When we were growing up and were taught geography using big heavy atlases, Thailand had the name Siam in brackets, and we never understood what it meant. The name Siam does not appear anymore, nor do the atlases. Siam is the historical definition of the Kingdom of Thailand and was known by that name until 1939.
Days after the Second World War ended, Phibun, a true nationalist, took over the government and called the country Thailand. “Thai” means “free people,” and Phibun wanted to bring the people closer to the modern world. They still preserved their uniqueness and solo identity, though.
Siamese Cats
The Siamese cat is thought to be the first Asian-origin cat. It is native to the kingdom of Siam, known today as Thailand, and in the 19th century, it became one of the most popular cat breeds in Europe and America. The Siamese cat has been associated with the Thai royal family and is recognized by its dazzling almond eyes and distinguished coat, with darker shades on its face, ears, tail, and paws.
The Siamese cat, as we know it today, doesn't look much like it did decades ago, not only in terms of features but also concerning the cat's personality. The modern Siamese cat is much friendlier and more loving than the original Siamese.
Slipping Shoes
Thankfully, the weather in Thailand is hot and humid for most of the year, and we say this not only because we are sun worshippers but also because it is considered disrespectful and impolite to enter places with your shoes on. Before entering homes, temples, public places, or any sacred place, your shoes must be taken off and piled amongst the others at the entrance.
Now you understand why we are grateful for the Thai weather and the Thai flip-flops. In Thai culture, the sole of the shoe is considered the dirtiest and lowest part of what a body can wear; therefore, it has no room in the places that are supposed to be the purest.
Phi Ta Khon
Many festivals, holidays, and memorial days decorate the calendar in Thailand, and the Phi Ta Khon Festival is one of its most significant. It is celebrated in the Dan Sai district and is considered the most colorful event of the year. The festival goes on for three days and can be celebrated anytime between March and July, depending on what the head of the district decides.
One of the most recognized symbols of the festival is the vibrant masks people wear alongside the lively parades. Traditional music accompanies the celebrators alongside many religious elements. The story behind this festival is related to one of Buddha's past lives when he turned out to be alive after going on a long journey and was presumed to be dead. The festivities of his return were so loud they were said to have the ability to wake the dead.
Put Your Shirt On
So, you have made it all the way to Thailand, and the last thing you have on your mind is renting a car and touring the island. What are hammocks for? Doing nothing more than watching the sea all day is our kind of holiday, however, there are some who will decide to get themselves a pair of wheels and do some severe sightseeing.
Remember this. Whatever you do, put a shirt on. It is strictly forbidden to drive a car shirtless in Thailand. The police officer wouldn't buy any of your excuses. The fact that you are a tourist won't matter, and the fine will have to be paid sooner or later. Invest in a nice T-shirt instead of spending the money on a ticket.
70 Ethnic Groups
Thailand is a cluster of more than 70 ethnic groups. It is a mosaic of Thai, Chinese, Lao, and Malay people. Obviously, the Thai are the majority in the country, however, the Chinese are not far behind. There have been Chinese people living in the Thai nation for hundreds of years and they are considered the largest minority in the land.
Thailand's southern areas are mostly populated by Malays, who have been living there for generations, too. In addition to known traditions sourced from the Chinese and Malay cultures, many tribes are grouped up and down the country, contributing to the rich and diverse ethnic pattern of these remarkable islands.
Buddhism Is the Main Religion
The people of Thailand don't underestimate their religion, which takes a significant part of their life. More than 90% of the population practice Buddhism, which is felt wherever you go. No matter where you choose to go, the landscape is filled with Wats — traditional Buddhist temples.
Alongside those, you will find endless Buddha statues, many coated in dazzling gold. After China, Thailand has the second largest population of Buddhists in the world, with a whopping 64 million people who practice it. It plays a considerable role in their way of life. The majority of them cannot imagine their life without it.
It Is a Non-Stop Party
If you are always in the mood for a party, Thailand will be the perfect place for you. There is always something going on, a reason to celebrate, and the skies are always lit up for one occasion or another. Ok, maybe not always, but it certainly feels that there is never a dull moment. If you plan to visit Thailand, check out what local holidays are coming up, as you will not want to miss out.
Thailand has various national holidays; each region has its own celebrations, too, and something fun and exciting is always happening. Songkran, the Thai New Year, and Loy Krathong, the festive of lights, are the two you should definitely arrange your plans around.
