A brief introduction to Thailand

Thailand is a country of contrasts. The kingdom boasts stunning natural landscapesvibrant urban centersdelicious cuisinewarm and friendly peopleand exciting places to explore. All of these (and more!) serve as compelling reasons for anyone looking to build a life in a tropical paradise where universal healthcarefree educationand a welcoming community are the standard.

Howeveramid these positivesThailand also grapples with internal political tensionenvironmental pollutionand the occasional gun violence and corruption. Add to that a challenging immigration process and modest salariesand the image might feel a little less rose-colored than before.

If you’re looking to relocate to Thailand – or you’re just interested in learning more about the country – we provide an introductory look at various aspects of lifeincluding the following:

A quick introduction to Thailand

To the untrained eye, Thailand’s population might appear quite homogenous. Howeverthere are some subtle demographic splits across the country.

For examplethere are some 70 ethnic communitiesincluding Central ThaiThai LaoKhon Muangand Pak Tai. Smaller groups include Khmer LeuMalayNyawPhu ThaiKuy/Kuayand Karen. According to the International Work Group for Indigenous Affairs (IWGIA)an estimated five million Indigenous people live in Thailandaccounting for 7.2% of the total population (2023).

There are also three to four million foreign citizens (farangsalso meaning guava) who call the country their home.

Thailand is among the fastest-aging countries in the world. Roughly 18% of the population is elderlyaccording to the latest national statistics report (2023). The country has been classified as an aged society since 2005.

Interesting facts and figures

• Official name: Kingdom of Thailand
• Official head of state: King Maha Vajiralongkorn (สมเด็จพระเจ้าอยู่หัวมหาวชิราลงกรณ)since 2016
• Prime Minister: Paetongtarn Shinawatra (แพทองธาร ชินวัตร)since 2024
• Population (as of January 2023): 71.8 million
• Provinces: 76
• Climate: Tropical
• Official languages: Thai (ภาษาไทย)
• Religions (as of December 2021): Buddhism (92.5%)Islam (5.4%)and Christianity (1.2%)
• Currency: Thai Baht (symbol: ฿)
• GDP (in 2022): ฿17.367 trillion (US$495.4 billion)

Thailands’s history and background

Thailand has a long history that stretches back to the 1200s when Thai city-states gradually gained independence from a weakened Khmer Empire.

Borders have shifted over the centuriesusually due to war with neighboring Myanmar and Laos. Howeverbecause of its skillful diplomacy and political wranglingThailand has the unique distinction of being the only country in Southeast Asia to have never been colonized by European Powers.

What are key historical dates in Thailand?

• 1782 – Bangkok is established to house the Royal Seat
• 24 June 1932 – the Siamese Revolution of 1932 does away with the absolute monarchy. Siam (Thailand) becomes a democratic constitutional monarchywith a constitution and National Assembly.
• 1938–39 – the government moves toward a dictatorship under the leadership of Prime Minister Plaek Phibunsongkhram (known as Phibun)
• 1954–75 – the Vietnam War hastens the modernization and Westernization of Thailand
• 14 October 1973 – activists demand an end to the dictatorship during the Thai Popular Uprising of 1973. Hundredsincluding university students who led the protestare gunned down by security forces.
• 1997–9 – the Tom Yam Kung crisis causes the collapse of the Thai currencywhich snowballs into the 1997 Asian Financial Crisis
• 2004 – the south of Thailand – including the popular resort island of Phuket – is hit by a major tsunami
• 2016 – the much-beloved King Bhumibol diesending the world’s third-longest monarchy. His successorKing Maha Vajiralongkornwas crowned in 2019.
• 2020–1 – despite the COVID-19 pandemicmass demonstrations are held across the country to protest the government and its human rights violations. Some also call for reforms of the monarchy. A year laterthe Constitutional Court would declare the protests for reform unconstitutionaleffectively committing a judicial coup.

You can find a more in-depth look at crucial moments in Thailand’s history onlineincluding at the BBC.

What’s the geography like in Thailand?

Thailand is located on the Indochinese Peninsulabordering Myanmar to the northwestLaos and Cambodia to the eastand Malaysia to the South. Its sprawling land mass means it has a varied landscape of forested mountainsdry plateausfertile river plainsand world-renowned islands with sandy beaches and emerald-green waters.

Some of its most attractive natural features include:

• With a sprawling 513,120 square kilometersThailand is the second-largest country in Southeast Asia (after Indonesia)
• Thailand’s tallest point is Doi Inthanona 2,565-m mountain in the Thanon Thong Chai Rangelocated in the province of Chiang Mai 
• Roughly 38.8% of the country is covered in forest areas. Thailand also has three natural UNESCO World-Heritage Sitesincluding:
  • Thungyai–Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuaries
  • Dong Phayayen–Khao Yai Forest Complex
  • Kaeng Krachan Forest Complex
• The Chao Phraya River is the most important waterway in Thailand. It originates in the north and flows through Bangkok southward to the Gulf of Thailand.

Climate and environmental sustainability

Because of its geographic positioning – just north of the equator and surrounded by land and water –Thailand experiences a range of climatic conditions. Most of the country has a tropical savanna climatewhereas the south has both a tropical monsoon and a tropical rainforest climate.

Thailand does not get the full four seasons that some expats are familiar with. Insteadthere are three seasons with noticeable weather shifts across the year. These are heavily influenced by the southwest and northeast monsoons:

• The rainy season typically lasts from June until Octoberwith August and September being the wettest months. Howevermonsoons and storms can occur as early as May. 
• During the winter/cool season months (October until February)most of Thailand experiences dry weather with mild temperatures – with the exception of the southern region. This part of the country will see a lot of rainfallparticularly from October to November.
• Thailand’s hottest time of the year (i.e.summer/the hot season)runs from March to June. These months are characterized by intense heat and humiditywith temperatures regularly topping 40° Celsius.

Due to its geography and heavy rainfallThailand ranks among the ten most flood-affected countries in the world. Floods (น้ำท่วม) are by far the country’s most significant natural hazard in terms of economic and human impacts.

Another major concern is air pollutionespecially in the urban sprawl of BangkokNonthaburiand Samut Sakhon. In 2022the World Health Organization (WHO) rated Thailand’s air pollution at four times higher than its guideline value.

<> /* Styling outer div */ .insider-tip-wrapper { border: 1px solid #00cba8!important; border-radius: 16px!important; display: flex!important; gap: 40px!important; align-items: center!important; /* padding: 20px!important; */ padding-top: 32px!important; padding-bottom: 0px!important; padding-left: 40px!important; padding-right: 40px!important; margin-bottom: 32px!important; } /* Styling left column */ .insider-left { flex: 1!important; text-align: center!important; max-width: 170px!important; width: 100%!important; } img.insider-tip { border-radius: 50%!important; border: 1px solid #DEDEDE!important; padding: 12px!important; } p.role-insider { color: #00cba8!important; font-family: 'Grold-Medium''Nunito Sans''Arial''sans-serif'!important; font-size: 1.0625rem!important; text-align: center!important; margin-bottom: 0px!important; } p.name-insider { color: #000!important; font-family: Grold-Medium,sans-serif!important; } /* Styling right column */ .insider-right { flex: 2!important; } h3.insider-heading { font-size: 24px !important; line-height: 34px !important; } .insider-content p { color: #666!important; font-family: 'Lexend-Regular' 'Nunito Sans''Arial''sans-serif'!important; font-size: 14px!important; line-height: 29px!important; }

Progress toward environmentally friendly policies seems to be sluggish. Although Thailand has nominally pledged to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050 and net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2065there has been little tangible action. The country has no mandatory targets for protecting the environment.

