Welcome to The Bangkok Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• What is the meaning of the Thai slang “Buffalo” “Khwaai”?

• ‘No decision yet’ on cutting Thai visa-free period

• Mouthwatering smash burgers at The Shack Bangkok

• Siriraj Medical Museum: unforgettable glimpse into Thailand’s medical history

• And more…

Fun Fact

What is the meaning of the Thai slang “Buffalo”?

In Thai slang, "buffalo" (ควาย or "khwaai") is considered a highly offensive insult when directed at a person. The term carries the connotation that someone is unintelligent, stupid, slow, or foolish.

The insult has cultural roots in Thailand's agricultural history, where water buffaloes were commonly used as working animals in rice farming. Because these animals would patiently follow commands and perform repetitive labor without question, they became associated with blind obedience and a perceived lack of intelligence.

When someone calls another person a "buffalo" in Thai, they're essentially suggesting that the person is stupid or lacks the capacity to think independently - simply following orders without understanding or questioning them.

This is considered one of the more serious insults in Thai language and should be avoided in conversation, as it can cause significant offense, especially in professional or formal settings.

Trivia

✅The Answer to your Trivia last week = B) BTS Skytrain

Here’s your trivia question of the week! Think you know the answer? Find out if you’re right in next week’s newsletter. No cheating!

What was Thailand called before 1939?

A) Sukhothai

B) Ayutthaya

C) Siam

D) Rattanakosin

News 📰

Scorching heat in Thailand hits 40°C; 9 provinces warned of rain (Link)

‘No decision yet’ on cutting Thai visa-free period (Link)

Thailand's digital race: Is your business ready to win? (Link)

Thailand ranks 107th in 2024 global education survey (Link)

Lifestyle 🕶️

💪 Health & Wellness

Simple. Natural Kitchen - serves fresh, healthy food and brunch that's both nourishing and delicious. While prices start around $20 per person, the high-quality organic ingredients and thoughtful preparation make it worthwhile. The staff accommodates dietary requirements with a smile, and the whole food ingredients with simple organic sauces create natural flavors that truly satisfy. Perfect for those seeking food that's good for both body and soul! (Link)

Decathlon Bang Na - offers a sports lover's paradise with everything from affordable technical gear to premium quality equipment. The well-organized store makes finding what you need a breeze, with clearly marked aisles and helpful staff always ready to assist. Located next to Lotus market with ample parking, it's convenient for anyone driving. Whether you're a casual athlete or serious sports enthusiast, this store has you covered with reasonable prices and excellent service. (Link)

The Royal Bangkok Sports Club - stands as an exclusive oasis in the heart of Bangkok. Members and their guests enjoy (If you are not a member, you'll need a member to bring you in ) access to impressive facilities including a par-66 18-hole golf course (strictly walking with caddies), fitness gym, badminton court, grass tennis courts, and swimming pool. The recently renovated changing area features hot and cold tubs, sauna, plus a new restaurant and bar. Despite its exclusivity, members are surprisingly friendly and welcoming. Sunday horse races add to the club's charm. (Link)

🍽️ Restaurants

Jirakaan Restaurant (จิรกาล) - delivers a culinary bonanza of Thai dishes with creative twists. Each plate demonstrates meticulous attention to detail, from taste to texture, earning it A+ ratings across the board. Their menu accommodates both vegetarians and meat-lovers, with standouts including the beef shank massaman curry and Thai appetizer platter. The professional service, nice air-conditioned environment, and honest pricing make this possibly the best Thai food experience in Bangkok. Don't miss the fresh coconut juice! (Link)

Le Normandie - offers a legendary dining experience wrapped in timeless French sophistication. The breathtaking atmosphere pairs perfectly with flawlessly executed service that elevates every moment. Famous for their steak, scallop hotate, caviar, and white truffle dishes, this fine-dining establishment delivers wonderful food alongside an excellent wine list. Be prepared for high prices, but the experience justifies the investment for special occasions. (Link)

