ASSIGNMENT 2: ARTICLE ANALYSIS

[Victoria Swanwick]

Hi Dermot,
I found this article a very interesting insight into a side of Thai life that I feel is not often documented, away from the tourist hot spots. This article really highlights the need of a large group of people living in Thailand to access basic living amenities but is also very hopeful, detailing the work that Jungle Aid is doing. Jungle Aid sounds like a brilliant organisation, where they are not only providing necessary aid but also helping people to educate themselves on how to improve their well being, promoting independence.
Your choice of article also calls attention to the many opportunities that there are to create value when visiting or living in a different country, aside from teaching.

[Aromi Knox]

The History and Evolution of Thai Street Food in Bangkok

Thailand is well known for its street markets. These traditional style street markets are a integral part of Thailand’s history and have been around since, “The Ayutthaya period (1351–1767), a time when Thailand, then known as Siam, was a thriving hub of trade and culture.” The purpose was centered around trading items to barter.

The foods cooked and sold at these markets have been closely influenced by the Chinese culture. The slight differences between noodles and rice as we know is pad Thai and fried rice have become its own signature Thailand dishes. However, many other food items sold have been created through family heritage and for the purpose of bringing people together to develop community. Floating markets are neat because they can reach a varying range of people who live along the waterside.

Street markets have developed and grown over the years. The foods and methods of cooking have evolved, but will continue to carry its deep roots and authenticity throughout the country.

[Aromi Knox]

Hi Jared,
I enjoyed reading your thoughts over the article. As a soon to be visitor of the country, I feel like I’ve had to take it very slow and have a “come as it does” approach.
Coming from the US, so many times we will make and set all these plans, but what l have learned over more recent years, is the “more go of the flow,” or as the article stated, “slow travel”mindset while having a tentative idea, is usually more enjoyable. It is also not near of a let down when you have your heart set on something to explore and it falls through.

Thanks for sharing this article it covered a range of things, but I mostly enjoyed the way subject in the way you should travel.

Take care and stay healthy!
Aromi Knox

[Katelyn O’Gara]

https://www.bangkokpost.com/opinion/opinion/2981331/thai-irish-toasts-to-50-years-of-ties
This article is from St Patrick’s Day and celebrates Ireland and Thailand having fifty years of diplomatic relations. Reading this opinion article gave me more of a look of how Irish people are perceived in Thailand and as an Irish person this is something to be aware of. It also enlightened me to the ties between Thai and Irish people.
Largely, Irish people blend into the tourist sphere in Thai perceptions. There are about 100000 Irish people leisurely travelling Thailand every year. The article even features an image of the Temple of Dawn or Wat Arun lit up with green for the St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. This shows the positive and deep link between Thai and Irish people and the overall positive reception we have there. We are also seen for having similar importance set on positivity and heritage, particularly through the use of food, drink, stories and smiles. From this course I have been made aware of Thai people’s pride of their culture and nationalism. Irish people share this!

Ireland and Thailand are on the same side in terms of global issues, like wars in Europe and the Middle-East. Economically, we support one another through the high volume of tourism, the amount of Thai students immigrating to Irish third-level education and Thailand further investing in Ireland through various companies like Central Group and Minor Group. Ties are so strong that two-way trade now exceeds TFB100 billion every year. This sort of cooperation makes me believe that Irish and Thai relations are quite strong. As I approach my departure date, this is important for me to note.

[Katelyn O’Gara]

Hey Aromi,
I really like your article choice! I feel like it’s a great extension to our module on Thai culture and the topic of food and cuisine. I like how you linked this back to its importance on family and community. While my own culture shares these values, it seems to be even more emphasised in Thai culture! The fact that this article exists and so many more that I myself came across during my research proves this. Just wanted to say I really like your approach from a further reply of just to go with the flow. I’m pretty sure I seen this in a different article I didn’t end up using, and I could be wrong (!) – but there is a Thai saying for this – sabai sabai. I think it’s in reference to an old song, but is used to mean relax or chill. You’ve got the right attitude, regardless!
Katelyn

[Frances Macleod]

https://www.independent.co.uk/climate-change/sustainable-living/chiang-mai-vegan-restaurants-travel-thailand-b1987300.html

The article discusses the vibrancy of the vegan scene in Chiang Mai, which has a large number of exclusively plant-based restaurants relative to its population, and investigates the reasons behind it. The author touches upon 3 main reasons for the plentiful vegan options in Chiang Mai: an abundance of digital nomads, a focus on health and wellness, and the city’s status as a religious epicentre.

