Thailand, the land of smiles, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture, beckons travelers and language enthusiasts alike. Many are drawn to its rich heritage and delicious cuisine, but few venture to learn the local tongue. Like many visitors, I had admired Thailand from afar, never imagining I’d actually Learn Siamese Language, until a personal challenge changed everything.
In August 2016, I embarked on a journey to Bangkok with a clear objective: to finally tackle learning Thai, or as it’s traditionally known, Siamese language. Documenting my progress through daily videos on my YouTube channel, I immersed myself in the language learning experience.
Now, stepping back from that intensive period, I want to share a comprehensive guide based on my discoveries. This article reveals everything I learned about studying Siamese language as a beginner. Whether you’re dreaming of navigating bustling markets, connecting with locals, or simply enriching your travel experiences, this guide will set you on the right path to learn Siamese language effectively.
Table Of Contents
Here’s a detailed overview of what we’ll explore. Feel free to jump directly to sections that pique your interest:
I’ll begin by detailing my personal method for learning beginner Siamese language during my immersive mission in Bangkok. Following this, I’ll address frequently asked questions about the challenges and rewards of learning Thai. Finally, I’ll provide actionable steps for anyone eager to learn to speak Siamese language, along with a curated list of valuable resources.
To enhance your learning journey, I’ve also created a special bonus PDF:
- 150+ Essential Beginner Siamese Words & Phrases for Effective Conversations (PDF & MP3 audio). Carefully selected from my lessons and real-life conversations in Thailand!
Master these fundamental phrases right from the start to gain a significant advantage in speaking conversational Thai.
This valuable resource is absolutely free. Simply click here to download your copy.
My Immersion Approach to Learning Beginner Siamese Language
Driven by curiosity, I decided to spend two weeks in Bangkok dedicated to learning Siamese language alongside my friend Jan van der Aa. We outlined our ambitious plan in detail in this video.
While two weeks is undeniably a short timeframe for language acquisition, it was the duration I could realistically allocate for travel and focused study. I was particularly interested in discovering just how much of a new language could be grasped in such a concentrated period. More importantly, I wanted to explore a realistic learning timeframe for individuals who struggle to find extended periods for language study amidst busy lives. I aimed to demonstrate what’s achievable within a two-week immersion, providing inspiration and a practical example for those in similar situations.
As a seasoned language learner accustomed to independent study, and advocate for self-directed learning through my website, I opted for a different approach this time. I decided to replicate the experience many beginners choose: enrolling in a language school. This meant submitting to a structured study program led by a teacher, a departure from my usual self-guided methods.
Another factor influenced my decision: a healthy dose of self-awareness. I wasn’t entirely confident in my ability to maintain focused study in the enticing environment of Thailand! The allure of distractions was strong, and sticking to a rigorous self-study schedule felt challenging. (Anyone familiar with Thailand will understand the numerous temptations!) Perhaps this eagerness to enroll in a school was a subconscious admission of a lack of complete commitment to seriously learn Siamese language through self-study alone at that time. Maybe I doubted my own willpower to maintain discipline, or perhaps I was preemptively seeking an external structure to blame if my language learning goals weren’t fully met. Regardless of the underlying reasons, choosing a language school was the path I took.
Choosing a Siamese Language School
I set a goal of studying for two hours each morning. This felt like a balanced approach—serious enough to make progress, yet not so demanding as to overshadow my overall experience in Thailand.
Many inquired about my school selection – Sumaa Language Institute. Interestingly, the choice stemmed from a recommendation on Twitter after I announced my trip to Thailand. I researched Sumaa Language Institute, and their offerings resonated with me. They were responsive to my inquiries and accommodating to my learning goals, which I always consider a positive indicator. Learning that embassies utilized their services for language training further solidified my confidence. Decisive as I am, I booked immediately.
To be completely transparent, upon booking, I wasn’t even certain if the classes were group-based or private! It turned out to be one-on-one tutoring, which was a pleasant surprise. The investment was THB 10,000 for 20 hours of instruction (approximately £220 GBP or $290 USD), averaging THB 500 per hour (£11 GBP or $15 USD per hour). Compared to private language lessons in the UK from a reputable school, this was exceptional value. It’s also comparable in cost to online Thai lessons through platforms like iTalki.
Lessons were held at the school, requiring daily travel. This could be viewed as either a pro or con depending on individual preferences. For me, it proved beneficial, providing a much-needed routine and structure to my days. It motivated me to get up and start the day purposefully – although, admittedly, there were a few mornings that felt a bit blurry-eyed! Here’s my initial reaction on Day 1:
](https://learn.storylearning.com/bulletproof-memory-sales-page18581433?utm_source=organic&utm_medium=website&utm_campaign=Blogbanner_thaifromscratch_banner2)
My Siamese Language Teacher
In any learning environment, especially language acquisition, the teacher’s impact is paramount. Teachers possess diverse styles, personalities, and approaches, and even the most exceptional educator may not be the ideal fit for every student.
I must state unequivocally: I was incredibly fortunate. My teacher, Kru Nuu, was truly one of the best teachers I have ever encountered (and my background includes teacher training, so I’ve met many). Perhaps more accurately, she was one of the best teachers for me. I recognize I’m likely not the easiest student to teach. I have my own established language learning philosophies, possess limited patience, and am not skilled at concealing my dissatisfaction.
My biggest apprehension about joining a language school was the fear of being confined to a rigid curriculum, having minimal opportunities for speaking practice, and progressing at the pace of the slowest learner. However, my experience was the complete opposite.
Inside My Siamese Language Lessons
Summarizing 20 hours of lessons into a few paragraphs is challenging, but I’ll do my best to highlight the key aspects of our study approach to give you a clear picture of what transpired.
- Week 1: Input Focus: The first week was heavily focused on input. I absorbed a vast amount of new information each day. Evenings were dedicated to reviewing, practicing, and memorizing the day’s material. This preparation ensured we could build upon previous lessons and progress to new topics each day.
- Week 2: Consolidation and Practice: By the start of the second week, I felt I had accumulated a solid foundation of knowledge. My primary need shifted towards consolidating what I had learned and gaining practical fluency. Instead of simply accumulating more new material, my goal for the second week was to leave Thailand confidently using the basics. Therefore, week two was primarily dedicated to practice and application.
- Spoken Siamese Language Emphasis: Our focus was exclusively on spoken Thai. We did not delve into reading or writing during this initial two-week period.
Typically, Kru Nuu would arrive with a planned lesson outline focused on “input”—specific topics she intended to teach (introductions, greetings, etc.). Sometimes we adhered to her prepared material, and other times, we diverged. In truth, the pre-planned content was somewhat secondary to the overall learning process.
While we often started with her suggested topics (generally predictable for beginner lessons), our lessons usually unfolded in this dynamic way:
- Kru Nuu would initiate with simple questions, often related to the previous day’s lesson.
- I would attempt to answer, inevitably reaching a point where I lacked the necessary vocabulary or grammatical structures.
- She would then teach me precisely what I needed to overcome the communication barrier.
- We would continue the conversation, sometimes for up to an hour, repeating this cycle of question, struggle, learn, and apply.
This approach aligns with what’s known as an emergent methodology in language teaching. This means language instruction emerges organically from the flow of conversation and the learner’s immediate communicative needs. The emphasis is on effective communication over absolute grammatical accuracy, a contrast to more traditional methods that prioritize accuracy first.
This emergent approach proved highly effective because, within just a few days, I had identified and learned the essential words and phrases needed to discuss fundamental personal topics: my life, interests, and reasons for being in Thailand. Crucially, I gained ample practice using these phrases in real-time conversations. (I’ve compiled this comprehensive list for you in the free bonus guide accompanying this article.)
