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What makes a country more than just a place on a map or on a TikTok post?

Thailand is often sold to the world as vacation paradise — with beaches, good currency exchange, cheap street food, and a promiscuous nightlife. But that image of Thailand is incomplete. Worse, it’s often misleading.

In this volume, Thai students challenge the common stereotypes they see repeated in media and social networks. They speak up not just to correct, but to invite the world to look deeper.

These are the real words Thai citizens, students and future leaders want you to hear about Thailand...

“Many foreigners have several wrong beliefs about Thailand because of things they see on social media. They think all Thai people are farmers and they ride elephants to work. Some people still believe that Thai women only work in adult entertainment and service jobs. These ideas are not true. Thailand has modern cities, schools, and very smart people just like anywhere else. Just because someone sees a video online doesn’t mean it’s real life. We should experience things for ourselves before judging others.”

—&�Բ�����;Chanisa Kumnerdruang

“For most foreigners here’s a common misunderstanding that we still ride elephants and buffaloes to work. Many foreign media portray it that way but this is not true. Thailand is quite modern, especially in cities like Bangkok, with a growing economy and urban lifestyle. Elephants only live in forests or protected sanctuaries. Other developed cities are Pattaya, Rayong, Chiang Mai and Chonburi which tourists should also explore. Thailand has a lot of culture blending natural beauty and modern development much more than foreigners think. We recommend you come to Thailand, once you come here you will love it forever.”

—&�Բ�����;Amarnkarn Yenwatthana & Wachiravit Kobsantie

“Many people around the world only know Thailand through movies or social media, and that can give the wrong impression. Some foreign media focus too much on nightlife and trendy tourist spots which makes Thailand only a place for vacationers. But in real life, Thailand is much deeper and more meaningful. We have strong family values, people work hard, and communities often help each other. There is much more to our country than what’s shown in the media. One thing I, with tourists, understood before coming here is that respect is very important in Thai culture. For example, it’s important to dress modestly at temples and to greet people politely with a “wai” gesture. Life in Thailand is peaceful and friendly, not loud or wild like most westerners think. If people took time to learn about our culture, they would enjoy a more meaningful experience during their visit.”

—&�Բ�����;Gam

“Something special about Thai culture and manners that foreigners often don’t realize is the strong sense of politeness and respect shown through everyday actions. For example, the traditional Wai greeting shows respect based on age and status and removing shoes before entering a home or temple reflects cleanliness and courtesy. Thai people also practice being considerate towards others, meaning they avoid bothering others and avoid conflict which is a unique part of Thai culture and social etiquette. Tourists visiting Thailand should understand that Thailand is not just a tourist destination, but also a home to people with culture, beliefs and rules that should be respected, such as dressing appropriately when visiting temples, respecting monks especially when interacting with them, not talking inappropriately about the monarchy, and understanding that Thai people’s smiles are often out of courtesy and not always an expression of content.”

—&�Բ�����;Sarunporn Saen-gundee

“Many people around the world see Thailand only as a fun place to vacation at. With beaches, luxury resorts, cheap economy, and nightlife. Movies and social media often show these things and forget about the daily lives of Thai people. Everyday life here is calm and simple. Thai people care deeply about family, kindness, and helping others. Respect for elders and peaceful living are important parts of Thai life. I wish the world could see this real side of Thailand, the country that is full of warmth, respect and community.”

—&�Բ�����;Pimchanok Jampathong

“One aspect of Thai culture that I’m truly proud of is our delicious food and unique festivals. Thai dishes like Som Tam and Tomyamkung are famous worldwide for their bold and balanced flavors of spicy, sour, salty and sweet. These meals reflect our love for fresh and local ingredients and the joy of sharing food with family. Have you ever stopped to think how something as simple as food can represent the heart of a culture?”

—&�Բ�����;Thiraphat Huaisai

“One Thai value that has helped me in life is gratitude and being thankful to parents, teachers, elders and people who help us. From a young age, Thai children are taught to respect and appreciate others. This value reminds me to stay humble and to never forget the people who support me. I believe this makes our society more caring and connected. To me Thainess means kindness, respect and being calm in difficult situations. It’s all about living with heart. Something special that many foreigners might not realize is how peaceful and gentle we try to be. In Thai culture, we often try to avoid conflict and choose to smile even in tough times. We care a lot about keeping harmony in families, schools and communities. This quietness is something I think the world should know more about when they think of Thailand, not just food and vacationing, but instead, our beautiful way of life.”

—&�Բ�����;Chotiua Pilahom

“I am proud that Thai people are united because it shows that we Thai people will never abandon each other and always help each other no matter what happens. I am proud of being Thai. The food, the culture, the various traditions, and the cheerful souls of Thai people makes me proud to be born Thai.”

—&�Բ�����;Sukollawat Inkham

Closing Thoughts:

Thailand is not just a destination, it’s a nation of people with stories, struggles, joy, and pride. These students remind us that true understanding doesn’t come from assumptions, headlines, or social media, it comes from listening and learning about the true thailand. And in listening to Thai voices, we take the first step toward truly seeing the true Thailand.