The people of Thailand share a rich ethnic diversity consisting of Thai, Mon, Khmer, Laotian, Chinese, Malay, Persian and Indian descendants. As a result, it is not possible to speak of a typical Thai physique. The Thais are, on the whole, a group of people who believe that life should be enjoyed, but no one should infringe on others' rights. The Thais are tolerant and hospitable, and it is easy to get along with them. Good manners, common sense and a smile are necessities in Thailand.
Women have considerable influence in Thai society.
Although the men's role is usually accentuated in public, in private, all affairs such as finances and other transactions are generally managed by women. Monarchy and religion are sacred in Thailand, and it is against the law to criticize them, especially in public. Mocking the monarchy, or joking about it, is a serious offense and is punishable by imprisonment. The national language is Thai. English is widely understood in Bangkok, where it is almost the major commercial language.