Thailand, or “the land of smiles”, is a country full of amazing sights, beautiful temples, and delicious food. However, there is more to cherish about this heavenly place than just enjoying a fresh bowl of Khao Soi or Pad Thai. If you are planning your Thailand holidays soon and want to learn some fun and interesting facts, then stick with this blog. We will share some interesting facts about this gem that are sure to make your trip memorable.
A Sneak Peek into Fun Facts About Thailand
1. Why is it Called the Land of Smiles?
Thailand is called the land of smiles because Thai people are known around the world for being friendly, welcoming, and always ready with a smile. Hence, the name says it all. In Thai culture, people value qualities like being polite and believe that a smile can create a big difference. They smile when they are happy, to say thank you, to apologise, as it helps keep things calm and cool. This habit is so common among Thais that many visitors instantly notice the hospitality of this nation. That is why Thailand has been called the “land of smiles” globally.
2. It Was Never Colonised
In the past, various Southeast Asian countries were colonised by European powers. Among them, if there was any country that remained free from the chains of colonisation, it was Thailand. Unlike its neighbours, who were ruled by the British, French, or Dutch, Thailand maintained its independence. Thanks to the skilful diplomacy and negotiation skills of its leaders, which kept it a free land. Thailand’s ability to stay independent during the colonial period had a great impact on its culture and identity. It made its culture and politics stand out from the rest.
3. Bangkok Has the Longest City Name
One of the most interesting facts about Thailand is the longest name of its capital, which even holds the Guinness World Record. The city is Bangkok; whose actual name consists of 168 characters. It is named as “Krung Thep Mahanakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Ayuthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udomratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Piman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukam Prasit.” The name is written in a poetic way to reflect on the city’s beauty, location, and spiritual importance for the people. Moreover, the name includes a mention of gods, royal palaces, and city’s rich history. Do not be overwhelmed by seeing such a large name; you do not need to memorise it all. You can simply call it Krung Theo, which is also what locals use most of the times, or simply Bangkok. If you’re planning Bangkok holidays, this fun fact adds a cool story to share while exploring the city’s rich culture and charm.
4. Thai Language
The official language of Thailand is Thai. It is also a tonal language, which means that the meaning of each of its words can change depending on the tone you use to say it. This is a fascinating language with its own unique script. The language has 5 tones, namely low, mid, high, rising, and falling. So, if you want to convey your message rightly, you need to set your tone right. In addition to its unique speaking mechanism, its writing system is also iconic. It comes from Old Khmer, which is even more challenging to learn. But if you are fond of learning tricky languages, you would definitely enjoy Thai.
- Do not Disrespect the Monarchy
People deeply respect the royal family in Thailand. They hold them in high regard. Its example can be seen from this that whenever there is a big event in the country or a launch of a movie, as per tradition, the King’s anthem is played at the inauguration ceremony. As a respect, when it plays, everyone is expected to get up from their seats and stand quietly. This customary representation reflects the value and importance of monarchy in Thai culture.
6. Smallest Mammal in the World
Do you know that the world’s smallest mammal has taken shelter in the limestone caves of Western Thailand? The bumblebee bat, or Kitti’s hog-nosed bat, is the smallest mammal in the world, weighing only about two grams. The bat is super tiny and is just 29 to 33 mm long. Sadly, it is now considered a vulnerable species because there has been great damage to its habitat due to man-made activities and a change in the environment. Although its small size makes it look cute, its situation reminds us how important it is to protect wildlife.
7. White Elephant
Elephants are an important part of Thai culture and history. It is symbolic of royal power, good luck, and sacredness. In the past, it was used in the battles for the royals as a support. Having a white elephant was a sign that the king had a divine right to rule and that the kingdom would be blessed with prosperity and rain. Now, white elephants are deeply respected in the Thai culture. This is the reason that you would see them in many sanctuaries across the country. So, when you plan your Thailand holidays, just make sure to visit ethical elephant sanctuaries and see how they treat animals with care and respect.
8. Unique Greeting
Thailand has a unique greeting style. The “wai”, or Thai greeting, is all about showing respect and kindness. Among the many things that make Thailand’s culture so unique and warm, the greeting is supreme. To do a wai, what you need to do is to press your palms together like you do for the prayer and give a small bow. For example, when people greet monks or royalty, they place their hands to their foreheads. It is a polite and graceful way to say hello, goodbye, thank you, or even sorry. More than being a polite gesture, wai shows Thailand’s deep values of respect, humility, and social harmony. Hence, though it is just a small movement, it says a lot about your values.
Wrap Up
There are so many interesting facts about Thailand that make this country fall in love with. In this post, we have just scratched the surface. Otherwise, it is called the land of smiles, serves delicious food, and offers exquisite hospitality to the guests. So, next time when you plan your Thailand holidays, don’t forget to research about these facts and go into this beautiful country fully prepared.
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Dmitri