Culture Of Thailand

June 13th, 2009

Thailand is a country with a long and rich history. Thailand is also one of those countries which have many traditions which modern times fortunately have not affected. Thailand is renowned for its unique culture that has been notorious around the globe. Thai culture is especially well known for its distinctiveness. It is well worth noting that Thai culture has traditionally been handed down from one generation to the next.

When you speak of Thailand, instantly a picture of people with small eyes and happy smiling faces appear before you. They have the typical south-east asian look. However, their ways, their way of speaking, their beliefs, and their culture are a symbol of their true identity.

Thailand mostly comprises of people who speak Tai language. Tai speaking people are spread over Central Thai, the Northeastern Thai, the Northern Thai, and the Southern Thai. Central Thai is the area where one finds most Tai speaking people.

In addition to Tai speaking people, there are Chinese who have blended seamlessly with the Thai. Other cultures include Malays, Mon, Khmer, and even Vietnamese.

Majority of Thais follow the Theravada Buddhist tradition, which ranges from animism to worshiping of ancestors. However, the Muslim community is also a big religious group in Thailand. The Muslim population is mostly prevalent in places south of Chumphon. The Malay group is present in the southern part of Thailand. In addition to these communities and groups, there is a sprinkling of Christians, Hindus, and Sikhs as well.

Based on their belief and main Buddhist tradition, Thai people pay a lot of respect and homage to their ancestors. It is the core of their spiritual belief and faith. They are very generous and hospitable people. Social hierarchy plays a very important role in their lives. They touch the feet of their elders as a mark of respect and to seek their blessing. The elders play a key role in any important decisions or ceremonies.

Legal Informations About Real Estate and Property in Thailand

May 28th, 2009

Thailand is one of the top tourist destinations and continues to draw new arrivals each year. Many of those coming to Thailand eventually decide to remain in the country as expatriates. When seeking to relocate to any country, the issue of home ownership becomes a paramount concern. Hopefully this piece will shed light upon some of the many facets of Thai Property Law.

Obtaining Real Estate or Property in Thailand

In order to stay in Thailand for the long term many people opt to buy Thai Real Estate. Owning a home in Thailand can be a bit of a risky enterprise since Thailand has many laws that preclude foreign ownership of land. However, there are some ways in which a non-Thai can own or control Thai property.

Thailand Condos

Condos in Thailand are a popular choice for many expats. Under Thai law a foreigner is allowed to own a Thai Condominium provided the Condo meets certain requirements laid out in the Thailand Condominium Act.

Thai Real Estate Lease

A long term lease of Thai Real Estate is another attractive option to many prospective foreign Property owners in Thailand. However, there is some misunderstanding regarding Thai leases. Many people believe that Thai leases are automatically renewable and they can last for over 30 years, this is simply not the case.

Thailand Usufruct

A usufruct of Thai property is another possibility. This is much like a life estate under the common law system in that a usufruct can grant a person the right to the use of land for life. There are many formalities that must be kept in mind when drafting a usufruct which is why it is advisable to have a lawyer prepare a usufruct.

Thai Company Formation for Property Ownership

Another method of “owning” property in Thailand is having a Thai company own the property and have a disproportionate number of voting shares allotted to the non-Thai property “owner,” this method allows a non-Thai to keep control of the property while still adhering to Thai law.

The legal system of Thailand is complex body of regulations and rules. As with any legal structure used to own real estate, it is wise and recommended that a competent lawyer draft all documents and conduct due diligence research in order to make sure ones interests are fully protected.

Top 10 Must-Not-Miss Thai Food

April 23rd, 2009

The following list is a top 10 rank of Thai food that you must not miss. The consideration and ranking is based on the popularity, uniqueness and authenticity of the delicacies.

10. Kai Pad Med Mamuang Himmapan (Stir-Fried Chicken with Cashew Nuts)

Even though Kai Pad Med Mamuang Himmapan does not represent the overview of Thai food but it is a very nice treat to your bland taste buds. Since it is by no means spicy or hot, this slightly sweet and salty chicken fried with crunchy cashew nuts is aptly satiating for children or beginners who are not used to spices.

9. Por Pia Tord (Fried Spring Roll)

Fried spring roll is one of the most popular appetizers among foreigners because it is not spicy and comes with sweet and sour dip. Spring rolls are crispy pastries with fried vegetable fillings. Though spring rolls are commonplace in many Southeast Asian countries, Thai Por Pia is different in flavors with a special dip prepared from Japanese apricot.

