Venice of Bangkok

Bangkok's history has evolved along the banks of the Chao Phraya River and its adjoining canals. It may no longer be the "Venice of the East" described by early visitors, but the waterways still breathe life into the city.
Winding its way through the heart of the city, the river continues to play an important part in daily life. Every day you see commuters, saffron robed monks and school children speeding by on fast river taxis, overtaking the heavily laden rice barges making their sedate journey upriver.
For visitors the river provides contrasts of old and new, with many of Bangkok's most revered temples standing alongside warehouses, old wooden houses, new residential blocks and prestigious five star hotels. On the Thonburi side of the river (the original site of Thailand's capital), a network of canals (khlongs), largely unaffected by modern development, still connect the city to the suburbs. And on the Rattanakosin side it is possible to catch river taxis along Klong Saen Saep, a dirty but important transport artery that cuts through the heart of the modern city.
Bangkok's waterways are well worth taking a few hours to explore. And there are many ways to do it, ranging from river cruises and klong tours to public river taxis and dinner cruises. See our Waterway Tips below for ideas.
Chaophraya River Cruising the Chao Phraya River, Experiencing the Glory of Siam Royal Barges National Museum In the past, Thailand was an agricultural society with settled communities growing beside the waterways. The river was the m important avenue of communication, and boats were the standard form of transport for everyone the Royal Barges as well as artifacts and accessories used I the ceremony. Suphannahong Royal Barge: The prow of the barges vas sculpted in a mythological swan figure, and the vessel was completed in the reign of King Rama VI. This is the highest class of Royal barge, and is was awarded the Sea Heritage Medal from the World Ships Organisation of Great Britain in 1981. Anantanagaraj Royal Barge: The prow of this barge is carved in the form of a seven-head naga. It is use to carry the Buddha image or Phra Krathin, the monks' robes offered during the festival. , Anekchartputchong Royal Barge: This was built in the reign of King Rama V, and is the one Royal barge to be coloured pink. Address: Arun Amorin Road Siriraj Sub-District Bangkoknoi District Bangkok 10700 Phone:(662) 424-0004 Openning Hours: Daily 9 am-5 pm Closed: Dec 31 Jan 1 Admission Fee: Thai 20 THB, Foreigner 100 THB,  Students in uniform free of charge Royal Memorial to King Puttayodfa (Rama I) This was built at the behest of King Rama VIII on the occasion of the city's 150th anniversary together with the Puttayodfa Bridge (Memorail Bridge) across the Chao Phraya River. HRH Prince Naris designed the memorial, and Prof. Silpa Bhirasri sculpted the figure and cast it in bronze. In front of the monument is a concrete wall with a marble plaque bearing the legend, "Pathom Borommaratcha Chakri Wong" (Founder of the Chakri Dynasty) together with a carved depiction of elephants. Address: Foot of Memorial Bridge Bangkok side Tri Phet Road Phra Borommaharatchawang Sub-District Phra Nakhon District Bus: 3 4 5 6 7Kor 8 10 19 21 37 40 42 43 53 56 82 Air-con Bus: 3 5 6 73 Pier: 1 Chao Phraya Express Boat: Memorial Bridge Opening Hours: Daily 24 hrs. Admission Fee: Free Admission Thammasat University After the change of government in 1932, Thammasat University was founded to service the new political system governing the country. On June 27, 1934, the day King Rama VIII gave a temporary constitution to the Thai people, the University of Jurisprudence and Politics was founded with Dr. Pridi Banomyong (Luang Pradit Manutham) as a rector. In its first period, the university was known as 'a "knowledge market." It did not receive a state budget, and charged low tuition fees which were used for the university's expenses. The name was later changed to Thammasat University for political reasons. Dome Building: The symbol of the university, this was originally four old military buildings. The architect for the conversion was Jitsen Aphaiyawong, who built a roof joining the four buildings and crowning it with a spire. Now only two buildings remain. Underneath the roof is a clock, which makes this building the university's clock tower. The room beneath the clock was formerly the office of Dr. Pridi Banomyong,who founded the university. Address: Na Phrathat Road Phra Borommaharatchawan Sub-District Phra Nakhon District Bangkok 10200 Phone: (662) 221-6111-20 Fax: (662) 224-8099 Opening Hours:  Mon-Fri 8:30 am-4 pm Closed:Sat Sun Public Hols. Admission Free: Free  -------------------------------------------------------------------------------   Bangkok Klong (Canals) Rivers and canals referred to maenam and khlong in Thai have always been vital forms of communication. When the capital of Thailand was moved to Bangkok in 1782 (the beginning of the Rattanakosin peri... ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Special Thanks info & photos : www.bangkoktourist.com

Kang Liang Goong Sod (Thai Spicy Mixed Vegetable Soup with Prawns)

Ingredients
350 grams prawns, cleaned, shelled, and deveined
1 cup babycorn, sliced
1 cup any fresh vegetables, cut into well pieces
1/2 cup sweet basil leaves
4 cups vegetable stock or water
Ingredients : Spice Mixture
12 pepper corns
12 shallots
1 tablespoon shrimp paste
1/2 cup dried shrimp
2 tablespoon fish sauce
Preparations
1. Grind all spice mixture ingredients in a mortar and pound until mixed thoroughly (or using food processor).
2. Heat vegetable stock or water in a pot, then add spice mixture and keep stirring it.
3. When the soup boils again, add fish sauce. Wait for another 20 seconds, then add prawns, vegetables.
4. When vegetables are cooked thoroughly, taste and add fish sauce or salt as desired, then remove from heat.
5. Transfer to a serving bowl and serve immediately with hot steamed rice.
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Special Thanks info : allthaifood

Steamed Fish in Banana Leaf (Hor Mok)

     While these folded packets are a delight to serve in small numbers, for a larger group the leaves can be folded into a large boat shape and the mixture steamed in larger portions with an extended cooking time.

Ingredients:

1 lb (500 g) white fish fillets, cut into chunks
1 large banana leaf, cut into 4 pieces, each 8 X 8 inches
1 cup shredded lettuce, blanched
1 cup sliced zucchini/courgette, blanched
1 cup sweet basil leaves (bai horapa)
2 green jalapeno peppers (prik chee fa), sliced
1/4 cup cilantro/coriander leaves (bai pak chee)

Sauce's Ingredients:

1/2 cup (4 fl oz/125 ml) red curry paste (nam prik gaeng ped)
2 cup (16 fl oz/500 ml) coconut milk
4 egg yolks (reserve whites for topping)
2 tablespoons fish sauce (nam pla)
2 tablespoons cornstarch/cornflour

Topping's Ingredients:
1 cup (8 fl oz/250 ml) coconut cream
4 eggs white

How to cook:
1. Marinate the fish chunks with the combined sauce ingredients and place in the refrigerator to chill for about 15 minutes.

