ASSIGNMENT 2: ARTICLE ANALYSIS

[Dillon Feinauer]

https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/special-reports/3086684/dont-panic-your-essential-guide-to-thai-squat-toilets
“Don’t panic: your essential guide to Thai squat toilets” Squat toilets, while on the decline, are still found across Thailand so it is important to know proper procedures in case that becomes your only option. The squat toilet came about in 1924 and was prominent until the 1950’s when sitting toilets became more popular. Even though they are on the decline, squat toilets do have their advantages such as being significantly cheaper. Because they are cheaper you are more likely to find them in public facilities or in developing regions.They also offer cleaner hygiene due to no contact with the toilet. As well there are health advantages as squatting is more natural for the body to facilitate waste removal and is easier on the abdomen creating less health issues.

Due to the unfamiliar design a squat toilet can be intimidating to westerners and creates challenges. As someone planning to go to Thailand it is important to know the proper procedures in case this is your only option. First is to manage your clothing. Some people take off their lower garments completely, while others bring them to just above the knee to keep the fabric of the seat of the pants from getting in the way. Next is to position yourself properly by low squatting where your hips are level with your ankles. For those unaccustomed to a low squat try to embrace your knees for support or use nearby rails. When it is time to clean yourself often they do not have toilet paper, if they do there usually is a waste basket for the paper. Do not flush the toilet paper down the toilet as they are not meant to process paper. If there is no paper there might be a hose to spray yourself or a bowl of water. If it is a hose spray yourself then air dry. If it is a bowl of water you must use your hands to scrub yourself with water until you are clean. Then thoroughly wash your hands. While it may seem intimidating for those unaccustomed to it, there may come a time when it is the only option so it is better to be prepared especially when in rural or traditional areas.

[Dillon Feinauer]

Hey Shadie, thanks for sharing that. As prospective teachers in Thailand it is definitely important to understand how the schools are run to understand what we are getting into. That is wild to me that they still use corporal punishment sometimes in school and that many Thai people think physical punishment is necessary when raising children. It is definitely important to understand what expectations will be set on us as teachers in order to fulfill our job and become successful at our schools.

[Natalee Watson]

Article Summary
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/3091501/bureau-cancels-10-000-temporary-stay-permits#google_vignette
As I prepare to travel to Thailand this September for the first time, I’ve been paying close attention to recent developments affecting international students. This article raises some concerns about Thailand’s recent cancellation of nearly 10,000 student visas due to widespread noncompliance rules. Since I’ll soon be in a similar environment in the country, understanding these changes is especially important for me to make sure my program is secure and that I don’t face unexpected challenges with my visa.
As of May 14, 2025, stricter rules have been in effect. The Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI) now requires educational institutions to submit detailed information relating to enrolment, attendance, and academic progress into a centralized database that both the Ministry and Immigration Bureau can monitor. Failing to meet these reporting and compliance standards led to students’ visas cancelled. Thailand is making a clear move to ensure student visas are used legitimately and not being abused.
While the new rules may feel strict, they also create a safer, more structured environment for genuine students to focus on teaching and learning while building a positive experience in Thailand.

[Natalee Watson]

Hello Dillon! This was really helpful! I’ve heard that squat toilets are still common in rural parts of Thailand, but I didn’t realize the design actually has health benefits too. The step-by-step explanation makes it less intimidating, especially the advice about managing clothing and not flushing toilet paper. As someone planning to travel, it’s good to know what to expect so I’m not caught off guard. I also like that you pointed out the cultural differences in hygiene practices understanding and respecting those will make adjusting easier. Thanks for breaking it down so clearly!

[Samantha Collette]

https://www.cnn.com/2025/08/20/asia/thailand-lese-majeste-thaksin-explainer-intl-hnk-dst

This article details recent lese majeste trials and some of the surrounding action being taken by both the government and progressive groups. It covers how anyone, from any country or walk of life, could have charges brought against them, even if over something said in another country a decade ago. The article also touches on how these trials and arrests can affect family members, especially if those being charged are the heads of household, but it does point out that there are groups currently working to help families in these situations.