<> /* Styling outer div */ .insider-tip-wrapper { border: 1px solid #00cba8!important; border-radius: 16px!important; display: flex!important; gap: 40px!important; align-items: center!important; /* padding: 20px!important; */ padding-top: 32px!important; padding-bottom: 0px!important; padding-left: 40px!important; padding-right: 40px!important; margin-bottom: 32px!important; } /* Styling left column */ .insider-left { flex: 1!important; text-align: center!important; max-width: 170px!important; width: 100%!important; } img.insider-tip { border-radius: 50%!important; border: 1px solid #DEDEDE!important; padding: 12px!important; } p.role-insider { color: #00cba8!important; font-family: 'Grold-Medium''Nunito Sans''Arial''sans-serif'!important; font-size: 1.0625rem!important; text-align: center!important; margin-bottom: 0px!important; } p.name-insider { color: #000!important; font-family: Grold-Medium,sans-serif!important; } /* Styling right column */ .insider-right { flex: 2!important; } h3.insider-heading { font-size: 24px !important; line-height: 34px !important; } .insider-content p { color: #666!important; font-family: 'Lexend-Regular' 'Nunito Sans''Arial''sans-serif'!important; font-size: 14px!important; line-height: 29px!important; }

Two of the main cities in Thailand

Roughly 52% of the Thai population lives in urban areas and cities (2021)the most populous of which are Bangkok and Chiang Mai.

Bangkok

Known colloquially as KrungtepBangkok is a sprawling metropolis with some 11.7 million residents and 1-2 million expats. As suchyou’ll find plenty of English speakers if your Thai language skills are not yet up to par.

For somethis bustling capital city can pose a little culture shock at first. After allThailand’s capital is a city that never sleeps. Howeveryou will soon come to appreciate Bangkok for its rich culture and historyvibrant nightlifeand compelling blend of artluxury fashionreligionand food. There is lots to see and doso there is never a dull moment.

<> .interal-link-wrapper { display: flex; gap: 40px; border-bottom: 1px solid #DEDEDE; border-top: 1px solid #DEDEDE; padding: 54px 0 24px 0; margin-bottom: 32px; } .interal-link-wrapper .img-left { flex: 1 !important; } .interal-link-wrapper .content-right { flex: 2 !important; } .content-right a { text-decoration: none!important; } .category-name { color: #00cba8 !important; font-size: 17px !important; line-height: 20px !important; margin-bottom: 8px !important; font-family: 'Grold-Medium''Nunito Sans''Arial''sans-serif'!important; text-decoration: none; } .guide-title-internal-link { color: #000000 !important; font-size: 26px !important; line-height: 31px !important; font-family: 'Grold-Medium''Nunito Sans''Arial''sans-serif'!important; margin-bottom: 32px !important; } /* Media query for screens with width less than 769 pixels */ @media screen and (max-width: 768px) { .guide-title-internal-link { color: #000000 !important; font-size: 20px !important; line-height: 24px !important; font-family: 'Grold-Medium''Nunito Sans''Arial''sans-serif'!important; margin-bottom: 32px !important; } } .internal-read-more { color: #000000 !important; font-size: 19px !important; line-height: 23px !important; -webkit-text-decoration: none; text-decoration: none !important; position: relative !important; display: inline-block !important; border-bottom: 1px solid #000000; font-family: 'Grold-SemiLight''Nunito Sans''Arial''sans-serif'!important; } /* Media query for screens with width less than 769 pixels */ @media screen and (max-width: 768px) { .interal-link-wrapper { display: flex; /* Change from flex to block for mobile */ padding-top: 24px; /* Adjust padding for mobile */ padding-bottom: 0px; gap: 0px; margin-bottom: 16px; /* Adjust margin for mobile */ } .interal-link-wrapper .img-left { flex: 1!important; width: 33.333333%; } .interal-link-wrapper .content-right { flex: 2 !important; /* Remove flex property for mobile */ width: 66.666667%; /* Make both divs take full width for mobile */ margin-left: 30px; } .img-left img { width: 33.333333%; /* Make the image take full width for mobile */ height: auto; flex: 1; /* Maintain aspect ratio for mobile */ } .category-name { font-size: 14px !important; /* Adjust font size for mobile */ } .guide-title-internal-link { font-size: 18px !important; /* Adjust font size for mobile */ margin-bottom: 16px !important; /* Adjust margin for mobile */ } .internal-read-more { font-size: 16px !important; /* Adjust font size for mobile */ margin-bottom: 24px; } }

If you’re looking to settle down in Bangkokthe city has something for every budget. From the heart of the city (like the Asoke area) to a suburb (like Lat Krabang)you can find different rental costsfoodcommunitiesand job opportunities to suit your needs and tastes.

As Thailand’s financial heartBangkok is the backbone of the Thai economy. It’s home to the country’s main port and the Bangkok Stock Exchangeand has a thriving startup community. While tourism is a huge industryyou can also find work in numerous other sectors located on the outskirts of the cityincluding food processingtextilescementpetroleumand building materials.

Chiang Mai

Located just a one-hour flight from the capital is Chiang Maithe largest city in Northern Thailand. Known for its slower pace of lifethis city has roughly 1.2 million residentsincluding an increasing number of expats who come to enjoy its many charms.

While its historical templespicturesque mountainsand scenic views are a definite draw for someChiang Mai is most famous as a center of Thai handicrafts. Small villages nearby specialize in artisanshipsuch as silverworkwood carvingpotterypaper umbrellasand Thai lacquerware.

Don’t let that fool you into thinking this is a sleepy townthough. Chiang Mai offers an increasingly cosmopolitan life without Bangkok’s price tags and is growing in popularity among digital nomads.

While there is a big market for tourismplenty of other industries make this city a draw for young professionals too. These sectors include agriculturebiotechnologyfood-for-the-futurehealthcareautomotiveand biofuels.

The Thai economy and living standards

Thailand boasts the second-largest economy in Southeast Asia (outperformed by only Indonesia). With a GDP of US$495.4 billion (or US$6,909 per capita)it has the 31^st-largest economy in the world.

Tourism is – obviously – Thailand’s main economic drivergenerating 56.7% of the gross domestic product (2022). Other significant contributors are the manufacturingminingand construction industries (34.8%) and agriculture (8.5%).

Despite its economic successthe Thai people are not necessarily seeing that reflected in their day-to-day lives. According to the Bank of Thailandthe average monthly income in 2023 ranged between ฿14,224 and ฿33,061 (or US$399–927.40). Meanwhilethe average living expenses of a single person sat at around ฿20,012 (a little over US$561) per month before rent. Depending on your housing coststhis leaves little to no room for saving.

While expats usually earn a higher salarymany foreign residents complain about the practice of double-pricing. This means businesses charge different prices for locals and foreigners for the same products or servicesoften by a factor of 10. The pricing system is applied to various sectorsincluding public transportationnational parksrestaurantsand shops.

Stillmany internationals find that the cost of living in Thailand is generally very low.

