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The Thailand You Don’t Know: Confessions of a Year-Long Resident
From “sabai sabai” philosophy to ice-cold beers — 5 things about Thailand you won’t find in guidebooks.
As a Taiwanese, I’m very used to people mixing up Thailand and Taiwan when I travel abroad. Honestly, sometimes I just don’t bother to explain anymore — wherever you think I’m from, that’s fine! It’s become a running joke in my life.
It was my year living in Thailand that finally put an end to this confusion — at least for the locals there. This experience not only taught me about Thai culture but also gave me unique insights into a country often misunderstood by outsiders. Let me share with you five fascinating aspects of Thai life that I discovered during my immersion.
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The “Sabai Sabai” Philosophy: Thailand’s Secret to Happiness
Imagine a lifestyle where stress is optional and relaxation is mandatory. This is “Sabai Sabai” — a Thai concept that goes beyond “take it easy.” It’s a cultural mindset that permeates everything from business meetings to daily errands. In my opinion, that’s also the main reason that you hardly ever hear honking on the streets — most people won’t rush ahead of you; they don’t mind waiting for a minute or two to…
