The population of Thailand is over 65 million, and consists of an ethnic diversity such as Cambodians, Chinese, Indians, Laotians, Malaysians, Vietnamese and also several hill tribes. It is a region which is home to a rich diversity of peoples, languages, cultures, and beautiful landscapes.
Not only Thailand is often portrayed as a traditional kingdom in the abundance of cloaked monks, tropical rain forests and agricultural products, but also as a country bursting with modernity. Thailand's rapid economic growth has achieved the acclaim of many businessmen and international bankers.
However, Bangkok can be a frustrating city. The population is over 12 million. The traffic congestion is at times terrible. The intense heat, noise, pollution and general chaos of the city can be overwhelming, but with preparation and patience, this perplexing place may remain the ‘village of the wild plum’.
Climate
Temperatures in Thailand vary with the time of year and the region you are in. In most of the country, temperatures are generally hot and humid, with a cooler season between November and February. March to June is the hot season, with an approximate only two percent of Thailand’s rainfalls during this time. In contrast, between July to October, Thailand sees as much as 98 percent of its annual rainfall.
Time
There is only one Time Zone in Thailand. The local time is 7 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time and there is no daylight saving time.
The Culture
Thai people are famous to the world for being relaxed, courteous and hospitable. Buddhism is the dominant religion and is the dominant influence on Thai culture. The concept of ‘wai’, a way to say hello without using words, is used throughout society as an overall method of paying respect. The physical action of bowing one's head to meet the thumbs of two pressed palms, ‘wai’ is the most significant social action and has a lot to say about Thai values and customs.
There are several ways to use ‘wai’ in daily life. These include:
1. Between equals -- hands close to the body with fingertips reaching just above neck level, but not higher than the chin.
2. Between senior and junior -- hands held similar to those above, with head straight or slightly inclined.
3. Between junior and senior -- head lowered with fingertips just above the tip of the nose.
‘Wai’ is used throughout daily life to illustrate different forms of respect to people and objects. When in the presence of a superior, such as a boss or elder, an individual will initiate the ‘wai’ to place him/herself at their mercy. In most cases, the superior will not return the ‘wai’. Another way to view ‘wai’ is as an expression of inequality. By ‘waiing’ an individual rather than shaking his/her hand, you are expressing your feeling of inequality in their great presence.
‘Wai’ is not reserved just for people. You will find many Thais ‘wai’ temples and important places of worship. In addition, many Thais ‘wai’ to express thanks and gratitude. Until you grow accustomed to ‘wai’, it may be wise to offer a handshake or a polite smile and nod. This will prevent any embarrassment for all involved.
Westerners are greeted with a traditional handshake, and people should be addressed using “Mr.,” “Mrs.,” or “Miss” followed by their last name. Thais commonly address each other by using the word “Khun” followed by the person’s first name. A last or family name is not normally used unless it is for a formal occasion.
Thais tend to be very reserved, but have a good sense of humor and great importance is attached to laughter and a smiling face. In fact, smiling is actually a way of life. It is even used when covering embarrassment or defusing conflict.
Always show respect for the King and Queen, as they are the most respected and revered people in Thailand. It is against the law to make fun or reference to the Royal Family in less than a favorable light. Good advice is to avoid discussions about politics, drugs, health related issues, religions or the Monarchy.
If you are invited by Thai people into their home, be sure to take off your shoes before entering. When sitting, sit cross-legged, or tuck your legs beside you; do not stretch them out in front of you as this is considered rude. Whilst it is not obligatory to bring a gift when visiting them, consider bringing gifts like flowers, books or fruit baskets.
Language
The biggest problem confronting foreign nationals in Thailand is a language barrier. Since there are so many different ethnic groups in Thailand, not everyone speaks the same language. The official language of the country is Thai. The use of English will be predominantly restricted to your workplace. Although it is necessary for all students wishing to attend university to pass an entrance examination in English, this does not mean that the person will be fluent in English. In addition, several Thais may be rather shy about speaking English. Therefore, your conversations in English will be restricted to those in your office or other foreigners.
Some aspects of Thai-English are the habit of pronouncing an English word with a vowel between each consonant. For example, satem is stamp, sanwit is sandwich and tawenty is twenty. In addition, some consonants are used interchangeably--t, v, r and l being the most common--and certain syllables are often ignored.
Religion
Buddhism has a major influence on the daily lives of Thai people, and is practiced in the normal course of life. The Buddhist principle teaches one to follow a middle path, avoiding anything extreme and making sure that your well-being is more important than material items or career achievement. Foreign nationals visiting a Buddhist temple or a sacred place should behave oneself in an appropriate manner, as Thai people may consider some actions as sacrilege. As always, the best course of action may be to follow examples set by the Thais.
The article is the property of Pacific Orientation Relocation Services Co Ltd., Bangkok Thailand.