8. Panaeng (Meat in Spicy Coconut Cream)

Panaeng can be cooked using either pork, chicken or beef. Panaeng tastes like Thai red curry but the coconut milk sauce is relatively thicker and richer. Compared to Thai red curry, Panaeng is mildly spicy and sweet. Paneang is best served with warm steamed rice. There is nothing to dislike about Panaeng expect the fact that it can be too greasy or fleshy for some people.

7. Som Tam (Spicy Papaya Salad)

Som Tam is one of the most popular foods among Thai people for its fiercely spicy and sour flavors. Som Tam, which literally means “Sour Pounded”, is a spicy salad made from a mix of fresh vegetables including shredded unripened papaya, yardlong beans and tomato. Som Tam is unique that the spicy dressing and salad vegetables are pounded and mixed in the mortar using a pestle. Somtam is usually served with grilled chicken and sticky rice. Som Tam is good for your health that it contains no fat, low calorie and high vitamins. This is a truly authentic Thai dish that will make a great impression. The only reason why ranking Som Tam at No.7 (though it deserves higher rank) is its strong spiciness that might leave your tongue burned and swollen. Just say “Mai phed” (not spicy) to your waiter if you really want to try.

6. Moo Sa-Te (Grilled Pork Sticks with Turmeric)

This tantalizing sweet-flavored grilled pork sticks are refined with rich, juicy sauce made of turmeric and curry powder. Moo Sa-Te makes a savory hors d’oeuvres that will appease any taste buds. These juicy grilled pork sticks are usually served with two saucy dips – one is a mildly spicy thick sauce with ground peanuts, coconut milk and curry powder and another one is a sweet and sour vinegar sauce with chopped shallot, pepper and cucumber to mitigate its oiliness.

5. Tom Yam Kai (Spicy Chicken Soup)

Chicken soup is very good to eat when you have a cold but Tom Yam Kai or spicy chicken soup is a yummy treat that you will fall in love with just in a first sip. Tom Yam Kai is a clear chicken soup seasoned with a blend of chili, lime and fish sauce. The broth is simmered with Thai herbs as lemon grass, shallot and galangal which give it a unique and satiating aroma. My foreign friends order this tasty soup anywhere they go so you should not miss it by any means!

4. Tom Kha Kai (Chicken in Coconut Milk Soup)

Although Tom Kha Kai is another variation of chicken soup, it deserves the No.4 because of its unparalleled taste and popularity. Similar to Tom Yam Kai, the broth is prepared with many types of Thai herbs with the special addition of coconut milk that makes this soup unique. Though the soup is seasoned with chili, lime and fish sauce just like Tom Kha Kai, thanks to the coconut milk, the broth is milder and less spicy. This is probably more liked by non-spicy eaters.

3. Kang Keaw Wan Kai (Green Chicken Curry)

Since we are having three dishes in a row made of “Kai”, you would have guessed that it is chicken in English. Not that chicken is particularly popular in Thai cuisine; it is usually used in most curry and soup. Kang Kiew Wan, literally translated as “Sweet Green Curry”, is nicely sweet and slightly spicy and tastes very delightful with a proper blend of the spiciness from green curry chili paste, blandness from coconut milk, sweetness of sugar and saltiness of fish sauce. It is usually eaten with steamed rice or served as a sauce to rice noodle known as “Kanom Jeen” likewise to how you eat Spaghetti.

2. Pad Thai (Fried Noodle)

This national dish prides itself for its long history traced back in previous centuries. Pad Thai flaunts the authenticity of Thai culinary arts in using only fresh and best ingredients and the well-balancing of the five fundamental flavors. The stir-fried noodle becomes popular because it tastes yummy and comes with a choice to add in a set of seasonings to suit your appetites. Through history, Pad Thai has evolved into two different styles: the classic and the variation. The classic Pad Thai is a stir-fried noodle with eggs, fish sauce, tamarind juice, red chili pepper plus bean sprouts, shrimp and tofu and garnished with crushed peanuts and coriander while another style is relatively dry and lightly-flavored. The latter is easily found in street vendors and dominant in Thai restaurants in the West but the having classic Pad Thai freshly cooked in its original country is a way to go.

