Thailand, besides being one of the most visited countries in Asia, is a destination filled with traditions, beliefs, and cultural aspects that catch the attention of anyone who has never visited. This country coexists with a plethora of customs, making way for thousands of interesting facts about Thailand.
The unique identity of this Asian gem makes it an unparalleled destination for an enlightening journey. Nothing will ever be the same once you set foot in this country, as Thailand is incomparable to anything you've experienced before.
Planning a school trip to Thailand? Then pay attention to all these details that will make this journey an incredible experience.
1. It's the only Southeast Asian country that has never been colonized by a European country
Thailand in the Thai language is Prathet Thai, which directly translates to "Land of Freedom." Therefore, it seems quite fitting that this country is the only one in the entire Southeast Asia region that has never been colonized by any European nation. Considering that only a few countries in the world have managed to escape European domination, this is a significant achievement in itself.
It's an important fact to keep in mind upon arrival as it's a merit they are very proud of, and they will feel grateful and respected if you demonstrate knowledge of such an essential fact in their history.
2. It's the world's leading exporter of orchids
It's no surprise that Thailand is the largest global exporter of orchids since it's the national flower. Around 45% of Thai orchids are exported out of the country, while the rest are sold to locals in the domestic market.
There are over 1,500 different species of orchids growing in the wild forests and jungles of Thailand. These exotic flowers abound in markets, shopping malls, temples, and festivals, and it's not uncommon to see orchids growing by the roadside or in a somewhat desolate field. They are everywhere.
3. Bangkok, or the city with one of the longest names in the world
One of Thailand's curiosities lies in the name of its capital. Bangkok in Thai is called: Krung Thep Mahanakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Yuthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udomratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Phiman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukam Prasi.
The name means: "City of angels, great city of immortals, magnificent city of the nine gems, seat of the king, city of royal palaces, home of gods incarnate, erected by Visvakarman at Indra's behest." It can also be summarized as Krung Thep, which translates to the city of angels.
4. It's home to a fish that can walk on land
The Cryptotora thamicola, also known as the blind cave fish that climbs waterfalls, uses its two front and two rear fins to propel itself up waterfalls. It crawls on land in the same way any quadruped animal would.
This is quite a notable feat as the walking adaptations of Cryptotora thamicola's skeleton have never been observed before in any type of fish. Although the cavefish's anatomy is described as "similar to that of a salamander," it's a distant relative of the commonly known goldfish.
5. It's considered disrespectful to touch someone's head, even a child's
In Thai culture, the head is considered the most important part of the body. Therefore, no one should ever touch another person's head, not even that of a child. As a sign of respect and acknowledgment, Thais typically try to keep their head lower than that of any elder or person in a higher position.
On the opposite end of the body, feet are considered lowly, as they symbolize attachment to the ground or earth, which is considered a cause of human suffering and struggle. For this reason, feet should always be tucked under the body, and if sitting, feet should not point toward another person or any temple statue.
6. Birthplace of Red Bull
Famous worldwide, the popular energy drink Red Bull was born in Thailand. It was based on Krating Daeng, a sweet, non-carbonated energy drink sold throughout the country and across Asia since 1976. Years later, in 1987, an Austrian businessman named Dietrich Mateschitz modified the ingredients to better suit Western tastes, and thus Red Bull was born.
7. There's an entire festival dedicated to monkeys every year
Another curious thing about Thailand: in November, the Monkey Buffet Festival is celebrated annually, taking place in front of the Pra Prang Sam Yot temple. Locals invite over 600 monkeys to feast on over two tons of delicious food lovingly prepared by the locals.
The monkeys' menu consists of rice, tropical fruits, salad, grilled sausages, and even ice cream. The festival is held on the belief that good luck will come from treating the furry creatures with respect. Locals also do it as a way to thank the monkeys for attracting thousands of tourists to the city each year.
8. They have more than one flag
Thailand has many flags. The national flag of Thailand is raised at 8 a.m. every morning and lowered at 6 p.m. But there are also many other flags called "Royal Flags" flown alongside the national flag to honor the monarchy. You might only see the royal flags in Thailand, but they are common.
Thailand showcases that the attractions to visit in this country are numerous. Its culture is fascinating, and on top of that, it boasts some of the most incredible landscapes in the world. A unique experience that allows you to delve into customs, history, and traditions so different from what we are accustomed to, leaving you with thousands of learnings.
