Language

Many signs are in English, so don’t worry about the Thai alphabet. Because tourism is so important in Thailand, many Thais have some understanding of English, but they really appreciate if you try using their language.

We encourage knowing the numbers, which is very easy and is based on 1 to 10. You will save money in markets if you can bargain for prices in Thai … guaranteed. Lots of online guides can teach you the Thai numbers in a few minutes.

To make what you say polite in Thai, men add “krup” and women “ka” at the end.

Numbers

Some Useful Phrases

Hello – Sawat dee krup (ka).
Thank you – Khop khun krup (ka).
You’re welcome – Yin di krup (ka) or Mai pen rai.
Don’t worry – Mai pen rai.
Never mind – Mai pen rai.
Whatever – Mai pen rai.
How much – Tow arai?
I don’t want – Mai ow.
I don’t understand – Mai khao chai.
Wait a minute – Raw di oh.
What’s your name? -Khun cheu arai krup (ka)
What (did you say)? huh? – Arai nah.
Where is the bathroom? – Hong nahm yoo ti nai?
Excuse me – Kawtot krup (ka)
Give me the check please (at restaurant) – Check bin krup (ka)
That was delicious! – Arroy mahk!
Very spicy – pet mahk
Not spicy – mai pet
A little spicy – pet nit noi