2. Beat the topping ingredients together with a fork.

3. Wipe each piece of banana leaf with a damp cloth before use. Place a quarter of each of the blanched vegetables and of the fish in the center of each piece of banana leaf. Spoon on a quarter of the topping. Top with a scattering of basil leaves, pepper slices and cilantro leaves.

4. Bring the sides of each square together and fold in the ends. Secure with a small piece of wood or a toothpick.

5. Arrange the packets in a steamer and steam for 15 minutes or until done. Alternatively, the packets can be baked in the oven at 350 Fahrenheit (180 Celsius) for 20 minutes.

SERVES 4
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Special Thanks info  : "Thailand the Beautiful Cookbook".

Eggs with Tamarind Sauce (Khai Look-Khuey)

   Whether just fried, used as toppings, or as an essential component of many desserts, eggs are a favorite food in Thailand. In this dish, deep-frying boiled eggs gives them a different texture while their flavour is enhanced by the accompanying sauce.

Ingredients:

4 cups (1 qt/1 l) water
6 eggs
2 cups (16 fl oz/500 ml) oil, for deep-frying
1/2 cup chopped shallots

Tamarind Sauce's Ingredients:
1/2 cup (4 fl oz/125 ml) tamarind juice (ma-khaam piak)
1/2 cup (4 fl oz/125 ml) fish sauce (nam pla)
1/4 cup (2 oz/60 g) sugar

How to cook:
1. Pour the water into a large pot and boil the eggs for 5 minutes.

2. Remove from the heat and plunge the eggs into cold water. Peel the eggs and set aside.

3. In a large saucepan heat the oil to 325 F (165 C). Dry the eggs and deep-fry them until they are golden brown. Remove and set aside. With the same oil, deep-fry the shallots until golden brown. Drain and set aside.

4. Combine all the ingredients for the sauce. Heat to boiling and simmer for 5 minutes.

5. To serve, cut the eggs in half, lengthwise. Pour the sauce over the eggs and sprinkle with the fried shallots.
SERVES 4
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Special thanks info : "Thailand the Beautiful Cookbook".

Setting up a business in Thailand

        Many foreigners now want to start or expand their business in Thailand. Starting a business in a foreign country can be both useful and Thailand occasion a daunting task. Smiles is known as the land and the Government has extended such hospitality in the process of business registration. There is a one-stop service center, offering companies a way to get all the necessary information, including a new companyThailand>. The Thai government has done many years great improvement over the last acceleration company registration in Thailand. Now, a Thai company for you within one business day after receiving confirmation on behalf of the Thai company with limited liability are recorded.

        New large and small companies in Thailand can be set with ease. For a small new Thai economy, simply register your new Thai limited liability company with a market capitalization of at least 2million baht. The Thai government requires that at least 25 percent of market capitalization are until the day of the meeting paid for the registration of companies. Initial funding can be used immediately for rental of premises, purchase of computers, purchase of inventory and business expenses. With regard to corporations, their government Thai Board of Investment (BOI) program offers many advantages for specific industries to choose Thailand as their starting positions. These can includesoftware developers small with only a few people for large manufacturing operations. The incentives are tax exemptions, tax or reduce duties on imports of machinery, the rapid transformation of work permits and visas for foreign workers, and tax free zones for the import of raw materials and exported as finished product (for some specific sectors).

        The percentage of Thai ownership of your company depends on company registration, you can process the Thai government.The most common type of registration is a limited liability company with 2 million Thai baht required start-up capital. A foreigner can only be up to 49 percent of shares in this type of structure. The Thai partner must have 51 percent. The corporate structure offers the possibility BOI owned 100 percent in certain professions. We recommend you with a new lawyer Thailand Thai Foundation to help contact you in planning your company's a.
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special thanks info : www.amazingthailandguide.com , Photo copy right from internet

Visitor Facts

Currency and Exchange Service Thai Currency:
       The Thai unit of currency is the baht 1 baht is divided into 100 satang .The baht is divided into 100 satang. "Copper" coins are valued at 25 and 50 satang. "Silver" coins are in denominations of 1 and 5 baht. A 10 baht coin is composed of both "silver" and "copper". Banknotes are valued at 20 baht (green), 50 baht (blue), 100 baht (red), 500 baht (purple) and 1,000 baht (grey)

Currency Notes      Paper baht comes in denominations of 10 (brown), 20 (green), 50 (blue), 100 (red), 500 (purple) and 1000 (beige).

Currency Coins     There are 100 satang in one baht; coins include 25-satang and 50-satang pieces and baht in denominations of 1, 2, 5 and 10. Thai baht is in denominations of:

       Thai baht is in denominations of:
                                                                           
                                                                            



Credit Cards: Credit cards are widely accepted. For lost cards :
American Express Tel : (662) 273 5100 ,  or (662) 273 0022
Diners Club Tel : (662) 238 2920 or (662) 238 2680
Master Card Tel : (662) 256 7326-7
Visa Tel : (662) 256 7326-7

       Bargaining : Fixed prices are the norm in department stores, but at most other places bargaining is to be expected. Generally, you can obtain a final figure of between 10-40% lower than the original asking price. Much depends on your skills and the shopkeeper’s mood. But remember, Thais appreciate good manners and a sense of humor. With patience and a broad smile, you will not only get a better price, you will also enjoy shopping as an art.

Climate:
Thailand enjoys a tropical climate with 3 distinct seasons - summer from March through May, rainy with plenty of sunshine from June to September and cool from October through February. The average annual temperature is 28 C (83 F), ranging, in Bangkok, for example, from 30 C in April to 25 C in December.

Tipping: It is customary to tip porters, taxi drivers and hotel personnel who have given good personal service. A 10%-15% tip is appreciated in restaurants, particularly where service charge is waived.

Travelers Cheques/Credit Cards: Us dollar traveler cheques can be conveniently cashed at all provincial banks and authorized money changers. Traveler cheques in other currencies are best changed in Bangkok where better rates are lower than those offered by banks and authorised money changers.

Major international credit cards, such as American Express, Diner, Carte Blanche, Master Change and VISA are accepted by major banks, restaurants, hotels and shops.

Thai and foreign banks provide standard services nationwide, Monday through Friday except public and bank holidays, between 9.30 a.m. and 3.30 p.m.

Major banks such as Bangkok Bank, Krung Thai Bank and Thai Farmers Bank operate currency exchange centres in most tourist area from 7.00 a.m. to 9.00 p.m., seven days a week including holidays.

