So you probably already know lots about what life in Thailand is like, particularly if you’re considering teaching English in Thailand; there’s all that yummy food, fascinating culture, pleasant people and serene temples, but here are some random facts about Thailand that you might not have known.
1) The world’s biggest Chinatown is situated in Bangkok.
2) Thailand is the only country in South East Asia that wasn’t colonised by a Western power.
3) The Thai greeting “sawatdee” was made-up during the Second World War. Previous to that, the usual greeting was to ask people whether they had eaten yet.
4) Bangkok currently holds the Guinness Record for having the longest name of a place. Bangkok is actually the short version, the city’s ceremonial name is “Krung Thep Mahanakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Yuthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udomratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Piman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukam Prasit”. Now I challenge you to say it, backwards.
5) According to the World Meteorological Organisation, Bangkok is the hottest capital city in the world. It may not be the hottest city in the world every day, but it’s certainly consistent.
6) We all know that underwear is pretty essential, but it’s even more important in Bangkok, where leaving the house without underwear could actually land you in jail. Going bare-chested in public is also illegal.
7) Thailand also holds a large number of Guinness World Records, including those for the man with the longest hair, the biggest hamburger, biggest restaurant, largest ever aerobic workout, and also for the most linked skydivers.
8) In Thailand, both Father’s Day and Mother’s Day are celebrated to commemorate the birthdays of their Majesties the King and Queen.
9) It is called the “Land Of Smiles,” because of its ever smiling, inviting, soft spoken, friendly, and hospitable residents.
10) Red Bull, the famous energy drink, originates in Thailand and was originally called Red Guar.
Fancy finding out some crazy facts about Thailand yourself? You can have your own Thai adventure on our Teach in Thailand Internship, where you’ll spend 5 fantastic months teaching English whilst exploring Thailand and getting paid! Check out this footage from the current Thailand internship:
