"Shuruudaha Fiisaha Thailand ee Muwaadiniinta Suudaanta Koonfureed."

Population and Size of Country

Thailand has a significantly larger population compared to South Sudan. As of recent estimates, Thailand’s population stands at approximately 70 million people, whereas South Sudan’s population is around 11 million. In terms of land area, Thailand covers about 513,120 square kilometers, making it larger than South Sudan, which spans approximately 619,745 square kilometers.

Ethnicity

Thailand is predominantly ethnically homogeneous, with the Thai ethnic group making up about 95% of the population. Other ethnic groups include Chinese, Malay, and various hill tribes. In contrast, South Sudan is highly diverse with over 60 different ethnic groups. The largest groups are the Dinka, Nuer, and Shilluk.

Religion

Thailand is predominantly Buddhist, with about 93% of the population adhering to Theravada Buddhism. Islam is the second-largest religion, practiced by around 5% of the population. South Sudan is largely Christian, with about 60% of the population adhering to Christianity, primarily Roman Catholic and Anglican. Traditional African religions and Islam are also practiced.

GDP

Thailand has a much higher Gross Domestic Product (GDP) compared to South Sudan. Thailand’s GDP is around $543 billion USD, making it one of the more robust economies in Southeast Asia. On the other hand, South Sudan’s GDP is approximately $4 billion USD, reflecting its status as one of the world’s poorest and least developed countries.

Population Age Brackets

Thailand has an aging population with a median age of around 40 years. Approximately 17% of the population is aged 0-14 years, 67% are between 15-64 years, and 16% are 65 years and older. South Sudan has a much younger population with a median age of about 18 years. Around 42% of the population is aged 0-14 years, 55% are between 15-64 years, and only about 3% are 65 years and older.

Men vs Women

In Thailand, the gender ratio is relatively balanced with a slight female majority; there are approximately 98 men for every 100 women. In South Sudan, the ratio is also relatively balanced but slightly favors men; there are about 102 men for every 100 women.

Source of Popular Types of Income

Thailand’s economy is diverse with major income sources including tourism, manufacturing (especially automotive and electronics), agriculture (notably rice and rubber), and services. Tourism alone contributes significantly to GDP due to Thailand’s rich cultural heritage and natural attractions.

South Sudan’s economy is heavily reliant on oil production, which accounts for nearly all of its GDP and government revenue. Subsistence agriculture is also a significant source of income for the majority of the population, along with livestock herding and fishing.

Violent Crime

In Thailand, violent crime is relatively low compared to global standards and particularly when compared to South Sudan. Incidents of violent crime such as armed robbery, assault, and homicide are uncommon in tourist areas. However, it is always advisable to exercise caution and avoid poorly lit and secluded areas, especially at night.

Casual Crime

Petty crimes like pickpocketing and bag snatching are more common in Thailand, especially in crowded places like markets, tourist attractions, and public transportation. Travelers should remain vigilant, keep their belongings secure, and avoid displaying expensive items openly.

Crimes of Passion

Crimes of passion do occur in Thailand but are generally confined to personal disputes and rarely affect tourists. While the overall risk is low, it is wise to avoid confrontations and disputes with locals or other travelers.

Safety for Solo Women Travelers

Thailand is generally considered safe for solo women travelers. Many women travel alone without incident. However, it is important to take standard precautions such as avoiding isolated areas at night, not accepting drinks from strangers, and informing someone about your whereabouts.

Walking Around at Night

Walking around at night in tourist areas such as Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket is generally safe. These areas are well-lit and frequently patrolled by police. However, caution should be exercised in less populated or poorly lit areas. It is advisable to use reputable transportation services late at night.

Scamming

Scams targeting tourists are common in Thailand. These can range from tuk-tuk drivers overcharging to more elaborate schemes involving fake travel agencies or gem shops. Always use reputable service providers, verify information from multiple sources, and be skeptical of deals that seem too good to be true.

Travelers from South Sudan should find Thailand a relatively safe destination if they remain aware of their surroundings and take basic safety precautions.

