5 interesting facts about Thailand

If you are thinking of ​​planning a trip to Thailand don't hesitate and set off to discover this country that will surprise and captivate you. We will tell you 5 interesting facts about Thailand that surprise foreigners (farang in Thai) who visit.

Respect for the Royal Family

Respect for members of the Royal Family is everything. Twice a day, in public places, the anthem of Thailand plays and everyone stops to listen. In shops and establishments it is common for them to place small bank notes on which the King appears in the windows as a sign of respect. Disrespect can lead to fines and even prison. Be careful, if you drop a coin and step on it to stop it rolling, this is a sign of disrespect to the Monarchy because it carries the image of the King. In general, be careful with anything that has the image of the King or his family.

The gastronomic variety

In addition to classic Thai food to be found in almost any Asian restaurant; different varieties of meat with currys, satay shish pork kebabs, spring rolls and countless soups; you can try less common in the western world like the delicacies of fried insects. They are very nutritious, cheap and their advocates say they are tasty. Scorpions, cockroaches, grasshoppers, ants or maggots are up for offer in many of the street food stalls. Also, the harvestings of these insects has become a way of life and source of income for many families. Why not give them a try, how many times are you going to get the opportunity?

The climate in Thailand

Thailand enjoys a tropical climate. Has only three seasons: the cold (November to February), the hot (March to May) and the rainy (June to October). Temperatures usually range between 18 and 35 degrees. Usually it's recommended to avoid the rainy season, but that doesn't mean is has to interfere with your travel plans if you want to forget about this issue, choose to travel between November and April.

At lunch time…

In Thailand there are not certain hours for breakfast, lunch or dinner. They eat when they're hungry and what they feel like at the time. This is good because you will be able to find places to eat at almost all hours. People eat with chopsticks or a spoon and a fork. Spoon is for the right hand to take food to your mouth and the fork is for the left hand to "cut" and push. You can start practising the technique that convinces you the most for your trip.

Sexual freedom

In Thailand the acceptance of homosexuals and transsexuals is the order of the day. Transsexuals, (katoeys in Thai), have been called the third gender and although this recognition is not always reflected in legislation (eg, a transsexual can not change his gender identification) respect and normalization of their condition is far along than some other countries. In addition, they have specialized cosmetic surgeries designed to change gender: sex reassignment, breast implants, reduced facial features, widening hips, etc.

Apart from this list were sure that on your journey  you will find many other situations that may be bizarre or shocking. Thailand is a country, like most Asian countries, with a culture and customs very different from ours. However, apart from cultural differences, you will feel welcome wherever you go.

If you have decided to visit Thailand in your next holidays, remember that you can buy Thai Bahts in our website and receive them at home.

Have a good trip!