If you've ever tried to explain Thailand's colourful, diverse culture to a friend who has never visited, or to someone who is about to go and unsure what to expect, you'll know it's a tall order. Where do you start? From Nakhon Phanom to Nakhon … [Read more...]
A Complete Guide to Thailand’s Vegetarian Festival: What to Expect, Where to Celebrate & What to Eat
When you tell a restaurant or vendor that you gin jay, or essentially, eat vegan, Thais will bend over backwards to accommodate your request. Vegetarians and vegans alike are generally well-accepted in Thailand. This way of living is seen as a c … [Read more...]
Exploring the 14 Traditional Steps of a Thai Wedding Ceremony
Every culture has their own version of the classic wedding ceremony, deeply rooted with history and tradition, not to mention the trends of the times. Thailand is by no means any exception. These days, with the influence of merging cultures, it’s h … [Read more...]
How to Do the Perfect Thai Wai to the Right Person at the Appropriate Time
The Thai wai is not just a greeting or way of saying "hello", but an action of respect that represents the social status of the recipient. The wai is an integral part of organising the complex social hierarchy that binds Thai society together. It … [Read more...]
11 Gifts You Should Never Buy Your Thai Girlfriend [Unless You Want to Break Up!]
![11 Gifts You Should Never Buy Your Thai Girlfriend [Unless You Want to Break Up!]](https://www.thethailandlife.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/bad-present-thai-girlfriend-150x150.jpg)
If you're thinking about a present to buy your Thai "teerak", consider this: What you might think is a lovely gift could actually be her worst nightmare. So read on.... We all know Thailand is a superstitious place. While most Thais do believe in … [Read more...]
The Truth About Tipping in Thailand – Where, When & How Much
Those who've been to the US know tipping is commonplace, an expected practice, whereas in the UK it's entirely up to the individual. When it comes to tipping in Thailand, it's not so straight-forward. Now, even though I've been in Thailand a … [Read more...]
A Story of Two Songs – The Interesting History of the Thai National Anthem
If you've ever been to Thailand, or have any Thai friends, you'll know what an unbreakable sense of national pride Thais have. This is reflected by a number of traditions, none more important than showing ones respect to the nation and King through … [Read more...]
Is Thai Massage Really Good for You? Exploring the Claims Vs. the Science
One of the huge benefits of living in Thailand is the very affordable cost of getting a wonderful Thai massage. I am of course talking about the traditional kind, not the more saucy type, you may be disappointed to read. For a mere … [Read more...]