Many first-class hotels provide 24 hours money exchange services but only for major currencies such as American dollars, British pounds, German marks and Swiss francs. Travellers cheques are generally accepted only from bona fide hotel guests.

Exchange Control: 1. Foreign tourists may freely bring in foreign banknotes or other types of foreign exchange. Upon leaving Thailand, a foreign tourist may freely take out foreign means of payments which be brought in with him, with the exception that foreign notes or coins are limited to a maximum equivalent of US 10,000 or the amount declared in writing to Customs upon arrival. Failure to do so may lead to arrest, confiscation of the excess amount involved and/or prosecution.

2. For travellers leaving Thailand, the maximum amount permitted to take out without prior authorization is 50,000 baht per person.

3. Foreign visitors may bring in personal effects and other goods which are not prohibited by current customs regulation. Other than personal effects, departing visitors are also allowed to take out merchandise bought from duty free shops, precious stones, gold and platinum ornaments.

4. Foreign visitors are welcome to open a foreign currency account with any commercial bank in Thailand. As a special gesture to non-residents, no restrictions are imposed on the maintenance of and withdrawal from the account as long as the funds originate from abroad.

For additional information concerning foreign exchange regulations, please contact any authorized banks.

Language: Spoken and written Thai remain largely incomprehensible to the casual visitor. However, English is widely understood, particularly in Bangkok where it is almost the major commercial language. English and some other European languages are spoken in most hotels, shops and restaurants, in major tourist destinations, and Thai-English road and street signs are found nationwide.

Clothing: Light, loose cotton clothing is best. Nylon should be avoided. Sweaters are needed during cool season, evenings or if visiting mountainous areas and remote national parks. Jackets and ties are required in a few restaurants and nightclubs.

Electricity: The electric current is 220 Volt AC (50 cycles) throughout the country. There are many plugs and sockets in use. Travellers with shavers, tape recorders and other appliances should carry a plug-adapter kit. The better hotels will make available 110 Volt transformers.

Television and Video: The television system in Thailand is PAL, the same as the videos on sale. If you buy a video you won't be able to play it on NTSC systems in America or Japan.

Car Rental: Those possessing valid International Driving Licenses may prefer to hire automobiles. English language road signs and maps are commonplace. The Bangkok Yellow Pages list local and international automobile rental companies. Visitors are advised to shop around since most companies offer different conditions. Self-drive and chauffeur-driven automobiles are widely available.

International car hire companies such as Avis and Hertz also operate in Pattaya, Hat Yai, Phuket, Chiang Mai and Samui Island.

Passenger Service Charge (Airport Tax): A passenger service charge, to be paid at the airport check-in counter, is required of all international and domestic passengers passing through Bangkok International Airport.

International passengers 250 baht per person

Domestic passengers 30 baht per person

Please note that foreign passengers whose passports have been stamped upon arrival are considered to have entered the Kingdom of Thailand. Therefore, when leaving the country they are required to pay the passenger service charge.

Children under two years old are exempt from the passenger service charge.

Business Hours:
Most commercial concerns in Bangkok operate on a five-day week. Government offices are generally open between 8.30 a.m. and 4.30 p.m. with a noon to 1.00 p.m. lunch break, Monday through Friday, except on public holidays. Private businesses maintain much the same hours perhaps 8.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. with certain exceptions. Many stores open 12 hours a day, seven days a week.

Tourist Police: In 1982, the Tourist Police was set up to coordinate with the Tourism Authority of Thailand in providing safety for tourists. Its responsibilities are receiving and acknowledging claims and complaints; conduction investigation and acting as co-ordinator of tourist security protection. At present, some 500 tourist policemen are stationed in major tourist areas such as the Grand Palace, Patpong and Lumpini Park.

Bi-lingual Tourist Police are attached to Tourism Authority of Thailand offices in Bangkok, Pattaya, Chiang Mai, Hat Yai, Phuket and Kanchanaburi to provide speedy assistance to visitors.

In case of emergency, contact the Tourist Police Centre (Section 4), Crime Suppression Division, 29/1 Unico House Building Soi Lung Suan Ploenchit Road Bangkok. Tel: 652 1721-6 ext. section 4 or call the TAT Helpline at Tel: 281 5051, 282 8129 Fax: 281 5051
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Special Thanks info : www.amazingthailandguide.com ,  www.thailandguidebook.com

Meditation Posture

      When we practise meditation we need to have a comfortable seat and a good posture. The most important feature of the posture is to keep our back straight. To help us do this, if we are sitting on a cushion we make sure that the back of the cushion is slightly higher than the front, inclining our pelvis slightly forward. It is not necessary at first to sit cross-legged, but it is a good idea to become accustomed to sitting in the posture of Buddha Vairochana. If we cannot hold this posture we should sit in one which is as close to this as possible while remaining comfortable.

" When we practise meditation we need to have a comfortable seat and a good posture."

The seven features of Vairochana’s posture are:

(1) The legs are crossed in the vajra posture. This helps to reduce thoughts and feelings of desirous attachment.

(2) The right hand is placed in the left hand, palms upwards, with the tips of the thumbs slightly raised and gently touching. The hands are held about four fingers’ width below the navel. This helps us to develop good concentration. The right hand symbolizes method and the left hand symbolizes wisdom – the two together symbolize the union of method and wisdom. The two thumbs at the level of the navel symbolize the blazing of inner fire.

(3) The back is straight but not tense. This helps us to develop and maintain a clear mind, and it allows the subtle energy winds to flow freely.

(4) The lips and teeth are held as usual, but the tongue touches against the back of the upper teeth. This prevents excessive salivation while also preventing our mouth from becoming too dry.

(5) The head is tipped a little forward with the chin slightly tucked in so that the eyes are cast down. This helps prevent mental excitement.

(6) The eyes are neither wide open nor completely closed, but remain half open and gaze down along the line of the nose. If the eyes are wide open we are likely to develop mental excitement and if they are closed we are likely to develop mental sinking.

(7) The shoulders are level and the elbows are held slightly away from the sides to let air circulate.

"If we want to colour our mind with a virtuous motivation we need to clear away all our negative thoughts and distractions."

        A further feature of Vairochana’s posture is the preliminary breathing meditation, which prepares our mind for developing a good motivation. When we sit down to meditate our mind is usually full of disturbing thoughts, and we cannot immediately convert such a state of mind into the virtuous one we need as our motivation. A negative, disturbed state of mind is like pitch-black cloth. We cannot dye pitch-black cloth any other colour unless we first remove all the black dye and make the cloth white again. In the same way, if we want to colour our mind with a virtuous motivation we need to clear away all our negative thoughts and distractions. We can accomplish this temporarily by practising breathing meditation.

