Thailand is a country known for its rich cultural heritage, and one of the most spectacular and important events in the Thai calendar is the Loy Krathong Festival. The Loy Krathong Festival is held annually on the full moon night of the twelfth lunar month… Read More
What Does ‘Farang’ Mean in Thai & Should I Be Offended?
Thais use the word “farang” to describe or reference white-skinned foreigners. In Thai the word is spelt ฝรั่ง. It is a contraction of the Thai word for French/France, ‘farangset‘, which dates back to French Indochina in the 17th Century. Language experts have deduced that the… Read More
Mai Pen Rai – What It Really Means & When to Use It
Mai pen rai is one of the most commonly used phrases in Thailand. But it isn’t just a phrase. It has a cultural significance that reflects an attitude to life, and, as we’ll discuss, it doesn’t always mean what us “foreigners” think it means. Don’t… Read More
Understanding Kreng Jai – The Considerate Side of Thai Culture
Kreng Jai is a Thai verb that literally means “awe of heart”. It is a phrase fundamental to the way Thai society operates. Looked at individually, the words translate as: Kreng, to fear something or be afraid to act; and jai, something of the heart… Read More
Jai Yen Yen – What Does It Really Mean?
Jai Yen Yen (Jai Yen) is a phrase you’ve probably heard if you’ve been in Thailand for any significant period of time. Jai Yen translates to English as “cool heart”. When a person says “Jai Yen Yen” to you, they are telling you to keep… Read More
Days and Their Corresponding Colors in Thailand
Did you know that in Thailand each day of the week is associated with a different color? Wearing the correct color on the correct day is said to be lucky, but there’s more to it than that. This part of Thai culture is influenced by… Read More
Prostitution In Thailand: History, Legal Status and Social Impact
For decades, Thailand has been a popular destination for sex tourism, attracting men (mostly) from around the world who seek the services of Thai sex workers. But what are the origins of the industry in Thailand, and what is the legal status of prostitution in… Read More
A Guide to Thai Spirit Houses
Spirit houses are common in Thailand and no doubt you’ve seen them outside homes, hotels, malls and even on farmland. But what are these spirit houses and why do people have them? Ask a Thai and the answer you’re likely to get will be something… Read More