The Yaksha Protector
The Thai landscape is filled with many unique and distinctive sights. One of these sights is the giant Yaksha figure. The Yaksha is a significant part of architecture and temple art in Thailand, and they can be seen everywhere. There is even a huge one at the airports to welcome the arrivals.
The Yaksha are thought to be guardian warriors who are there to guard temple gates. They are referred to as Yaks, and when children are taught the alphabet, just like we learn that C is for cat and D is for dog, the Thai children learn that Y (Yau) is for Yak.
Thai Cutlery
Most people around the world assume that chopsticks are used for eating all over Southeast Asia, however, this is untrue. Chopsticks exist in Thailand but are used mainly for fishing and eating noodles in soup. One of the many pieces of cutlery used by the Thai people is a spoon.
They use the spoon in their dominant hand and add a fork just to pile it on. The food in Thailand is so delicious, and the spoon makes the textures and shapes much easier to handle. According to a survey, Thai food is the preferred Asian cuisine in the Western world, apparently even more than Japanese.
No Logging
In past years, logging, not only in Thailand but worldwide, was not supervised, and whoever wanted it just helped themselves to some timber. Years later, the awareness of the impacts on climate, natural habitats, and lots more became a significant issue, and logging these days is regulated.
Following the broad impact on natural forests and the growing environmental movement in Thailand, in 1989, logging became illegal. Thailand still has remarkable natural parks scattered all over the country, and as they take their rules and regulations seriously, it will stay like that. These days, the Thai people think highly of their green spaces and consider the natural habitats as sacred.
The Smallest Mammal in the World
Kitti's hog-nosed bat, also known as Craseonycteris Thonglongyai or the Bumblebee Bat is considered to be the smallest mammal in the world, and that is not the only thing that makes this creature so unique. The Kitti's hog-nosed bat can be found in one place only.
The limestone caves located in the province of Kanchanaburi and by the Khwae Noi River are where this unique mammal can be found. The mammal's body is as big as a bumblebee's, and that is where it gets its name from. The average weight of the small animal is around two grams. Being so small, it is no wonder it's afraid to leave home and can't be found anywhere else.
Lopburi Monkey
Lopburi is the capital of the Lopburi region and is located about 150 km north of Bangkok, the capital city. The meaning of the name Lopburi is "the City of Lava" and relates to the ancient Indian prince Rama. Every year, the city hosts a unique and bizarre festival called the Monkey Banquet.
The extravagant population of Macaque Monkeys is honored with a grand banquet. The monkeys are presented with lavish fruit, vegetables, and loads of other treats. The Phra Prang Sam Yot temple hosts the event, and many locals believe that these monkeys bring good luck. The tradition has been celebrated for years and is quite an experience to witness.
Complicated Writing
If you thought that we were having a hard time with silent letters and no sense between what you read and hear, think again, as the Thai alphabet is one of the most complicated in the world of alphabets. It consists of 32 vowels, which accompany the 44 consonants.
The natives find it challenging to master, so when it comes to foreigners, they don't have a chance. In order to master the language, you will have to invest a minimum of 2,500 hours. That means you will need to invest five hours a day, five days a week, for over two years.
Third Time's a Charm
The whole world celebrates the beginning of the new year on the 31st of December. The people in Thailand celebrate it too, but they have two more New Year parties to attend. As more than 14% of the people in Thailand are of Chinese ancestry, the Chinese New Year, honored in January or February, is celebrated too. In addition, the national Thai New Year, marked in April, is also widely celebrated.
The people of Thailand love to party, and they can surely teach us a thing or two about what a good party should look like. Each New Year party, whether a December, February, or April one, is celebrated to the extent of drawing visitors from all over the world to take part and spread their good vibe.
Condensed Milk
Thailand is obsessed with condensed milk. If you are unfamiliar with it, condensed milk is a thick, creamy, overly sweetened milk-flavored liquid without the high water concentration you usually find in regular milk. In Thailand, it is everywhere and on everything. You can find it in every 7-11 store (which can also be found everywhere), and almost all stores will have some version of the stuff.
The syrupy supplement accompanies hot drinks, refreshing shakes, and endless desserts. In general, the Thai kitchen has a sweet flavor to it (sourced from regular sugar), so it is not surprising that the locals enjoy the concentrated ivory indulgence poured onto everything they consume.
Yantra Tattoos
You know the tattoo on Angelina Jolie's back? Well, you know the Thai tattoo. The traditional Thai tattoos, named Sak Yant, are also called bamboo tattoos. These tattoos are more than just decorating your body. They have a spiritual significance and a different technique than regular needle tattoos. Bamboo needles are used to create these dazzling designs, and each tattoo has a unique pattern and meaning.
