Travel guide Thailand

Naturally, the first word to say when you arrive somewhere is: Sawat'dii Khap (from a man) or Sawat'dii Khaa (from a woman). It always makes a better impression than "Hello". You'll soon accompany it with another word of vital importance, thank you: Kop' Koun Khap (man) or Kop' Koun Khaa (woman).

This word refers to the community of Buddhist monks in Asia, but their social importance is preponderant in Thailand. All men, whether children or adults, may make a religious retreat for a variable period of their lives before returning to civil society. This religious order is deeply respected by the population.

They are very present in Thailand. They live in small houses called "spirit houses". You'll see them attached to building facades, perched on columns. They resemble small temples and are accessible so that the tenant, Phra Phum, can be honored with flowers, incense, food and candles on a daily basis.

This word refers to Westerners. Adopted by all, including the foreigners themselves, it is not pejorative. It comes from the name Farang-tset , given to the French who arrived in Siam in the century of Louis XIV. It was then attributed to all foreigners with white skin and long noses. Pronounce the "R" as an "L".

Thai cuisine is renowned the world over, and for good reason. Admittedly, it is often very spicy, but it can be adapted to Western palates in tourist restaurants. Much more affordable than in France, it's common to eat well for just a few euros. It's an explosion of flavors and colors!

This is the name given to Thailand's numerous transsexuals and transvestites, who are often difficult to distinguish from real women. Their integration is linked to Thai Buddhism, which teaches respect for differences and tolerance of others, and to the fact that the country, never colonized, has not suffered from Judeo-Christian morality.

Literally, in the mouth of a Thai: "it's not serious", "nothing to worry about", "it'll be all right" ... In short: let it be and trust it, whatever the difficulties. It's very "folkloric" and can make you smile when you're not involved in anything untoward, as in the case of driving..

Every city in Thailand often has several daily markets, where it's pleasant to meet and exchange ideas. Visitors are often captivated by the variety of products and the bright colors of the stalls. Night markets also offer a wide range of food stalls where you can eat at low prices.

The south of the country offers spectacular diving. The Mecca of diving is Koh Tao. Numerous renowned clubs offer first dives and training courses under optimum safety conditions - and in French! Koh Tao, but also Koh Phangan, Koh Phi Phi and the Similan Islands are among the country's most beautiful diving spots.

If you're invited to a wedding, a young monk's ordination ceremony, or simply a birthday party, especially in the Isaan region, chances are you'll be offered a small white cotton bracelet, a sai sin, blessed by a monk. It will be attached to your right wrist and a blessing will complete the gift.

A veritable institution in Thailand, you'll meet some of the world's finest tattoo artists. Two techniques are available: electric tattooing and bamboo tattooing, a traditional sacred tattoo that can be blessed in a temple. Warning: while it's not illegal to get a tattoo of a Buddha, it can get you into serious trouble...

Pronounced "touk-touk". A small three-wheeled motorized vehicle used as a cab throughout Thailand. Its customary name comes from the characteristic sound of its exhaust. These vehicles weave in and out of traffic (with maximum risk), trying to get you where you don't always want to go as quickly as possible!