15 Facts You Need To Know About Thailand

Thailand holds a special place in my heart, as it was one of the first countries in Southeast Asia where I discovered the beauty and tranquility of the islands, but also one of those that introduced me to new hobbies. That’s probably why I can’t stay away from this country for too long, and thought it would be interesting to share with you some unusual and useful facts for your next trip to Thailand!

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1. Bangkok is in the Guinness Book World of Records

With 168 letters – yes, you read that right: 168 – Bangkok’s ceremonial name is quite a tongue-twister if you ask me. Ready? Here it is:
Krung Thep Mahanakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Yuthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratcha-thani Burirom Udomratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Phiman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukam Prasit.
Don’t worry though, as it has been shortened to Krung Thep Mahanakhon – translating to the “Great city of angels”. It’s a great way to show off your culture at a game night, as long as you remember the full name! I sure can’t…

2. A tea that changes color

Have you ever heard about butterfly pea flower tea? If you already find the name lovely, wait until you see the phenomenon unfold before your eyes. Initially a deep bright blue, it changes color to a nice red when mixed with hibiscus petals and to purple when lemon is added. Pretty unique and magical drink, don’t you think?!?

Please note that since this is an herbal tea, pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers should abstain to drink it or should consult with a doctor beforehand.

3. People’s head are sacred

One of my Laotian friends taught me this when talking about culture, history and traditions. In Southeast Asia, and more particularly in Buddhist countries, touching someone’s head is considered an insult, as the head represents a sacred place since it is the highest, holiest part of the body.
The feet, on the other hand, are the dirtiest part of the body, as they touch the ground. You shouldn’t point them at anyone, and simply showing the bottom of your feet is considered disrespectful.

A few simple but basic etiquette tips that will help you navigate the country without fear of being rude and disrespectful to the locals.

4. The Land of Smiles

I’m sure you’re already familiar with this one, as it first appeared as a marketing message to promote the country as a tourist destination. But the truth is, Thailand really does live up to its nickname, as the people are welcoming, friendly and warm.

Of course, this nickname is also linked to the fact that the simple gesture of smiling or “yim” is deeply rooted in Thai culture and can actually mean much more than happiness. In Thailand, it’s a complex form of communication, where only the situation allows us to understand whether the smile is synonymous with politeness, sadness or joy.
I find this way of thinking and acting relaxing and really enjoyable. I also personally think that many countries should adopt it!

5. Strict laws about the royal family

Thailand and its royal family are no joke! Especially when you know that simply criticizing them can land you in jail for up to 15 years, depending on the nature of the offence. In fact, the country’s lese-majeste law is one of the strictest in the world. So it’s best to avoid mentioning the monarchy during your stay in Thailand.

Quick tip: avoid topless sunbathing on public beaches because, although it’s not illegal, it’s frowned upon and rather contrary to local customs.

6. Don’t step on Thai Baht

While we’re on the subject of law, I should tell you that if the king and his family are revered, so is money (simply because the King’s face is on it). That’s why you should think twice before stepping on your banknote, trying to avoid it blowing away when it’s windy.

7. Thai unique script

Derived from the ancient Khmer script, the Thai language is characterized by its different tonalities, of which there are five to be precise: low, medium, high, descending or ascending. It is also characterized by the absence of spaces between words, 44 consonants (but 21 consonant sounds) and 28 vowels.

That said, I strongly recommend that you learn a few basic words and phrases before you leave for Thailand or any other country, as this will help make your experience even more authentic and enjoyable! Besides, learning a new language has many advantages and is rather fun, don’t you think?!?

8. Muay Thai Day

Thailand’s national sport, this martial art is known as the “Art of 8 Limbs”. Simply because it uses 8 points of contact: punches, elbows, knees and feet.
But what you probably didn’t know is that this sport is actually celebrated twice in the country: once on February 6 in honor of a historic king (King Sanphet VIII) and again on March 17, or Boxer’s Day, which commemorates Nai Khanom Tom, who defeated numerous Burmese fighters to win his freedom.