As someone from a country without a monarchy, I’ve been very curious how Thailand upholds laws such as lese majeste in reality, not just on paper. It’s helpful to put things into perspective with this article covering examples from a prominent human rights activist, to a billionaire former prime minister, and even an American university lecturer. The way it describes the prison conditions, even while awaiting a trial, are also helpful to understand the reality of this.

While I don’t believe the article is meant to scare anyone (nor am I in detailing it here), it is very helpful to remind me that I am going to be living in another country that is vastly different from my own. I know I’ll need to do more research on this law as well as any others that may be easily misunderstood or neglected in terms of what may seem “normal” with a more western mindset. It does not deter me from my excitement of being a part of such an amazing country, but I know I have a lot more to learn to be able to find my footing there!

[Samantha Collette]

Hi Donalisa,

It’s so interesting to read more about the different focuses in Thai schools versus the west! I’m curious to see how that will affect our teaching – especially where they focus so much more on memorization/tests compared to how we see teaching now focus on understanding and more of a well-rounded approach.

One thing I like that your article details, is how Thai schools take the time to emphasize ethical and moral teachings beyond just classroom lessons. This is something I’m really excited to be a part of!

[Luke Hall]

The G Adventures article on Thailand’s animals highlights the country’s diverse wildlife and the best national parks and sanctuaries to see it. The article talks about a variety of animals, from elephants and big cats to primates, reptiles, and marine life. This article was incredibly helpful for me because I am very interested in seeing as much wildlife as I can while in Thailand.

Here are some of the animals I am interested in seeing and where to find them. Elephants, Thailand’s national animal, can be seen in their natural habitat at Kui Buri National Park. Tigers and leopards can sometimes be spotted in protected areas like Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary and Thungyai Naresuan. Leopards may also be found in Kaeng Krachan National Park. Gibbons can be found at Khao Yai National Park.

[Luke Hall]

Reply to Samantha Collette-
Samantha,
I thought about reading an article on this as well because it is so different from where I am from. I will definitely have to be careful. In America, everyone I know talks VERY ill about our president. I wonder if people ever take the chance while talking with their friends or if everyone strictly abides. I know I am not going to test my luck!
It is interesting to learn that even if you are found to have said something in another country years ago, it could still backfire on you. Thank you so much for summarizing this interesting article.
-Luke Hall

[Nicholas Marvich]

“Buddhist monk arrested for alleged embezzlement in Thailand”
-Koh EweBBC News, Singapore
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c87enn0gqrqo
Having lived in the US my entire life, I draw a parallel between a monk and a priest. More specifically, a Catholic priest and a Buddhist monk. These two groups of individuals are revered and respected above all others. They are perceived and expected to be as near to perfect as humanly possible. Yet we can often find recent news about these groups failing to uphold the strict guidelines that got them to their status. This article shares how Luang Phor Alongkot was arrested in late August accused of embezzlement of donations to his HIV/Aids care home. The article didn’t tell the amount he is accused of embezzling. I didn’t find that to be relevant to this situation anyway. The fact that trust has been broken is the crime from my perspective.
The devastation I’ve witnessed in the Catholic Church has been significant. Mostly it relates to sexual misconduct. As I read this article all I could think about were all the monastics that follow the strict guidelines and how a few bad apples make them all suspects to me. Unfortunately, this is how I feel. I am suspect of every priest and it appears I need to be suspect of every monk as well. I’m beginning my journey to teach ESL in Thailand. I’m going in with eyes wide open. Probably too wide open to be an impartial visitor.