It is believed to provide protection or blessing, turning this body decoration into cultural importance. The designs of the Sak Yant tattoos are endless, and some have become more distinguished than others. There is the Kao-yot, which means nine spirals; Ha-the, meaning five rows; and the most popular, Ong Phra, which means Buddha's Body.
The Kingdom of Thailand
Not everyone knows this, but Thailand is, in fact, a kingdom. And not only is it a kingdom, but it is also the longest-continuous monarchy in the entire world. The king who rules the Thai land is King Vajiralongkorn.
He is the 10th king of the Chakri Dynasty, a dynasty which has been on the throne since 1782. In comparison to other monarchies around the world, the British House of Windsor, for example, has been ruling only since 1971. The King in Thailand has the supreme significance. He is the head of state, head of the armed forces, and is the upholder of religion in the country.
The Land of 1,400 Islands
When you think of Thailand, you think of turquoise water and golden sand. You think of dazzling sunsets and stunning islands. Over 1,400 stunning islands. Thailand is home to some of the most beautiful destinations in the world, including Koh Samui, Phuket, and Koh Phi Phi. The coastline of Thailand stretches for more than 3,200 km (a little over 2,000 miles), and every year, more new and exciting destinations are discovered along these shores.
The Andaman Sea, located on the west side of the Thai coast, is known for being a diver's haven and considered one of the richest parts of the ocean, with its endless corals, spectacular topography, and extraordinary marine life.
Thailand Is Years Ahead
When we say that Thailand is ahead of the rest of the world, we are not talking about technology or innovation that hasn't been heard of yet. We are talking about the actual calendar. Thailand is 543 years ahead of the rest of the world. Although the regular Western calendar is used in Thailand, they also have a national Thai calendar, which started the count more than five centuries before us.
The year that started the count in the Thai calendar is the year believed Buddha died and passed on to the universe of Nirvana. This happened in 543 BC. When in Thailand, pay attention to the ID cards or shop receipts. They all have the Thai year stated on them.
Nicknames
The traditional names in Thailand are usually long and not easy to pronounce. It is not only foreigners who say the Thai names are too complicated, but the locals admit to this, too. To make life easier, there is a tradition of giving a nickname (‘chue len’) at birth, which is then used instead of the full first name.
The nickname can be a contraction of their full name, or it can be just a random name the parents like the sound of. Many short nicknames, which have become very popular in recent years, have a meaning in Thai. Noy means little, Fon means rain, and Nok means bird.
Zodiac in a Thai Way
The Western zodiac system is a language we all speak. We are all familiar with Leo, Libra, Capricorn, and the rest. No matter what sign you are or what element it belongs to, you are considered the same worldwide. Except for Thailand. Thailand has its own zodiac approach, which is based on a slightly different astrology called Verdict Astrology.
Some say it is more accurate than the Western one, and who are we to argue? The main difference between the two approaches is that the Tropical zodiac system, which the Western world uses, is based on the position of the stars around the year zero AD, and the Sidereal Zodiac, used in Thailand, is based on the position of the stars right now.
The Mahanakhon Building
Up until 2016, the Baiyoke Tower, which was 304 meters high, was the tallest building in Thailand. Then, the Mahanakhon building was introduced, and at 314, it became the tallest building in the land. In 2018, the 318-meter building, Magnolias Waterfront Residences Tower, was built and broke the record once more.
The constructures have not said their last word and more skyscrapers are planned to decorate the Thai landscape, however, there is one record no tall being can even take away from the Mahanakhon building. The Mahanakhon building is the location of the highest restaurant in Bangkok, with spectacular views and an astonishing skyline.
Ice Cream and White Bread
When waiting to look at the dessert menu, in most places, you will find some chocolate cake, an apple pie, and maybe a pecan delight. In Thailand, the desserts are completely different from what we know. One of the most favorite desserts in Thailand is an ice cream sandwich. Unlike the Western kitchen, bread is not a traditional part of a meal but a star when it comes to the sweet stuff.
The bread is usually of the sweet kind, with a lavishing lump of pure vanilla ice cream nestled in between the two slices. We know it sounds a little weird, however, once you've tasted it, you will realize how wonderfully it works.
Get Off the Money
The currency in Thailand is called the Baht. Around thirty-five dollars is equivalent to one Baht, however, for the Thai people, it is worth a lot more. The money notes and coins, regardless of their worth, have the image of Maha Vajiralongkorn, the King of Thailand. Maha has been sitting on the throne since 2016 and is considered a loved and adored king.
