We previously explored the deeply layered meanings of mai pen rai and jai yen. Now it’s time for our last Thai phrase that comes in handy in the kingdom but is also not so easy to translate. Perhaps no single word captures the spirit of Thailand better than sabai. Though it’s most often translated as … read the full post

Ever since Buddhism arrived in Thailand, it has mingled with a complex, pre-existing tapestry of Hinduism, spirit worship, superstition and black magic. One aspect of these traditions is sak yant, or magical tattoos believed to grant health, protection, power, wealth and luck to those who receive them. The most famous place to get a sak yant tattoo … read the full post

We’ve delved into the subtleties of mai pen rai; the next phrase we think every traveller to Thailand should know, jai yen, literally translates as “cool heart“. Good to keep in mind during tense situations, it highlights Thai culture’s emphasis on staying cool and composed. In a deeper sense, jai yen can be a powerful … read the full post

Beyond basics like khop khun (thank you) and horng nahm yuu thee nai (where is the bathroom?), the Thai language draws on a pool of deeply emotional/spiritual words and ideas, many of which are difficult to translate. In the coming weeks, we’ll be spotlighting a handful of phrases that are useful, but will also allow … read the full post

I’m always amazed at the surprises Bangkok pulls out of its hat when I least expect it. For instance, who would have thought that a unique Thai artist influenced by Native American art would have tucked a funky gallery/cafe on a sidestreet behind the major tourist attraction of Wat Arun? A recent stroll proved this … read the full post

Thailand has long been an Asian crossroads where ideas, philosophies and goods have converged and flowed in myriad directions. It’s also home to a rich artistic tradition that has produced distinctive works while embracing fine arts of other cultures. One of the best places in Bangkok to explore this rich and diverse legacy are the … read the full post

Historic Charoen Krung Road in Bangrak has long been home to fantastic Asian antique art galleries, but Belgian painter Chrisian Develter and partner Peter Smits contribute a fresh breath of artistic air at Warp54 Studio. Not far from the old Portuguese embassy on Charoen Krung Soi 30, Warp54 occupies an airy teak wood warehouse constructed … read the full post

In Thailand, cultural influences from India run deep. Thai kings are referred to as “Rama” after the main character in the Indian epic, Ramayana, and Thai religion is a blend of Buddhism and Hinduism, both of which came from India. Early influences like these are now indistinguishable from greater Thai culture, but two distinct Indian … read the full post

As of September 11, the remaining century-old houses in Bangkok’s historic Amphawa that were slated to be levelled on August 31 remain untouched, and virtually all construction at the site has been stalled. According to the Bangkok Post, jewellery tycoon turned hotelier Chuchai Chairittelert shed tears while admitting his large-scale project was wrong during a … read the full post

Bangkok has a reputation for bright lights, gleaming high-rises and seething nightlife, but on the west side of the Chao Phraya River in Thonburi, the city’s softer, simpler and more creative side hangs loose. Embodying this better than anywhere, the canal-side community of artists at Khlong Bang Luang posseses a homegrown artistic spirit that pervades … read the full post