<> .interal-link-wrapper { display: flex; gap: 40px; border-bottom: 1px solid #DEDEDE; border-top: 1px solid #DEDEDE; padding: 54px 0 24px 0; margin-bottom: 32px; } .interal-link-wrapper .img-left { flex: 1 !important; } .interal-link-wrapper .content-right { flex: 2 !important; } .content-right a { text-decoration: none!important; } .category-name { color: #00cba8 !important; font-size: 17px !important; line-height: 20px !important; margin-bottom: 8px !important; font-family: 'Grold-Medium''Nunito Sans''Arial''sans-serif'!important; text-decoration: none; } .guide-title-internal-link { color: #000000 !important; font-size: 26px !important; line-height: 31px !important; font-family: 'Grold-Medium''Nunito Sans''Arial''sans-serif'!important; margin-bottom: 32px !important; } /* Media query for screens with width less than 769 pixels */ @media screen and (max-width: 768px) { .guide-title-internal-link { color: #000000 !important; font-size: 20px !important; line-height: 24px !important; font-family: 'Grold-Medium''Nunito Sans''Arial''sans-serif'!important; margin-bottom: 32px !important; } } .internal-read-more { color: #000000 !important; font-size: 19px !important; line-height: 23px !important; -webkit-text-decoration: none; text-decoration: none !important; position: relative !important; display: inline-block !important; border-bottom: 1px solid #000000; font-family: 'Grold-SemiLight''Nunito Sans''Arial''sans-serif'!important; } /* Media query for screens with width less than 769 pixels */ @media screen and (max-width: 768px) { .interal-link-wrapper { display: flex; /* Change from flex to block for mobile */ padding-top: 24px; /* Adjust padding for mobile */ padding-bottom: 0px; gap: 0px; margin-bottom: 16px; /* Adjust margin for mobile */ } .interal-link-wrapper .img-left { flex: 1!important; width: 33.333333%; } .interal-link-wrapper .content-right { flex: 2 !important; /* Remove flex property for mobile */ width: 66.666667%; /* Make both divs take full width for mobile */ margin-left: 30px; } .img-left img { width: 33.333333%; /* Make the image take full width for mobile */ height: auto; flex: 1; /* Maintain aspect ratio for mobile */ } .category-name { font-size: 14px !important; /* Adjust font size for mobile */ } .guide-title-internal-link { font-size: 18px !important; /* Adjust font size for mobile */ margin-bottom: 16px !important; /* Adjust margin for mobile */ } .internal-read-more { font-size: 16px !important; /* Adjust font size for mobile */ margin-bottom: 24px; } }

Like many other countriesThailand’s economy faces certain challengesincluding declining exportsslowing growthlower investor confidence after political turmoiland weak public spending. Income disparity has also long been a problem in Thailand. A rising number of poor people are getting left behind.

Over the past few yearsthe government has approved several measures to boost the economywhich has garnered mixed results.

What is Thailand’s quality of life?

Thailand is an upper-middle-class societywith most residents enjoying a reasonably good quality of life. For example:

• The average life expectancy is 77.7almost five years above the global average of 73.2 (2023)
• An incredible 86% of expat residents are happy with their life in Thailandcompared to the global average of 72%
• Thailand ranks 43^rd out of 166 countries on the 2023 Sustainable Development Reportscoring particularly well on education and the eradication of poverty

The country has a strong rental market and sociallyexpats generally find easy acceptance. This is because Thais tend to be very easygoing and accepting – if reserved at first.

<> .interal-link-wrapper { display: flex; gap: 40px; border-bottom: 1px solid #DEDEDE; border-top: 1px solid #DEDEDE; padding: 54px 0 24px 0; margin-bottom: 32px; } .interal-link-wrapper .img-left { flex: 1 !important; } .interal-link-wrapper .content-right { flex: 2 !important; } .content-right a { text-decoration: none!important; } .category-name { color: #00cba8 !important; font-size: 17px !important; line-height: 20px !important; margin-bottom: 8px !important; font-family: 'Grold-Medium''Nunito Sans''Arial''sans-serif'!important; text-decoration: none; } .guide-title-internal-link { color: #000000 !important; font-size: 26px !important; line-height: 31px !important; font-family: 'Grold-Medium''Nunito Sans''Arial''sans-serif'!important; margin-bottom: 32px !important; } /* Media query for screens with width less than 769 pixels */ @media screen and (max-width: 768px) { .guide-title-internal-link { color: #000000 !important; font-size: 20px !important; line-height: 24px !important; font-family: 'Grold-Medium''Nunito Sans''Arial''sans-serif'!important; margin-bottom: 32px !important; } } .internal-read-more { color: #000000 !important; font-size: 19px !important; line-height: 23px !important; -webkit-text-decoration: none; text-decoration: none !important; position: relative !important; display: inline-block !important; border-bottom: 1px solid #000000; font-family: 'Grold-SemiLight''Nunito Sans''Arial''sans-serif'!important; } /* Media query for screens with width less than 769 pixels */ @media screen and (max-width: 768px) { .interal-link-wrapper { display: flex; /* Change from flex to block for mobile */ padding-top: 24px; /* Adjust padding for mobile */ padding-bottom: 0px; gap: 0px; margin-bottom: 16px; /* Adjust margin for mobile */ } .interal-link-wrapper .img-left { flex: 1!important; width: 33.333333%; } .interal-link-wrapper .content-right { flex: 2 !important; /* Remove flex property for mobile */ width: 66.666667%; /* Make both divs take full width for mobile */ margin-left: 30px; } .img-left img { width: 33.333333%; /* Make the image take full width for mobile */ height: auto; flex: 1; /* Maintain aspect ratio for mobile */ } .category-name { font-size: 14px !important; /* Adjust font size for mobile */ } .guide-title-internal-link { font-size: 18px !important; /* Adjust font size for mobile */ margin-bottom: 16px !important; /* Adjust margin for mobile */ } .internal-read-more { font-size: 16px !important; /* Adjust font size for mobile */ margin-bottom: 24px; } }

HoweverThailand underperforms in areas like:

• Human rights
• Environmental safety
• Local life satisfaction
• Mental health
• Work-life balance

While family life is important to Thai societylong hoursdemanding schedulesand strong hierarchies dominate the work culture. As a resultBangkok was ranked the 5^th most-overworked city in the world in 2022.

The country also scored rather low on HSBC’s 2021 Expat Explorer survey, ranking 40th out of 46 countries. It achieved low results in the future outlook rankwhich rates internationals’ optimism for the coming 12 months.

Thai people and society

Thai people tend to be more modest and conservative than their counterparts in Europe and North America. Due to Thailand’s strong Asian identityfamily is at the heart of social life. Age and class status play a significant role in social interactionsand showing deference and respect to those around you is essential.

As a societythe Thai people are generally warm and welcomingrespecting tradition while being open to modern values. This is held together by a deep respect for the dominant religion (Buddhism) and the monarchy.

The country has a charmingly relaxed approach to lifecaptured in the Thai expression of “mai pen rai” (everything is okno worries). This expresses a willingness to take life as it comes and find enjoyment where possible.