Speaking to the owner of one vegan establishment, the author discovers that the influx of digital nomads since 2015 may be partially responsible for the vegan-friendliness of Chiang Mai. Digital nomads, largely coming from the West – where veganism has really taken off in recent years – have the benefit of earning Western salaries while living in Thailand, with its comparatively low cost of living. This means they can afford to pay a little more for top quality, healthy vegan food. The article goes on to note that there are budget friendly vegan options in the city too, with the author speaking to another restaurant owner who operates out of her kitchen, serving guests in her garden and charging as little as 40 baht (or 90p) for meals. Her motivation is providing affordable vegan food for those who might want it but be unable to cook it themselves.

Speaking to the owner of Rad Rabbit, a vegan pizzeria in Chiang Mai, the author hears about another reason that Chiang Mai is such a vegan haven – its also a spiritual and wellness hub, and the two often go hand in hand. Rad Rabbit also has a low-waste ethos that will align with the values of those concerned with sustainability.

Finally, the author talks to the owner of the oldest vegetarian restaurant in the city – Aum. The restaurant has been in the family for 3 generations and was started by her aunt’s uncle-in-law, who had wanted to be a Buddhist monk but opened the restaurant instead. This alludes to relationship between Buddhism and vegetarianism, although monks in Thailand are not required to abstain from meat.

[Frances Macleod]

https://www.independent.co.uk/climate-change/sustainable-living/chiang-mai-vegan-restaurants-travel-thailand-b1987300.html
The article discusses the vibrancy of the vegan scene in Chiang Mai, which has a large number of exclusively plant-based restaurants relative to its population, and investigates the reasons behind it. The author touches upon 3 main reasons for the plentiful vegan options in Chiang Mai: an abundance of digital nomads, a focus on health and wellness, and the city’s status as a religious epicentre.

Speaking to the owner of one vegan establishment, the author discovers that the influx of digital nomads since 2015 may be partially responsible for the vegan-friendliness of Chiang Mai. Digital nomads, largely coming from the West – where veganism has really taken off in recent years – have the benefit of earning Western salaries while living in Thailand, with its comparatively low cost of living. This means they can afford to pay a little more for top quality, healthy vegan food. The article goes on to note that there are budget friendly vegan options in the city too, with the author speaking to another restaurant owner who operates out of her kitchen, serving guests in her garden and charging as little as 40 baht (or 90p) for meals. Her motivation is providing affordable vegan food for those who might want it but be unable to cook it themselves.

Speaking to the owner of Rad Rabbit, a vegan pizzeria in Chiang Mai, the author hears about another reason that Chiang Mai is such a vegan haven – its also a spiritual and wellness hub, and the two often go hand in hand. Rad Rabbit also has a low-waste ethos that will align with the values of those concerned with sustainability.

Finally, the author talks to the owner of the oldest vegetarian restaurant in the city – Aum. The restaurant has been in the family for 3 generations and was started by her aunt’s uncle-in-law, who had wanted to be a Buddhist monk but opened the restaurant instead. This alludes to relationship between Buddhism, which is the primary religion in Thailand, and vegetarianism, although monks in Thailand are not required to abstain from meat.

As a vegan myself, it’s interesting to hear about what sustains a thriving vegan scene in one of Thailand’s most popular cities. I look forward to finding out how much of this applies in other areas of Thailand. My prediction is that large cities and tourist-heavy areas will be the most vegan-friendly due to the higher demand and the popularity of veganism in the West. I imagine that vegan restaurants will be much harder to come by in smaller towns and villages that are not frequented by tourists. However, in my experience, even non-vegan restaurants are usually willing and able to cater for vegan diets by removing ingredients such as fish sauce and eggs, and using tofu as the protein source.