1. Tom Yam Goong (Spicy Shrimp Soup)

No other dishes can defeat this renowned Tom Yam Goong as the optimal representative of Thai gourmet. Tom Yam Goong is truly one of a kind with its fierce spiciness and sourness and a blatant use of fragrant herbs including galangal, lemon grass, kaffir lime leaves, shallot, tamarind and chili pepper. There are two styles of Tom Yam; the clear spicy soup and thick spicy soup. The latter is cooked by adding coconut milk or milk to the broth in order to thicken the stock and give the dish a milder flavor. Tom Yam is very versatile and can be made with prawns, chicken, fish and mix of seafood, and mushroom. Tom Yam Goong is the most popular variety of Tom Yam since Spicy Shrimp Soup is the original. Though not very surprising, Tom Yam Goong is definitely a signature dish of Thailand.

The Allure and Individuality of Bangkok Pewter Jewellery

April 14th, 2009

Bangkok pewter jewellery is high quality and non-allergic. Thousands of people across the globe trust jewellery makers and designers from Thailand. You will find beautiful items in this category in round, diamond and rectangle designs. Wristbands, cuff links, and buckles are also sometimes adorned with pewter charms and tags. These accessories and jewellery articles are worn as style icons by modern men and women. Pewter jewellery is particularly liked among young girls and boys. Body piercing jewellery is also made from pewter because it is lead-free and does not cause any infections.

Bangkok pewter jewellery is quite affordable. You can find fashionable jeweled bracelets, tribal designs, armour rings and chains, and many other stylish and trendy jewellery articles. Pewter bangles come in free size and are often used as unisex items. They are available for as low as $5 a piece. Celtic and ancient designs and engravings are quite popular in these types of jewellery articles. Pewter rings are even more affordable and they can be bought for $2 to $4 a piece. They come in exciting shapes like skull, snake, tribal designs and mixed designs. These rings can be given away as fashionable gifts.

Many people like to try out unique and fancy articles of jewellery. If you are also one of those people, do check out the wide selection of Bangkok pewter jewellery available online. Body jewellery can also be found in this category made from high quality pewter. Belly rings, nostril rings, eyebrow rings and naval jewellery are available at reasonable prices. Pewter jewellery is easy to handle and easy to clean. Pewter pendants are particularly liked by people belonging to all age groups. They are available in different shapes and sizes and you can choose one according to your style and taste.

New Toyota Plant in Thailand

April 6th, 2009

Executives at Toyota Motor’s new plant in a Bangkok suburb point out that the factory in Thailand is the first to run on clean natural gas.

The factory is equipped with robots and parts movers moving silently on the assembly floors. Toyota’s $426 million facility shows that despite the political unrest in Thailand it has not affected global carmakers’ positive views of the country.

Thailand is renowned worldwide when it comes to the production of one-ton trucks, with projected outputs of 853,000 units for this year alone. The said figure outpaced United States which according to J.D. Power Automotive Forecasting produces only 588,000 units of trucks.

Thailand is the second biggest market for trucks since it’s a common sight in rural areas where most farm products are produced. The domestic sales for this year are forecast at 510,000 units as compared to the 651,000 units forecast in the United States.

Aside from Toyota, Ford Motor Co, General Motors Corp, Nissan Motor Co Ltd, Mitsubishi Motors Corp, Isuzu Motors Ltd, and Mazda Motor Corp. have also opened factories in Thailand for their export vehicles and mostly have started building their plants after Asia’s 1997/98 economic crisis. Each of them has invested 140,000-180,000 trucks a year, exporting them to 100 countries from Australia and the Middle East to Europe and even reaching Latin America.

In recent years the Thai government has offered proposals that include generous incentives for global carmakers just to encourage them to invest in export-oriented facilities for small economy sedans. The Thai government aims to further develop its auto industry which is its second-biggest industry after computers and electronics, employing about 350,000 people and accounting for nearly 15 percent of gross domestic product.

Retire to Exotic Thailand

February 17th, 2009

Retirement is the point where a person stops employment completely. A person may also semi-retire and keep some sort of retirement job, out of choice rather than necessity.

To some, this is the end of the road of years of heading off to work each day.To others, it is a fresh start in life, the excitement of new things each day on their time and terms.

Some have meticulously financially planned for retirement. Many others find themselves at retirement age with little or no plans, and savings to match. The amount of money that the experts suggest will be necessary to retire comfortably is ridiculous!

If you are at retirement age you are probably saturated with retirement information including financial planning, pension plans, social security, retirement communities, medical expenses, insurance, and other choices to be made.

