EIL Intercultural Learning

Geography

Situated in the heart of the Southeast Asia, mainland Thailand borders the Lao People's Democratic Republic and Myanmar to the north, Cambodia and the Gulf of Thailand to the east, Myanmar and the Indian Ocean to the west, and Malaysia to the south.
The country is divided into four natural regions: the North, the Central Plain (or the Chao Phraya River Basin); the Northeast (or the Korat Plateau) and the South - sometimes referred to as the Southern Peninsula.

The North is a mountainous region comprising natural forests, ridges, and deep, narrow alluvial valleys. The leading city of this region is Chiang Mai.

Central Thailand, the basin of the Chao Phraya River, is a green, fertile valley. It is the richest and most extensive rice-producing area in the country and has often been called the "Rice Bowl of Asia." Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, is located in this region.

The Northeast region, or the Korat Plateau, is an arid region characterised by a rolling surface and undulating hills. Harsh climatic conditions often result in this region being subjected to floods and droughts.

The Southern region is hilly to mountainous, with thick virgin forests and rich deposits of minerals and ores. This region is the centre for the production of rubber and the cultivation of other tropical crops.
Thailand enjoys a tropical climate with three distinct seasons: hot and dry from February to May (average temperature 34 degrees Celsius and 75% humidity); rainy with plenty of sunshine from June to October (average day temperature 29 degrees Celsius and 87% humidity); and cool from November to January (temperatures range from 32 degrees Celsius to below 20 degrees Celsius with a drop in humidity). Much lower temperatures are experienced in the North and Northeast during nighttime. The South has a tropical rainforest climate with temperatures averaging between 25-30 degrees Celsius during the day and 15-25 degrees during night-time almost all year round.

The best time for visiting most of Thailand is between November and February - during these months it rains least and is not too hot. The south is best visited when the rest of Thailand is miserably hot (March to May), and the north is best from mid-November to early December or when it starts warming up again in February. If you're spending time in Bangkok, be prepared to roast in April and do some wading in October - probably the worst two months, weather-wise, in the capital.

The population is approximately 64 millions, with an annual growth rate of about 0, 95% (2003 est.). The population is mainly Thai (80%) and includes descendants of ethnic Chinese (10%), Malays (3%), Khmer, Lao, Vietnamese, Indians, and others.

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is often called the capitol of the north, being the largest and most affluent city in the region. It is located some 800km north of Bangkok, standing on the Ping River, a major tributary of the Phraya River.

Chiang Mai is one of the most popular cities in Thailand both with Thai and foreign tourists, many of whom return time and again. Its striking mountain backdrop, ornate ancient temples and historical mysticism are among some of the obvious attractions. Not only is it a city of huge cultural and historical wealth, it is becoming cosmopolitan and modern.

The population of Chiang Mai Province in total is an estimated 1.5 million people. The city itself is home to close to 180,000 people. 13.4% of Chiang Mai province's population is of hill tribe origin, few of whom have Thai citizenship.

The city is located approximately 200 kilometres from the Burmese border, close enough for many Burmese, fleeing severe human rights violations, to reach. In addition, Chiang Mai houses many other hidden minorities that are often overlooked.

In short, Chiang Mai is a diverse city with endless potential for exploration.

History

Thailand means "land of the free", and throughout its 800-year history, Thailand can boast the distinction of being the only country in Southeast Asia never to have been colonised. Its history is divided into five major periods:
Nanchao Period (650-1250 A.D.)

The Thai people founded their kingdom in the southern part of China, which are Yunnan, Kwangsi and Canton today. A great number of people migrated south as far as the Chao Phraya Basin and settled down over the Central Plain under the sovereignty of the Khmer Empire, whose culture they probably accepted. The Thai people founded their independent state of Sukhothai around 1238 A.D., which marks the beginning of the Sukhothai Period.
Sukhothai Period (1238-1378 A.D.)

