The People

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{short description of image}Thailand is a land of SMILES, because you will see more smiling people here than anywhere in the world. {short description of image}

{short description of image}The Official language is Thai, so bring a phrase book! But don't worry, many people in the main cities can speak English.

{short description of image}About 75% of the people are ethnic Thais, 14% are Chinese, and 11% are mostly Indian, Malay, Karen, Khmer, or Mongolian.

{short description of image}About 59 million people live in Thailand, and about 6.7 million live in Bangkok, the capital of Thailand.

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Bangkok, early morning

{short description of image}Thailand has a high literacy rate-94% of the country can read!

{short description of image}Thais have a special greeting called a "Wai" that they use instead of a handshake. If you're given a Wai and are not sure how to give one back, a smile is always welcome.

{short description of image}In Thailand, the head is the most respected part of the body, so avoid touching someone on the head, pointing to the sole of someone's foot, or pointing with your own foot.

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Two monks at the Temple of the Emerald Buddha in Bangkok