As you read this article, we are at a point in time where some choices are being made for us. Let me give you just one. It is no longer possible to retire in the US, UK, or many Western Countries because of the high cost of living. The cost of living in the USA goes higher each day, groceries, gasoline, medical bills, dental bills, home repair bills, and the list goes on. Unfortunately, many who have worked a lifetime are not really enjoying their Golden Years but are just barely getting by.

There is a better way! It is possible to have luxury living in retirement for pennies – not just “getting by” on your retirement pension. There are places that are more affordable, and have a quality standard of living. It is simply a matter of knowing how and where.

Asia is the most exciting continent on earth, and Thailand is an excellent country of choice. There is something for everyone, depending on your likes and requirements, large cities like Bangkok, small rural villages, beach resort areas, charming islands, lakes, cool mountains, good weather, great food, and friendly people. Thailand is filled with beautiful exotic locations where you can live on a shoestring and not have to sacrifice anything.

Let the entire country of Thailand be your “retirement community”. You will have affordable housing, modern shopping centers, banking and ATM facilities, fine restaurants, entertainment, good public transportation, movie complexes, health spas, fitness centers, social clubs, golf courses, and an incredible amount of sporting activities. Language is not a problem, but learning a little basic Thai is both fun and useful. And what about healthcare? Thailand is one of the leading countries for “Medical Tourism”, because the Thai medical profession is one of the most advanced in the region. Major hospitals are internationally accredited, and reasonably priced! For those who want to semi-retire, you can earn extra income in Thailand with an Internet business like affiliate marketing, stocks or forex trading, or even teach English part time.

Why not retire in a country where senior citizens are respected. I am a senior citizen living in Thailand. Someone always gives me a seat on a crowded bus or the subway. When I go to the bank, I’m always escorted to the front of the line by a bank official. People are always helping me. It’s great to live in a country where older people are looked upon with esteem and consideration.

The bottom line is that you can retire in Thailand and live a more relaxed, happier life on less money. This retirement paradise is real. As you read this, many people, just like you, are already experiencing this lifestyle. Why not join them? Each day is precious and we should be enjoying life to its fullest. The best is yet to come.

People in Thailand

January 17th, 2009

The modern Nation of Thailand is a multicultural society. The predominant Thai culture, identity and civilization emerged as a by product of the interaction of the indigenous population with Tai and other immigrant peoples . When people call themselves ‘’ Thai ’’ they mean they are in the political sense, subjects of the Thailand nation. If explored further the word has a cultural and, for many, a linguistic sense. However not all Thailand citizens speak Thai and of those who do so it is a second language for them. This Thai identity in its present form is relatively recent.

The first inhabitants are described in the Prehistory link. After prehistoric times there were the Mon, the Khmer and other Austro-Asiatic tribes such as the Lawa, H’ tin, etc. Their defining moments are up until 1300 and the arrival of the Tai tribes. The Khmer who established the Kingdom of Chenla and Angkor are described in East Thailand People although Khmer influence was significant elsewhere as well.

The Austro-Asiatic speakers including the Mon are considered in North Thailand People and Central Thailand People regions. The Mon had separate kingdoms in each region. The other Austro-Asiatic speaking tribes are considered but these were less significant. In North Thailand People we describe the smaller groups of Austro-Asiatic speakers such as the Lawa, H’ tin and other hunters and gathers of that region.

The Tai tribes are considered in the regions of Central Thailand, North Thailand, South or Southern Thailand and North East Thailand. These regions are relevant in that ethnic diversity is also varied through out the regions of Thailand. Modern Thailand is a modern political Nation now comprising what were historically numerous ethnic cultures and Kingdoms. The ethnic characteristics, belief systems, languages and lifestyles of each of all the tribes are compared also within these links. As between the Tai tribes the points of comparison are language and script, culture and art and architecture style. As between all the other ethnic tribes the points of comparison are language groups, monogamous and polygamous cultures, animist and non animist beliefs, ancestor worship or not, indic script or Khmer based text, highland dwellers or lowland farmers , heirarchical and non hierarchical societies, spirit beliefs and religion.

