South East Asian Trips

Thailand currently has a population of about 61.5 million (1998 estimate). Similar in characteristics to most Southeast Asian nations, Thailand has a broad diversity of ethnic, linguistic, and religious groups.

Ethnic Thais form the majority, though there is considerable ethnic diversity as the area has historically been a migratory crossroads of the region. Strains of Mon, Khmer, Burmese, Lao, Malay, Indian and other permanent foreign residents are the principal minority groups. The hilltribe people constitute another prominent ethnic group, playing an important economic and cultural role, particularly in tourism. But the most significant minority in Thailand is the Chinese. We can see the ethnic Chinese form a large community in the various commercial centers of Bangkok and the other big provinces. In Bangkok alone, roughly half the population has some Chinese blood.

More than 95 per cent of Thais practice and profess Theravada Buddhism. A small percentage of Thais and most of the Malays in the south, approximately 4% of the total population, are followers of Islam. A further half a percent of the population follow the Christian belief, and another half percent are Confucians, Taoists, Mahayana Buddhists and Hindus. Although they practice different religious beliefs, the Thai people are able to live in complete harmony, unified and united through the strong faith and belief in the monarchy, with none of the problems experienced by many neighboring countries.

The monarchy is considered sacred in Thailand, and it is against the law to criticize this institution, especially in public. Mocking or joking about the monarchy is a serious offense, punishable by imprisonment.

On the whole, the Thais are a group of people who believe that life should be enjoyed, without infringing on the rights of others. The Thais are tolerant and hospitable, with a strong sense of humor. It is very easy to get along with them. Don't be surprised when doing business with the Thais if they mix business with pleasure. They are against any form of conflict and will go to great pains to avoid confrontation and preserve harmony.

In Thailand, women have a considerable influence in society. It is common now to see women in top-ranking positions, both in public and private agencies, although they have yet to gain equal acceptance in the male-dominated Thai society.

Thai is the national language in Thailand. English is widely understood, particularly in Bangkok, where it is almost the dominant commercial language. English is spoken in most hotels and restaurants and at major tourist destinations. However, in remote upcountry locations, getting along in English might be difficult. The local people will be delighted if you make the effort to speak a few words of Thai, no matter how falteringly.