Breathing Meditation

        When we have settled down comfortably on our meditation seat we begin by becoming aware of the thoughts and distractions that are arising in our mind. Then we gently turn our attention to our breath, letting its rhythm remain normal. As we breathe out we imagine that we are breathing away all disturbing thoughts and distractions in the form of black smoke that vanishes in space. As we breathe in we imagine that we are breathing in all the blessings and inspiration of the holy beings in the form of white light that enters our body and absorbs into our heart. We maintain this visualization single-pointedly with each inhalation and exhalation for twenty-one rounds, or until our mind has become peaceful and alert. If we concentrate on our breathing in this way, negative thoughts and distractions will temporarily disappear because we cannot concentrate on more than one object at a time. At the conclusion of our breathing meditation we should think `Now I have received the blessings and inspiration of all the holy beings.’ At this stage our mind is like a clean white cloth which we can now colour with a virtuous motivation such as compassion or bodhichitta.
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special thanks info : http://www.how-to-meditate.org/, photo copyright from internet

Why Learn to Meditate

          The purpose of meditation is to make our mind calm and peaceful. If our mind is peaceful, we will be free from worries and mental discomfort, and so we will experience true happiness; but if our mind is not peaceful, we will find it very difficult to be happy, even if we are living in the very best conditions. If we train in meditation, our mind will gradually become more and more peaceful, and we will experience a purer and purer form of happiness. Eventually, we will be able to stay happy all the time, even in the most difficult circumstances.

" Eventually, we will be able to stay happy all the time, even in the most difficult circumstances."

         Usually we find it difficult to control our mind. It seems as if our mind is like a balloon in the wind – blown here and there by external circumstances. If things go well, our mind is happy, but if they go badly, it immediately becomes unhappy. For example, if we get what we want, such as a new possession or a new partner, we become excited and cling to them tightly. However, since we cannot have everything we want, and since we will inevitably be separated from the friends and possessions we currently enjoy, this mental stickiness, or attachment, serves only to cause us pain. On the other hand, if we do not get what we want, or if we lose something that we like, we become despondent or irritated. For example, if we are forced to work with a colleague whom we dislike, we will probably become irritated and feel aggrieved, with the result that we will be unable to work with him or her efficiently and our time at work will become stressful and unrewarding.

"By training in meditation, we create an inner space and clarity that enables us to control our mind"

            Such fluctuations of mood arise because we are too closely involved in the external situation. We are like a child making a sandcastle who is excited when it is first made, but who becomes upset when it is destroyed by the incoming tide. By training in meditation, we create an inner space and clarity that enables us to control our mind regardless of the external circumstances. Gradually we develop mental equilibrium, a balanced mind that is happy all the time, rather than an unbalanced mind that oscillates between the extremes of excitement and despondency.

           If we train in meditation systematically, eventually we will be able to eradicate from our mind the delusions that are the causes of all our problems and suffering. In this way, we will come to experience a permanent inner peace, known as “liberation” or “nirvana”. Then, day and night in life after life, we will experience only peace and happiness.
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special thanks info : www.how-to-meditate.org

Loving Kindness Meditation

The five stages of the meditation

• 1.Preparation   2.Contemplation   3. Meditation   4. Dedication    5. Subsequent Practice

All living beings deserve to be cherished because of the tremendous kindness they have shown us.

1. Preparation

We sit in the meditation posture as explained above and prepare our mind for meditation with breathing meditation. If we like we can also engage in the preparatory prayers.

2. Contemplation

All living beings deserve to be cherished because of the tremendous kindness they have shown us. All our temporary and ultimate happiness arises through their kindness. Even our body is the result of the kindness of others. We did not bring it with us from our previous life – it developed from the union of our father’s sperm and mother’s ovum. Once we had been conceived our mother kindly allowed us to stay in her womb, nourishing our body with her blood and warmth, putting up with great discomfort, and finally going through the painful ordeal of childbirth for our sake. We came into this world naked and empty-handed and were immediately given a home, food, clothes, and everything else we needed. While we were a helpless baby our mother protected us from danger, fed us, cleaned us, and loved us. Without her kindness we would not be alive today.

The mere fact that we are alive today is a testimony to the great kindness of others.

Through receiving a constant supply of food, drink, and care, our body gradually grew from that of a tiny helpless baby to the body we have now. All this nourishment was directly or indirectly provided by countless living beings. Every cell of our body is therefore the result of others’ kindness. Even those who have never known their mother have received nourishment and loving care from other people. The mere fact that we are alive today is a testimony to the great kindness of others.

It is because we have this present body with human faculties that we are able to enjoy all the pleasures and opportunities of human life. Even simple pleasures such as going for a walk or watching a beautiful sunset can be seen to be a result of the kindness of innumerable living beings. Our skills and abilities all come from the kindness of others; we had to be taught how to eat, how to walk, how to talk, and how to read and write. Even the language we speak is not our own invention but the product of many generations. Without it we could not communicate with others nor share their ideas. We could not read this book, learn Dharma, nor even think clearly. All the facilities we take for granted, such as houses, cars, roads, shops, schools, hospitals, and cinemas, are produced solely through others’ kindness. When we travel by bus or car we take the roads for granted, but many people worked very hard to build them and make them safe for us to use.

Everyone who contributes in any way towards our happiness and well-being is deserving of our gratitude.

The fact that some of the people who help us may have no intention of doing so is irrelevant. We receive benefit from their actions, so from our point of view this is a kindness. Rather than focusing on their motivation, which in any case we do not know, we should focus on the practical benefit we receive. Everyone who contributes in any way towards our happiness and well-being is deserving of our gratitude and respect. If we had to give back everything that others have given us, we would have nothing left at all.

We might argue that we are not given things freely but have to work for them. When we go shopping we have to pay, and when we eat in a restaurant we have to pay. We may have the use of a car, but we had to buy the car, and now we have to pay for petrol, tax, and insurance. No one gives us anything for free. But from where do we get this money? It is true that generally we have to work for our money, but it is others who employ us or buy our goods, and so indirectly it is they who provide us with money. Moreover, the reason we are able to do a particular job is that we have received the necessary training or education from other people. Wherever we look, we find only the kindness of others. We are all interconnected in a web of kindness from which it is impossible to separate ourself. Everything we have and everything we enjoy, including our very life, is due to the kindness of others. In fact, every happiness there is in the world arises as a result of others’ kindness.

