Once you leave the environs of Bangkok you’ll find that the level of English proficiency falls off rapidly to the point where it is sometimes hard to communicate. Getting a point across is sometimes difficult. English language ability is getting better and you’ll find most hotel staff and other service people have a reasonable command of English. This is, however, Thailand and the Thai have no obligation to learn the language of foreigners. It is up to the foreigner to learn the language of the land he/she is in. Do not, however, assume that your English conversation is not being listened to and understood by those around you. Reserve any negative comments for private times. When you first encounter the Thai language it is quite formidable. First, there is the alphabet: it is unique to the Thai language – no ABC’s here. Next, are the tones: Thai have five. A word can be pronounced 5 different ways and that “same word” will have 5 different meanings, depending on the tone given to the word. For example, a word pronounced ‘‘cow’’ (or more properly ‘‘kow’’) in one tone is rice; in another it means the color white, it also means mountain and lastly it can mean - to enter or go in. Tones are by far the most confusing part of learning to speak Thai. Changing the one, changes the word. You must tune your ear to listen to the tones of the word. but most of the time the context will also be helpful. Sentence structure is similar to English: noun, verb, adjective, object.

Tip: Take the time to learn more then just a few phrases. Thai love to help ExPats learn their language. Take a language course. Many Thai know at least basic English, so communication, while at times difficult,  is not impossible.