Essential Thai Terms

• Wai (ไหว้)
  A traditional Thai greeting: palms pressed together in a prayer-like position, paired with a slight bow. Commonly used for saying hello, thank you, or goodbye. Returning the gesture is a sign of respect, especially in formal or polite settings.

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• Baht (บาท)
  Thailand’s official currency (symbol: ฿). While digital payments are growing, cash is essential in local markets and smaller towns. Carry smaller denominations when possible.

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• Wat (วัด)
  A Buddhist temple or monastery. These are sacred spaces. Dress modestly, remove your shoes before entering, and act respectfully at all times.

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• Khop khun ka / krap (ขอบคุณค่ะ / ครับ)
  "Thank you."
  Ka is used by women, krap by men. Typically spoken with a smile, a soft tone, and often accompanied by a wai.

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• S̄wạs̄dī ka / krap (สวัสดีค่ะ / ครับ)
  "Hello" or "Goodbye."
  A polite, everyday greeting appropriate in almost every situation. Use with a wai for extra warmth.

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• Sabai (สบาย)
  Means comfortable, relaxed, or well. You’ll often hear sabai sabai, a phrase that captures Thailand’s chilled, easy going spirit.

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• Songthaew (สองแถว)
  A shared pickup truck taxi with two bench seats in the back. Common in smaller towns and islands. Cheap, reliable, and a fun local experience.

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• Tuk-tuk (ตุ๊กตุ๊ก)
  A three-wheeled motorised rickshaw. Great for short rides in urban areas. They’re noisy, fun, and iconic, but agree on the fare before hopping in.

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• Farang (ฝรั่ง)
  A commonly used word for foreigners, especially Westerners. Usually neutral, but like many things, tone and context matter.

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• Sanuk (สนุก)
  Fun, enjoyment, or the pleasure of doing something with joy. A key cultural value, if it’s not sanuk, it’s not worth doing.

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• Mai pen rai (ไม่เป็นไร)
  "It’s okay", "Never mind", or "No problem." A phrase that captures the Thai mindset of patience, acceptance, and going with the flow.

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• Sak Yant (สักยันต์)
  Traditional sacred tattoos often applied by monks or tattoo masters using a bamboo stick or metal rod. These designs are spiritual, symbolic, and steeped in ritual.

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• Mak (มาก)
  Means “very.” Used to intensify adjectives, such as aroi mak, “very delicious.”

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• Aroi (อร่อย)
  Delicious. Say it after a meal and you’ll often be met with smiles and pride. It’s one of the most useful words you’ll learn.