<> /* Styling outer div */ .insider-tip-wrapper { border: 1px solid #00cba8!important; border-radius: 16px!important; display: flex!important; gap: 40px!important; align-items: center!important; /* padding: 20px!important; */ padding-top: 32px!important; padding-bottom: 0px!important; padding-left: 40px!important; padding-right: 40px!important; margin-bottom: 32px!important; } /* Styling left column */ .insider-left { flex: 1!important; text-align: center!important; max-width: 170px!important; width: 100%!important; } img.insider-tip { border-radius: 50%!important; border: 1px solid #DEDEDE!important; padding: 12px!important; } p.role-insider { color: #00cba8!important; font-family: 'Grold-Medium''Nunito Sans''Arial''sans-serif'!important; font-size: 1.0625rem!important; text-align: center!important; margin-bottom: 0px!important; } p.name-insider { color: #000!important; font-family: Grold-Medium,sans-serif!important; } /* Styling right column */ .insider-right { flex: 2!important; } h3.insider-heading { font-size: 24px !important; line-height: 34px !important; } .insider-content p { color: #666!important; font-family: 'Lexend-Regular' 'Nunito Sans''Arial''sans-serif'!important; font-size: 14px!important; line-height: 29px!important; }

Life and culture in Thailand

Much of Thailand’s traditional culture comes from the ethnic Thai people. Howeverit also enjoys influences from neighboring countries such as MyanmarChinaIndiaand Laos.

While the government promoted a sense of national culture and identity in the 1950slocal culture and traditions gained prominence in the 1980s and 1990s. As suchregional cuisinedancesmusiccelebrationsand beliefs have become more central to Thai life.

Arts and literature

TraditionallyThai literature and poetry draw on Buddhism and Hinduism. Thailand has a rich tradition of folklore and legends performed by troubadours or local opera troupes.

Due to large-scale Chinese immigration in the mid-19^th centurya number of well-known Chinese works were translated into Thai. The novelbased on European modelsbecame more popular in the 1930s thanks to writers like Dō̜kmai Sot (pen name of Buppha Nimmanhemin née KunchonM.L.) and Siburapha (pen name of Kulap Saipradit).

Much of contemporary literature is centered around popular themes such as love and family. Since the 1980sauthors have also explored societal complexities like social inequalitysexual exploitationand political corruption.

On the fringe of literature stands the Thai comic or graphic novel. While their publication started in the early 20^th centurythey surged in the 1980s and 1990s after a string of successful comic series.

With the rise of the internetwebcomics have also gained popularity. Prominent works include the award-winning Super Dunker by Jakraphan Huaypetch and Pinto Love in a Lunchbox (ปิ่นโต) by Sinad Jaruatjanapat.

Performing arts and entertainment

Historicallydance and opera were very popular in Thailand. The most famous example of Thai performing arts is Khon (โขน)a classical court-masked dance drama that dates back hundreds of years.

It encompasses dancemusicdramaand pantomimeand features elaborate costumesheaddressesand masks. While traditionally performed by men onlymodern Kohn has opened the stage to female actors as well.

Traditional Thai music features percussion and string instrumentsand has hints of ChineseCambodianand Indian influences. Classical music ensembles include percussion-dominated piphatstringed khrueang saiand mahoria mixed ensemble that often accompanies vocalists. 

Luk thung (Thai country music), mor lam (Lao folk music)and American Jazz became popular in the mid-20^th century. Thai Rock emerged a decade laterinfluenced by rock bands from the US and the UK. From the 1990s onwardspop music became more mainstream. Famous Thai singers include:

• Lisa (stage name of Lalisa Manobal)
• Suraphol Sombatcharoen
• Pueng (stage name of Pumpuang Duangjan)

Thailand also has a thriving film industry. Popular genres and s include action moviescomediesdocumentariesdramasthrillershorror filmsand romances. The highest-grossing Thai film of all time is the 2013 supernatural rom-com horror movie Pee Makdirected by Banjong Pisanthanakun.

Perhaps the most recognizable TV genre in Thailand is lakorna type of soap opera comparable to a Hispanic telenovela. Major subgenres and s include historical romancespsychological thrillersand action series. Lakorn often portrays Thai culture through elements of musicdanceand clothing.

Sports

When it comes to sportsonly one truly matters in Thailand: muay Thai (i.e.Thai kickboxing)the martial art that’s gained worldwide popularity. Recreationally, sepak takraw (a kind of kick volleyball played with a rattan ball) is well-likedas are footballvolleyballbadmintonand water sports such as scuba divingkiteboardingand rafting.

Many locals and expats also take up tennis and golf because of their relative affordability and the many great courts and courses across the country.

Religion

Buddhism is the dominant religion in Thailand and is practiced by approximately 92.5% of the population (2021). Other faiths include Islam (5.4%) and Christianity (1.2%).

Some ethnic groups also practice Thai folk religiona form of animist religious beliefs intermixed with Buddhism. This faith is represented in – among other things – spirit housesminiature shrines that shelter guardian spirits.

Although there are many forms of Buddhism in Thailand – including Chinese and Hindu Buddism – its leading school is Theravāda. The two fundamental concepts of this religion are reincarnation and Nirvana. Once a person has learned the meaning of existencetheir reincarnation cycle endsand they can enter Nirvana and be free from all suffering.

There are over 41,200 Buddhist temples (วัดwat) in Thailand. These are often characterized by tall golden chedi (or stupas) and multiple ornamented roof tiers. The most famous temples include:

• Wat Rong Khun (the White Temple) in Chiang Mai
• Wat Phra Si Sanphet in Ayutthaya
• Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimon Mangkhalaram Rajwaramahawihan (better known as Wat Pho) in Bangkok

Thailand’s constitution guarantees religious freedom for all citizens and officially recognizes BuddhismIslamChristianityHinduismand Sikhism. While church and state are separatedthe law requires the king to be Buddhist and declares him to be the ‘upholder of religions’.

What is typical Thai cuisine like?

Anyone familiar with Thailand’s foodscape knows the country’s greatest hits, like green curry, stir-fried Thai noodlesand spicy and sour shrimp soup (tom yum goong). But like its geographyThai cuisine is a vast and varied landscape.

<> .interal-link-wrapper { display: flex; gap: 40px; border-bottom: 1px solid #DEDEDE; border-top: 1px solid #DEDEDE; padding: 54px 0 24px 0; margin-bottom: 32px; } .interal-link-wrapper .img-left { flex: 1 !important; } .interal-link-wrapper .content-right { flex: 2 !important; } .content-right a { text-decoration: none!important; } .category-name { color: #00cba8 !important; font-size: 17px !important; line-height: 20px !important; margin-bottom: 8px !important; font-family: 'Grold-Medium''Nunito Sans''Arial''sans-serif'!important; text-decoration: none; } .guide-title-internal-link { color: #000000 !important; font-size: 26px !important; line-height: 31px !important; font-family: 'Grold-Medium''Nunito Sans''Arial''sans-serif'!important; margin-bottom: 32px !important; } /* Media query for screens with width less than 769 pixels */ @media screen and (max-width: 768px) { .guide-title-internal-link { color: #000000 !important; font-size: 20px !important; line-height: 24px !important; font-family: 'Grold-Medium''Nunito Sans''Arial''sans-serif'!important; margin-bottom: 32px !important; } } .internal-read-more { color: #000000 !important; font-size: 19px !important; line-height: 23px !important; -webkit-text-decoration: none; text-decoration: none !important; position: relative !important; display: inline-block !important; border-bottom: 1px solid #000000; font-family: 'Grold-SemiLight''Nunito Sans''Arial''sans-serif'!important; } /* Media query for screens with width less than 769 pixels */ @media screen and (max-width: 768px) { .interal-link-wrapper { display: flex; /* Change from flex to block for mobile */ padding-top: 24px; /* Adjust padding for mobile */ padding-bottom: 0px; gap: 0px; margin-bottom: 16px; /* Adjust margin for mobile */ } .interal-link-wrapper .img-left { flex: 1!important; width: 33.333333%; } .interal-link-wrapper .content-right { flex: 2 !important; /* Remove flex property for mobile */ width: 66.666667%; /* Make both divs take full width for mobile */ margin-left: 30px; } .img-left img { width: 33.333333%; /* Make the image take full width for mobile */ height: auto; flex: 1; /* Maintain aspect ratio for mobile */ } .category-name { font-size: 14px !important; /* Adjust font size for mobile */ } .guide-title-internal-link { font-size: 18px !important; /* Adjust font size for mobile */ margin-bottom: 16px !important; /* Adjust margin for mobile */ } .internal-read-more { font-size: 16px !important; /* Adjust font size for mobile */ margin-bottom: 24px; } }