Travelers from South Sudan will find both familiar and novel culinary experiences in Thailand. While the ingredients and preparation methods may differ, there are some similarities in the use of spices, rice, and fresh vegetables.

In South Sudanese cuisine, staples like sorghum, millet, and rice are common, often served with stews and sauces. Similarly, rice is a fundamental part of Thai cuisine, appearing in dishes like Khao Pad (fried rice) and Khao Niew (sticky rice). Both cultures emphasize the importance of rice as a central component of the meal.

Spices play a significant role in both cuisines. South Sudanese dishes often include ingredients like okra, tomatoes, and various spices to create rich, flavorful stews. Thai cuisine also relies heavily on spices and herbs such as lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves to create vibrant, aromatic dishes. Travelers can try Tom Yum Goong (spicy shrimp soup) or Tom Kha Gai (chicken in coconut soup) to experience this aromatic blend.

Vegetables are another commonality. South Sudanese meals often include leafy greens and other vegetables. In Thailand, travelers can enjoy a variety of vegetable-based dishes such as Som Tum (green papaya salad) and Pad Pak Boong (stir-fried morning glory). These dishes highlight the freshness and crunchiness of vegetables, similar to some South Sudanese preparations.

Grilled meats are popular in both cuisines. In South Sudan, grilled meats such as goat or chicken are often enjoyed. Similarly, Thai street food offers a variety of grilled meat options like Moo Ping (grilled pork skewers) and Gai Yang (grilled chicken), often accompanied by sticky rice and spicy dipping sauces.

For those with a sweet tooth, Thai desserts like Mango Sticky Rice and Khanom Buang (crispy pancakes) offer a delightful end to a meal, providing a sweet contrast to the savory dishes that precede them.

By exploring these similarities and trying new dishes, travelers from South Sudan can enjoy a rich and diverse culinary journey in Thailand.

Cultural Differences and Making Friends

In Thailand, making friends often starts with a warm smile and a polite greeting, typically “Sawasdee” accompanied by a “wai,” a gesture where you place your hands together in a prayer-like position and bow slightly. Unlike in South Sudan, where directness may be appreciated, Thais value indirect communication and subtlety. It’s important to be gentle in your speech and avoid confrontational tones.

What to Do

• Respect Elders: Always show respect to elders. Use polite language and offer your seat on public transport.
• Dress Modestly: Especially when visiting religious sites, dress conservatively. Shoulders and knees should be covered.
• Remove Shoes: Before entering homes and temples, remove your shoes.
• Gifts: Small gifts are appreciated when visiting someone’s home, but avoid overly expensive items.

What Not to Do

• Avoid Touching the Head: The head is considered the most sacred part of the body, so avoid touching anyone’s head.
• Don’t Point Your Feet: Feet are considered the lowest and dirtiest part of the body. Do not point your feet at people or religious objects.
• Public Displays of Affection: Thais are conservative about public displays of affection. Hand-holding is generally acceptable, but kissing or hugging in public is frowned upon.

Habits to Leave Behind

• Direct Confrontation: Avoid raising your voice or showing anger in public. Thais prefer to maintain harmony and avoid conflict.
• Overt Gestures: Loud talking or broad gestures can be seen as impolite. Maintain a calm and composed demeanor.

Deportment and Respect

• Politeness: Always use polite forms of address, such as “Khun” before someone’s name.
• Respect for Royalty: The Thai royal family is highly revered. Never make negative comments about the monarchy.
• Queueing: Thais queue orderly for public transport and services. Cutting in line is considered very rude.

Religious Places

• Temples: Dress modestly, remove your shoes, and be quiet. Women should not touch monks.
• Buddha Images: Show utmost respect to Buddha images. Never climb on statues or place them on the ground.

Public Presentation of Oneself

• Cleanliness: Personal hygiene is important. Dress neatly and maintain cleanliness.
• Soft-Spoken: Speak softly and avoid drawing unnecessary attention to yourself.

