Chiang Rai is a city in northern Thailand, located in the province of the same name. Located just a couple of hours north of Chiang Mai, this quiet city is surrounded by lush green hills and mountains that offer a stunning backdrop for outdoor activities… Read More
10 Top Things to Do in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is a city in northern Thailand known for its rich culture, stunning natural beauty, and friendly locals. Located in the foothills of the Himalayas, Chiang Mai is the largest and most populous city in the region. One of the main attractions of Chiang… 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
Lady Bars in Thailand: 7 Must-Read Tips for a Safe Night Out
It’s no secret that many are attracted to Thailand because of its nightlife, which is largely centered around bars. There are, of course, different types of bar in Thailand, ranging from wine bars and pub-like waterholes down to open-fronted bars teeming with scantily-clad hostesses. But… 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
Minimum Wage in Thailand – For Foreigners & Thais
Did you know there is a minimum wage for foreign nationals working in Thailand? How much you get paid depends on your country of origin. Here’s how it works out: 60,000 Baht/month: Canada, Japan and the United States of America 50,000 Baht/month: Europe (including the… 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