Thailand is the land of Theravada Buddhism (the oldest branch of the religion). About 95% of Thais observe the “Teachings of the Elders” (literal meaning of Theravada); hence, the thousands of Buddhist temples and shrines in Thailand. Asalha Puja is one such important occasion for Theravada Buddhists. This day commemorates …
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Considering that 95% of Thais are Buddhists, it is not surprising that Thailand is strewn with thousands of temples or ‘wat’. It is easy to suffer from ‘temple fatigue’ because of this fact and take for granted the experience, so make sure instead to sample the best of Thailand in …
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Phuket brings to mind miles and miles of white sand beaches and sparkling turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea, and a party vibe that can seem like Bangkok-on-the-Beach. The views of Phuket from ground level have been much photographed, and they are as picture-perfect as one can expect of a …
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Makha Bucha is one of the most important religious festivals celebrated in Thailand, and is done to venerate the teachings of Buddha. In 2016, Thailand will celebrate this public holiday on the 22nd of February which falls on the full moon day of the third month in the lunar calendar. …
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Would it be possible to live indoors on US$500 a month, eat delicious and healthy meals, and perhaps get some form of medical coverage? For many Americans approaching retirement and invested their life savings in stocks and bonds that were decimated in the aftermath of the 2008-2009 real estate debacle, …
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A survey conducted by the National Institute of Development Administration says that Chiang Mai in Northern Thailand is the destination of choice of 39% of Thais polled in the survey. Loei and Phuket are also among the crowd favorites. Chiang Mai is the most important cultural and commercial hub of …
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Pattaya is a popular beach resort destination in Thailand. Situated on the Gulf of Thailand’s east coast, it is approximately 150 kilometers southeast of Bangkok. Pattaya is the center of the Pattaya-Chonburi Metropolitan Area, with Pattaya City being the self-governing municipal area located in the heavily industrial Eastern Seaboard Zone. …
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New Years Day is the time when the new calendar year begins according to the Gregorian calendar, and falls on the 1st of January. Festivities on New Year’s Eve, and on New Year’s Day itself, provide some of the most dazzling sights and sounds in Southeast Asian countries; in some …
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The Christmas holiday celebrations in Southeast Asian countries may be a little different from the festivities that are observed in other parts of the world. The way this festive occasion is observed will depend on the religion/s of a given country – you can expect to see more Christmas celebrations …
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Constitution Day is celebrated every year on the 10th of December in Thailand, and commemorates the advent of the country’s Constitutional Monarchy. This public holiday dates back to 1932 – a time when Thailand (then called Siam) experienced great upheaval that ultimately resulted to the end of the absolute power …
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The people of Thailand consider the birthday of their king – His Majesty, King Bhumibol Adulyadej, Rama IX – as one of the most important events of the year. December 5, the King’s birthday, is a very significant date every year; this day is also celebrated as the country’s Father’s …
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Etiquette and other cultural habits of Thailand may have already been mentioned, but it’s always good to review! When traveling to foreign lands it’s important to respect the culture and to fit in as much as possible to avoid problems. How would you feel if a visitor in your country …
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