One would offend the monarch by stepping on the image, betraying his dignity, and showing no respect to the establishment. The feet, according to Thai customs, are considered the dirtiest part of the human body, and they should definitely not be attached to the king's image.
Thai Dishes
The Thai kitchen is many things. It is, first and foremost, colorful, and every dish glows in shades of orange and green. Besides being spectacular and appealing, the Thai dishes are a carnival of flavors, too. Every traditional dish has its own unique balance of salty, spicy, and sweet flavors, thanks to the variety of raw materials it uses.
Fish sauce is a key ingredient in the Thai kitchen, alongside oyster sauce, lemongrass, and chili. Natural cane sugar and honey are no strangers either, and coconut milk is the preferred liquid to use in any dish. If you want to try some Thai cooking in your kitchen, make sure to stock up on some kaffir lime, lime juice, vinegar, and tamarind, as they are a must in Thai cuisine.
The National Anthem at the Movies
The national anthem is a unique and honorable thing in all countries. We know of places where children sing it every morning at the beginning of the school day, and we know of countries that have several ceremonies all year round with the national anthem playing an essential part.
However, did you know that in Thailand, the anthem is played in cinemas before the movie begins? So, if you are eager to learn the Thai anthem by heart, make sure you arrive at the cinema a few minutes before the movie begins so you are in time to grab some popcorn and learn the national anthem's words.
Durian, the King of Fruit
We are confident that you have heard of the fruit Durian, but how much do you know about it? The fruit has become a hallmark of Southeast Asian countries. It can be found in Malaysia, the Philippines, and even as far as Australia.
There are more than 30 species of the Durian fruit, but only nine of them are actually edible, and yes, they all smell bad. The fruit can be found all over Thailand and is used in many dishes. The fruit's odor is so powerful that alongside no-smoking signs, you can find "No Durian" signs in hotels, public transportation, and many other public spaces.
A Week Full of Colors
The Thai weekly calendar is unique. It has the same number of days as the rest of the world, however, unlike us, each day of the week has its own color. Monday: yellow, Tuesday: pink, Wednesday: green, Thursday: orange, Friday: blue, Saturday: purple, Sunday: red.
Years ago, seeing people wearing clothes in the color of the week was not an uncommon thing to see. However, these days, it is not as widespread as it used to be. The color of the day became the "lucky color" of many people in Thailand and is considered lucky (especially to the more mature generation) to this day, too.
The Sacred Head and the Left Hand
There are two big no-nos in Thailand, and you better remember them before traveling there. People's heads are considered cultural faux pas, and touching one with no permission is considered one of the most disrespectful things to do. If that isn't enough, your left hand is not thought to be such a significant part of your body either.
It is regarded as being unclean, so if you have to give someone a hand (literally), make sure it is not the left one. Remember, no head touching, no matter who you bump into, and no left-hand giving, no matter how bad they need your help.
Only Full Moon
There are the monks; there is the Pad Thai; there are the magnificent temples and floating markets; however, one of the key attractions that draws so many tourists to the land of Thai (especially the young ones) is, without a doubt, the full moon parties.
These parties gather thousands of backpackers and hundreds of families, with small children too, to the magical island of Koh Phangan for a party of a lifetime. This traditional party took its first steps in the late 1980s and has become one of the world's most extraordinary events. Every month, when the moon is round and full, the fireshows come alive, and the party begins.
Bangkok's Real Name
You will be surprised to learn that Thailnd's capital city is not Bangkok. Well, it is Bangkok technically, however, the locals do not call it that way. The capital's full name is much harder to pronounce (especially for foreigners) as it has 168 letters and a wonderful meaning behind them.
The people of Thailand call Bangkok "Krung Thep Mahanakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahintharayutthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udomratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Phiman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukam Prasit." It is the longest name of any other place in the world, and to summarise this extravagant name, it means "The City of Angels."
Home of the Wild
Thailand is more than a golden temple and a stunning island. The country has its share of magnificent green landscapes. Thailand's national parks are home to wild animals such as elephants, tigers, and many other species. If you are in Thailand and a lover of green nature and wild animals, Khao Yai National Park is where you want to go.
It combines nature's gifts in one place, and the spectacular animals make this green patch incredibly unique. It was first established in 1962 and, since then, has become Thailand's most famous park, where nature is merged with urban views and where, for a minute, you can forget that you are just a two-hour drive from the big city.