[Frances Macleod]

Hi Katelyn,
It’s really interesting to hear about the link between Ireland and Thailand, and the cultural similarities which are not something I would have thought about initially! However, I definitely look at both nationalities as being extremely warm, so this makes a lot of sense. When I went to Thailand earlier this year and found myself feeling a little lonely in my initial couple of days, I immediately knew where to head – the nearest Irish bar! Within seconds, two lovely Irish guys had struck up a conversation with me and I felt right at home. The next day I went on a tour and was met with a similar welcoming attitude by my Thai guide, who was full of smiles and non-stop chat.
The ways in which the two countries align politically are also really interesting to note. It’s lovely that there is such a connection between the two countries and I’m sure that this will be a comfort to you in heading out there.
Frankie

[Mattie Finch]

Article: https://amp.cnn.com/cnn/2025/04/08/asia/thailand-lese-majeste-paul-chambers-intl-hnk
“US ‘alarmed’ as American faces years in jail are charges of insulting Thai monarchy”

The following article talks about the seriousness of Thailand’s strict lese majeste law. A lecturer at Naresuan University by the name of Paul Chambers was recently arrested on charges of breaking this law. It is said that he had posted some things on a Singaporean website that relate to the military reshuffles and was taken to prison on Tuesday. Although, this did not come as a surprise because Chambers has been the target of ultra-royalist groups for many years. Meaning they have been attacking him for years from online disinformation and hate campaigns to trying to get his visa revoked, and getting him removed from the university. Many activist groups say this is an in friction on their freedom of expression, free speech, and even academic freedom. It is said that Thailand has taken this law more seriously in the past few years, with punishments leading up to a maximum of 15 years in prison. Just last year, the Thai court extended a man’s prison sentence to 50 years for insulting the monarchy. The US Department of State has been working with Thai officials to resolve and monitor Chambers’ case.

As an individual traveling/working in Thailand, it is important to keep in mind the strict lese majeste law. The military-backed government has ruled the country on and off for decades, and some say they use these laws to silence criticism or opposition. A rule of thumb we followed when I was living Thailand was to never talk about or be involved in conversations regarding the monarchy. Topics like these can get sensitive quickly and you can never tell whose feathers you may ruffle, it is important to just avoid it all together. In situations like this, it is best to do all we can with the boundaries we are given because stepping outside of those could be dangerous and life-changing for us.

[Mattie Finch]

Hey Frances,

I love that this article not only talks about not only talks about diet options in Thailand, but shows that how the country wishes to include something for everyone. It is also very interesting the influence countries have on one another. Meaning, Thai food is very popular (especially in America), so much so even your local pizza shop has a Thai style pizza and the number of vegan/vegetarian restaurants, while some already there, really exploded in Thailand. It really shows just how much Thailand has grown as a country and modernized; being able to have these sorts of options. I also like that it put an emphasis on health and just a better way of life, feeling good starts with what you eat. It’s important to know what your options are and be able to find a comforting norm, especially when you first move away from home (and to a new country at that).

[Brittany]

https://www.unwomen.org/en/news-stories/feature-story/2025/06/voices-of-pride-how-lgbtiq-activists-in-thailand-are-creating-safer-stronger-communities

In honor of June being Pride Month, I came across this article that shared the story of 4 individuals in Thailand who are making huge strides for the LBGTQ+ community in their own ways. My initial and somewhat naïve thought of Thailand before this article is that the country overall was very welcoming to those of different genders and sexuality considering from the media I have seen shows a very outward representation of transgender people in particular. Even while searching for an article before this one, I came across a news headline that said something along the lines of a Chinese gay couple moving to Thailand specifically to get married since it’s not welcomed (or legal) in their home country. Further research on this topic, I learned that Thailand only recently this year in January 2025 legalized same sex marriage. So, in prior years before, just like anywhere else in the world, people of this community equally face as much discrimination in Thailand. But as the same as other countries, like my home country of the United States, people have and continue to have to forge their own paths of acceptance and find those among the community and allies to support in their efforts. As someone who identifies as bisexual, I often feel left out of this conversation because even within in my own community I have faced some level of erasure and discrimination. But it’s really encouraging to know there is a group of individuals doing the hard work to make others’ lives easier, especially in Thailand when I thought all was well there. Each of the stories in this article were really uplifting and inspiring but in particular the first woman they shared about struck a heart string for me. She uses her platform of media and storytelling to tutor young creatives to express themselves. I went to school for media studies and very quickly, before the blow up social media in today’s age, realized that the power of media is very strong. Being able to see new stories from different walks of life, especially those who represent the LBGTQ+ community is very powerful and super important. We all want to see ourselves in the media we consume and this goes the same for that community as well. This article got me thinking, in relation to this upcoming trip to Thailand, the different ways and spaces I could connect to Thai people for friends, community and collaboration and how I can share my voice and story among them.

• This reply was modified 11 months, 1 week ago by Brittany.

