Thai culture is deeply influenced by religion. With around 95% of the country being Theravada Buddhist, the belief system and values of Buddhism play a huge role in day-to-day life.
In Thailand, people greet each other with a wai (ไหว้), a slight bow with the hands pressed together in a prayer-like fashion. There are many different ways to wai. For newbies, an easy thing to remember is that the higher you place your hands and the lower you bow, the more respect you are showing. In Thai culture, the highest level of wai is reserved for monks – a reminder of the importance of Buddhism in everyday Thai life.
Sanuk
Another concept that is very important in Thai culture is sanuk. Sanuk is a wide-reaching idea that embodies the playfulness and sense of humor that is so central to life in Thailand. It could refer to a spontaneous and joyful meeting with someone on the street, or a humorous pun made at just the right moment. The sense of humor and joie de vivre captured in sanuk is central to the Thai way of life.
Sabai Sabai
In Thailand people aim to be relaxed. This laid-back Thai mentality is expressed with the term sabai sabai. When we feel sabai, we’re happy and smile easily. This friendly habit makes visitors feel welcome and at home. At the same time, being sabai sabai can cause frustration to others, particularly the ones who are from different cultures where people pay more attention to rules. Also, smiling while talking about serious matters can lead to misunderstandings. Foreigners may not understand how Thais could possibly smile while discussing serious issues. Thais, on the other hand, look at it as talking about serious matters in an accepting and polite way. This may not be impartial (because we call Chiang Mai home) but Northern Thailand is the most Sabai 😉
Mai Pen Rai
The Thai language has a phrase that you’ll hear very often – mai pen rai. It can be roughly translated as “It’s no problem!” or “Don’t worry about it!”. The mai pen rai attitude can spill over into many aspects of Thai culture. This can be very useful thing. It encourages you to not get bent out of shape over minor incidents and disappointments in life. For example, punctuality is not so important. If someone shows up 5 or 10 minutes late for dinner – it’s not the end of the world!
Thailand's food culture is known for its balance of flavors, regional and seasonal dishes, and aesthetic appeal
Thai food is known for its balance of sweet, sour, bitter, and salty flavors, often finished with aromatic herbs.
Regional and seasonal dishes
Thailand's food is influenced by its many cultures, including India, China, and Portugal, and is both regional and seasonal. For example, the Isaan region is known for its bitter herbs, while the south is known for its sweet curries and seafood.
Aesthetic appeal
Thai food values aesthetics, and the art of vegetable and fruit carving is a central part of Thai food culture. The carved fruits and vegetables are edible and can be eaten as part of the meal.
Rice
Rice is a very important part of Thai cuisine, and is prepared in many ways and combined with almost every dish. Thailand is also one of the world's largest rice exporters.
Here are some popular Thai dishes:
Pad Thai
A signature dish of stir-fried noodles that's a good introduction to Thai food.
Tom Yam
A popular, savory, and spicy soup that can be found at every restaurant and street corner in Thailand.
Mango sticky rice
A classic dessert made with glutinous rice cooked in coconut milk and topped with fresh mango.
Khao soi
A creamy coconut curry soup served over egg noodles and topped with crispy noodles.
Massaman curry
A dish that originated in the Muslim community of Southern Thailand and includes exotic ingredients like cardamom cloves, cinnamon, star anise, and nutmeg.
Khao Pad
A classic dish and typical street food that's commonly known as Thai Fried Rice.
Phat kaphrao
A local favorite that's made with minced pork, seasoned fish sauce, chopped chili bamboo shoots, and topped with a fried egg and basil.