Thais began to emerge as a dominant force in the region in the 13th century, gradually asserting independence from existing Khmer and Mon kingdoms. Called by its rulers "the dawn of happiness", this is often considered the golden era of Thai history, an ideal Thai state in a land of plenty governed by paternal and benevolent kings, the most famous of whom was King Ramkamhaeng the Great. However in 1350, the mightier state of Ayutthaya exerted its influence over Sukhothai.
Ayutthaya Period (1350-1767)

The Ayutthaya kings adopted Khmer cultural influences from the very beginning. No longer the paternal and accessible rulers that the kings of Sukhothai had been, Ayutthaya's sovereigns were absolute monarchs and assumed the title Devaraja (god-king). The early part of this period saw Ayutthaya extend its sovereignty over neighboring Thai principalities and come into conflict with its neighbours, during the 17th century, Siam started diplomatic and commercial relations with western countries.

In 1767, a Burmese invasion succeeded in capturing Ayutthaya. Despite their overwhelming victory, the Burmese did not retain control of Siam for long. A young general named Phya Taksin and his followers broke through the Burmese encirclement and escaped to Chantaburi. Seven months after the fall of Ayutthaya, he and his forces sailed back to the capital and expelled the Burmese occupation garrison.

Thon Buri Period (1767-1772)

General Taksin, as he is popularly known, decided to transfer the capital from Ayutthaya to a site nearer to the sea which would facilitate foreign trade, ensure the procurement of arms, and make defense and withdrawal easier in case of a renewed Burmese attack. He established his new capital at Thon Buri on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. The rule of Taksin was not an easy one. The lack of central authority since the fall of Ayutthaya led to the rapid disintegration of the kingdom, and Taksin's reign was spent reuniting the provinces.

Rattanakosin Period (1782 - the Present) - Thailand's Monarchy

After Taksin's death, General Chakri became the first king of the Chakri Dynasty, Rama I, ruling from 1782 to 1809. His first action as king was to transfer the royal capital across the river from Thon Buri to Bangkok and build the Grand Palace. Rama II (1809-1824) continued the restoration begun by his predecessor. King Nang Klao, Rama III (1824-1851) reopened relations with Western nations and developed trade with China. King Mongkut, Rama IV, (1851-1868) of "The King and I" concluded treaties with European countries, avoided colonialisation and established modern Thailand. He made many social and economic reforms during his reign.

King Chulalongkorn, Rama V (1869-1910) continued his father's tradition of reform, abolishing slavery and improving the public welfare and administrative system. Compulsory education and other educational reforms were introduced by King Vajiravudh, Rama VI (1910-1925). During the reign of King Prajadhipok, (1925-1935), Thailand changed from an absolute monarchy to a constitutional monarchy. The king abdicated in 1933 and was succeeded by his nephew, King Ananda Mahidol (1935-1946). The country's name was changed from Siam to Thailand with the advent of a democratic government in 1939. Thailand's present monarch, King Bhumibol Adulyadej, is King Rama IX of the Chakri Dynasty.

Religion

Buddhism is Thailand's main religion. 94% of the Thai population is Buddhist. The others are Muslims, have Chinese religion or are even Catholics. Buddhism started with the birth of the Indian prince named Siddhartha Gautama in 543 B. C., who later was named Buddha and reached the enlightenment "Nirvana" . His teachings say that people suffer because they are attached to material things, to women or men by heart links. These links cause suffering, jealousy and pain. People are never satisfied, i.e. they want more money, more power. The aim of Buddhism is to get rid of these pains and of these links.

There are several kinds of Buddhism. The branch of the Thai Buddhism is called Theravada Buddhism, which emphasizes the potential of the individual to attain nirvana without the help of saints or gurus.

Everyone can hope to reach enlightenment one day but it will be a long way - it takes many lives. Each time somebody (or some animal) dies, it reincarnates into something else. It is the endless cycle of existence "samsara". The rebirth depends on your "karma". If you have well behaved in your previous life, your next life will be better. If you have not led a good life, then your next life will be harsh.