Behavior on Public Transport

• Quietness: Keep conversations low and avoid making noise.
• Respect Seats for Monks/Elders: Certain seats are reserved for monks and elderly people. Respect these designations.

Losing and Gaining Face

In Thai culture, “losing face” refers to being embarrassed or humiliated in public. This can happen through direct criticism or confrontation. To avoid causing someone to lose face, be gentle and tactful in your interactions. Conversely, “gaining face” involves actions that bring honor and respect, such as showing kindness, being humble, or giving compliments. Always aim to help others maintain their dignity in social settings.

Bringing Phone from South Sudan

Ensure your phone is unlocked for use with international SIM cards. Thai mobile networks operate on GSM technology, which is compatible with most phones from South Sudan.

Internet Availability

Thailand has extensive internet coverage, with 4G and 5G networks available in urban areas. Free Wi-Fi is common in hotels, cafes, and shopping malls. Consider buying a local SIM card for mobile internet; major providers include AIS, TrueMove H, and dtac.

Dominant Messaging Apps

LINE is the most popular messaging app in Thailand. WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger are also widely used. Download these apps to stay connected.

Must-Download Apps Before Arrival

• LINE: For messaging and local communication.
• Google Maps: Essential for navigation.
• Grab: For ride-hailing and food delivery.
• Eatigo: For dining reservations with discounts.
• XE Currency: For real-time currency conversion.

Currency

The official currency is the Thai Baht (THB). ATMs are widely available, and money exchange services can be found in airports, banks, and shopping centers.

ATM Use

ATMs are plentiful, but international cards often incur a withdrawal fee (usually around 200 THB). Notify your bank before traveling to avoid any issues with card usage.

Taxi Apps

Grab is the most reliable ride-hailing app in Thailand. It offers various services, including taxis, private cars, and motorbike taxis.

Food Delivery

Popular food delivery apps include GrabFood and FoodPanda. Both offer a wide range of restaurant options and are user-friendly.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger retail stores. However, small vendors and street markets typically prefer cash.

Shopping

For shopping, visit places like Chatuchak Weekend Market, MBK Center, and Siam Paragon. Bargaining is common in markets but not in malls.

Trains

Thailand’s train system is extensive and includes the BTS Skytrain and MRT subway in Bangkok. For intercity travel, the State Railway of Thailand operates services to major destinations.

Local Buses

Local buses are a cost-effective way to travel but can be confusing for non-locals. Bus routes are usually displayed in Thai. Consider using Google Maps or asking locals for assistance.

Acceptance of Men from South Sudan

Thailand is a diverse and welcoming country, and Thai people are generally open to meeting individuals from different cultural backgrounds. However, as a South Sudanese man, you may attract curiosity due to your unique background. Embrace this curiosity positively, and be prepared to share aspects of your culture.

Funny Ways to Tell Women You Are from South Sudan

Humor can be a great icebreaker. You could say something like, “I’m from South Sudan, where the sun shines brighter and the smiles are wider!” or “In South Sudan, we dance to the beat of our own drums—literally!” These light-hearted comments can make the conversation more engaging.

Which Dating Apps to Use

Popular dating apps in Thailand include Tinder, Badoo, and ThaiFriendly. These platforms have large user bases and are user-friendly. You may also consider using Bumble and OkCupid for more serious relationships.

Good Opening Lines to Use with Thai Women on the Apps

• “Hi! I’m [Your Name] from South Sudan. Have you ever met someone from there?”
• “Hello! Your smile is as warm as the South Sudanese sun. How are you?”
• “Sawasdee krub! I’m new here and would love to learn more about Thailand from you.”

Teaching Thai Women About South Sudanese Culture

Share interesting facts about South Sudanese culture, such as traditional dances, music, food, and festivals. You can say, “In South Sudan, we have a rich tradition of storytelling and music. Have you heard of the Dinka dance?”

Dressing and Personal Hygiene

Dress neatly and appropriately. Casual but clean attire is generally well-received. Personal hygiene is crucial; ensure you are well-groomed, use deodorant, and maintain fresh breath. First impressions matter.

