It’s certainly the mesmeric land of Thais that attracts more visitants than any other country in the Southeast Asia. Thailand is the country known for beguiling scenic beauty, stunning beaches, impressing culture, commendable hospitality, fantastic temples, ruins & souvenirs of fabulous ancient kingdoms, gastronomic riches, and lovely, smiling, and welcoming people.

Thailand certainly the destination that appeals you, bewitches you, captivates you, enthralls you….! It’s the place that makes you visit it again and again. It’s the vacation destination that you dream of. Surely, you can find oodles of interesting things in Thailand, but here are the 10 most interesting facts about Thailand.

It is often nicknamed as the “Land Of Smiles,” because of the perceived gentleness of its people. The country is really populated by smiling, inviting, and receiving people. Thais are really gentle, polite, soft spoken, friendly, and hospitable human beings.

Siam was the old name of Thailand. It was the official name of the country until 1949, when it was changed to Thailand by official proclamation. ‘Thai’ in the Thai language means ‘freedom’. So, Thailand means “land of freedom” or “land of the free”.

The Mon ruled over what is now known as Thailand. The area was also held by Khmer. The Mon Empire was a great Buddhist empire, and the empire had trading relations with Indians for centuries.

Thailand retains much of its original culture, because it is the only Southeast Asian nation that has never been colonized. Thai culture is kin to the Cambodian culture & religion, which was adopted by Thais in the 13th century, after the fall of the Khmer Kingdom.

King Rama I, the founder of the Chakri Dynasty, established Bangkok as the capital in 1782. Bhumibol Adulyadej, the current King of Thailand, is also a Chakri Dynasty ruler. He is also known as Rama IX. He is the longest serving monarch in the Thai history.

95% of the Thai people are Buddhists of the Theravada tradition. 4.6% of the people are Muslims. Malays are mainly concentrated on the southern tip of Thailand. 0.75% of the people are Christians, mainly Catholics. Sikhs & Hindus are tiny, but influential. The nation also has a small Jewish community.

Thailand is also known as the “Land of white Elephant.” White elephants were highly esteemed and valued by the Thai Rulers. Elephants are still highly revered in Thailand. They are considered as the symbol of peace and prosperity.

Thais do not like someone touching them on head. They believe that soul, which is considered extremely sacred, resides in head. So, don’t ever touch a Thai on the head, not even a Thai child.

Thailand is the 49th country area wise, with its total land area of 514,000 km² (198,000 sq mi). It is comparable to the size of France, and it is somewhat larger than the California State of the United States.

Thailand has 5 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, which include Ban Chiang Archaeological Site near Udon Thani, Dong Phayayen – Khao Yai Forest Complex, Historic City of Ayutthaya & Associated Historic Towns, Historic Town of Sukhothai & Associated Historic Towns – including Kampang Phet and Si Satchanalai, and Thungyai-Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuaries.

Thailand marriages are comprised of two parts: the ceremonial and the legal.
Ceremonial part

“Sinsod” or the practice of paying a dowry is a distinct characteristic of a Thailand marriage ceremony. It is a symbolic act that shows the groom’s financial capabilities. Another unique feature of traditional marriages in Thailand is the strong Buddhist influence. In weddings presided by Buddhist monks, food and prayer are offered and presented to Buddha images. With the advent of modernism, Thai families now have the option to follow the traditional Thai marriages celebration or not.

Legal part

The legal aspect of Thailand marriages are performed in the amphur or civil registry offices. Marriage registration likewise takes place there.

Marriage eligibility

A. Both the bride and groom must be at least 17 years old. If one of them is a minor, there is a need for a court order.

B. The couple should both be psychologically and mentally fit.

C. Blood-related couples or those who have evident consanguinity relations cannot get married.

D. Likewise, couples that belong to the same adoptive parents are not allowed to get married.

E. Both should be free from any marital relationship prior to the marriage.

Eligibility requirements for Thai widows and divorcees

Widows and divorcees are allowed to get married 310 days after their husband’s death or after the termination of the divorce proceedings. There are some exceptions though which are as follows:

A. If there is a court order that allows the woman to marry

B. A medical certificate showing that the woman is not pregnant

C. If a child is born

D. If the divorcee is remarrying

Required documents for Thai nationals

A. Identification papers

B. Certificate of house registration

C. In cases where the individual is a widow or divorcee, proof of the spouse’s death and divorce papers are required

Required documents for foreigners

A. Clear copies of the passport and arrival card

B. Eligibility to marry or certification of the foreigner’s marital status

C. Translated copies of the eligibility to marry

D. Proofs of death and divorce if the foreigner is a widow or divorcee

E. A passport showing legal entry to Thailand

Why marry in Thailand?

Thailand exotic locations and unforgettable spots are not the only reasons why you should marry in Thailand. Here are some unique benefits characteristic of Thailand marriages:

A. Less strict requirements in drafting prenuptial agreements

B. Easier visa acquisition for both the foreigner and the Thai spouse

C. Property rights

Points to ponder

Marrying in Thailand entails a huge responsibility. Several factors should be considered. First of all, you should be financially capable. This is especially true in situations where a divorce needs to be undertaken prior to the present marriage. Check your financial resources and determine whether it is enough to cover expenses that are related to alimony, child support, and similar others. Secondly, transnational marriages may require you to pay taxes. Lastly, prenuptial agreements, most especially if not well-written may lead to property losses. To avoid above problems, it is advisable for you to hire efficient lawyers to assist you before embarking on your wedding plans.