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Thailand - which means land of the free - is often called ‘the land of smiles’ for the graciousness of its people and the smiles that will always greet you. Thais greet everyone with a smile and an endearingly gentle manner. Thais have a love of beauty, manifested in the magnificent artwork and intricate ornamentation found in their temples, the lovely, tailored Thai silk suit which is the native costume, in their clean and neat appearance, even the presentation of their food. Food is presented on pretty plates, and garnished. Often the table displays examples of fruit and vegetable carving – watermelons turned into beautiful roses, carrots into small fish or turtles, cucumbers into lotus blossoms. We are very fortunate in Toronto to have a number of talented Thai artisans who practice and teach the beautiful Thai art of fruit and vegetable carving. These items would adorn any dining or buffet table. The food should be appealing to the eye as well as the palette.
Thai Classical, Regional Dance
Regional dances are more relaxed and the costumes not so elaborate. They depict life in the village or countryside. For information about Thai dance lessons, contact Thai Culture Centre, 416 962-785
Thai Language Before you visit the country, it's wise to know a few phrases that would make your encounters with Thais more pleasant. With Thais, a smile is always a good place to start. Thais use first names in addressing each other, for social occasions and in business. Before the person's name is the honorific 'Khun'. Khun means Mr. Ms, Miss or Mrs. When introduced you will be addressed back as 'Khun..(your first name) Thais greet each other with a wei - the placing of the hands together, as in prayer, and a bow from the neck. They do not shake hands, but will with Westerners, of course. The Thai way of saying hello, good day, is - for women: Sawasdee Kah and for men: Sawasdee Krup. For translations into or from Thai, and for lessons in the Thai language, contact Thai Culture Centre, 416 962-785
Handicrafts from Thailand Look for silks, cottons, ceramics, wood carvings, leather goods, clothing, costume jewellery, fine gems, books, stationery, furniture - items to fill your home and office. For details, contact: Thai Culture Centre 416 962-7852
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Thais
are very proud of their rich and beautiful culture. They live it
daily, in how they respect and love the King and Queen of Thailand,
their Majesties King Bhumibol and Queen Sirikit; how they honour
and live their religion – Buddhism, and hold to its tenets
of tolerance, and seeking the middle road.
Thai
classical dance at one time was reserved for the royal court, until
a few hundred years ago. Today it is taught in schools, and is part
of every celebration. Thai classical dancers wear elaborately embroidered
silk costumes with golden crowns and accessories. The movements
are deliberate and emphatic and the pace restrained. 
Thais'
love of beauty has been translated into a wide variety of beautiful
handicrafts. The streets of any city are a shoppers' paradise with
lovely boutiques and street markets. 
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