Thai Buddhism is fascinating because it is mixed with older religions (Animism, Brahmanism), which were present before the introduction of Buddhism in Thailand. Today the influence of the previous religions is still present.

Buddhist Temple Etiquette

In general, Thai Buddhist temples (Wats) are open to everyone. Most temples are very beautiful and have a very pleasant, calm, soothing atmosphere. You should try to visit at least some of them. There are, however, several rules that you must observe. Modest clothing is required, which means for ladies: a skirt or dress that covers the knees and a top with sleeves that covers the shoulders and is not transparent. For men, modest clothing means long pants and a shirt that covers the shoulders. Shorts are not acceptable!

Before entering any building in a temple you must always take off your shoes. Outside, there are often shelves for the shoes (sometimes separate shelves, one for Thais and one for foreigners). In general, you may photograph anything in a Wat, but taking pictures while people are praying is not polite! You should also never, ever have your picture taken with any Buddhist image. The monks may be photographed, by they often do not like it; they just hide when they see a camera aimed at them. Women may talk to monks, but must not touch them (and the monks may also not receive anything directly from a woman's hand).
You should also never, ever touch the head of a Buddha statue or point with a foot at it, or even climb on anything in a temple.

Chinese Religion

In Thailand, many Chinese religious symbols can be seen. This is due to the fact that many Chinese immigrated to Thailand in the 19th century. The successful integration of 5 million Chinese immigrants into Thai's society was only possible because of the Thai people's tolerance and a similar religious background.
The cult and respect of ancestors is the base of the Chinese religion. So it fits well with Thai Buddhism, which also respects ancestors and helps them to have a better life after rebirth in ceremonies such as "Kruat Nam" - pouring water slowly onto the ground, so that the deceased can benefit from merit making.

Islam in Thailand

One of the smallest religious groups, though very important, is the Muslims. Only 4% of the population in Thailand follows Islam denomination, most of them are Sunni (~ 99%). Muslims mainly live in the Southwest of Thailand in the provinces Pattani, Yala, Narathiwat and Satun, all former Malaysian provinces conquered by the Thai during the Rattanakosin era. Therefore, most Muslims in Thailand are Malaysian descents. After it had come to frequent disturbances and rebellions due to the Muslim independence movement in the Southwest of Thailand in the past, the population as well as the government changed their view about Islam. Special privileges were given to the Muslims and the respective provinces received additional financial supports. King Bhumipol Adulyadej himself paid for translating the Koran into Thai language and supported the foundation of the Muslim University of Pattani. Today the Thai government supports the building and maintenance of mosques and allows its Muslim civil servants to celebrate Muslim holidays. Respecting Muslim holidays is now regulated by law and all Muslim civil servants are given a 4-months holiday with full payment to go on a pilgrimage to Mecca (Hadj) once in their life.

Thai Festivals

Thais are fun-loving, sentimental people and annual festivals, both commemorative and celebrative, play important roles in Thai lifes. Most festivals are connected either with Buddhism, the annual rice-farming cycle, or commemorations honouring Thai kings. Some occur on fixed dates. Others, particularly those associated with Buddhism, are determined by the lunar calendar. Many merit national holidays.

Here's a chronological list of some of Thailand's annual festivals:

Makha Puja , Full-moon day, February/March - National Holiday

Commemorates the occasion when 1,250 disciples spontaneously gathered to hear the Buddha preach. Merit-making, such as offering food to monks, and freeing captive birds and fishes, is interspersed with sermons throughout the day. After sunset, Buddhist monks lead the laity in a lovely triple candlelit walk-around of Buddhist chapels throughout the kingdom. Each person silently carries flowers, glowing incense and lighted candles in homage to the Buddha, his teaching and his disciples.

Pattaya Festival, Early April

Thailand's premier beach resort celebrates with beauty parades, floral floats, and special events, Highlights include a spectacular beachside fireworks display.

