Since 250 BC, the emergence of Buddhism from India has had a profound influence in many aspects of Thai life, from its art and architecture to its literature and language.

Thai culture, as an expression of Buddhist philosophy, holds that happiness and the true meaning of human existence are only revealed when we commit to embracing love, tenderness and compassion for all things. This quality can be found in every facet of Thai culture.

In our search for universal perfection, through love and beauty, we have the confidence to proudly declare “We are Thai” !

The ancient and unique art of Thai Puppetry, which was reintroduced in modern times by Mr. Sakorn Yungkeawsod in 1985 as the “Joe Louis Puppet Show”, is guaranteed to leave an indelible impression.

Thai Puppetry is a noble and gentle art which combines many different traditional Thai art forms. Each puppet is manipulated by three puppeteers - a unique method which enables subtle, life-like movements.

For many years audiences have been delighted by the sensitive and moving performances of the characters, and have been charmed by the opportunity to interact with them. The performance will leave you entranced. It is no surprise that the Show received World acclaim at the 2006 Prague World Festival of Puppet Art.

One of the most easily recognised expressions of the Thai Spirit and Thai art is found in Thai Silk.

Traditionally, Thai Silk is produced in the communities of the Northern and Northeastern provinces of Thailand, where over countless generations, silk production has become a specialist art.

The production of silk is an act of loving care which begins with the nurturing of the delicate silk worms. Once the cocoons are established, the silken strands are skillfully extracted dyed and then woven into the intricate patterns so admired the world over. This process requires patience, skill and dedication.

The final product is a fabric of unusual strength and beauty. Be it a simple cushion cover, or a fabulous wedding gown, the elegance of the Thai culture will always be seen in its silk.

Thai cuisine, which we sometimes refer to as “Thai culinary art”, is much more than simply the preparation of meals to sustain human life. Thai cuisine involves a particular cooking style featuring three fundamental characteristics: sweet, sour, and hot. The most exceptional Thai dishes are referred to as Thai Royal dishes.

For a Thai culinary delight, you should try “Khao Chae”, which is prepared using jasmine rice in jasmine perfumed cool water and is served with seven side dishes - shredded pork, fried kapi (Thai shrimp paste), sweet preserved vegetable, sweet fish, sliced meat and fried shallot, or Tom Yum Kung (lemongrass and kaffir lime boiled with fresh shrimps, mushroom, chili, coconut milk and chili paste) - a most popular Thai soup.

Whilst Thai cuisine is unique, some Thai dishes reveal a Chinese or Indian influence.

Thai Traditional Massage [the science of healing by touch], began with the desire to maintain and restore physical, mental and spiritual balance.

Thai Traditional massage originated in the reign of King Rama 1^st, in the Chakri Dynasty. In 1962, the first Thai Traditional medical and massage school was established at Wat Po (the Temple of the Reclining Buddha).

There are two styles of the Thai traditional massage: Chaloey Sak massage, and professional Thai massage. Thai traditional massage incorporates Oil Massage and Aromatherapy to restore health through the senses.

Although there are many schools of massage in Thailand, the Wat Po Thai Traditional Massage School remains the centre of excellence for Traditional Thai Massage.