About Thailand

It is believed Thailands history stems from the Bronze Age some 5,000 years ago. Recorded history indicates a number of periods that mark important stages in Thailands history the Sukothai Period from 1238 to 1438, the Ayutthaya Period from 1351 to 1767, the Thonburi Period from 1767 to 1782, and the Rattanakosin Period from 1782 until the present. The legacy of each of these periods is a series of temples, shrines, palaces and ancient sites, all depicting unique Thai architectural styles and lavish design. Although some of the historical significance of these attractions may at times be lost on you, the visual feast you experience more than compensates for your lack of insight. These are some of the most beautiful places you will ever experience. Simply relax and soak in the sights and sounds and build unforgettable memories. Never colonised, Thailand has never been detached from its culture. Thai dance, theatre, music and art, have all developed in entirely unique ways across the ages and play as important a role today as they did in years gone by. The numerous galleries and museums housing the treasures of bygone ages offer visitors a genuine visual delight.

Like most Asian cultures, respect towards ancestors is an essential part of Thai spiritual practice. Thais have a strong sense of hospitality and generosity, but also a strong sense of social hierarchy. Seniority is an important concept in Thai culture. The elders always rule in family decisions or ceremonies.

The traditional Thai greeting, the wai, is offered first by the youngest of the two people meeting, with their hands pressed together, fingertips pointing upwards as the head is bowed to touch their face to the hands, usually coinciding with the spoken word "Sawasdee Krup" for male speakers, and "Sawasdee Ka" for females. The elder then is to respond afterwards in the same way. When children leave to go to school, they wai to their parents to represent their respect for them. They do the same when they come back. It is a sign of respect and reverence for another, similar to the namaste greeting of other cultures.