Street food has been elevated to artone you simply cannot miss. Even if you skip the hours-long line for Jay Fai’s Michelin-starred crab omelet and stir-fried drunken seafood noodles (pad kee mao talay)you’ll find plenty of delicious options to satiate your hunger.

Thai cuisine is generally heavy on aromatics and packs a serious flavor punch – and often a nice dash of heat. Many ingredients focus on popular local produce and spices like coconut milkshrimp pastegarlicchili pepperscilantrolemongrassand galangal. That saideach regional kitchen has its nuances.

Bangkok is famous for its royal cuisinewhich is produced in Thailand’s palace kitchens. Made with freshhigh-quality ingredientsdishes are held to lofty standards – including removing bones and pits and requiring perfectly balanced flavors.

The northeastern region is known for its fiery – yet simple – Isan cuisinewhich features a wide range of flavors and textures. Examples include spicy green papaya salad (som dtam), spicy protein salad (laab) served with sticky riceand grilled pork neck (kor moo yang).

Government and politics in Thailand

Thailand is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system led by the head of governmentPrime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. The reigning monarchKing Maha Vajiralongkorn (or Rama X)is the head of state. He is aided in his duties by the Privy Council of Thailand.

<> .interal-link-wrapper { display: flex; gap: 40px; border-bottom: 1px solid #DEDEDE; border-top: 1px solid #DEDEDE; padding: 54px 0 24px 0; margin-bottom: 32px; } .interal-link-wrapper .img-left { flex: 1 !important; } .interal-link-wrapper .content-right { flex: 2 !important; } .content-right a { text-decoration: none!important; } .category-name { color: #00cba8 !important; font-size: 17px !important; line-height: 20px !important; margin-bottom: 8px !important; font-family: 'Grold-Medium''Nunito Sans''Arial''sans-serif'!important; text-decoration: none; } .guide-title-internal-link { color: #000000 !important; font-size: 26px !important; line-height: 31px !important; font-family: 'Grold-Medium''Nunito Sans''Arial''sans-serif'!important; margin-bottom: 32px !important; } /* Media query for screens with width less than 769 pixels */ @media screen and (max-width: 768px) { .guide-title-internal-link { color: #000000 !important; font-size: 20px !important; line-height: 24px !important; font-family: 'Grold-Medium''Nunito Sans''Arial''sans-serif'!important; margin-bottom: 32px !important; } } .internal-read-more { color: #000000 !important; font-size: 19px !important; line-height: 23px !important; -webkit-text-decoration: none; text-decoration: none !important; position: relative !important; display: inline-block !important; border-bottom: 1px solid #000000; font-family: 'Grold-SemiLight''Nunito Sans''Arial''sans-serif'!important; } /* Media query for screens with width less than 769 pixels */ @media screen and (max-width: 768px) { .interal-link-wrapper { display: flex; /* Change from flex to block for mobile */ padding-top: 24px; /* Adjust padding for mobile */ padding-bottom: 0px; gap: 0px; margin-bottom: 16px; /* Adjust margin for mobile */ } .interal-link-wrapper .img-left { flex: 1!important; width: 33.333333%; } .interal-link-wrapper .content-right { flex: 2 !important; /* Remove flex property for mobile */ width: 66.666667%; /* Make both divs take full width for mobile */ margin-left: 30px; } .img-left img { width: 33.333333%; /* Make the image take full width for mobile */ height: auto; flex: 1; /* Maintain aspect ratio for mobile */ } .category-name { font-size: 14px !important; /* Adjust font size for mobile */ } .guide-title-internal-link { font-size: 18px !important; /* Adjust font size for mobile */ margin-bottom: 16px !important; /* Adjust margin for mobile */ } .internal-read-more { font-size: 16px !important; /* Adjust font size for mobile */ margin-bottom: 24px; } }

Most Thai citizens over 18 have the right to voteexcept monksfelonsand those diagnosed with mental disorders. Their democratic vote determines the party in powerunless the military decides otherwise.

In just over a centuryThailand has seen 13 successful and nine unsuccessful military coups. There have been a total of 20 constitutions since the overthrow of the absolute monarchy in 1932. The latest Constitution was passed in 2017suppressing the opposition and expanding much of the military’s power. As sucha council of military leaders currently runs the country.

Thailand has a number of allies in the regionincluding ChinaJapanIndiaand South Korea. The country is a key player within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and enjoys strong diplomatic ties with many countries around the worldincluding the US. 

Human rights and freedom in Thailand

Thailand ranks pretty poorly on the 2022 Human Freedom Index. It came 104^th out of 165 countriesgetting a just-above-passing grade on personal freedoms and human rights. In South AsiaThailand came in eighth place out of 16.

<> .interal-link-wrapper { display: flex; gap: 40px; border-bottom: 1px solid #DEDEDE; border-top: 1px solid #DEDEDE; padding: 54px 0 24px 0; margin-bottom: 32px; } .interal-link-wrapper .img-left { flex: 1 !important; } .interal-link-wrapper .content-right { flex: 2 !important; } .content-right a { text-decoration: none!important; } .category-name { color: #00cba8 !important; font-size: 17px !important; line-height: 20px !important; margin-bottom: 8px !important; font-family: 'Grold-Medium''Nunito Sans''Arial''sans-serif'!important; text-decoration: none; } .guide-title-internal-link { color: #000000 !important; font-size: 26px !important; line-height: 31px !important; font-family: 'Grold-Medium''Nunito Sans''Arial''sans-serif'!important; margin-bottom: 32px !important; } /* Media query for screens with width less than 769 pixels */ @media screen and (max-width: 768px) { .guide-title-internal-link { color: #000000 !important; font-size: 20px !important; line-height: 24px !important; font-family: 'Grold-Medium''Nunito Sans''Arial''sans-serif'!important; margin-bottom: 32px !important; } } .internal-read-more { color: #000000 !important; font-size: 19px !important; line-height: 23px !important; -webkit-text-decoration: none; text-decoration: none !important; position: relative !important; display: inline-block !important; border-bottom: 1px solid #000000; font-family: 'Grold-SemiLight''Nunito Sans''Arial''sans-serif'!important; } /* Media query for screens with width less than 769 pixels */ @media screen and (max-width: 768px) { .interal-link-wrapper { display: flex; /* Change from flex to block for mobile */ padding-top: 24px; /* Adjust padding for mobile */ padding-bottom: 0px; gap: 0px; margin-bottom: 16px; /* Adjust margin for mobile */ } .interal-link-wrapper .img-left { flex: 1!important; width: 33.333333%; } .interal-link-wrapper .content-right { flex: 2 !important; /* Remove flex property for mobile */ width: 66.666667%; /* Make both divs take full width for mobile */ margin-left: 30px; } .img-left img { width: 33.333333%; /* Make the image take full width for mobile */ height: auto; flex: 1; /* Maintain aspect ratio for mobile */ } .category-name { font-size: 14px !important; /* Adjust font size for mobile */ } .guide-title-internal-link { font-size: 18px !important; /* Adjust font size for mobile */ margin-bottom: 16px !important; /* Adjust margin for mobile */ } .internal-read-more { font-size: 16px !important; /* Adjust font size for mobile */ margin-bottom: 24px; } }