Our spiritual development and the pure happiness of full enlightenment also depend upon the kindness of living beings

Our spiritual development and the pure happiness of full enlightenment also depend upon the kindness of living beings. Buddhist centres, Dharma books, and meditation courses do not arise out of thin air but are the result of the hard work and dedication of many people. Our opportunity to read, contemplate, and meditate on Buddha’s teachings depends entirely upon the kindness of others. Moreover, as explained later, without living beings to give to, to test our patience, or to develop compassion for, we could never develop the virtuous qualities needed to attain enlightenment.

In short, we need others for our physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Without others we are nothing. Our sense that we are an island, an independent, self-sufficient individual, bears no relation to reality. It is closer to the truth to picture ourself as a cell in the vast body of life, distinct yet intimately bound up with all living beings. We cannot exist without others, and they in turn are affected by everything we do. The idea that it is possible to secure our own welfare whilst neglecting that of others, or even at the expense of others, is completely unrealistic.

3. Meditation

Contemplating the innumerable ways in which others help us, we should make a firm decision: `I must cherish all living beings because they are so kind to me.’ Based on this determination we develop a feeling of cherishing – a sense that all living beings are important and that their happiness matters. We try to mix our mind single-pointedly with this feeling and maintain it for as long as we can without forgetting it.

4. Dedication

We dedicate all the virtues we have created in this meditation practice to the welfare of all living beings by reciting the dedication prayers.

5. Subsequent Practice

When we arise from meditation we try to maintain this mind of love, so that whenever we meet or remember someone we naturally think: `This person is important, this person’s happiness matters.’ In this way we can make cherishing living beings our main practice.
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special thanks info : www.how-to-meditate.org

Breathing Meditations

         Generally, the purpose of breathing meditation is to calm the mind and develop inner peace. We can use breathing meditations alone or as a preliminary practice to reduce our distractions before engaging in a Lamrim meditation

A Simple Breathing Meditation

         The first stage of meditation is to stop distractions and make our mind clearer and more lucid. This can be accomplished by practising a simple breathing meditation. We choose a quiet place to meditate and sit in a comfortable position. We can sit in the traditional cross-legged posture or in any other position that is comfortable. If we wish, we can sit in a chair. The most important thing is to keep our back straight to prevent our mind from becoming sluggish or sleepy.

The first stage of meditation is to stop distractions and make our mind clearer and more lucid.

          We sit with our eyes partially closed and turn our attention to our breathing. We breathe naturally, preferably through the nostrils, without attempting to control our breath, and we try to become aware of the sensation of the breath as it enters and leaves the nostrils. This sensation is our object of meditation. We should try to concentrate on it to the exclusion of everything else.
At first, our mind will be very busy, and we might even feel that the meditation is making our mind busier; but in reality we are just becoming more aware of how busy our mind actually is. There will be a great temptation to follow the different thoughts as they arise, but we should resist this and remain focused single-pointedly on the sensation of the breath. If we discover that our mind has wandered and is following our thoughts, we should immediately return it to the breath. We should repeat this as many times as necessary until the mind settles on the breath.

Benefits of Meditation

         If we practise patiently in this way, gradually our distracting thoughts will subside and we will experience a sense of inner peace and relaxation. Our mind will feel lucid and spacious and we will feel refreshed. When the sea is rough, sediment is churned up and the water becomes murky, but when the wind dies down the mud gradually settles and the water becomes clear. In a similar way, when the otherwise incessant flow of our distracting thoughts is calmed through concentrating on the breath, our mind becomes unusually lucid and clear. We should stay with this state of mental calm for a while.
Even though breathing meditation is only a preliminary stage of meditation, it can be quite powerful. We can see from this practice that it is possible to experience inner peace and contentment just by controlling the mind, without having to depend at all upon external conditions.

So much of the stress and tension we normally experience comes from our mind

       When the turbulence of distracting thoughts subsides and our mind becomes still, a deep happiness and contentment naturally arises from within. This feeling of contentment and well-being helps us to cope with the busyness and difficulties of daily life. So much of the stress and tension we normally experience comes from our mind, and many of the problems we experience, including ill health, are caused or aggravated by this stress. Just by doing breathing meditation for ten or fifteen minutes each day, we will be able to reduce this stress. We will experience a calm, spacious feeling in the mind, and many of our usual problems will fall away. Difficult situations will become easier to deal with, we will naturally feel warm and well disposed towards other people, and our relationships with others will gradually improve.
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Special Thank info : www.how-to-meditate.org

Transforming Meditations

         Meditation is a method for acquainting our mind with virtue. The more familiar our mind is with virtue, the calmer and more peaceful it becomes. When our mind is peaceful we are free from worries and mental discomfort, and we experience true happiness. If we train our mind to become peaceful we shall be happy all the time, even in the most adverse conditions, but if our mind is not peaceful, then even if we have the most pleasant external conditions we shall not be happy. Therefore it is important to train our mind through meditation.

When our mind is peaceful we are free from worries and mental discomfort, and we experience true happiness.

There are two types of meditation: analytical meditation and placement meditation. When we contemplate the meaning of a Dharma instruction that we have heard or read we are doing analytical meditation. By deeply contemplating the instruction, eventually we reach a conclusion or cause a specific virtuous state of mind to arise. This is the object of placement meditation. Having found our object through analytical meditation, we then concentrate on it single-pointedly for as long as possible to become deeply acquainted with it. This single-pointed concentration is placement meditation. Often, analytical meditation is called simply `contemplation’, and placement meditation simply `meditation’. Placement meditation depends upon contemplation, and contemplation depends upon listening to or reading Dharma instructions.

Since most of the problems we experience when we are new to meditation come from overstraining at placement meditation, it is important to be moderate and avoid becoming tense from exerting too much pressure. The effort we apply should be relaxed and steady, and whenever we become tired we should rest.

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Special Thanks info : www.how-to-meditate.org

Chicken & Herb Soup (Kang Oam Kai)

INGREDIENTS:

7 oz. boneless chicken breast (sliced into 1 inch squares)
3 each dried chili peppers
1 tbsp. galanga (small slices - may use ginger as a substitute)
2 tbsp. shallot (sliced)
2 tbsp. lemongrass (sliced)
2 tbsp. fish sauce
1 tbsp. light soy sauce
½ tsp. salt
1 tbsp. olive oil
1 cup water
½ cup sweet basil
½ cup fresh shiitake mushroom (other mushrooms may be substituted)
1 cup yellow squash (sliced)
½ cup green beans (cut into 2 inch lengths)
¼ cup scallions (sliced into 2 inch lengths)

PREPARATION:
1. Put dried chili peppers, galanga, lemongrass, shallots and salt into a mortar and using a pestle, mix them together until they are well blended. If a mortar and pestle are not available, a blender may be used.

2. Heat the olive oil in a pot using a medium high heat setting, then put the mix above into the pot and stir for a few minutes, until fragrant.

