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13 fun facts about Thailand that might surprise you

Writer: BarryBarry

Thailand. The Land of Smiles. Home to stunning beaches, delicious food, and friendly locals. But did you know it's also a land of quirky laws, monkey feasts, and ridiculously long city names?

Buckle up, because we're about to take you on a wild ride through the most unexpected and hilarious facts about Thailand. Get ready to have your mind blown and your funny bone tickled. From sacred heads to underwear laws, these fun facts will have you saying "Wat?!" (That's "temple" in Thai, by the way).

So, grab your Chang beer, put on your best "wai" (Thai greeting), and get ready to discover the surprising side of Thailand!




  1. Bangkok's real name is ridiculously long. The official name of Thailand's capital city is Krung Thep Mahanakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Ayuthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udomratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Phiman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukam Prasit. Try saying that three times fast!   


  2. Red Bull originated in Thailand. The popular energy drink was inspired by a similar Thai drink called Krating Daeng.


    Original Red Bull, Thai Redbull - photo  Koh Samui
    Thai Red Bull

  3. Thailand is home to the world's smallest mammal. The bumblebee bat, also known as Kitti's hog-nosed bat, is only about the size of a bumblebee!


  4. It's illegal to leave your house without underwear. This law is rarely enforced, but it's still on the books!



  1. Thailand has a festival for monkeys. Each year, the town of Lopburi hosts a Monkey Buffet Festival where over 3,000 kilograms of fruits and vegetables are offered to the local monkey population.


  2. The head is considered sacred. It's considered rude to touch someone's head, even a child's.


  3. Thailand is the world's largest exporter of orchids. The country exports over 1.3 billion orchid stems each year.


  4. There are temples for everything. You can find temples dedicated to love, wealth, and even fertility.


    Golden temple Thailand
    Golden temple Thailand

  5. You can get ordained as a monk for a day. Many temples offer short-term ordination programs for tourists who want to experience the monastic life.


  6. Thailand has a unique form of boxing. Muay Thai is known for its use of elbows, knees, and shins in addition to punches.


  7. You can find 7-Eleven stores everywhere. The convenience store chain is ubiquitous in Thailand, and you can find one on almost every corner.


  8. The national anthem is played twice a day. You'll hear it played in public places at 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM.


  9. Don't step on Thai currency. It's considered disrespectful to step on any banknote or coin that bears the image of the King.



These are just a few of the many fun and interesting facts about Thailand. If you're planning a trip there, be sure to do some research and learn more about this amazing country!

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The people behind Yim Travel!

Wendy and Lili are two friends united by a passion for travel. Wendy, originally from the Netherlands and now living in Belgium, has a deep connection to Asia, especially Thailand, and a love for cruises. She often travels with her family and can always be tempted by Thai street food, Pad Kra Pao, and red wine.

Lili spent 30 years in South America and enjoys exploring Europe and her home continent with her partner. She shares Wendy’s love for cruising and is always up for Ben & Jerry’s or Tony Chocolonely chocolate.

Together, they explore the world’s most beautiful destinations and share their adventures on their travel blog, we-travelnow.com.

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