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Grand Palace (The) Grand Palace (The), Bangkok, Thailand : Find latest reviews and deals, maps, photo at Yahoo Travel | Erawan Shrine Erawan Shrine, Bangkok, Thailand : Find latest reviews and deals, maps, photo at Yahoo Travel | Jim Thompson's House and Museum Jim Thompson's House and Museum, Bangkok, Thailand : Find latest reviews and deals, maps, photo at Yahoo Travel | Wat Pho Wat Pho, Bangkok, Thailand : Find latest reviews and deals, maps, photo at Yahoo Travel | Ancient City Ancient City, Bangkok, Thailand : Find latest reviews and deals, maps, photo at Yahoo Travel | Lumpini Park Lumpini Park, Bangkok, Thailand : Find latest reviews and deals, maps, photo at Yahoo Travel | Victory Monument Victory Monument, Bangkok, Thailand : Find latest reviews and deals, maps, photo at Yahoo Travel | Wat Benchamabophit (The Marble Temple) Wat Benchamabophit (The Marble Temple), Bangkok, Thailand : Find latest reviews and deals, maps, photo at Yahoo Travel | Sri Mahamariamman Temple Sri Mahamariamman Temple, Bangkok, Thailand : Find latest reviews and deals, maps, photo at Yahoo Travel | Christ Church Bangkok Christ Church Bangkok, Bangkok, Thailand : Find latest reviews and deals, maps, photo at Yahoo Travel |
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Thailand's Art and Culture
Thailand is known for its rich diversity, distinctive art, and refined culture. Tourists arriving in Thailand marvel at the country's unique architecture and remarkable structures. The Thai temples offer displays of art and culture in terms of dance, costume, and music. The country exhibits over 700 years of Siamese and Thai innovation that adds to the allure and richness of this exotic land.
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Much of the art and culture in Thailand stems from Buddhism and its religious expression can be seen throughout the country. With ninety percent of the country being Buddhist the influence in architecture, art, dance, and culture is prevalent. Dominating influences of Hinduism are also infiltrating due to its neighboring countries of Laos and Myanmar. The culture and cuisine in Thailand draws a lot of its influence from both the Chinese and Indian heritage. Visitors traveling to this interesting land will never grow bored by its natural landscape, it's dramatic culture, or it's world famous cuisine.
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The country's architecture breeds classic Thai and can be best witnessed in many of the area's temples including the Grand Palace and the Wat Suthat. In Thailand, scholars have pushed the acknowledgement that architecture is art, and because of this school of thought the country's architecture is anything but mundane. The royal palaces are ornate and style blending with swooping roof lines, highly decorated ornamental designs, and bright vivid colors. Most of the buildings have interior murals that can be gazed upon for hours without growing bored. The unique Buddha images are largely plated in gold and display unique hand-crafted decorations.
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Also displaying Thai culture and arts is the country's music. The Thai people believe music is a part of who they are and what they do. The Thai sound is unique and cannot be duplicated anywhere in the world. The sounds are exotic and seem to draw the listener into a deep and mysterious time that truly captivates its audience. Thai musicals are quite popular as well as musical outpourings at just about any social event or gathering. It is not uncommon to hear music at traditional sporting events, weddings, funerals, or any of the many Thai festivals. Much of Thai classical and folk music illustrates everyday life and work of the people living in this exotic land. The music is typically upbeat, merry, and even witty in parts.
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One of the most popular cultural events in the country is coming together to eat. Cuisine in Thailand is known as a blending of flavors and fundamental tastes. Much like the food is the company that is kept throughout the eating process. Gathering together in homes to blend as a people is just as important as the food itself. Most of the Thai dishes offer a rich mixture of salty meets sour, spicy and sweet. The preparation of many Thai dishes, both traditional and contemporary, includes a blend of many spices and herbs that are unique to the region.
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Etiquette is an important component in Thai culture and is firmly based on Buddhist tradition. The society overall is non-confrontational and disputes are not fared well and should be avoided at all costs. Peace and living in unity and harmony are of the utmost importance. Proper behavior and appropriate dress is highly emphasized. Rude public behavior or outbursts are not common and should also be avoided. Proper clothing and dress is a must in public places.
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With Thailand's strong emphasis on culture and appropriate behavior, visitors should brush up on particular customs and traditions important to the Thai way of life. One of the most crucial things to know before visiting Thailand is the Wai or Thai greeting. The Wai gesture illustrates a respectful greeting that includes joining the palms of the hands and bowing the head to show respect to the person you come into contact with.
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The aspect of Thailand's art and culture is unique and visitors can expect to see a variety of artistic expressions throughout the day to day routine of life in this exquisite country. From regional arts to etiquette, Thailand provides an insight into the ancient world of Buddhist heritage and influence.
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About The Author
Alex Smith maintains and manages the Cheap Thailand Travel website at http://www.cheapthaitravel.com - All of the materials on this site are the sole property and responsibility of Cheapthaitravel.com. This material may not be reproduced in any form without express written permission.
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