The Shack Bangkok - serves up mouthwatering smash burgers with phenomenal taste and ultra-fresh ingredients. Their signature double patty burger paired with fries and their house burger sauce creates a savory delight that's hard to beat. At 450 baht for a burger, fries, and soft drink, it's not the cheapest option but delivers on quality. The vanilla milkshake also earns rave reviews, and the serving team provides excellent, friendly service. (Link)

☕ Cafes

Treehouse Cafe & Bar - combines amazing beverages with unexpectedly delicious Thai cuisine. The beautifully decorated space creates an enjoyable atmosphere where visitors can savor fluffy pancakes reminiscent of Tokyo paired with refreshing local fruits. The extremely polite and attentive staff enhance the experience of this contemporary Thai cuisine spot that appeals to both locals and tourists. What might start as a simple coffee stop could turn into one of your most memorable meals! (Link)

Uni Donuts Asok - crafts donuts that are soft, chewy, and deliciously sweet without being overwhelming. Made with Japanese pumpkin for a nutritional boost, these treats come in both regular and small sizes—perfect for after-meal desserts. Popular flavors include strawberry, chocolate, and green tea, each filled with the perfect amount of cream. Kids especially love these fresh delights, making this spot a must-visit for anyone seeking a sweet treat that satisfies without being excessive. (Link)

🍹 Bar & Rooftop Bars

DOJO BKK - brings K-pop energy to downtown Bangkok with great promotions before 10pm. The DJs spin a thoughtful mix of both new hits and older K-pop songs, featuring a variety of groups beyond just the well-known ones. The chill atmosphere makes it an ideal spot to hang out with friends and enjoy the music in a fun, relaxed setting. (Link)

CHAR Bangkok - combines rooftop dining with breathtaking views of the city. Not overly crowded, this sophisticated spot offers polite staff, a solid drink menu, and happy hour specials. For the full experience, arrive 45-60 minutes before sunset to enjoy the view at its most magical. The food earns high marks, with recommended dishes including duck and chorizo pasta. Special occasions receive extra attention—birthday celebrations might even be topped off with a surprise cake! (Link)

👫 Activities

Siriraj Medical Museum - presents a fascinating collection of medical curiosities housed in Thailand's oldest hospital. Comprised of six different museums (pathology, forensics, history of Thai medicine, parasitology, anatomical, and prehistoric), it displays everything from preserved organs and pathological specimens to the mummified corpse of a notorious serial killer. Other exhibits include parasitic worms, a traditional Thai medicine shop, preserved tattooed skin, poisonous creatures, and rows of skulls. While certainly not for the faint-hearted, this educational treasure trove offers an unforgettable glimpse into medical history. (Link)

💎 Hidden Gems

Hypnotized Bar - delivers creative cocktails with a storyline in the Taladnoi area. Each drink features unique techniques and distinctive flavors that might tempt you to try them all—and they don't hold back on the alcohol! The knowledgeable bartenders, friendly staff, and fantastic atmosphere make this cozy spot perfect for unwinding. DJ nights run Wednesday to Thursday, while jazz nights take over Friday to Saturday. A true hidden gem that's worth seeking out for anyone who appreciates innovative, cleverly crafted drinks in a comfortable setting. (Link)

Social 👥

🥳 Social Events & Networking

March 26th I 17:55 - 19:25 I WEDNESDAY Evening Walk @ Benjakitti Park (Link)

March 26th I 18:00 - 20:00 I Ladies' Cocktails Networking @Afterglo (Link)

March 27th I 18:30 - 21:30 I Project Night: Bangkok's Hands-on Monthly for Coders, Makers, and Learners (Link)

March 27th I 19:00 - 22:00 I The Poet Parlor | Showcase & Open Mic (Link)

March 29th I 7:30 - 19:30 I Mango Festival & Farm in Chachoengsao นั่งรถอีแต๋นเก็บมะม่วงที่ฉะเชิงเทรา (Link)