[Brittany]

Hey Mattie,
I’m glad you came across this article because I had also seen this headline and the brief story about it. After having read about lese majeste law in our course, its perfectly timed. And I absolutely agree, that when it comes to politics or monarchy or governments etc. its best to keep opinions to oneself especially as a foreigner. It’s also quite rude in relation to Thailand, considering from their history, they have every right to be proud of those who represent their people and country. Sure, many people may not always agree about certain things but its def. no place for a foreign outsider to have a say in that. I will say the contrast is quite stark, since in my home country of The United States, where people regularly and very publicly and online bash our current government all the time without much repercussion. Perhaps among the opposite side, but never to the extent of jail time or imprisonment. There is a level of free speech in that regard so it will be a curious space to experience while in Thailand. In the U.S. politics is a normal everyday topic that can be brought up over coffee or watching t.v. and perhaps in Thailand its not something that is brought up much in the same way.
A sidenote: I visited Cuba for a week and that was a very curious political space to be in as well. There were people on both sides of the style of government but also a level of maybe don’t talk too loudly about it either. Hmmm….

[Ryan Waldrop]

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/travel/news/tiger-attacks-man-in-thailand-during-selfie-attempt-viral-video-sparks-safety-concerns/articleshow/121533499.cms

This article is about a tourist that was attacked by a tiger when trying to take a selfie. The man was visiting a tourist attraction in Phuket. The attraction is famous for allowing people to interact with tigers in an enclosure. A video was taken and went viral online.

The debate of safety features in place at these wild life tourist attractions reignited. Some people online wonder if the tourist’s actions caused the tiger to react aggressively. Those actions included petting the tiger’s back and kneeling down next to the tiger. Those actions may have spurned a reaction from the tiger as seen in the video.

As I prepare for my travel in Thailand in a couple of weeks, I should be ever cautious of places like the attraction in the article. Doing research and looking into reviews should be my top priority before setting out on a adventure in Thailand. Erring on the side of caution when determining a decision will be my best bet.

[Ryan Waldrop]

Hello Kaitlyn,
I was relieved to read your summary as my girlfriend will be traveling to meet me in Thailand in August. She is from Spain, which is also a safe country for women. Therefore, she will continue to feel at ease with traveling to Thailand. I was hesitant at first about her traveling solo, but after reading the article you posted, I feel better. I appreciate Thailand’s efforts to make traveling safe for women! If only other countries could get on board with their safety measure and protocols!

Ryan

[Neil Ghezzar]

https://www.bangkokpost.com/opinion/opinion/3036940/thailand-has-lost-its-last-growth-engine

I came across the above opinion piece a few days ago. It struck me as quite alarming, because from a foreigner’s perspective, all we ever hear about is Thailand’s booming tourist industry and how it helps the overall Thai economy (when in fact, tourist projections have actually been cut).

Conversely, the opinion piece points to Thailand’s economic recovery which has significantly lagged behind its other Asian peer countries due to structural issues and policy missteps, with exports (which is the country’s last reliable growth engine), now faltering. This is due to recent declines in global demand, especially from China, along with rising geopolitical tensions and protectionist trends, have hurt Thai exports. Compounding these challenges are internal issues such as a shrinking labor force, declining productivity, and low levels of private investment, which reflect deeper systemic weaknesses.

The article further criticizes the Thai government’s short-term, populist policies like cash handouts and subsidies, which fail to address the root causes of stagnation. Instead of investing in long-term structural reforms, such as improving education and upskilling the workforce, The result is a grim outlook: with tourism, investment, and now exports underperforming, Thailand faces the real risk of falling into a prolonged period of low growth unless bold, forward-looking reforms are urgently implemented.

The article further emboldened my notion that teaching English can help overall society. This is so because as is widely known, a workforce with strong English skills makes a country more attractive to international investors and multinational companies. English proficiency also allows smoother business operations, international partnerships, and easier integration into global supply chains, especially in sectors like tech, manufacturing, finance, and customer service.

Lastly, English opens doors for higher education abroad and access to global knowledge, research, and professional development. As citizens gain skills and qualifications through international education, they can contribute more productively to the local economy, either by returning with enhanced skills or working remotely for global companies.

I look forward to helping young people learn English so that Thailand does NOT have to only rely on the tourism trade, and that the population can create new opportunities in business, Technology and Investments, through the use of English skills.

[Author]

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