Thailand is also known as the land of smiles. And there is a reason for that. The Thais are incredibly friendly, helpful and accommodating. They always meet you with a smile.
Thailand is one of Asia’s most popular holiday destinations. There is also a good reason for this – more even.
Among the many alluring aspects is a culture that has never been adapted to Western civilization, and that reflects the Chinese and Burmese influences, as well as Buddhism, which is about hospitality and goodness. At least as irresistible are Thailand’s luxurious beaches, beautiful scenery, amazing food, lovely (albeit warm) weather and famous Buddhist temples.
- CAPITAL CITY: Bangkok
- LANGUAGE: Thai
- CURRENCY: Baht (THB)
- AREA: 513,120 km2
- POPULATION: 67,959,000
People and community
You can be located anywhere in Thailand. Close to everything from the northern teak forests to the central rural plains or the southern tropical beaches. In many families, several generations live together, and it is very normal to visit relatives in different parts of the country.
However, many families also enjoy spending the weekend together at home, and here you will experience how Thai families are bound by ancient traditions. You should always ask permission from your host parents before going out. People greet each other with a wai (you press your palms together while bending) to show respect.
Schooling
According to TopSchoolsintheUSA, Thailand has many different types of schools and you will most likely be placed in a public school. The school and the subjects depend on your age and interests and in which area you live. You can choose both a traditional school program where the teaching takes place in Thai, or an English-language school program where all teaching is in English.
The school year starts in May and ends in February, and then you have a midterm holiday in October. The school day runs from 7:30 to 15:30 and all students wear uniforms. Thai schools offer culture-related subjects such as Thai language, dance, sword fighting, music, cooking, art, history, Buddhism and meditation.
Language
Thai is the official language of Thailand and it is the language that will be spoken in your host family. In the traditional school program, all teaching – with the exception of foreign languages - will take place in Thai. In the English-language program, it will take place in English.
You do not have to speak Thai before your departure. Your host school or local volunteers will help you learn the language.
Food
Thai cuisine consists of rice, curries, fish and vegetables mixed with spicy peppers and peanut sauce. Typical meat dishes include pork and chicken, and a wide variety of fruits are available year-round.
Most Thai families eat dinner together. They eat in the way that each person has a bowl of rice, while other dishes are placed in the middle of the table and shared by everyone. Popular dishes include pad Thai (pan-fried noodles), yams (spicy salad) and tom yum kung (lemon soup with shrimp).