[Nicholas Marvich]

Madelene! I love this topic and this summary. Thank you for making me aware of this ‘great divide’. I’ve been studying as much as I can about the culture differences between the US and Thailand. I will be teaching English somewhere in Thailand this fall. As a life long learner, I am constantly reminded of my ignorance on topics. This article makes sense to me now that it’s brought to my attention. You summarized it well. It made me think: How much does the variance in learning have to do with funding versus wanting/needing. There are areas as you effectively pointed out that aren’t as educated as others (northern vs big city). is it possible the need for a big city education in the north isn’t there? How many grades do you need to attend in order to work on your family farm. Proud, hard work and extremely necessary to society yet being a graduate of high school doesn’t impact your ability to perform the work. Thanks for the thought provoking write up! – Nick

[Samantha Lichtstein]

Related article: https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/3094344/call-for-action-to-boost-weak-travel-industry

The article “call for action to boost weak travel industry” focuses on the current conflicts amongst Thailand and Cambodia and its effect on tourism. At a recent session titled “Beyond Recovery: Transforming Thailand’s Tourism for a Sustainable and High-Value Future” at Thailand Focus it was revealed that hotels in Thailand have recently recorded fewer foreign tourists. Furthermore, the company’s two hotels in Cambodia have experienced declines as well. There is a large tourist connection between these two countries as often layovers are prevalent between the two, promoting vacation in both places. Vietnam has experienced a surge in rates from this issue and it is expected that rates in Thailand will continue to decline as the conflict continues. The company is urging the government to give out free domestic flights to foreigners to boost tourism. A large portion of the Thai economy relies on tourism, and if this path continues, business and such will start to be affected.

This article shows an interesting point of view into the connection between political conflicts and their effect on local businesses. As a traveler and new resident of Thailand, it is important to understand the magnitude of this conflict. This article also helps me gain knowledge of a traveler on how to be safe and understanding why certain guidelines are in place. The article shared hopes for the conflict to become peaceful once again soon, and for tourist rates to increase. However, in the case this does not happen, action will need to be taken to keep the economy in check. As a tourist and newly resident, I am glad to have gained this knowledge on the current political climate and understand the importance of supporting local businesses.

[Samantha Lichtstein]

This is such an interesting topic and article to read about! Reading about how the government plans to increase tourism to help the country is so interesting. Especially as a visitor myself, I am excited to hear that the aim of the program is to make the country accessible to all. Furthermore, this program will help all business, big and small, and ensure their success in all type of crises. This is so amazing as everyone can benefit off of tourism together and it is a win win amongst the country and foreigners. I greatly enjoyed your summary of the article and the great things this program is going to do.

[Sarah Harrington]

https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/3098029/chiang-mai-community-flooded-yet-again

I decided to look at the Bangkok Post to find an article. If I am going to be living in Thailand, I should be aware of the news sources available. Legislation, weather, crime, etc. are all types of stories that I would want to know about once I start living there. I chose an article that was published today discussing the flooding in Chiang Mai. When expressing my interest in location for my placement, I stated I would like to be either far north or far south. I also expressed wanting to be near a city. The woman I was meeting with brought up Chiang Mai as an idea so there is a possibility I could get placed in or near this area.
It is currently the monsoon season in Thailand which comes with lots of rain storms. This can lead to flooding in some cities and towns. The article describes how the rain started at 10 and the flooding began around 11, which didn’t give residents and store owners enough time to move their stuff from the ground before the flood. A quote that stood out to me is “Locals said it was the eighth time the community has been flooded this rainy season and the second in a week. The whole community is littered with mud and debris.” Flooding occurs often in this area and if I plan to live around here, I need to plan to endure it myself.
After reading this article, I am reconsidering my packing list. I was not planning on bringing any sort of tight pants, as it is not allowed for professional wear and the weather is often too hot for me personally to want to wear those, but it seems as though those would be the best clothes to wear if I were to endure a flood. They would protect my legs from debris without soaking in all of the water and weighing down on me. I am also planning on investing in rain boots once I get to Thailand so that I don’t have to worry about finding a spot for them in my bag. This article opened my eyes to the regularity of rain and flooding in this specific area and allowed me to reconsider what I want to bring with me.