The $250 Million Buddha
Like many countries, Thailand also has a national symbol. The only difference is the Thai national symbol is worth almost $250 million. The great golden Buddha, also known as Phra Phuttha Maha Suwana Patimakon, is a massive statue of a seated Buddha that weighs over five tons. It is located at the Wat Traimit, the Temple of the Golden Buddha, and its value has been estimated at more than a quarter of a billion dollars.
It is one of the country's most visited tourist sites and plays an important part in the Buddhist center in Bangkok. Many practicing Buddhists visit the site where they make offerings, believing the statue's presence has a significant meaning in their prayers.
Thailand Wasn't Always Thailand
When we were growing up and were taught geography using big heavy atlases, Thailand had the name Siam in brackets, and we never understood what it meant. The name Siam does not appear anymore, nor do the atlases. Siam is the historical definition of the Kingdom of Thailand and was known by that name until 1939.
Days after the Second World War ended, Phibun, a true nationalist, took over the government and called the country Thailand. "Thai" means "free people," and Phibun wanted to bring the people closer to the modern world. They still preserved their uniqueness and solo identity, though.
Public Confrontation
Have you ever heard of the term "saving face"? This means not embarrassing or making someone feel awkward. In Thailand, it basically means not putting anyone in an unpleasant situation. The Thai culture is unique, and maintaining a positive image is important. You should do whatever it takes to avoid situations of criticism or icky confrontations.
"Saving face" is more important than showing what you feel, more important than expressing your real feelings, and sometimes even more important than giving your true opinions and thoughts. Obviously, this cultural custom can lead to a lot of misunderstanding and undesirable conflicts when communicating with people from other places.
The World’s Largest Rice Exporter
You would have thought that China or India are the most extensive rice importers in the world. However, this is not true. Thai cuisine is not based on rice, and it consists of many ingredients such as noodles, vegetables, and seafood, however, when it comes to business, Thailand is the biggest exporter of jasmine rice. Thai rice is known for its addictive aromas and delicate flavors.
It has become a favorite among many Western countries, which have become bigger rice consumers than any other Southeastern Asian countries. The jasmine rice is best to accompany curries of all sorts and is the best for fried rice dishes, too.
Say Cheese in Thai
Thailand is known as "The land of smiles," and after flipping through endless photos of this magical place, we can see why. The people of Thailand are people of peace and serenity. They prefer harmony over any conflict, so don't expect to witness altercations or loud arguments when walking the streets.
The locals, whether they live in the cities or on the tropical islands, are almost always dressed in a beautiful and comforting smile and unlike the West, it is also the default reaction in many situations. People in Thailand smile when they are relieved about something, they smile when they are embarrassed, and they also smile when they are afraid or tense.
Europe Free
The European countries have ruled most of the world. France ruled most parts of Africa, the Italian Romans had their share of imperialism, and Great Britain ruled huge chunks of the world until 70 years ago. Thailand is the only Asian country that has never been under any other European regime.
The people of Thailand are no fools. They are proud of their culture, their food (we are proud of it, too, and will never say no to a satisfying and spicy Pad Thai), and the fact that they have managed to preserve their identity, unlike neighboring Vietnam or Laos.
Float on a Market
The floating markets in Thailand are a landmark to visit. In Thai, they are translated into 'water markets,' which mainly support tourism, however, things were not always like this. Many years ago, the canals in Thailand were the primary transportation path and, to this day, they hold a historical significance.
Most of the trade was held on these water streams, and the magical riverside shopping experience has preserved its uniqueness until today. Most of the traders inherited their floating market stalls from their ancestors. However, today, they operate them for entirely different reasons. It is not about the goods they have to offer, but more about the concept.
Monk Business
Seeing monks in their orange gowns and shaved-off heads is ubiquitous in the streets of Thailand. According to the Thai tradition, when a male turns 20 (though the age can be flexible), he should enter a monastery for a certain time and study the teachings of Buddha. The time spent in the monastery can be just a few days and reach up to a year or more.
Anyone who wishes can become a monk, however, the sooner, the better, especially before settling down and having a family. Those who succeed in practicing this tradition are thought to earn respect for this great religious practice and the gift of touching the spiritual world.
The Land of Many Languages
French is spoken in France, Spanish is spoken in Spain, Italian is spoken in Italy, and Thai is spoken in Thailand. But it doesn't end there. Besides Thai, many other languages are spoken in Thailand, and it all depends on which region you visit.