3. Add the chicken into the pot, and stir constantly for about 3 minutes. Add the water and bring to a boil.

4. After the water is boiling, add the fish sauce, light soy sauce and vegetables (except the basil and scallions) into the pot.

5. Boil for approximately 5 minutes until vegetables are soft and tender. Then add the basil and scallions, and turn off the heat. Add additional fish sauce to your taste, if desired.

Makes 3 servings
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Special Thanks info : www.trycookingthai.com 

Red Curry Pork with Chinese Okra (Paneang-Moo-Sai-Buab-Liyam)

Normally paneang has meat, and not vegetables. As for me, I love to use vegetables with most meal. Besides being very healthy, vegetables contribute to make my meals more delicious.

Ingredients:

7 oz. pork loin (sliced into bite size pieces)
2 cups Chinese okra
1 cup coconut milk
1 cup sweet basil leaves
2 each red hot chili peppers (cut into lengthwise pieces and discard the seeds)
2 tbsp. olive oil
3 tbsp. paneang curry paste
2 tbsp. palm sugar
2 tbsp. fish sauce
1½ tbsp. peanut butter
1 tsp. cumin powder
1 tsp. coriander powder

Garnish:
¼ cup coconut cream
2 tbsp. rice flour

Preparation:
1. Heat the olive oil in a saucepan using a medium high heat setting, then add the curry paneang paste, coriander powder and cumin powder. Stir for a few minutes.
2. Reduce the heat and add the coconut milk a little at a time while stirring, then let simmer for a few minutes.
3. Add the pork and Chinese okra and stir occasionally until thoroughly cooked.
4. Add the fish sauce, palm sugar and peanut butter, then stir until mixed very well.
5. Add the sweet basil and red hot chili peppers, then stir until thoroughly mixed together, turn off the heat and transfer to a bowl.
6. Prepare the garnish by mixing the coconut cream with the rice flour, then heat until warm and pour over the top of the paneang.

Make 3 Servings
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Special thanks info : http://www.trycookingthai.com/

Tom Yam Goong

Hot and Sour Shrimp Soup

A subtle blend of hot and sour with citrus overtones, tom yam goong is the most famous of all Thai soups. Each region has its own particular variation of the recipe.

Recipe:

8 oz (250 g) shrimp/prawns, shelled and deveined, with shellsreserved
3 cups (24 fl oz/750 ml) water
2 garlic cloves (kratiem), minced
5 kaffir lime leaves (bai ma-good)
3 thin slices fresh or dried galangal (kha)
1/4 cup (2 fl oz/60 ml) fish sauce (nam pla)
2 stalks lemon grass/citronella (ta-krai), lower 1/3 portiononly, cut into 1-in (2.5-cm) lengths
2 shallots, sliced
1/2 cup sliced straw mushrooms
5 green Thai chili peppers (prik khee noo), optional
1/4 cup (2 fl oz/60 ml) lime juice
1 teaspoon black chili paste (nam prik pow)
1 tablespoon chopped cilantro/coriander leaves (bai pak chee)

How to cook:
1. Rinse the prawn shells and place them in a large pot with the water. Heat to boiling, strain the broth and discard the shells.
2. Add the garlic, lime leaves, galangal, fish sauce, lemon grass and shallots to the stock, then the mushrooms and chili peppers, if using. Cook gently for 2 minutes.
3. Add the shrimp to the soup, and reheat to boiling. When the shrimp are cooked, place the lime juice and black chili paste in a serving bowl. Pour the soup into the bowl, stir, garnish with the cilantro leaves, and serve.

SERVES 4
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Special Thanks info : "Thailand the Beautiful Cookbook".

Tom Kha Gai (Chicken Coconut Soup)

A rich, aromatic dinner soup, which is enjoyed throughout the meal. Whenever possible, fresh kaffir lime leave should be used, and their flavor and aroma is increased when they are torm insted of cut with a knife. Young galangal (Kha orn) is pale yellow, with firm unwrinkled pink shoot. Fresh young ginger can be substituted if necessary, but the flavor will not be quite the same

Recipe:

2 cups (16 fl oz/500 ml) coconut milk
6 thin slices young aglangal (kha orn)
2 stalks lemon grass/citronella (ta-krai), lower 1/3 portion onlym, cut into 1-in (2.5-cm) lemghts and cruhed
5 fresh kaffir lime leave (bai ma -grood), torn in half
8 oz (250 g) boned chicken breast, sliced
5 tablespoons (2 1/2 fl oz/75 ml) fish sauce (nam pla)
2 tablespoons sugar
1/2 cup (4 fl oz/125 ml) lime juice
1 teaspoon black chili paste (nam prik pow)
1/4 cup cilantro/coriander leave (bai pak chee), torn
5 green Thai chili peppers (prik khee noo), crushed

How to cook:
1. Combine half the coconut milk with the galangal, lemon grass and lime leave in a large saucepan and heat to boiling. Add the chlicken, fish sauce and sugar.
2. Simmer for about 4 minutes, or until the chlicken is cooked. Add the remaining coconut milk to the saucepan and heat just to boiling.
3. Place the lime juice and chili paste in a serving bowl then pour the soup into the serving bowl.
4. Garnish with the torn cilantro leaves and crushed chili pepper, and serve.
SERVES 4

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Special Thank info : "Thailand the Beautiful Cookbook".

Gai Pad Met Ma-Muang Himmaphan

Chicken with Cashew Nut
Vegetables can be added while the chicken is cooking if desired

Recipe:
1/4 cup (2 fl oz/60 ml) oil
4 garlic cloves (kratiem), minced
1 lb (500 g) boned chicken, thinly sliced

Recipe (Sauce) :
2 tablespoons fish sauce (nam pla)
2 tablespoons oyster sauce
2 tablespoons sugar
1/8 teaspoon white pepper
1 teaspoon cornstarch/cornflour dissolved in a little water, optional
1/2 cup (70 g/2 1/2 oz) roasted cashew nuts
1 green onion/scallion/spring onion, chopped
1/4 cup sliced red bell pepper/capsicum

How to cook:
1. Heat a large skillet then add the oil, garlic, chicken, the sauces, sugar and pepper.
2. Turn the heat to high and reduce the sauce until a glaze forms. If the sauce is not reduced and is thin, add enough of the cornstrarch mixture to produce a thick sauce. Add the cornstarch and water mixture only if you prefer a richer looking sauce.
3. Mix in the roasted cashews and then turn the mixture onto a serving dish. Garnish with the green onion and bell pepper.

SERVES 4
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Special Thanks info : "Thailand the Beautiful Cookbook".

