Thai Language

Thailand's population is dominated by various Thai-speaking peoples.  Among these, the most numerous are the Central Thai, the Northeastern Thai or Isan or Lao, the Northern Thai, and the Southern Thai. The Central Thai have long dominated the nation politically, economically, and culturally, even though they make up only about one-third of Thailand's population and are slightly outnumbered by the Northeastern Thai. Due to education system and the forging of a national identity, many people are now able to speak Central Thai as well as their own local dialects.

The largest group of non-Thai people are the Chinese who have historically played a disproportionately significant role in the economy. Most have integrated completely into mainstream Thai society, and do not live in Bangkok's Chinatown on Yaowarat Road. Other ethnic groups include Malays in the south, Mon, Khmer and various hill tribes.  After the end of the Vietnam War, many Vietnamese refugees settled in Thailand, mainly in the northeastern regions.

The Thai language is Thailand's national language, written in its own alphabet, but many ethnic and regional dialects exist as well as areas where people speak predominantly Isan or Mon-Khmer languages. Although English is widely taught in schools, its use is not widespread throughout the country.

Learning Thai Language

It is a good idea to learn a little Thai, before you visit Thailand. Thai people admire tourists who can speak some Thai. The Thai language is very difficult to learn to speak fluently. Unless you have lots of time to devote to the study of the Thai language, it is probably best to try to learn only a few simple phrases before your trip to Thailand. Your travel experience will be much more enjoyable if you are able to speak a few words of Thai with the local people.

There are several ways to learn the Thai language. The best way is to hire your own personal Thai language instructor. With your own personal tutor, the lessons can be designed to fit your preferences and goals. Since we live in Thailand, we have spent time studying the thai language with private tutors. However, if a tutor is not available in your area, then you will need another way to learn the Thai language.

The second best way to study the Thai language is with the aid of language learning software. There are many different Thai language learning programs and they produce varying results. Experts agree that words and small phrases are the building blocks of language. You need a language learning program which lets users see and hear the Thai language with native speaker pronunciation, and then leads you through a proven learning process.

Recommended Language Learning Program

There are many good language programs available on-line. Rosetta Stone is the most effective way to learn the Thai language. With Rosetta Stone you and your family will learn to read, write, speak and understand Thai in less time than is possible using the free language learning sites on the internet.

If you are satisfied to learn a few basic phrases of Thai, then use a langauge program online. But if you want a more comprehensive understanding of the Thai language, then chose Rosetta Stone.

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