming from traditional pre-Buddhism beliefs, and you’ll notice miniature shrines set up in villages and cities throughout the country. The houses, called San Phra Phum, or shrine of the guardian spirit, are part of a … Continue reading Thainess Part 4: Spirit Shrines
Thainess Part 3: King, Nationalism & Religion
The Monarchy Thailand is a constitutional monarchy, and the royal family is revered throughout the country. The previous King -- Bhumibol Adulyadej, better known in the West as Rama IX -- was especially beloved for his six decades of public service and humble demeanor. Following his death in October 2016, his son Maha Vajiralongkorn (Rama … Continue reading Thainess Part 3: King, Nationalism & Religion
Thainess Part 2: Body & Gestures
Don't Touch the Head or Point With the Feet Thais place importance and significance to different parts of the body. The head is seen as the most spiritual part of the body and you should never touch a person’s head. This goes for children too — an affectionate ruffling of the hair could cause offence … Continue reading Thainess Part 2: Body & Gestures
Thainess Part 1: Greetings
The wai (ไหว้, pronounced like the English word "why") is a gesture that you will encounter almost immediately upon arrival in Thailand. An integral part of Thai etiquette, it consists of a slight bow, with the palms pressed together in a prayer-like fashion, or pressing your palms together at chest or nose level and bowing … Continue reading Thainess Part 1: Greetings
Mark Joseph Jochim 