Thailand is famous for its delicious food, monasteries, stunning scenery, pristine beaches, and tuk-tuks. Known rightly as the “Land of Smiles,” the locals here are amiable. Thailand’s culture is diverse and has significant influences. From Burma, India, and China. With the booming tourism industry, the vibrant culture here is guaranteed to leave unforgettable memories.
Thailand’s Customs and Traditions
Thailand’s fascinating history shows its influence on customs and traditions. Traditional Thai culture derives many of its practices from Theravada Buddhism. However, you can feel a perfect blend of traditions from countries like China, India, South Korea, and many other South Asian and Southeast countries. The reason for this is that the kingdom of Ayutthaya was very welcoming of foreign traders from Asia and allowed them to establish villages outside of the capital. Later, European countries like France and Denmark became trading partners.
Some of the customs followed by the Thai people are:
The gesture of saying goodbye is known as a way. There are many versions. The type of Wai is performed according to the person’s social status. Social standards also decide who does it first.
Entering a home without a gift or entering a home without removing your shoes is considered disrespectful.
Thai people are susceptible to touch. Hugs and holding hands should be avoided. Touching their heads is also an effective prohibition.
Speaking up to Thai people in public is highly embarrassing and a sign of gross disrespect.
Architecture of Thailand
Thailand draws influences from many foreign countries and has undergone significant architectural reforms. The splendor of architecture remains strong in Thailand’s culture and can be seen in the ruins of many temples and palaces. From typical Buddhist temples in Ayutthaya to the soaring skyscrapers of Bangkok, Thailand, they will captivate you at every turn. The bamboo and wooden houses built on stilts along which rivers and canals flow are breathtaking. Many buildings with European influences are scattered across Thailand’s countryside. The capital perfectly combines modern and traditional architecture.
Thailand’s Cuisine
The world-famous Thai cuisine draws its influences mainly from southern China, India, and other Asian countries. Rice, spices, and coconut are the basis of Thai cuisine. Like Indian food, Thai dishes are hot and spicy. Its complexity and careful selection of ingredients make for some of the world’s most delicious foods. Non-vegetarian food also plays a vital role due to the Muslim influence in the southern coastal areas.
Many street vendors sell great snacks, which are also common here. 7 Thai Dishes in World’s 50 Best Food is the answer to why Thais eat five meals a day.
Festivals of Thailand
Thai revelers were only so merry with the colorful and dazzling festivals that are an integral part of Thai culture. The most exciting festivals include Songkran (Water Festival), Boon Bang Fai (Rocket Festival), and Yi Peng (Lantern Festival). The Songkran festival is held on April 13th every year, which is also the Thai New Year. Splashing water on loved ones is one of the most critical activities. It symbolizes the purification of all sins committed in the past year.
Impressive dance performances and parades await you in the streets. There is also a competition for the title of “Miss Songkran.” Thailand’s farming community mainly celebrates the Rocket Festival. The rockets are displayed around the city before launch. The tallest climbing rocket earns its owner a cash prize.
Rockets are sent out to please the gods for plenty of rain. The most spectacular scenes can be captured during the Lantern Festival. The sky lights up as people throw paper lanterns to avoid last year’s mishaps. It mainly takes place in the city of Chiang Mai. Chinese New Year is celebrated throughout Thailand due to the large Chinese population.
Traditional dragon dancers will captivate you with their dazzling performances. Delicious Chinese food and firecrackers will ensure that everyone in attendance will have a great time.
