Useful phrases in Thai: traveler's dictionary

A trip to Thailand is always a meeting with a different culture, a special rhythm, and the soft sound of the language. Even a few simple Thai phrases can make your holiday in Phuket more comfortable and pleasant. Thailand is a country of politeness and smiles, and locals always appreciate when tourists try to say at least a couple of words in their native language.

If you are just starting to learn, begin with basic expressions. Thai phrases for tourists are easy to remember and are spoken with a soft intonation and a smile. For example, “Hello” is Sawatdee krub (for men) or Sawatdee ka (for women). The word “thank you” is Khob khun krub/ka, and “goodbye” is said the same as the greeting – Sawatdee.

Some of the most useful words before traveling to Thailand:

• Yes / No – Chai / Mai chai
• Please – Karuna
• Sorry / Excuse me – Kor thoad / Khor thot
• How are you? – Sabai dee mai?
• Good / Fine – Sabai dee

And if you hear the expression “Mai pen rai”, know that this is more than just a phrase. It means “don’t worry,” “it’s okay,” or even “let it be.” Thais often say it with a gentle smile, reminding you that life should not be taken too seriously.

To make your speech sound polite, add the particle “krub” (if you are a man) or “ka” (if you are a woman) at the end. For example: Sawatdee ka, Khob khun krub. These particles add softness and respect — something that is highly valued in Thailand.

Emergency Phrases in Thai: Pharmacy, Hospital, Police and Accidents

Even during a perfect vacation, unforeseen situations can happen. By learning a few important Thai phrases before traveling, you can feel more confident and get help faster.

If you are looking for a pharmacy, ask:

“Where is the pharmacy?” – Raan khai yaa yoo tee nai? (The word “Where?” in Thai is Yoo tee nai?, and it can be used anywhere:

• Toilet yoo tee nai? – where is the toilet?
• Hotel yoo tee nai? – where is the hotel?)

In case of illness or an insurance situation, the following phrases are useful:

• “I need help” – Chuay duay!
• “Call a doctor” – Riak mor maa noi!
• “Hurts” – Jep
• “Hospital” – Rong payabaan

If something happens on the road, such as a minor accident or losing documents, you can say:

• “Call the police” – Riak tamruat maa noi
• “Help me, please” – Chuay duay na krub/ka

In stressful situations Thais usually stay calm, and when you say a few words in Thai, they will respond with understanding and care.

Thai in Restaurants: Ordering Food, Spice Levels, and “No Peanuts / Not Spicy”

Visiting restaurants and cafés is one of the best ways to experience Thai culture. But Thai cuisine is known not only for its flavors, but also for its spice, so knowing a few phrases can help you order without surprises.

Start the conversation with a smile and greeting: Sawatdee krub/ka. Then ask: Kun pud paasa Anggrit dai mai? – “Do you speak English?” If the waiter responds Chai, dai nit noi, it means they speak a little.

To order food, use a simple structure:

Ao … krub/ka – “I will take …”

For example: Ao Pad Thai krub – I’ll take Pad Thai.

If you want to ask for the price: “How much is it?” – Tao rai?

If the dish is too spicy: “Not spicy” – Mai phet

If you need food without peanuts: “No peanuts” – Mai sai tua

Thais always try to please their guests, so if you say Mai phet krub/ka, the dish will truly be made mild. For those who like spice, clarify the level:

• Phet nit noi – a little spicy

• Phet mak – very spicy

After your meal, don’t forget to say: Khob khun krub/ka

This small gesture shows respect, and believe me, the waiter’s smile will be the warmest thank-you in return.

Useful Phrases in Taxi and Transportation

Getting around Phuket is an adventure on its own. Local drivers are friendly but may not always speak English. Knowing a few expressions can help avoid misunderstandings and make your trip easier.

To say where you want to go:

“We’re going to …” – Pai ... krub/ka

For example: Pai Patong krub – We’re going to Patong.

Чтобы уточнить наличие счётчика, спросите:

“Is there a meter?” – Mee meter mai?

If you need to give directions:

• “Turn here” – Leow tee nee

• “Straight” – Trong pai

• “Stop here” – Jod tee nee

If the driver doesn’t understand English, you can show the address on a map and say:

“Right here” – Tee nee

And if you want to ask, “Do you speak English?”, the familiar phrase Kun pud paasa Anggrit dai mai? will help not only in transport but almost anywhere.

Even if you mix up words or say them with an accent — don’t worry. In Thailand it’s taken with a smile. The most important thing is friendliness and willingness to communicate. Say Mai pen rai – “It’s okay” – and enjoy the ride.

A small dictionary of important Thai phrases will be your best companion in Thailand. It will help you solve everyday issues faster and feel the soul of the country — open, gentle, and welcoming. Learn a few phrases, smile, and Phuket will respond in kind.

Phuket Horizon will take care of the rest — from transfers to organizing excursions — so your trip will be as light as the word Sabai – “Good / Comfortable.”