Culture

 

Thailand is a Southeast Asian country. The country has many different terrains such as the hilly forested areas of the northern frontier, the fertile rice fields of the central plains, the broad plateau of the northeast, and the rugged coasts along the narrow southern peninsula” (Keyes, 2021). With such different landscapes, many people who live in this country may have a different experience depending if one were to live up north by the Himalayan mountains to one who lives on coastal territory. An example can be Bangkok, as it is full of canals, which has created a food market for people. Meanwhile there are people who can live by the beach where it is more often to see tourists.  Despite such different terrains, Thailand is home to different species who are able to thrive. Similarly, it can be said that many people in Thailand can have different lands, yet they are tied to the same principle of culture.

Thailand’s official religion is Buddhism, with Islam constituting the largest minority religious community, accounting for 5% of the population. Meanwhile, Christians make up 1.2 percent of the Thai population, while the ‘other’ or non-religious make up 0.8 percent. Some of the Thailand cultural and historical attraction are Wat Chalong, Heroines Monument, Phuket Old Town, and Big Buddha. People would see the cultural experiences when they visit these historic places.  

The lotus flower is a staple of Thailand. It is a very common flower that is grown out of the mud. This species of plant is heavily associated with Thailand’s religion Buddhism. “ Buddha is sometimes depicted sitting on a Lotus flower, symbolizing the one who overcame the pain that prevails in the material world and became enlightened, just like the Lotus flower which starts to grow in the dirty and muddy water but manages to surpass the water and produce a perfect flower” (PDF. (2021). Binghamton University.). Given this detail, the common flower becomes sacred for this depiction. 90% of Thais practice Buddhism. “Many will give daily offerings to things like spirit houses. Others will sporadically feed the many soi (street) dogs to make merit. By making and gaining merit, many Thais believe they will live longer and happier lives. Some people will also wear Buddhist amulets in order to protect themselves” (Iverson, 2017). There are many shrines dedicated to show their devotion to religion.