That saidthe country scores particularly well on freedoms of religioneconomic independenceand gender and sexual equality. In factit is the first country in Southeast Asia to legalize same-sex marriage.

Howeverthese positives pale in comparison with Thailand’s human rights issues. A 2023 report by Human Rights Watch highlights significant violationssuch as: 

• Censorship and restrictions on freedom of expression and peaceful assembly
• Attacks on human rights defenders and political imprisonments
• Instances of violencetortureand enforced disappearances of suspected criminalsdissidentsand ethnic minorities

Although the Thai Constitution allows freedom of expression and the pressthe reality is somewhat different. There are many government-mandated constraintsincluding politically motivated preferential treatmentinternet monitoringand blocking of certain websites. The Reporters Without Borders World Press Freedoms Index ranks Thailand 106^th out of 180.

According to international watchdogsthe government frequently uses the royal defamation law lèse-majesté to target critics and prosecute dissenting voices.

The law – known as 112 after the relevant section of the criminal code – is one of the harshest in the world and protects the royal family from criticism. Any perceived insult or negative comment can carry a jail sentence of up to 15 years. Even hitting the like or share button can be enough to bring on charges.

What rights do women have in Thailand?

Section 4 of the Constitution considers men and women equal. Thailand has also signed the 1985 UN Convention on Discrimination Against Women and numerous other gender-focused international treaties. Nationallyit has enacted the 2015 Gender Equality Actwhich prohibits unfair treatment based on gender. 

Because of Thailand’s conservative culture, reality hits a little differently. Women are often expected to fulfill traditional roles and face discrimination across many different sectors. This is especially true in rural areas. In 2022women’s labor force participation rate was 58.7%compared to 74.8% among men. Between 2010 and 2019women spent 3.2 times more time on unpaid domestic and care work than men.

ConverselyThailand’s business world has many women in charge. Around 32% of senior leadership positions in mid-market companies are held by women (2020)which is more than the global and Asia-Pacific averages.

Is crime a problem in Thailand?

Crime rates in Thailand are consistent with the global averageaccording to the 2023 Global Peace Index. The country ranks 92^nd out of 163with high possibility levels of terrorist activitiesinternal conflictand violent crimes. It also has a serious problem with gun violence. 

Though it pales in comparison to the levels in the USThailand has one of the highest rates of gun ownership and gun violence in Asia. And while mass shootings are relatively uncommon, they do occur.

The deadliest in Thai history occurred recently; the 2022 Nong Bua Lamphu massacre resulted in the deaths of at least 38 peoplemost of whom were children. In its wakesome critics called for gun reform and cracking down on the black market. Howeverthis has lost traction since then.

<> .interal-link-wrapper { display: flex; gap: 40px; border-bottom: 1px solid #DEDEDE; border-top: 1px solid #DEDEDE; padding: 54px 0 24px 0; margin-bottom: 32px; } .interal-link-wrapper .img-left { flex: 1 !important; } .interal-link-wrapper .content-right { flex: 2 !important; } .content-right a { text-decoration: none!important; } .category-name { color: #00cba8 !important; font-size: 17px !important; line-height: 20px !important; margin-bottom: 8px !important; font-family: 'Grold-Medium''Nunito Sans''Arial''sans-serif'!important; text-decoration: none; } .guide-title-internal-link { color: #000000 !important; font-size: 26px !important; line-height: 31px !important; font-family: 'Grold-Medium''Nunito Sans''Arial''sans-serif'!important; margin-bottom: 32px !important; } /* Media query for screens with width less than 769 pixels */ @media screen and (max-width: 768px) { .guide-title-internal-link { color: #000000 !important; font-size: 20px !important; line-height: 24px !important; font-family: 'Grold-Medium''Nunito Sans''Arial''sans-serif'!important; margin-bottom: 32px !important; } } .internal-read-more { color: #000000 !important; font-size: 19px !important; line-height: 23px !important; -webkit-text-decoration: none; text-decoration: none !important; position: relative !important; display: inline-block !important; border-bottom: 1px solid #000000; font-family: 'Grold-SemiLight''Nunito Sans''Arial''sans-serif'!important; } /* Media query for screens with width less than 769 pixels */ @media screen and (max-width: 768px) { .interal-link-wrapper { display: flex; /* Change from flex to block for mobile */ padding-top: 24px; /* Adjust padding for mobile */ padding-bottom: 0px; gap: 0px; margin-bottom: 16px; /* Adjust margin for mobile */ } .interal-link-wrapper .img-left { flex: 1!important; width: 33.333333%; } .interal-link-wrapper .content-right { flex: 2 !important; /* Remove flex property for mobile */ width: 66.666667%; /* Make both divs take full width for mobile */ margin-left: 30px; } .img-left img { width: 33.333333%; /* Make the image take full width for mobile */ height: auto; flex: 1; /* Maintain aspect ratio for mobile */ } .category-name { font-size: 14px !important; /* Adjust font size for mobile */ } .guide-title-internal-link { font-size: 18px !important; /* Adjust font size for mobile */ margin-bottom: 16px !important; /* Adjust margin for mobile */ } .internal-read-more { font-size: 16px !important; /* Adjust font size for mobile */ margin-bottom: 24px; } }

The 2023 Global Organized Crime Index paints an even bleaker picture. It ranks Thailand 44^th out of 193with the top position being reserved for the most criminal country worldwide. The OC Index accuses Thailand of having to deal with issues like human trafficking(s)extortiondrugs and arms traffickingcounterfeit goods and contrabandillegal loggingillegal wildlife tradefraudmoney launderingbriberiesand state corruption.

The 2022 Corruption Perceptions Index also suggests that the country has a corruption problem. Thailand ranks 101^st out of 180 countrieswith a score of 36/100.

That saidif you’re not in the criminal underworldthese crimes are not something to worry about on a daily basis. The likelihood offor examplehome break-insstreet robberycar theftand physical attacks is generally low. Pickpocketing and purse snatching do occur more frequently across different urban areas.

Healthcarewelfareand social security

Thailand has an excellent healthcare system that offers free (or very affordable) universal medical care to citizens and subsidies via social security for tax-paying expats. The government funds 70.4% of public healthcare costs, insurance covers roughly 20%and patients pay the remaining 10%.

