10 Unusual Facts About Thai People
The people of Thailand have a rich and unique culture filled with diverse customs and beliefs. Some facts about Thais may surprise — or even shock — farangs (a local term Thais use to refer to Westerners). Now let’s take a look at the top 10 most unusual facts about Thai people.
1. Deep Respect for the Royal Family
One of the most important aspects of Thai culture is the deep respect for the royal family. Thailand has strict laws that prohibit any criticism of the monarch or royal family members. Violating this law can result in serious consequences, including imprisonment. This applies to everyone, including foreigners, so be very cautious when speaking about or handling images of the King or his family.
2. Belief in Spirits
Thais believe in ghosts and various supernatural beings, and they sometimes perform rituals to drive away evil spirits. One common tradition is making loud noises during a lunar eclipse to prevent dark forces from swallowing the moon. On the flip side, Thais also build spirit houses — miniature shrines — for good spirits. Another good example is the Loy Krathong Festival, during which Thais float beautiful little boats made of flowers and fruit down rivers as offerings to the water goddess.
3. The Sacred Head
In Thailand, the head is considered the most sacred part of the body. As such, touching someone’s head is strictly taboo, even if it’s a child’s. Doing so can be seen as highly disrespectful or offensive. Unlike in some Western cultures, where patting someone on the head can be a friendly gesture, in Thailand, it’s completely unacceptable.
4. The Concept of “Sanuk”
One of the core philosophical ideas that shapes everyday life in Thailand is “sanuk” – the concept of fun and enjoyment. Thais believe it’s important to find joy even in the simplest things in life. But sanuk isn’t just about having fun – it’s a deeper idea that involves a sense of harmony and pleasure in whatever you do, whether it’s work, socializing, or participating in events. That’s one of the reasons why Thais smile often and are known for their friendly and positive attitude.
5. Reverence for Elephants
Elephants hold a special place in Thai culture. They symbolize strength, wisdom, and prosperity. In the past, elephants were used in wars and on plantations, but today they are regarded as sacred animals. Unfortunately, not all Thais treat them with the respect they deserve — many are used in the tourism industry, made to perform tricks or carry tourists. However, Thailand is now seeing a rise in elephant sanctuaries, where these majestic animals can live peacefully and freely. On Phuket, you can find such places in the Elephants section.
6. Death Is Not the End
Thais have a unique perspective on death. For them, it’s not a tragedy or an end, but rather a release from suffering. That’s because in Buddhism — the main religion in Thailand — life is seen as a series of lessons in the physical world, meant to teach spiritual truths. Since it’s impossible to learn everything in one lifetime, the soul is believed to return again and again. As a result, Buddhists view death as natural and temporary — a transition rather than a final goodbye.
7. Thais Don’t Like Walking
If you’ve been to Thailand, you may have noticed that unlike tourists, Thais rarely walk around the streets. There are a few reasons for this. First, it’s simply too hot. Second, due to Thailand’s geography with many waterways, people traditionally traveled by boat rather than on foot. And third, sun exposure darkens the skin, and many Thais prefer lighter skin tones, going to great lengths to protect themselves from the sun.
8. Amazing Metabolism
Thais are constantly eating or thinking about food. That’s why Thailand is full of cafes, restaurants, street food stalls, night markets, and food vendors. You can explore the best ones in the Cafes & Restaurants and Night Markets sections. But think about it — how many overweight Thais have you actually seen? Sure, there are some, but considering how much they eat, there are surprisingly few. What’s their secret? Most likely, it’s their unique metabolism.
9. Military Service – A Jackpot
Serving in the Thai army is like winning the lottery — and that’s not just a metaphor. After passing a medical exam, candidates draw cards. If they pull a red card, they’re drafted into the army. If they draw a black card, they’re not. Many Thais hope to be selected, as military service is considered honorable and well-paid. (By the way, we’ve written more about the Thai army here — check it out for lots of fascinating and unusual facts.)
10. Importance of Social Status
Thai society is built around a clear hierarchy. Bosses are treated with near-reverence, almost like gods. However, people of high status usually don’t flaunt their superiority. Everyone behaves politely toward one another, but social ranks and boundaries are strictly observed.
If you want to dive deeper into Thai culture and traditions, check out the sections on Excursions, Museums, and Temples. There, you’ll find the most fascinating places to visit in Phuket — places that reveal the island’s culture, secrets, and legends.