March 29th I 10:30 - 12:00 I Doodle Club Social: Draw & Make Friends! (Link)

March 29th I 20:00 - 23:00 I 🥂 Ladies FREE Entry 🥂 : 🌆 Rooftop Bar Drinks @ Vue Rooftop Bar (Link)

🌏 Exhibitions & Expos

March 26th I 9:00 - 19:00 I SC ASSET Presents MarTech Expo 2025 @BITEC - Bhiraj Hall 1-3 (Link)

March 26th to March 30th I 10:00 - 21:00 I Thailand Tourism Festival 2025 @QSNCC - Exhibition Hall 1-4, Level G (Link)

March 27th to March 30th I March 27-28: 10:00 - 19:00, March 29-30: 10:00 - 20:00 I The 9th Garment Screen & Embroidery Expo 2025 @ Muang Thong Thani - Hall 9-10 (Link)

March 27th to March 30th I March 27-28: 10:00 - 19:00, March 29-30: 10:00 - 20:00 I The 12th PrintTech & Signage Expo 2025 @ Muang Thong Thani - Hall 9-10 (Link)

March 27th to March 30th I March 27- Show Time: 18:30, March 28-Show Time: 14:30, 18:30, March 29-30-Show Time: 10:30, 14:30, 18:30 I Disney On Ice presents "Find Your Hero" @ Muang Thong Thani - Arena (Link)

March 27th to April 7th I 10:00 - 21:00 I 53rd National Book Fair & 23rd Bangkok International Book Fair 2025 @QSNCC - Exhibition Hall 5-8, Level LG (Link)

March 28th to March 30th I 10:00 - 20:00 I Thailand Cat Lovers Fair 2025 @ Muang Thong Thani - Hall 8 (Link)

Today’s Expat Story 🗺️

Zoe’s Story

Zoe, a certified personal trainer, opened a boutique fitness studio near Lumpini Park. She organizes sunrise boot camps and sunset Zumba classes by the riverside. After workouts, she relaxes at a nearby floating restaurant, sipping fresh fruit smoothies. Her biggest challenge was learning basic Thai to connect better with clients. “Fitness here is not just about exercise; it’s about community,” she says. “Keep the vibe positive and the results will follow.”

Thailand: Culture & History 🇹🇭

Water Buffalo A Cultural Symbol of Thailand

The water buffalo holds a profound cultural and historical significance in Thailand, serving as much more than just a farm animal. Its legacy spans over a millennium and remains deeply intertwined with Thailand's agricultural heritage.

Historically, water buffalo arrived in Thailand with migrations from southern China, bringing with them agricultural practices that would shape the nation. These gentle giants were perfectly adapted to work in wetland ecosystems, making them ideal for transforming marshy areas into productive rice paddies. Their ability to plow fields and till soil in flooded conditions contributed significantly to Thailand's agricultural productivity and food security.

During the Dvaravati period (6th to 11th centuries), the water buffalo's role expanded further through the influence of Mon and Khmer civilizations. Archaeological artifacts from this era depict these animals engaged in various farming tasks, highlighting their essential contribution to rice cultivation techniques.

Beyond their practical value, water buffalo became revered symbols in Thai culture, representing strength, diligence, and humility. They feature prominently in Thai folklore and traditional ceremonies, including annual plowing festivals where they were adorned with ceremonial decorations to ensure bountiful harvests.

Despite modernization, water buffalo continue to have relevance in rural Thailand, though their numbers have declined dramatically. Statistics from the Department of Livestock Development show their population nearly halved from about 1.7 million in 2005 to approximately 947,000 by 2015, largely due to the introduction of tractors, which offer greater speed and efficiency in farming.

Today, conservation efforts aim to preserve the genetic diversity of these animals while maintaining their place in Thailand's cultural heritage. They represent the enduring connection between Thai people and their agricultural traditions, symbolizing the nation's resilience and adaptability through centuries of change.

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❤️ Simeon & Nat

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