[Sarah Harrington]

Hi Natalee,
When reading your description of the article, my jaw dropped. I had no idea this event happen and it definitely is something to be aware of as visa travelers. I am put at a little bit of ease knowing I am not entering on a student visa, but the new regulation seems necessary to ensure the right people are getting their visas and people who shouldn’t have them, don’t. Thank you for your summary!

[Kelley Flanagan]

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/333103660_Integrated_in_Thai_society

Integrated in Thai Society by Chris de Boer

I chose this research article because I wanted to use this assignment to get some insight into Integration in Thai Society. I thought it would be good to familiarise myself on the topic given the “big move” to come.

The research methods used in this study are both a qualitative and quantitative methods. The study looks at areas of psychological and socio-cultural adaptations of 36 immigrants who had been living in Thailand for 6 years or more and looked at the cultural distance from the participants home country.

The average cultural distance from participants home country was 37%. The highest integration score was 70% and the lowest was 0%.

What the theory says:

Hofstede is renowned for research in Cultural Differences. He has a theory of the five dimensions of cultural differences ; Power difference, Individualism, uncertainty avoidance, masculinity and long term orientation (Hofstede, 2010).

I found this interesting as it highlighted some of the common differences between my home country and Thailand.

1. Power distance: this highlights how societies accept power differences. Low power distance cultures value equality and democratic relations (Ireland), while high power distance cultures accept hierarchy (Thailand).
2. Individualism: looks at how Individualistic societies (Ireland) emphasize self-reliance and personal achievement, while collectivist ones (Thailand) stress loyalty to extended families or groups.
3. Uncertainty Avoidance: reflects how comfortable people are with ambiguity. High uncertainty avoidance cultures (Thailand) rely on rules, planning, and structure, whereas low ones (Ireland) accept change and tolerate unpredictability.
4. Masculinity vs. Femineity:describes the value placed on competitiveness versus care. Masculine cultures (Ireland) stress ambition, assertiveness, and material success, while feminine cultures (Thailand) prioritize relationships, quality of life, and gender role fluidity.
5. Long- vs. short-term orientation refers to time perspective. Long-term cultures (Thailand) value persistence, saving, and adaptability; short-term ones (Ireland) emphasize tradition, social obligations, and maintaining public image.

Thailand: People often avoid open conflict and use polite, indirect communication to maintain harmony. Public behaviour focuses on respect, status, and saving face, while private life is where authenticity and closeness are expressed.

Ireland: While politeness matters, Irish society tends to value directness, humour, and openness in everyday interactions. Disagreements or jokes are often handled more openly, even in public. Relationships can feel more relaxed and less bound by hierarchy, and people may show their genuine selves more readily both in public and private.

Findings of Qualitative Study:

People exposed to multiple cultures often integrate more easily into Thai society. For example, one interviewee had an English father, a Filipino mother, was born in India, raised in Thailand, studied in the Philippines, and later married a Thai man. (This stood out to me as I’m from Ireland, born to Irish parents, lived in Ireland all of my life).

The biggest differences between low- and well-integrated individuals appear in professional life. Less integrated people often rely on their home culture at work, such as teaching their native language or using it in international companies. (This is relevant to take note of given, I will be teaching English).

In their private lives, low- and well-integrated individuals show little difference. Both may have Thai partners and children, maintain contact with their home country through the internet, and possess some ability to speak, read, or write Thai.

Less integrated individuals more often highlight aspects of Thai culture and society they see as unfair to foreigners—for example, higher prices for the same goods or services, restrictions on owning property or businesses, and widespread corruption.

Less integrated persons still face difficulties in working with Thai people. Well integrated persons seemed to have found a way to cope with the ‘inefficiency’ of the Thai working culture. Most challenges foreigners are facing with Thai people regard their non-punctuality.

Interestingly, the highest integration score did not come from participants from India or Poland, despite their cultures being closest to Thailand. Likewise, the lowest score was not from someone whose home country was most different (Germany). What the findings do suggest, however, is that Western foreigners often struggle to adapt their individualism to Thailand’s collectivist culture.

[Author]

Posts