Songkran Festival, April 13 - 15, National holiday (April 12-14)

Songkran is the most important feast for Thai people. Often called 'water' festival, Songkran is the traditional Thai New Year and is celebrated with special enthusiasm in Chiang Mai where because it occurs during a time of relative leisure, it becomes a 3-5 day carousel of religious merit-making, pilgrimages, beauty parades, dancing and uninhibited, good-natured water throwing.

Royal Ploughing Ceremony, usually early May

This ceremony marks official commencement of the annual rice-planting cycle. Presided over by His Majesty the King, elaborate Brahman ritual and ceremonial combine to provide predictions concerning the forthcoming rice crop.

Visakha Puja, full moon day, May

National holiday Visakha Puja is the holiest of all Buddhist holy days, and marks the Buddha's birth, enlightenment and death. Merit-making and ceremonial are identical to Makha Puja.

Fruits Fairs Countrywide

These annual fairs feature delicious provincial fruits -- including rambutan, durian, jackfruits and pomeloes, and feature cultural displays, exhibitions and folk art. Major provinces that celebrate fruits fairs include Rayong, Chanthaburi, Chachoengsao and Hat Yai in Songkhla.

H.M. the Queen's Birthday, August 12 - National holiday

August the 12th is Her Majesty Queen Sirikit's birthday. This public holiday is the day of all the mothers of Thailand. Especially the Queen is regarded as being the mother of all Thai people. On this day all the buildings of Thailand are covered up with images of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit. This holiday is also celebrated nation-wide as Mother's Day.

Ok Phansa & Thot Kathin, October

Ok Phansa celebrates the end of the Rains Retreat and introduces the Kathin period when, throughout Thailand, the Buddhist laity present monks with new robes and other items deemed necessary for the monkshood's upkeep during the forthcoming monastic year.

Vegetarian Festival, October

The Vegetarian Festival is a Religious Festival of Chinese origin, mainly (or probably only) celebrated in Phuket Town, in October. The population of Phuket Town is traditionally to a large extent of Chinese origin. In the Festival the Chinese Gods are honoured and the real believers only eat vegetarian food during the ten days of the Festival in October. The main attractions for tourists are the processions that are being held daily, sometimes in the mornings as well as in the evenings. In these processions "mediums" of the Chinese Gods pierce their faces with sharp objects. Lots of fireworks are also part of the processions. Apart from the processions walking on ladders, made of knives, and walking on fire are part of the events of the Festival.

Boat Races, October

The Kathin period marks the official end of the Rains Season and is the time for country fairs, many of which feature regattas. Nan, 790 kilometres north of Bangkok, has famous boat races. Other noteworthy regattas are held in Surat Thani, Phichit, Nakhon Phanom and Pathumthani.

Loi Krathong, Full-moon night of November

This is Thailand's loveliest festival when under the full moon, Thais float away onto rivers and waterways, Krathongs, small lotus-shaped banana leaf boats containing a lighted candle, glowing incense, a flower and small coin to honour, it is believed, the water spirits, and to wash away the previous year's sins.

H.M. the King's Birthday, December 5 - National holiday

The 5th December is His Majesty the King Bhumibol Adulyadej's birthday. This public holiday is celebrated nation-wide as Father's Day. On December 3, the elite Royal Guards swear renews their allegiance to His Majesty King Bhumibol in a colourful and stirring ceremony in Bangkok's Royal Plaza. On December 5, festivities occur throughout Thailand. Customarily, government buildings and houses are decorated with spectacular illuminations at night.

New Year's Eve & New Year's Day

Though, the traditional Thai calendar is different from the western calendar, New Year's Eve and the 1st January are public holidays in Thailand, too. It is the occasion for religious and festive events.

On New Year's Eve, Thai people go to Thai Buddhist temples to make merit (free birds, fishes...) and donations (offer buckets, money, rent Buddha statues...). They also come to listen to Dharma speeches told by monks.
The Thai calendar numbers years according to the Buddhist era (B.E.) which commenced 543 years before the Christian era (A.D.). Therefore, the year 2004 A.D. is B.E. 2546.