<> .interal-link-wrapper { display: flex; gap: 40px; border-bottom: 1px solid #DEDEDE; border-top: 1px solid #DEDEDE; padding: 54px 0 24px 0; margin-bottom: 32px; } .interal-link-wrapper .img-left { flex: 1 !important; } .interal-link-wrapper .content-right { flex: 2 !important; } .content-right a { text-decoration: none!important; } .category-name { color: #00cba8 !important; font-size: 17px !important; line-height: 20px !important; margin-bottom: 8px !important; font-family: 'Grold-Medium''Nunito Sans''Arial''sans-serif'!important; text-decoration: none; } .guide-title-internal-link { color: #000000 !important; font-size: 26px !important; line-height: 31px !important; font-family: 'Grold-Medium''Nunito Sans''Arial''sans-serif'!important; margin-bottom: 32px !important; } /* Media query for screens with width less than 769 pixels */ @media screen and (max-width: 768px) { .guide-title-internal-link { color: #000000 !important; font-size: 20px !important; line-height: 24px !important; font-family: 'Grold-Medium''Nunito Sans''Arial''sans-serif'!important; margin-bottom: 32px !important; } } .internal-read-more { color: #000000 !important; font-size: 19px !important; line-height: 23px !important; -webkit-text-decoration: none; text-decoration: none !important; position: relative !important; display: inline-block !important; border-bottom: 1px solid #000000; font-family: 'Grold-SemiLight''Nunito Sans''Arial''sans-serif'!important; } /* Media query for screens with width less than 769 pixels */ @media screen and (max-width: 768px) { .interal-link-wrapper { display: flex; /* Change from flex to block for mobile */ padding-top: 24px; /* Adjust padding for mobile */ padding-bottom: 0px; gap: 0px; margin-bottom: 16px; /* Adjust margin for mobile */ } .interal-link-wrapper .img-left { flex: 1!important; width: 33.333333%; } .interal-link-wrapper .content-right { flex: 2 !important; /* Remove flex property for mobile */ width: 66.666667%; /* Make both divs take full width for mobile */ margin-left: 30px; } .img-left img { width: 33.333333%; /* Make the image take full width for mobile */ height: auto; flex: 1; /* Maintain aspect ratio for mobile */ } .category-name { font-size: 14px !important; /* Adjust font size for mobile */ } .guide-title-internal-link { font-size: 18px !important; /* Adjust font size for mobile */ margin-bottom: 16px !important; /* Adjust margin for mobile */ } .internal-read-more { font-size: 16px !important; /* Adjust font size for mobile */ margin-bottom: 24px; } }

Thailand’s social security and welfare system is similarly robust. It provides sicknessdisabilityparentaland old-age benefits to all registered residents and even offers a funeral grant to help cover costs if the insured person dies.

<> .interal-link-wrapper { display: flex; gap: 40px; border-bottom: 1px solid #DEDEDE; border-top: 1px solid #DEDEDE; padding: 54px 0 24px 0; margin-bottom: 32px; } .interal-link-wrapper .img-left { flex: 1 !important; } .interal-link-wrapper .content-right { flex: 2 !important; } .content-right a { text-decoration: none!important; } .category-name { color: #00cba8 !important; font-size: 17px !important; line-height: 20px !important; margin-bottom: 8px !important; font-family: 'Grold-Medium''Nunito Sans''Arial''sans-serif'!important; text-decoration: none; } .guide-title-internal-link { color: #000000 !important; font-size: 26px !important; line-height: 31px !important; font-family: 'Grold-Medium''Nunito Sans''Arial''sans-serif'!important; margin-bottom: 32px !important; } /* Media query for screens with width less than 769 pixels */ @media screen and (max-width: 768px) { .guide-title-internal-link { color: #000000 !important; font-size: 20px !important; line-height: 24px !important; font-family: 'Grold-Medium''Nunito Sans''Arial''sans-serif'!important; margin-bottom: 32px !important; } } .internal-read-more { color: #000000 !important; font-size: 19px !important; line-height: 23px !important; -webkit-text-decoration: none; text-decoration: none !important; position: relative !important; display: inline-block !important; border-bottom: 1px solid #000000; font-family: 'Grold-SemiLight''Nunito Sans''Arial''sans-serif'!important; } /* Media query for screens with width less than 769 pixels */ @media screen and (max-width: 768px) { .interal-link-wrapper { display: flex; /* Change from flex to block for mobile */ padding-top: 24px; /* Adjust padding for mobile */ padding-bottom: 0px; gap: 0px; margin-bottom: 16px; /* Adjust margin for mobile */ } .interal-link-wrapper .img-left { flex: 1!important; width: 33.333333%; } .interal-link-wrapper .content-right { flex: 2 !important; /* Remove flex property for mobile */ width: 66.666667%; /* Make both divs take full width for mobile */ margin-left: 30px; } .img-left img { width: 33.333333%; /* Make the image take full width for mobile */ height: auto; flex: 1; /* Maintain aspect ratio for mobile */ } .category-name { font-size: 14px !important; /* Adjust font size for mobile */ } .guide-title-internal-link { font-size: 18px !important; /* Adjust font size for mobile */ margin-bottom: 16px !important; /* Adjust margin for mobile */ } .internal-read-more { font-size: 16px !important; /* Adjust font size for mobile */ margin-bottom: 24px; } }

The education system in Thailand

Basic education is mandatory from ages 6 to 15and parents can choose between publicprivateand international schools. Homeschooling is also a legal option. 

Thailand spends 2.6% of its national GDP (2023) to provide free public education. Unfortunatelythe state school system lags behind other Asian and European countries. For exampleThai teenagers average 393 points in reading literacy (compared to an OECD average of 487) and 419 points in maths (while the OECD average is 489).

People in rural areas are the most disadvantaged; a 2019 World Bank report found that 47% of 15-year-olds in remote villages were functionally illiterate.

After graduationstudents can take on vocational training or attend local universities. Two of Thailand’s universities rank in Asia’s top 100:

• Chulalongkorn University in 44^th place
• Mahidol University in 51^st place

Work and business culture in Thailand

In the third quarter of 2023the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) reported an incredible 0.99% unemployment rate. The Thai workforce comprises roughly 40.1 million peoplewith around one in four being self-employed.

Common jobs for expats who don’t speak Thai fluently include English teachersdiving instructorsand service workers.

