When you think of one country, what do you think about? Is it food, traditional clothes, language? People naturally think of things that represent that country, and the national anthem is one of them. Yes, you guessed it correctly, in this lesson, you will get to learn everything about the national anthem in Thailand. Apart from being a song that represents the Thai nation, เพลงชาติไทย (phleeng-châat-thai), the Thai national anthem, also gives some insight into the history of Thailand as well. So if you are interested in Thai culture and its history, you shouldn’t miss this lesson. The lesson will begin with Thailand’s national anthem in English, followed by the origin of the Thai national anthem and how it develops. Then, we will... Show more

If you’ve ever been to Thailand, you may have found yourself quickly becoming enthralled with the Thai culture. The culture of Thailand features some very distinct qualities that set it apart from Western culture. From the warm, friendly, and open smiles of its people to the national religion of Buddhism, Thailand will inspire any visitor to learn more about the Thai culture, people, and language.  Before we dive in, how about a quick fun fact? There is a special Thai greeting called ไหว้ (wâi) that you won’t find in other cultures. To perform wai, hold your hands together and bring them up to just under your chin. Once your hands are in position, give a slight nod. Wai is the Thai equivalent of saying hello, goodbye, or any other... Show more

https://www.youtube.com/embed/rVAfCdgkF70 Teachers are valued in every country around the world, but few nations show teachers their due respect like Thailand does. This is reflected in Thai Teachers' Day, celebrated each year to encourage the humility of students before their teachers.  In this article, you’ll learn all about Teachers' Day in Thailand, from its recent beginnings to how it’s celebrated. Let’s get started! 1. What is Teachers' Day? National Teachers' Day is a Thai holiday celebrated each year on January 16. On this day, students go out of their way to show their teachers ความเคารพ (khwaam khao-róp), or "respect."  It was General Phiboonsongkram who first suggested the creation of Teachers'... Show more

Songkran Day, otherwise known as the Songkran Festival or Songkran Water Festival, is a unique Thai tradition that takes place in early spring each year. In this article, you’ll learn what the Songkran Festival is all about, how Thai people celebrate this holiday, and more! Let’s get started. 1. What is Songkran Day? The Songkran holiday in Thailand is a three-day celebration period. During the Songkran Festival, Thai people are able to get much-needed rest and relaxation from work or school, as well as plenty of play-time! This holiday is also a period of blessings and a time to ทำบุญ (tham-bun), or "make merit." The Songkran Festival is a tradition that is not only present in Thailand but also in other Southeast Asian... Show more

The Chinese New Year celebration in Thailand is an important day for the ไทยเชื้อสายจีน (thai-chúuea-săai-jiin), or "Thai-Chinese," population. Thailand during the Chinese New Year may put one in mind of Christmastime in many Western cultures with all of its colorful festivities, warm family time, and gift-giving. In this article, you’ll learn all about this traditional holiday, how the Thai-Chinese celebrate it, and more facts about the Thai-Chinese population in Thailand. At ThaiPod101.com, it’s our aim to ensure that every aspect of your language-learning journey is both fun and informative—starting with this article! Ready? Let’s get started. 1. What is the Chinese New Year? Trut Chin is the traditional... Show more

In 1932, Thailand’s Constitution was created and signed into effect during a time of great change in the country. In this article, you’ll learn about what role King Prajadhipok (King Rama VII) played in its creation, an interesting law you’ll find within the Constitution, and how Thai people celebrate Thai Constitution Day. At ThaiPod101.com, we hope to make every aspect of your language-learning journey both fun and informative. What better way than by delving into the roots of modern-day Thailand? Are you ready? Let’s get started! 1. What is Constitution Day? In Thailand, Constitution Day is the day that commemorates the promulgation of the first permanent Constitution of Thailand in 1932. The Constitution was signed... Show more

King Chulalongkorn is a much-loved and respected figure in Thailand, so each year, Thai people celebrate Chulalongkorn Day. In this article, you’ll learn why this king is held in such high regard, all the good he did for Thailand, and how the country goes about remembering King Chulalongkorn. At ThaiPod101.com, we hope to make every aspect of your language-learning journey both fun and informative! 1. What is Chulalongkorn Day? On Chulalongkorn Day, Thailand remembers and honors King Rama V, also known as King Chulalongkorn. This king is one of the most beloved and respected figures in the history of Thailand, known for his great favors to the country. King Chulalongkorn & His Accomplishments for Thailand ... Show more

If we were to ask you, "What language is spoken in Thailand?" you would, of course, answer "Thai!" But did you know Thailand has a day set aside to celebrate the Thai language and encourage its use? Thailand Language Day is a unique facet of Thai culture, and you’ll see why once you’ve read up on its history. What could make your Thai language-learning more meaningful than discovering its history and significance in Thailand today? In this article, we’ll be going over some information on the history of modern Thai written language and its journey as the national language of Thailand, as well as celebrations that take place on Thai Language Day (including learning how to make Thai desserts!). At ThaiPod101.com, we hope to make... Show more

In Sanam Luang, Thailand, the Thai Royal Ploughing Ceremony takes place each year. When it comes to the Royal Ploughing Ceremony, Bangkok may consider this the most important of all Sanam Luang events, considering the high place agriculture in Thailand holds. In learning about this Thai ceremony, you’re gaining a deeper understanding of what agriculture in Thailand looks like, and of Thai culture as a whole. Any language learner can tell you that having sound knowledge of your target language’s country is the most important step in the journey. At ThaiPod101.com, we hope to make this learning experience an invaluable one, both fun and insightful. Let’s get started and delve into this Royal Ploughing Day! 1. What is Royal... Show more

What is Chakri Day in Thailand, and why should you learn about it? During Chakri Day, Thailand royal family members and the rest of the population take time to commemorate the Chakri Dynasty’s first king, King Rama I. It’s a day to celebrate and remember the peace and overall success that King Rama I brought to Thailand, including his decision to move its capital to Bangkok. Learning about Chakri Day’s meaning will give you a good look at Thailand’s past, which in turn offers you insight into the country’s culture today. And as many language-learners can vouch for, understanding a country’s culture is a vital step in mastering the language. At ThaiPod101.com, we hope to make this learning experience both fun and informative as... Show more