Thailand, Koh Phangan included, is a very touristic place. Because of that, most people speak at least a few words of English. It allows us to order food, find the toilets or the nearest beach without too much trouble. But it's always very appreciated when we foreigners make the effort to learn a few words of their language. It is, after all, an equal exchange. It can also, if you end up in a very local area, save your life, or your pants. So let me give you a few words and expressions that could help you!
General
Hi: sawa dee kha/kap ( Boys say "Kap" while girls say "Kha" )
Thank you: kob khun kha/kap
You're welcome: Yin dee kha/kap
I'm sorry: kor tod kha/kap
How much? Tao rai kha/kap?
I don't understand: mai khao jai kha/kap
Locations
Toilet: hong nam
Airport: sanam bin
Train station: sa ta nee rodfai
Some food related vocabulary
Spicy: pet
Not spicy: mai pet
Very delicious: aroy
If you need help
Hospital: rong pha ya baan
Police: dtam ruad
There are a few apps available for free, that gives you some vocabulary, and the well needed pronunciation to go with it. Some of them work offline, so you don't even need to use your Instagram data to check! I personnally use Thai Lite, where I found most of this vocabulary. You have to realize though, that many times it will not come out completely correct. Thai is one of the hardest language to translate with Google or any of the other applications for thai language. Thai language is very tricky to pronounce. It has a lot of different tones that can completely change the meaning of what you're trying to say. It can lead to hilarious, or awkward, situations. But you will always get points for trying, and you'll be able to impress your friends back home with your new polyglot skills!
Written by guest writer Anne - Laure Guillaumat
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