<> .interal-link-wrapper { display: flex; gap: 40px; border-bottom: 1px solid #DEDEDE; border-top: 1px solid #DEDEDE; padding: 54px 0 24px 0; margin-bottom: 32px; } .interal-link-wrapper .img-left { flex: 1 !important; } .interal-link-wrapper .content-right { flex: 2 !important; } .content-right a { text-decoration: none!important; } .category-name { color: #00cba8 !important; font-size: 17px !important; line-height: 20px !important; margin-bottom: 8px !important; font-family: 'Grold-Medium''Nunito Sans''Arial''sans-serif'!important; text-decoration: none; } .guide-title-internal-link { color: #000000 !important; font-size: 26px !important; line-height: 31px !important; font-family: 'Grold-Medium''Nunito Sans''Arial''sans-serif'!important; margin-bottom: 32px !important; } /* Media query for screens with width less than 769 pixels */ @media screen and (max-width: 768px) { .guide-title-internal-link { color: #000000 !important; font-size: 20px !important; line-height: 24px !important; font-family: 'Grold-Medium''Nunito Sans''Arial''sans-serif'!important; margin-bottom: 32px !important; } } .internal-read-more { color: #000000 !important; font-size: 19px !important; line-height: 23px !important; -webkit-text-decoration: none; text-decoration: none !important; position: relative !important; display: inline-block !important; border-bottom: 1px solid #000000; font-family: 'Grold-SemiLight''Nunito Sans''Arial''sans-serif'!important; } /* Media query for screens with width less than 769 pixels */ @media screen and (max-width: 768px) { .interal-link-wrapper { display: flex; /* Change from flex to block for mobile */ padding-top: 24px; /* Adjust padding for mobile */ padding-bottom: 0px; gap: 0px; margin-bottom: 16px; /* Adjust margin for mobile */ } .interal-link-wrapper .img-left { flex: 1!important; width: 33.333333%; } .interal-link-wrapper .content-right { flex: 2 !important; /* Remove flex property for mobile */ width: 66.666667%; /* Make both divs take full width for mobile */ margin-left: 30px; } .img-left img { width: 33.333333%; /* Make the image take full width for mobile */ height: auto; flex: 1; /* Maintain aspect ratio for mobile */ } .category-name { font-size: 14px !important; /* Adjust font size for mobile */ } .guide-title-internal-link { font-size: 18px !important; /* Adjust font size for mobile */ margin-bottom: 16px !important; /* Adjust margin for mobile */ } .internal-read-more { font-size: 16px !important; /* Adjust font size for mobile */ margin-bottom: 24px; } }

Thai business culture is built on traditional Asian values and places importance on family valuesrespect for seniorityand commitment to achieving professional success. Official work hours are usually from 09:00 to 18:00 – with one hour for lunch – on Mondays through Fridays. HoweverThai work culture is renowned for long working hoursdemanding schedulesand a minimum amount of vacation days.

In officesyou can expect a slightly conservativeformal dress code to match the traditional hierarchical structures. Loyaltylong-term commitmentand a demonstration of cultural sensitivities are highly regarded.

What are the important public holidays?

Thailand usually has 19 public holidays planned throughout the yearthough the cabinet may declare more as the year progresses. The most important holidays include:

Holiday	Date	Description
Thai New Year (Songkran)	13–15 April	To celebrate the Thai New Yearthe country holds a massive water festival. Many Thais travel to spend the days with their families.
Queen Suthida’s Birthday	3 June
King Vajiralongkorn’s Birthday	28 July
Mother’s Day	12 August	This also celebrates Queen Mother Sikirit’s birthday
King Bhumibol Adulyadej Memorial Day	13 October	Commemorates the passing of King Bhumibol in 2016
King Chulalongkorn Day	23 October	Commemorates the passing of King Chulalongkorn in 1910
Father’s Day	5 December	This also celebrates King Bhumibol’s birthday
Constitution Day	10 December	Commemorates the establishment of the first constitution in 1932

The Thai calendar also has several cultural festivals; some of these are local eventswhereas others are national occasions. The biggest festivals include:

Festival	Date	Description
Lunar New Year	January or February	Start of the lunar year
Chiang Mai Flower Festival	First weekend of February	Held annually in Chiang Mai
Illuminated Boat Procession	October or November	An illuminated boat procession in Nakhon Phanom Province
Loy Krathong	November	Thailand’s Festival of Light
Yee Peng Lantern Festival	November	The Thai Lantern Festival celebrated in Chiang Mai

<> .interal-link-wrapper { display: flex; gap: 40px; border-bottom: 1px solid #DEDEDE; border-top: 1px solid #DEDEDE; padding: 54px 0 24px 0; margin-bottom: 32px; } .interal-link-wrapper .img-left { flex: 1 !important; } .interal-link-wrapper .content-right { flex: 2 !important; } .content-right a { text-decoration: none!important; } .category-name { color: #00cba8 !important; font-size: 17px !important; line-height: 20px !important; margin-bottom: 8px !important; font-family: 'Grold-Medium''Nunito Sans''Arial''sans-serif'!important; text-decoration: none; } .guide-title-internal-link { color: #000000 !important; font-size: 26px !important; line-height: 31px !important; font-family: 'Grold-Medium''Nunito Sans''Arial''sans-serif'!important; margin-bottom: 32px !important; } /* Media query for screens with width less than 769 pixels */ @media screen and (max-width: 768px) { .guide-title-internal-link { color: #000000 !important; font-size: 20px !important; line-height: 24px !important; font-family: 'Grold-Medium''Nunito Sans''Arial''sans-serif'!important; margin-bottom: 32px !important; } } .internal-read-more { color: #000000 !important; font-size: 19px !important; line-height: 23px !important; -webkit-text-decoration: none; text-decoration: none !important; position: relative !important; display: inline-block !important; border-bottom: 1px solid #000000; font-family: 'Grold-SemiLight''Nunito Sans''Arial''sans-serif'!important; } /* Media query for screens with width less than 769 pixels */ @media screen and (max-width: 768px) { .interal-link-wrapper { display: flex; /* Change from flex to block for mobile */ padding-top: 24px; /* Adjust padding for mobile */ padding-bottom: 0px; gap: 0px; margin-bottom: 16px; /* Adjust margin for mobile */ } .interal-link-wrapper .img-left { flex: 1!important; width: 33.333333%; } .interal-link-wrapper .content-right { flex: 2 !important; /* Remove flex property for mobile */ width: 66.666667%; /* Make both divs take full width for mobile */ margin-left: 30px; } .img-left img { width: 33.333333%; /* Make the image take full width for mobile */ height: auto; flex: 1; /* Maintain aspect ratio for mobile */ } .category-name { font-size: 14px !important; /* Adjust font size for mobile */ } .guide-title-internal-link { font-size: 18px !important; /* Adjust font size for mobile */ margin-bottom: 16px !important; /* Adjust margin for mobile */ } .internal-read-more { font-size: 16px !important; /* Adjust font size for mobile */ margin-bottom: 24px; } }

Stereotypical myths about Thailand

Myth: The nightlife is sleazy

That’s a hard no on this misconception. While many tourists think Thailand’s nightlife centers around Bangkok’s Khao San Road and Phuket’s Patongboth of which are subjectively seedylocal residents know better.

Be sure to ask around where you can find good nightlife experiences outside these tourist zones. You will discover a world of world-class cocktail bars and clubs that have more in common with Ibiza (Spain) than Amsterdam’s (the Netherlands) Red Light district.

Myth: All Thai food is spicy

Don’t worry if you can’t handle spice! While Thai cuisine has plenty of pèt dishesthere are also many that won’t leave you sweating. And if you really want to avoid anything spicyyou can always ask the cook to tone it down by saying mâi pèt (ไม่เผ็ด – not spicy).

Myth: everything in Thailand is cheap

While it is true that – comparatively – Thailand is cheaper than the home countries of most expatsyou can still end up shelling out a lot of money. Urban Bangkok is full of Michelin-starred restaurantsdesigner mallsand luxury hotelsall of which can quickly max out your credit cards. And you can quickly bust your budget if you want to get pampered at a popular island resort.

Useful resources

• Tourism Thailand – government tourism website