The Garuda as a national symbol of Thailand
The Garuda is the national symbol of Thailand. In Thai it is called Phra Khrut Pha, which you could literally translate as "Garuda as the vehicle" (of Vishnu). The Garuda was officially adopted as the national symbol by King Vajiravudh (Rama VI) in 1911. The mythical creature had been used as a symbol of royalty in Thailand for centuries before that.
Gender equality in Thailand is still lacking
In the run-up to International Women's Day on March 8, the Bangkok Post wrote in a recent editorial about the continuing serious lack of gender equality in Thailand.
The secret of the name Siam
A few years ago I made a translation of an article about Sukhothai. In the introduction I called Sukhothai the first capital of the kingdom of Siam, but that was not a good translation of the "Siamese Kingdom of Sukhothai", as stated in the original article. In response to the recent publication, a reader pointed out to me that Sukhothai was not the capital of Siam, but of the Sukhothai Kingdom.
Tips for successful investing in Thailand
Thailand is known for its dynamic economy, strategic location in Southeast Asia and attractive investment opportunities. With a strong focus on export-driven sectors and a government that actively encourages foreign investment, the country offers various opportunities for foreigners. Despite some challenges, such as political instability, the benefits remain significant for those who understand the market.
If you are on Highway No. 2 to the north, about 20 kilometers after Nakhon Ratchasima you will see the turn off road number 206, which leads to the town of Phimai. The main reason to drive to this town is to visit the "Phimai Historical Park", a complex with ruins of historical Khmer temples.
Thailand is struggling with a growing obesity epidemic
In Thailand, obesity is increasing at an alarming rate, especially among women and children. This trend, driven by changing dietary habits and sedentary lifestyles, threatens public health. This article explores the causes, consequences and economic impact of obesity in Thailand, and highlights the urgency of effective interventions.
Why do Thai Buddhists eat meat?
In Thailand, according to Buddhist teachings, you are not allowed to kill living things. So you would expect that many Thais are vegetarian. However, in practice this is quite disappointing. How is that possible?
The Dutch Bijenkorf department stores are owned by a Thai family
Thailand's Central Retail Corporation has emerged from a local market leader into a global retail giant, with an impressive portfolio stretching from Vietnam to the United Kingdom, Italy and the Netherlands. With a smart mix of digital innovation and traditional shopping experiences, it is building a future where shopping is seamless, both online and offline.
Province of Tak, worth a visit
Tak Province is a province in the north-west of Thailand and is located 426 kilometers from Bangkok. This province is steeped in the Lanna culture. Tak was a historical kingdom that originated more than 2.000 years ago, even before the Sukhothai period
Weird squiggles and pigtails: the origins of Thai script
I must confess something: I speak a fair bit of Thai and, as a resident of Isaan, I now also - necessarily - have notions of Lao and Khmer. However, I never had the energy to learn to read and write Thai. Maybe I'm too lazy and who knows - if I have a lot of free time - maybe it will one day, but so far this job has always been put off for me... It also seems so damn difficult with all those weird twists and pigtails…
Isan women, the raw reality (final)
We continue with more examples of Isan women. The sixth example is the eldest daughter of my eldest brother-in-law. She is 53 years old, married, has two lovely daughters and lives in the city of Ubon.
Isan women, the raw reality (part 2)
In part 2 we continue with the 26-year-old beauty who works in a jewelry store. As already mentioned in part 1, it concerns a farmer's daughter, but a farmer's daughter who has successfully completed a university study (ICT).
Boonsong Lekagul was born on December 15, 1907 into an ethnic Sino-Thai family in Songkhla, southern Thailand. He turned out to be a very intelligent and inquisitive boy in the local Public School and consequently went to study medicine at the prestigious Chulalongkorn University in Bangkok. After graduating cum laude as a doctor there in 1933, he started a group practice together with a number of other young specialists, from which the first outpatient clinic in Bangkok would emerge two years later.
The fears of Thai people
Research by Suan Dusit revealed the ten biggest fears of the Thai people, ranging from environmental issues to economic uncertainties. This in-depth overview, based on a survey of 1.273 people in 2018, offers a rare glimpse into the concerns within Thai society. Each problem raised is accompanied by a proposed solution, which you can judge for yourself.
The Bo Kluea saltwater springs in Nan province
Gringo wanted to know more about the mountain village of Bo Kluea (salt springs) about 100 kilometers northeast of the capital Nan of the province of the same name. A nice story about the salt production in the village.
Why is Hua Hin so popular with Bangkokians?
Hua Hin is very popular with Bangkok residents, especially on weekends or holidays, as it provides a perfect escape from the busy city life. It's close enough for a short trip, but still feels like a whole other world. The beaches there are beautiful and it is a nice place to relax and enjoy nature. This makes it not only a popular holiday destination, but also an attractive place for Bangkokians to buy a second home or condo.
Buddhadasa Bhikkhu, a great Buddhist philosopher
Buddhadasa was an influential Buddhist philosopher who made Buddhism understandable for everyday life. Temples, monks and rituals are not necessary to lead a good life and achieve nibbana (salvation), he argued.