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.

Thai Culture in Bangkok

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.

Thai Classical Dance

The inspiring Thai culture includes inspiring local music and wonderful Thai dances. Thai culture furthermore includes of course its deep rooted Buddhist religion, martial arts, crafts and beautiful clothing.

Visitors to Thailand can experience Thai culture by witnessing one of the Thai classical dance performances. These classical dance performances are generally performed by gracious Thai ladies wearing beautiful Thai local costumes.

These special Thai dances are fortunately still popular throughout Thailand including with the present younger Thai generations. Most resort areas and many hotels in Phuket and other tourist locations frequently offer these special Thai culture dance shows for foreign visitors.

Thai Greeting

The unique Thai gesture of greeting another person, the wai, is especially one of the greatest aspects of Thai culture. The wai is when a person joins both hands to either head or chest level while bending their head slightly towards their hands.

This way of greeting is especially done when a younger person greets an older person and it indicated a sign of respect to their elders. Employees would also wai their superior’s even if the supervisor or manager would be younger then themselves as the seniority of the other person would be respected.

Bangkok

Bangkok is the main city of Thailand and has been the Thai capital since the end of the eighteenth century. Observing Thai culture in Bangkok can be a great experience as the blend of modern times and traditions have created a one of a kind atmosphere. Bangkok still offers a package of Thai culture which showcases Thai culture through numerous beautiful Thai Buddhist temples, interesting museums and many example of ancient Thai architecture.

Places to Visit in Bangkok

One of the best places in Bangkok to experience Thai culture is in the Sanam Luang area. Visitors can visit such Thai national landmarks such as the Grand Palace which includes the Emerald Buddha Temple and also offers visitors to see many other prime examples of Thai architecture at its best.

Another location in Bangkok where one can enjoy and see Thai culture is at the famed Bangkok national museum. The large museum is located near to the Pra Pin Klao bridge incase you would like to visit the Bangkok National Museum. The famous museum offers visitors and tourists an opportunity to view national treasures and unique Thai art pieces with some dating back as early as the late sixteenth century.