Thai Dowry - Sin sod

Thai dowry  must be one of the most discussed issues on Thailand web boards. The Thai dowry system is known as the 'Sin Sod'. Traditionally, the groom will be expected to pay a dowry or sin sod to the family, to compensate them for the loss of their daughter. The dowry or sin sod is also to demonstrate that the groom is financially capable of taking care of their daughter. The idea of "paying" for your bride is deeply embedded in Thai culture and is considered absolutely normal. Most Westerners however find this idea somewhere between distasteful or an absolute scam. The concept of dowry is not a Western concept as many Westerners believe in romantic love and that money has nothing to do with it. Usually, the dowry is symbolic and will normally be returned to the couple after the wedding

Dowry (Sin Sod)

Thai parents tend to view marriage as being based on financial security. Hence the dowry or sin sod.No Thai family would want their daughter to marry someone who does not have an interest in the financial security of the family.

This makes the dowry a must during a Thai wedding ceremony. Look at dowry from a Thai perspective.Cultures and traditions are different. As an example when a Thai man marries a woman he would generally move into the family home.  It would then become his responsibility to manage his in-laws business be it a farm or a store. He would also be tasked with taking care of her family members and anyone related to her family. Should he fall into financial difficulty her family would then support him. The concept of dowry or sin sod even though alien to Westerners shows how closely knit Thai’s are compared to Westerners who are more individual in deed and thought. What is normal in the West such as “old age homes” or old age pensions are not standard in Thailand. Children take care of the family during their retirement years.  The dowry is therefore important in Thai culture.

In Thailand inheritance of the family home and family land is generally through the female children.  Dowry however is not linked to it directly. The husband of the daughter in the family would therefore reap the any benefit of all that might have been achieved by his wife’s parents. Unfortunately being a foreigner you don't benefit from the equation. Firstly a foreigner cannot own land or a house in Thailand in his name. (Consult a reputable law firm to discuss your options). It is the lack of benefit that most foreigners object to paying dowry.  Even though some Westerners object to the concept of dowry, many simply disagree with the amount payable. The amount of dowry paid usually depends on the social status of the family and/or the level of education of the bride or her income alternatively both. A dowry of a million baht for an uneducated woman is unheard of. A Dowry for an average middle class educated Thai would normally be in the region of 100,000 Baht.

This varies as an example, should the bride be a divorcee or a ‘'Mia Maiy' - a spoiled/ruined wife, normally no dowry is paid. If she has a child or children from a former marriage or relationship no dowry is paid either.

Thai Dowry is a touchy subject in Thailand with Westerners.  Normally you or someone in your family approaches the Thai woman’s parents to negotiate” Tong Mun" and "Sin Sod." Tong Mun which literally means "gold engagement" is in reality 24 karat gold jewelry given to the bride.  The concept is similar to an engagement ring in the West. Sin Sod is the dowry itself. The word "Sin" means riches. This could be anything of value. In Africa it would include farm animals, land and such.  "Sod” on the other hand is the act of storing or in this context holding the "Sin". Hence the term Sin Sod or dowry.

The "Tong Mun" or engagement ring will be presented to the bride at a ceremony called a "Phitee Mun," which normally takes place at the bride’s parent’s home. This is mainly attended by family members and shows acceptance into the family. You and your prospective bride are now viewed as a "Koo Mun" which literally means "tied or joined couple," (engaged party). Ever seen a Westerner in Thailand with loads of string tired around his wrists? He partook in a "Bai Sri Soo Kwan" or engagement ceremony. The engagement ceremony concludes with each guest tying a string around the wrist of the bride and that of the groom, while giving the married couple their blessings, followed by the placing of a garland of flowers around the couple’s necks. This is followed by the “Koo Mun,” or the actual wedding ceremony a few weeks later with the presentation of the dowry.

Dowry however does not play a role when registering a Thai marriage. There is no need to show that dowry had been paid as it is not part of the legal system. Dowry is a tradition not a law.

Consult a reputable law firm in Thailand to handle your Thai marriage registration and/or a prenuptial agreement.  They will do all the necessary translations and processing once you hand over the required documents.
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Special Thanks info : http://www.marrythailand.com/

Thai Traditional Wedding

Often Thai Buddhist weddings are social weddings and the legal papers will be done later on if you need them for any legal purpose.

Wedding Preparation

The day before the wedding during the evening the Buddhist ceremony would commence (วันสุกดิบ).  It is during this Buddhist ceremony that the couple has to pay homage to the ancestors of the bride. During this ceremony the couple would wear just their ordinary clothing. There would normally be nine monks present and they would proceed to sit on their straw mats with a bottle of water and a glass before them. The couple would then sit at what would best be described as an altar closest to the first monk. A scared or holy thread is then twirled around the head of the bride and groom and unrolled into the monk’s hand.

Closest to the first monk there would be a bowl of water with a candle inside. It is this holy water that would be used the following day. The first monk holds a special fan in one of his hands.  The monks would pray rest and then start to pray again. After this pray they leave and go back to their temple.

Ceremony before Wedding Day

The following morning, the nine monks would arrive again. This time they will sprinkle the holy water from the day before on those who are present. This time the bride and groom would wear traditional Thai dress for the wedding itself. The couple would now kneel close together and a holy string would again be strung in a circular motion around the head of the bride and then around the head in a circular formation of the groom, joining them. Theye would then proceed to Wai (ไหว้).

There are nine trays each containing small dishes placed before each monk. Prays are said and the couple would then give each monk money. Monks are not allowed to touch money so the money is placed into nine envelopes and handed out. They eat and then go back to the temple. During the retreat season non weddings are held as the monks are not permitted outside of the temple.

Door Ceremony

Way back then a traditional Thai wedding ceremony would have a “Door Ceremony” where the groom would open the gates on route to the house of the bride. In order to open the gates as each gate the groom had to provide a gift. These gifts become larger the closer the groom gets to the house of the bride. Nowadays the doors are being replaced by girls holding onto a chain. At each part of the chain the person normally the sisters of the bride would ask if he is wealthy enough to care for their sister and family. Each time he would present them with an envelope of money. Each time he passes from one to the other, the audience would cheer.

Wash  Feet Ceremony

The “Door Ceremony” is followed by the “Feet Washing Ceremony”.  Some of the ceremonies are no longer really practiced. The husband would stand on a chair while the wife would bow at his feet. She would then proceed to wash his feet and wai (ไหว้). This is to symbolise her allegiance and respect of her husband.

During this time the dowry is shown to all the guests. Normally this dowry is returned to the couple after the ceremony and shows only that the groom is financially sound to take care of the family. This would be the normal traditional Thai wedding. Even if the marriage is not registered, those in the village would still view them as husband and wife. As a Westerner you would have to register your marriage for legal and visa purposes.