Examples of Red Flags You Should Watch For

• If she asks for money early in the relationship.
• Reluctance to meet in person after prolonged online interaction.
• Inconsistent stories or evasiveness about personal details.

Examples of Scams on Dating Apps

• Profiles that seem too good to be true.
• Requests for financial help or gifts.
• Sudden declarations of love or overly emotional messages early on.

Major Difference in Dating Between South Sudan and Thailand

Thai dating culture typically involves a slower pace and more family involvement compared to South Sudan. Public displays of affection are also less common in Thailand.

Major Differences Between Thai Women and South Sudanese Women

Thai women may be more reserved initially and place a high value on politeness and respect. Family approval is significant in their relationships. South Sudanese women may be more direct in expressing their feelings and expectations.

Popular First Date Activities

• Visiting a local market or night market.
• Going to a temple or cultural site.
• Enjoying a meal at a Thai restaurant.
• Taking a walk in a park or by the river.

Red Light Districts

Areas like Patpong, Nana Plaza, and Soi Cowboy in Bangkok are well-known red light districts. These areas can be overwhelming and are best approached with caution.

Prostitution on Dating Apps

Be aware that some individuals on dating apps may be involved in prostitution. Signs include overly suggestive profiles or immediate offers for explicit services.

10 Places to Meet Thai Women Outside of Dating Apps

1. Coffee Shops – Popular chains like Starbucks or local cafes.
2. Universities – Attend public lectures or events.
3. Night Markets – Chat with vendors and fellow shoppers.
4. Gyms – Join fitness classes or clubs.
5. Language Exchanges – Participate in language exchange meetups.
6. Temples – Visit during festivals or special events.
7. Cooking Classes – Learn Thai cooking together.
8. Bookstores – Browse popular bookstores like Kinokuniya.
9. Concerts/Live Music Venues – Enjoy local music scenes.
10. Community Centers – Engage in community events or volunteer activities.

By understanding these aspects, you can navigate the dating scene in Thailand more effectively and enjoy your time building meaningful connections.

Practical Guide to Extending a Thai Tourist Visa or Visa Exemption for South Sudanese Passport Holders

Extending your stay in Thailand as a South Sudanese passport holder involves a few key steps, whether you are on a tourist visa or a visa exemption. Below is a concise guide to help you through the process.

1. Prepare Required Documents

Before visiting the immigration office, ensure you have the following documents ready:

• Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of extension.
• TM.7 Form: The application form for visa extension, which you can download online or obtain at the immigration office.
• Passport-sized Photos: Two recent photos (4x6 cm).
• Proof of Financial Means: Bank statements or cash equivalent to show you can support yourself during your extended stay.
• Accommodation Proof: Hotel booking or rental agreement.
• Visa Extension Fee: 1,900 Thai Baht (subject to change).

2. Visit the Immigration Office

Locate the nearest immigration office. In Bangkok, the main office is at Chaeng Wattana. Arrive early to avoid long queues.

3. Submit Your Application

At the immigration office, follow these steps:

• Collect a Queue Number: Upon arrival, get a queue number from the information desk.
• Complete Forms: If not already done, fill out the TM.7 form and attach your passport-sized photos.
• Submit Documents: When your number is called, submit your documents to the officer.
• Pay the Fee: Pay the extension fee of 1,900 Baht.

4. Wait for Processing

The processing time can vary, but typically you will wait for a few hours on the same day. In some cases, it might take longer, and you may need to return the next day.

5. Collect Your Passport

Once your extension is approved, collect your passport with the new stamp indicating your extended stay.

Additional Tips

• Dress Appropriately: Wear respectful clothing as a sign of respect and to avoid any issues at the immigration office.
• Language: English is commonly spoken at immigration offices, but having a Thai-speaking friend can be helpful.
• Plan Ahead: Try to apply for an extension at least a week before your current visa or exemption expires to avoid any overstay penalties.

By following these steps and ensuring all documents are in order, you can smoothly extend your stay in Thailand and continue enjoying your visit.