People and lifestyle in Thailand

[aditi85]

Thailand is a modern nation and a multicultural society. Thailand is often called the "land of smiles", and really so because you can see more smiling people here than anywhere else in the world. The literacy rate of Thailand is high at about 94% and the average life expectancy is 66 for men and 72 for women. Thai people are very friendly and tolerant. The official language is Thai, but English is widely spoken in all major tourist locations. However if you are travelling around Thailand it is a good idea to buy a phrase book.

[Marvel]

Thai families are close, and several generations may live in the same household. The oldest male is customarily the patriarch of the family. Members of the family (even adults) are traditionally expected to abide by the advice of their elders, although this is becoming less true. Families usually have two or three children. On a farm, all members of the household share the work. When the elderly live with their married children, they often look after the grandchildren. A family’s youngest daughter inherits the parents’ home. In return, she and her husband care for the parents in their old age.