THAILAND 
Southeast Asia
Capital: Bangkok
Languages: Thai
Predominant Religion(s): Buddhism
COMMON CHARACTERISTICS:
- The Thai Smile, a unique characteristic of Thais. Thais smile at other people easily even when they do not know them.
- Thai Tolerance – Thais are very patient. When they are stuck in traffic for hours, they still smile. It is unlikely to hear the honk of the car in the street. People just stay calm.
- Friendliness – if you are lost, you can ask anyone for directions. Even if those you ask are not able to communicate with you in your language, they will do everything they can to help you in a friendly and warm manner.
FUN FACTS:
- Bangkok’s real name is “Krung Thep Mahanakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Ayuthaya
Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udomratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Piman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukam Prasit.” - Thailand’s coastline is 3,219km long and has 1,430 islands, the most famous of which is Koh Phi Phi Lee, which was featured in Danny Boyle’s film “The Beach.”
- Thailand was home to the first internationally-known conjoined twins, who were given the informal name of “Siamese Twins.” Eng and Chang were born in 1811 and moved to the U.S. where they both married, had children and lived to the age of 62.
USEFUL PHRASES:
- How are you? Khun Pen Yang Rai?
- Fine, thanks. Sabai dee, Kob Khun.
- My name is… Chan Chue…
- Nice to meet you! Yin Dee Tee Dai Phob Khun.
- Thank you. Kob Khun Krub (m) / Ka (f).
Photos by: Alexander Annenkov {flickr}