Job Opportunities In Thailand

December 8th, 2008

Thailand is a South Asian nation that lies in the east of Cambodia and Laos; Malaysia and Gulf of Thailand. Thailand is 49th largest country that can be compared to the size of California and France. In terms of economy, Thailand is a burgeoning industrial economy that has seen highest growth rate during the period of 1985 to 1996. Being an Asian country, Thailand culture is greatly influenced from China and India. The official language of Thailand is Thai and according to 2006 census its population is 62,828,706 with a density of 122km square. Major religion of Thailand is Buddhism. Given the natives who are not well educated, for foreigners, it is best opportunity to start off with a lucrative teaching career that helps in making a good living. Teaching English is one of the constant demands in Thailand. However, in the present scenario, the high demand of English teachers has resulted in the downfall of remuneration. Yet, teaching is the best job that an outsider can take course to in Thailand. Some other important sectors for livelihood include tourism and hospitality industry as Thailand attracts a large number of foreigners to its shores for its breathtaking locales and natural scenery. In case you are planning to live in Bangkok, Bangkok is known for its thriving international market with high rate of property.

Given the low cost of labor and affordable housing sector, many MNC are coming with their establishments in Bangkok. This phenomenon has led to large turnover of expatriates to Bangkok. Thailand’s attractive features of ownership laws, condominiums and apartments for foreigners make it the best choice for foreign investors. Bangkok real estate attracts both middle and higher class investors who are employed in the MNC sector. The high demand of MNC sector is churning large scale job opportunities for managerial and CEO posts. This has made Thailand a cosmopolitan nation that welcomes all its visitors with open arms. Well, if you are well educated and can speak English, you won’t find much difficulty in finding a suitable job. For skilled individuals, there is simply no dearth of jobs in Thailand as it is catering to a large numbers of skilled professionals. For foreigners, Thailand is a haven that offers tourism as well as employment facilities. The state policies towards foreign employment facilities make it a suitable destination for large number of workers who come from various parts of the world in the search of livelihood.

Gems, Handmade Jewelry, and Craftwork from Thailand

November 17th, 2008

Asia Products LLC is an American owned and operated company, which has offices both in Thailand and America. Over the years, Asia Products LLC has travelled widely, seeking work of only the best quality workmanship. Asia Products LLC is proud of managing to create a unique collection sourced entirely from Thailand. Asia Products LLC offers a beautiful range of authentic handcrafted Thai artwork including: fine bone china, teak wood carvings, high grade silver jewelry, and superior quality Thai cut gems as well as a collection of royalty-free photographs, prints and wall hangings – all at very affordable prices.

All of the work Asia Products LLC sells is original art work, handmade in Thailand by real Thai artisans using traditional skills and authentic Thai resources. Because of this, each item is unique and may differ slightly from the images shown on Asiaproductsllc.com. Since Asia Products has a base in Thailand and buys direct from Thai artisans Asia Products LLC can help you to source art and craftwork.

Thailand Rock Climbing

November 10th, 2008

Located in Southeast Asia, Thailand is bordered by Cambodia, Burma and Laos in the north and Malaysia in the south. The shape of the country is somewhat similar to Italy, and you’ll find similar differences between northern and southern Thailand that you do in Italy. For rock climbing enthusiasts, the south of Thailand is where the action is. The rock formations in Thailand are almost universally limestone. The level of climbing can be as simple as bouldering or as challenging as tackling over vertical cliffs. This makes Thailand a popular rock climbing destination since it has a little something for everyone. Located on the southern section of the “tail” of Thailand, Krabi has a wide variety of rock climbing challenges. Most of the climbs in this area are of the pre-bolted sport route variety. There are literally hundreds upon hundreds of climbs with difficulty levels from beginner to multi-pitch knuckle crushers. The beauty of climbing in Krabi is…well, the beauty. While you might have visions of jungles and mosquitoes when thinking of Thailand, Krabi is an area of a different sort. Most of the climbs have been set up on cliff faces on the beach. Being natural capitalists, the Thai’s have built hotels, bars and so on at these locations. As a result, you can literally climb a multi-pitch route for five hours, cool off with a swim and then have a beer. If there is such a thing as a rock climbing heaven, many feel Krabi is it. Before you cash in your savings, keep in mind that Thailand is a seasonal vacation spot. If you go during the wet season, there is a good chance you’ll just end up sitting around drinking beer. While that isn’t too bad, you’ll go crazy looking at the climbs that are so close, but oh so far away. Generally, you want to head to Thailand from late November through maybe April. The summer months tend to be both incredibly hot and wet. Make sure you pull up forecasts for the area before booking a trip. Flying to Thailand is inexpensive, but flights are incredibly long with stopovers. Still, it is all worth it once you experience Thailand rock climbing.