The effects of the western entertainment and the changes in the general tastes all over the world has made little impact on the traditional performing arts of Thailand, though they are not so vibrant as they were a few decades ago. The Thai dance drama has not yet become extinct and has survived till the modern age as an elegant form of art that has refined itself through the centuries.

The Thai dances were greatly influenced by the dancers of Angkor Vat which was annexed by Thailand in the year 1431. Since then, the dancers have been seen as a symbolic link between God, Nature and Earth.

Besides the regional and folk dances such as the Indian influenced famous Manhohra dance of Southern Thailand, there are two other major forms of classical Thai dance drama, which are known as the Khon and the Lakon Nai.

The Khon is the highest form of classical dance drama of Thailand. The performance is enacted by the dancers all of whom are dressed in a multi colored hue, handmade costumes and splendid golden headdresses and masks. The dance drama is based upon the Ramakien, which is a national story derived from the famous Indian epic, Ramayana.

Lakhon is the next highest form of classical dance and is usually performed by female dancers. The dance drama is based on folk stories and also the Jataka tales of India, which encompasses the story of the previous births of Lord Buddha.

The classical dances of Thailand still retain the original grandeur as they are strict in tradition and unchanging. There are about 108 basic movements of the body which the dancers should perform, by keeping their upper body in an upright position. The knees can be bent and stretched in synchronization with the music. The movement of the fingers and the hands are alluring and complex. The gorgeous costume which dazzles under the spotlights (and draws up mental images of merchants trying to seduce these wonderful women and sell gold to adorn themselves) along with the movements by the dancers truly makes the performance a wonderful experience.

Thailand is often called the Land of Smiles because of the nice nature of it’s people. All of the people are kind and outgoing and most will assist you if you are in need of help. If you are going to visit Thailand sometime in the near future there are a few things that you do need to be aware of. It is not like the United States. The water is not drinkable. You need to make sure to buy bottled water to make sure not to drink the contaminated water. The food has spices that while they are quite delicious they may upset your stomach. Your stomach may not be used to them and they may cause bloating or diarrhea so it is best to bring medicine with you just to be safe.

When shopping make sure to try to haggle. Do not just pay any price for things. Often times the street vendors will throw out an outrageous price for something so that if you haggle they still come out ahead. It is very hot over there. You should wear clothing that fits loosely. Whenever you leave the place you are sleeping make sure to bring toilet paper or disposable hand towels with you every time you leave. They do not use toilet paper the way we do. They believe that hosing off is enough. Flip flops are also essential. You must take your shoes off and leave them in doorways before entering places.

Also make sure to bring something to cover your knees and your shoulders. In Thailand you must cover them when you walk into religious places. Thailand can be a very fun destination to visit if you are prepared. If you do not plan ahead you could be hot and sweaty with an upset tummy and nothing to wipe with when you are done. Planning will make the experience even better.

Thailand with it’s long and rich history is a country that holds many traditions. It is a unique culture that is known all around the globe and is preserved. It is a very distinct culture that has been handed down from one generation to another.

For instance, meals are usually served as buffets in the center of the table for all to share. Traditionally, a Thai meal is eaten with three or more people. Meals are consumed with a fork and spoon, however, certain foods such as noodles are frequently consumed with chopsticks and sticky rice with fight hand fingers. It is advised that a little food be left on the plate to show you are full. If you eat everything on your plate, it is assumed that you are still hungry. Also, rice should never be left on your plate as that is seen as wasteful. You should also always wait to be asked for a second helping instead of taken the last bite from the bowl.

Thailand offers one of the most authentic Thai massages which are therapeutic because they have an ancient way of massaging known as “nuat phaen boran”. The Thai massage is done without oil so there is no need to worry about greasy oils during the hot weather.

Aside from their relaxing massages and special way of eating, the Thai culture offers a wide array of music and dance. Typically, visitors witness that of the Thai classical dance which generally consists of Thai ladies wearing colorful Thai costumes. The Thai dance can be found in most resorts and hotels in Thailand.

These are just a few of the beauties of Thailand although there is so much more to explore in this culture. One should always expect to have a pleasant experience in this beautiful and colorful country, and if you are backpacking you will always be able to find friendly and beautiful cheap hostels that will let you experience the culture from the centre of the cities.