Each area or province has its local vocabulary, way of pronouncing and phrasing. Lao, Chinese, Malay, and Khmer are spoken here, as are Akha and Karen. So, next time you visit Thailand, don't be surprised if not everyone understands the few words you manage to pick up or if you don't comprehend what is spoken to you after spending so many hours in Thai lessons.
The Holy Elephant
In the rich days of Thai history, elephants were mainly associated with royalty. The beautiful animal symbolized strength and power. They had a key role in the country's economy and were the main means of transportation and forestry. The welfare of the elephants has become a big concern for the Thai people, especially in the tourist industry that has developed over the years.
The awareness of protecting and caring for this precious animal has escalated tremendously, however, the numbers are showing no success. In 1990, there were more than 100,000 elephants in Thailand, and today, there are only 4,000 that are captive and a little over 3,700 in the wild.
Thai Greeting
The literal meaning of Mai is "of respect," and it is the most common and traditional way for the people in Thailand to greet someone. Mai is used when greeting family and friends and in any social situation. Mai is hands clasped to one another, positioned in front of your body, and a bow.
However, the person's social position you are bowing to will affect how low you will go. Age, relationship, and social status define how low one should bow when greeting and thanking. The custom originates from the Indian Añjali Mudrā, which was adopted by many Southeast Asian countries, each implementing its local ways.
National Dish
There are so many Thai dishes out there that we love and can't get enough of, however, only one holds the crown of Thailand's national dish. Pad Krapao (which means "basil stir-fry") has got to be one of the most popular Thai dishes in the world. The second runner-up, believe it or not, is the Mama Noodles.
This is not a dish found in restaurants but on supermarket shelves. Mama Noodles are Thailnad's favorite just-add-boiling-water-meal. The national dish is the one and only Pad Thai (Thai stir fry). Who doesn't love the blend of rice noodles, seafood, peanuts, and scrambled eggs?
Leave Your Underwear On
Anything related to modesty and personal hygiene is sacred in Thailand. They are particular about smelling good, washing every day (we would not think otherwise with the hot temperatures out there), and even when it comes to what you are wearing underneath, there is a law.
In Thailand, it is strictly illegal to leave your home without any underwear on. In your house, you can do what you like, however, once you step outside, you are expected to show respect. We are not sure how this law is enforced, however, this is one we would not take any chances with.
The White One
Thailand has remarkable and distinctive architecture. The uniqueness can be spotted from a distance, and there is one specific work of art that no one can remain oblivious to. The Wat Rong Khun, also known as The White Temple, is one of the famous temples in the country, located in Chiang Rai.
The enchanting white exterior, covered in mirror ornaments, was created by Chalermchai Kositpipat, a known Thai artist recognized for merging traditional Thai art and modern artistic touches. The temple served the locals as a place of worship, however, it has also become an artistic landmark that attracts visitors from all over the world.
The Art of Eight Limbs
There is wrestling, there is boxing, and there is Thai boxing. It is the nation's national sport. It is better known as Muay Thai and is categorized as a martial art. Thai boxing involves punches, knee strikes, elbow strikes, and anything you would consider related to regular boxing. When walking down the streets of Bangkok or any other major city in the country, Thai boxing is not sacred to traditional boxing rings.
There are plenty of amateur rings scattered all over for you to practice Thai Boxing. Some are nestled between streets, some hide behind alleyways, and some bridge two or more neighborhoods. The sport roots back to unarmed Siamese soldiers who would perform for the king.
The Ongoing National Anthem
"Phleng Chat" is Thailand's national anthem. If you happen to visit, turn on the television and radio every day at 08:00 AM and 06:00 PM, and it will be played. There is no chance of missing it. It is not just a national anthem, like in most countries. In Thailand, it is a ceremony, it is an event, and everyone is expected to take part, pay attention, and show their respects to the king and the nation.
The national anthem "break" is an opportunity for every Thai to stop whatever they are doing, take a moment (twice a day), concentrate on all the good things they have managed to achieve in life, and be grateful for everything they have.
Lucky Number 9
The triple gems of Buddhism are three acts of practicing this Eastern religion. One is Buddha, two is Dharma, and three is Sangha. By practicing these three acts, Buddhists can study the Four Noble Truths which pave the way to pure enlightenment.
Among the children of Thailand, they are referred to as the three treasures, and the children are taught their values since their early days. Naturally, number three is significant in the country, however, number nine is even more important. The number nine is three times three (3X3), pronounced 'Gao' in Thai. Gao also means step forward and glue.