Below are some fun facts about Thailand. These facts will definitely make your visit or stay in Thailand more interesting.

For instance, if you visit Bangkok, the country’s capital, you will have been to the place with the longest name in the world.

1. The Siamese Cat is Native to Thailand

The Siamese cat’s original home is Thailand. The locals call it wichen maat, which translates into moon diamond.

Although only six breeds of the Siamese cat are left today, historical records going back to the 14th century clearly indicate that there had been over 20 types of Siamese cats back then.

The Siamese cat is also considered a symbol of good luck, and is usually given to the bride to bring about good luck in the marriage.

2. Many Popular Movies have Been Filmed in Thailand

Thailand has had the rare privilege of being the choice location in many popular movies.

These movies include Star Wars Episode III (Revenge of the Sith) in 2005, Rambo: First Blood Part II in 1985, The Deer Hunter in 1978, Tomorrow Never Dies in 1997, Bridget Jones: Edge of Reason in 2004, Killing Fields in 1984, The Big Boss in 1941 among other famous movies.

3. Thailand is Home to a Fish that Can Live on Land

Mudskipper, a creature found in Thailand, is a fish that can survive comfortably out of the water.

When on land, the mudskipper uses the skin and the mouth lining to absorb oxygen. Furthermore, it “walks” using its fins. This strange fish can also climb on trees.

In fact, the mudskipper spends most of its time on land.

4. The Country has changed its Name Several Times

Over the years, Thailand has been referred to by several other names.

For instance, until 1939, Thailand was called Siam (meaning brown or dark), at which time it was renamed Thailand, a word meaning “Land of the Free”, which is a fitting description for the only country in South East Asia that has never been colonized by a European nation.

A few years later in 1945, the country’s name was reverted back to Siam, although this would also not last, in 1949, the name was changed to Thailand, the name that has remained until today.

Prior to these modern name changes, the country was referred to by the names of its most popular cities, for instance, Ayutthaya, Sukhothai, and Thonburi.

5. Thailand hosts an Annual Monkey Buffet

In Lopburi province in Thailand, an unusual festival called the Monkey Buffet is held each year in front of Pra Prang Sam Yot temple.

During this festival, hundreds of monkeys are “invited” to enjoy an exorbitant buffet consisting of fresh fruits, ice cream, sausages, among other delicacies.

According to the locals, this festival is a show of appreciation to the monkeys due to their ability to attract thousands of tourists to the region each year.

Conclusion

Clearly, Thailand has a lot of excitements to offer its tourists. The country’s culture, nature, and significance in creation of world-famous movies clearly makes it makes it a fun place to visit.

The fun facts about the country’s history, culture, and nature clearly demonstrate this fact.