Shell Ceremony

The final procedure for a traditional Thai wedding is that the couple kneels on a small pedestal with clasped hands. They would have garlands around their necks and a village elder would say a few words.  Each guest would then arrive and pour holy water out of a shell onto their hands and saying a few words. They also hand the couple an envelope filled with money and the couple would reciprocate by handing them a small wedding memento. This lasts for a few hours.

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Special Thanks info : http://www.marrythailand.com/

Marriage in Thailand ;Traditional Wedding Ceremonies ; Thai Customs and Rituals

Is it legal?  What is dowry?  How come?

Speaking of Thai marriage, there are two separate matrimonies (types of wedding) taken place in Thailand. One is reckoned as a Buddhist religious ceremony of traditional Thai wedding with several unique rituals observed step-by-step. The other is an official procedure of legal marriage registration. Nowadays, a procedure of legal marriage registration more often than not is preceded, followed, or deliberately coincided with the wedding ceremony, if any.

Wedding Planning

To comply with Buddhist religious beliefs, and to uphold the cultural and traditional heritage, most Thai girls (and especially the parents) would be very happy to have a marriage ceremony of traditional Thai wedding, albeit the fact that it is not legally recognised as a marriage. The legal marriage in Thailand is effected in person at any Thai amphur (Civil Registry Office) countrywide, a governmental office that handles all registration matters regardless, be it a foreigner marrying Thai, a Thai or foreign couple. Marriage certificates issued in Thailand are recognized as such by the authorities of Britain, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Russia, Australia, the USA, Canada and likely many other countries. In fact, we know of none it will not be legal.

Marriage Registration Made Easy

Click on  Thai Marriage Cerificate  to see how it looks like.

The routine of legal marriage registration isn't too complicated. Produce all required documents, present them to the officer at amphur ... and shortly after, you'll have your marriage certificates. Although, one shouldn't enter into that bureaucratic procedure lightly. For the sake of tranquility, you will be better off contacting the experts at thai_fiancee_visa@th4u.com, who specialize in the preparations of all relevant provisions, including translation and certification of all required documents. Take the hassle out of registering your marriage in Thailand. A complete marriage registration service of mixed couples (foreigner marrying Thai) is only THB 15,000 (~US$ 500.00). A prenuptial (premarital) agreement binding under the Thai Law* and tailored to your specific needs can be arranged upon request.

* - Counties with an Anglo-American based legal system viewed marriage as a matter of contract between two consenting adults. The terms of marriage contract are dictated by laws of the country (state) where the married couple lives, unless they have a prenuptial agreement ('prenup' for short) containing different terms. Since so, a prenup based on Thai law shall not only preclude the unforeseen impacts or unwanted consequences, but it may also entail rather noticeable privileges.

Wedding Ceremony

Ritual of bonding the bride and groom by sacred strings -- a focal point
of traditional wedding ceremony performed in the Northeast of Thailand

According to Thai customs, a couple traditionally become engaged during a ceremony known as thong mun. This is literally the giving of gold by the prospective groom to his fiancée. Parents, friends and relatives will attend this ceremony. In place of a diamond ring as common in the West, Thais opt for the gold, normally in the form of jewellery. Actually, it is almost 96% pure gold made in Thailand. When traded locally, its weight is measured in baht. One baht of gold is equals to 1/2 a troy ounce or 15.2 grams. In practice, an odd number is never given (as it were for a couple), so the minimum should be two baht of gold.

Dowry – SINSOD

Thai marriage at large, and definitely, the ceremony of traditional Thai wedding interlinked with an ancient tradition called sinsod (sinsot). A custom of paying a dowry (dowery) presumably to compensate a family of bride “for mother's milk”.


A concept of sinsod was initially brought in to ensure that one's daughter does not marry below her potential standing in life. To stipulate that her social, financial and professional status and reputation is preserved and secured.


Before the in-law family accepts you, they should know who you are, and whether or not you are a suitable suitor. There is no set amount, the sum of sinsod is typically determined on the one hand by suitor's perceived wealth, and on the other hand by the “value” of the future wife. Her beauty, personality, background, education and other qualifications, if she is a virgin, or has got a child, and so forth.


It is rather customary to “negotiate” the amount and terms of sinsod. But bear in mind that by and large Thais reckon all farang (Thai name for caucasians) as rich and wealthy. Even though the odds are that you're already aware of the beauty and attentive to the mindset of young Thai girls, it will not hurt to have a look at the title Thai Sexy Outfits.


As an aside yet practical for some fellas comment, and without any attempt to overlook the value of Thai brides, a dowry is normally waived in case of re-marriages.


Nowadays, many parents-in-law hand the dowry back to the married couple as a wedding gift, some families do not require a dowry, and some need to keep the money. Traditionally, sinsod is reciprocated by the parents-in-law. More often than not, a part of the money is used to pay for the wedding ceremonies, parties and other related expenses. Dowries or sinsod payments range from THB 50,000 to 250,000 and up, although these upper figures are rarely asked for, except the marriages amongst celebrities being motivated by extraordinary figures to create sensation

Thai Style Wedding

Bonding ceremony of marries during Thai traditional wedding in central Thailand
Thai bride and farang groom are greeted by guests with best wishes on their marriage

In the past and until today, for the most part wealthy Thai women often forgo the official marriage registration for a variety of reasons, in particular because they loose scores of legitimate civil rights. Instead, they prefer to perform a ceremony of traditional Thai wedding. This marriage is taken quite seriously by all concerned, and regarded as a lifelong commitment made by the couple. In the eyes of Buddhist religion, the marriage is recognized and sacred, albeit the fact that in contrast to other religions, a religiously sanctioned marriage is void in Buddhism.


Thai Traditional wedding ceremonies and rituals need not be conducted in the presence of monk and are usually performed at someone’s home. Simply put, there is no such thing as “Buddhist Wedding Ceremony”, and if monks are present at the wedding, they are not directly involved. Whenever monks are invited, which is happened quite often, there always should be an odd number: 3, 5, 7 and the maximum could be 9 monks.

According to Buddhist faith, to assure a lifetime of love marriage or what is called “a marriage made in heaven”, there is an old Thai ritual of 'Merit Gift' -- a donation to the local wat (Buddhist temple) to perform a wedding blessing ceremony. Even it is not directly related to marriage, a merit-making ceremony would mean alot to the bride-to-be and in turn to her family, to have a gift made in their name by you. It shows that you care about her religious beliefs, value the Thai ways and respect Thai culture.

Thai Traditional Wedding Ceremony

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