Don’t miss the chance to discover this traditional and different kind of boxing in an electric atmosphere during your stay in Thailand!

9. The origin of Siamese cats

Are you familiar with the piercing sapphire-blue eyes and graceful body of beautiful Siamese cats? Yes, but did you know that these adorable creatures actually originated in Thailand? Siam is the ancient name for Thailand, and you may be surprised to learn that the cats you call “Siamese” actually changed over the years after their arrival in the West, as breeders wanted to make them more “unique”.

Cats from Thailand are in fact much thinner than their Western counterparts, and their eyes aren’t even as blue.

Next time you visit Thailand, try to find an Old-Styled Siamese cat!

> Did you know that the expression “Siamese twins” also originated in Thailand? If you’d like to know more, you can read the story of the two brothers (Chang and Eng) here!

10. The elephant as national animal

Elephants have played an important role in Thailand’s history, having been used as weapons in war, to help with agricultural work and as tourist attractions. Although they are a symbol of the country, even present on the flag of some provinces, and despite the desire to set up more ethical sanctuaries, these majestic animals are still an endangered species.

Let’s just hope that public awareness and better practices will change things for the better in the future!

11. Spoon and forks you’ll use

Want to know more about table manners in Thailand? Let me tell you that Thais don’t use knives and don’t really eat with their hands anymore. This has not been the case since King Rama IV introduced these new utensils, the main aim being to appear more civilized and avoid colonization.

About the method: the spoon should be held by the right hand and the fork by the left, which is mainly used to push the food. Why the spoon? Quite simply because many Thai dishes are already perfectly divided or sliced, so they can be gobbled up in a single spoonful!

And do you know what else? From my own experience, I’d say this way of eating is pretty simple and effective! Give it a try and let me know what you think!

12. The durian ban

If you’ve ever traveled to Southeast Asia, you’ve almost certainly come across the durian – you know, that fruit recognizable from afar thanks to its pungent odor. And if you haven’t, you’ve probably heard of it, because frankly, once you’ve come across this tropical fruit, you won’t be indifferent. Love it or hate it, there’s no middle ground, believe me!
Some eat it as one of their favorite snacks, while others are simply disgusted by its smell, which is comparable to that of smelly socks.

This is probably why durian has been banned for some time, whether in hotels, buses or public places in general. As you never know how people will react, it’s better to be safe than sorry!

13. Another symbol of Thailand: the Naga

These snake-like creatures are often seen on the staircases leading up to Buddhist temples in Thailand. They are said to be water spirits whose purpose is to guard sacred relics and treasures.

Since 2022, the Naga has been designated Thailand’s national mythological creature (the elephant being the national animal) in order to promote the country’s culture and history.

14. A country of unique festivals

Thailand is a country steeped in history, tradition and festivals. In fact, there are many, mainly linked to religion and the fact that Thais are joyful and like to party. Festivals include Phi Ta Khon (or Ghost Festival), Loy Krathong (Lantern Festival), the Lopburi Monkey Banquet Festival (in honor of monkeys), the Vegetarian Festival, the Chiang Mai Flower Festival (see my post about the Rose of the North) and many others.

Taking place throughout the year, you certainly won’t get bored with events like these, and they’re also a great way to have fun while learning more about the country’s folklore and culture.

15. A special New Year’s tradition

Did you think I could forget this special event?! For those of you familiar with Thailand, there’s another major event that’s very popular with locals and tourists alike: the Songkran festival, or Thai New Year.

Celebrated in mid-April (the Buddhist New Year), this festival is a way of purifying oneself and praying for good fortune by cleaning one’s house and bathing sacred images of Buddha. Since then, it has been transformed into gigantic water fights where people throw water at each other using the best “tools” they have (be it a water pistol or a bucket), probably because April is so hot at this time of year. Which proves once again that the Thais know how to have fun.

In the end, it was almost a contest to see who could end up the most soaked, but above all it was the funniest experience I’ve ever had to welcome in a new year!

Any other experiences you’ve had in Thailand? Any advice for future travelers? Feel free to share your opinions in the comments!

What about Indonesia? Want to know more about its fun facts? If so, click here!

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