Oral Exam

Rebeca Gallardo

Thailand

Over all the countries and continents, the one that has caught my attention the most is Thailand.
This because of it's stunning scenery, tropical beaches, architecture and rich culture.

Thailand is located in Asia, South East from China. Shelters a population of over 63 million. The
capital is Bangkok, also known as the biggest populated city of Thailand.

The main religion is Buddhism. The religion in this country is a major priority for the people. For
this reason Thailand is surrounded by Buddhist temples which are made of pure gold.

Thailand Language is Thai which is a special way to show the handmade culture. The flag of the
country was adopted in 1917. It has red, white and blue stripes. The red stripes on the flag
represents the nation, the white stripes represent purity and the blue ones represent monarchy.

Thailand is the only Southeast Asian country which has never been colonized by a European power.
The politics of the country were conducted within the framework of a head of government and a
hereditary monarch is lead of state. It has a mixed economy with the major economy sectors being
agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, service and natural resources. Thailand is a leading exporter
of rubber but also exports crops such rice, vegetables and fruits as well as water fish, textile,
electric appliance and automobiles.

Thailand is known as “The land of smiles" due to the friendly and helpful heart of Thai people. So
much is that natives of this country don't have a word to say “no". The country has a unique
culture. In Thailand family almost always comes first. It's normal to see extended families. They
have strong links to each other even if they move away for work. Other difference is that status is a
huge thing in Thai culture. Age, family connections, job types, education and income levels are all
contributing factors to a person's perceived status in society.

Respect, shame, and the concept of face are important in Thailand. It's considered bad form and
disrespectful to visit somebody's home without taking a small gift. Not removing shoes before
entering a home is also a big sign of disrespect. Any action of disrespect can cause a person to lose
face, that is, to be embarrassed or shamed publicy.

The patriotism in the country is huge. The national flag is flown in many places and the King's
anthem is played before movies start in cinemas.

About traditional Thai clothing, the Chut Thai is the oldest traditional costume in Thailand.
Regardless of gender, the distinction between men and woman depends mainly on the pattern and
color of the dress. They are known for being extremely colourful and for the use of gold.

Thai gastronomy is characterized above all by always seeking the balance of the five fundamental
flavours: salty, sweet, spicy, bitter and sour. Some of the most typical dishes are:

 Pad Thai: it consists in fried noodles with eggs, chicken or tofu, soy sauce, chili, lime and
sugar.
  Khao Pad Goong: it consists in wok fried rice with onion, vegetables, soy sauce, egg and
the ingredient of your choice.

 Pad Thai Tood Man: it consists in fish cakes made with curry paste, lime, spices and
obviously fish.

About music, the most popular styles of traditional Thai music are Luk Thung and Mor Lam, similar
to folk music. Also, air instruments are really used. One of the most famous people in Thailand is
Lalisa Manobal, also known as Lisa. She is a rapper, model, singer and dancer. She is recognized
worldwide for being in the K-pop group “BlanckPink”.

Thailand has a huge calendar of festivities, often around religion or superstitions. Some of them
are:

 Songkran: On mid-April is celebrated Buddhist New Year. The celebration last three days.
Thai people throw water to each other to purify themselves.

 Queen's Birthday Party (Mother´s Day) : On August 12. On this day people wear blue which
is the colour of the queen.

 King's Day: On December 5 is celebrated the birth of the King of Thailand. People wear
yellow, the colour of the King.

 Chulalongkorn Day: On September 23, is commemorated the death of King Chulalongkorn.

Without doubt the country is one of the most famous destinations in Asia. Some of the most
important places are:

 Bangkok: the capital of Thailand. It has many places, temples, and activities to do.

 Chiangmai: home to many spiritual centers in Thailand.

 Ayutthaya: called the “Second Capital”.

 The floating Market: it is one of the must-sees in Bangkok.

 Ko Phi Phi: the main and most paradisiacal islands in Thailand.

In my opinion, this country is a unique, wonderful and warming place. One of the best countries to
travel because of the variety of activities you can do there. It has a extremely different culture from
the Argentine one so it would be really interesting travel there one day and soak up the
atmosphere.