This method differs significantly from traditional language classrooms where a predefined syllabus of vocabulary, grammar, and phrases is systematically taught, and speaking practice is structured around that pre-set content, rather than the individual learner’s actual communicative requirements. This is why, by the fourth day, I was already capable of holding a basic conversation in Siamese language:
Several other key observations from my lessons:
- Pronunciation and Tones Priority: We placed significant emphasis on pronunciation and tones right from the beginning. While vocabulary and grammar errors were tolerated as part of the learning process, pronunciation and tonal inaccuracies were consistently corrected immediately.
- Selective Vocabulary Focus: I have a tendency to write down every new word in my notebook, which can quickly become overwhelming and inefficient. Kru Nuu was excellent at carefully selecting the most important words and phrases that arose in our conversations and writing them on the board or index cards. This curated approach helped me focus on essential vocabulary.
- Encouraging Questions: Kru Nuu consistently prompted me to ask questions. This was incredibly helpful, as beginners often hesitate to take the initiative to ask for clarification. Her encouragement fostered a proactive learning environment and helped me use my developing Siamese language skills from the outset.
Throughout the first week, alongside the emergent language learning, Kru Nuu continued to introduce pre-prepared material, expanding my vocabulary and grammatical understanding.
Shifting My Siamese Language Learning in Week 2
By the beginning of the second week, my mindset began to shift as I became acutely aware of the limited time remaining in my two-week immersion. I faced a learning dilemma: “Should I continue trying to absorb as much new information as possible? Or should I prioritize consolidating and practicing what I had already learned?”
I opted for the latter. For the second week, our focus shifted to practicing and reinforcing everything covered in week one. While new vocabulary and phrases still emerged organically from our conversations, the primary emphasis became practical application.
Some of the activities we incorporated in Week 2:
- Practice with Multiple Teachers: On two days, for the first hour of the lesson, Kru Nuu invited a second teacher to join our session. This provided valuable practice speaking with someone other than my primary teacher. Having become accustomed to Kru Nuu’s speech patterns, interacting with a different speaker helped broaden my listening comprehension and build confidence in varied conversational settings.
- Real-World Immersion: On two other days, we moved our lessons outside the classroom. We explored the neighborhood on foot, conversing in Siamese language as we walked. These sessions were conducted without notes or whiteboards, focusing purely on spontaneous spoken interaction. Kru Nuu would set me small practical tasks, such as ordering street food or delivering items to a local doctor’s office. This experiential learning was transformative, making the language feel more tangible and relevant.
In many traditional language schools, these types of flexible, resource-intensive activities might not be feasible due to logistical constraints. Furthermore, many teachers may not have the initiative to take such creative approaches. Again, I felt incredibly fortunate to have such an engaged and adaptable teacher.
](https://learn.storylearning.com/bulletproof-memory-sales-page18581433?utm_source=organic&utm_medium=website&utm_campaign=Blogbanner_thaifromscratch_banner3)
My Siamese Language Learning Process: Maximizing Limited Time
Given the two-week time constraint of this learning challenge, I was compelled to carefully consider my study process and optimize my learning time effectively.
With two hours of classroom instruction daily, we covered a significant amount of material. My notebook rapidly filled with new vocabulary, phrases, and grammatical points. Leaving the classroom after the first day, I immediately recognized a crucial point: if I didn’t actively review, I would likely recall only a small fraction of what we had covered by the next day.
To put it another way:
Studying, learning, and memorizing are distinct processes.
During the first lesson, I had studied a large volume of information. I may have learned some of it conceptually, but one thing was certain: I had not yet memorized it for active recall.
So, how should I best utilize my lesson time on day two? Should I focus on:
- Memorizing the material from day one?
- Or continuing to learn new concepts?
Clearly, progressing and learning new material was preferable. However, to do so effectively, I needed to take responsibility for memorizing as much as possible from day one outside of class time.
Therefore, each evening after my lesson, I dedicated approximately one hour to actively reviewing and memorizing the day’s vocabulary – primarily focusing on individual words.
I firmly believe that while a teacher can provide guidance and valuable language input, the actual learning and internalization must occur outside the structured classroom environment. This happens through active engagement with the language, whether through speaking with native speakers, reading authentic materials, or diligently reviewing lesson notes.
In foreign language acquisition, true learning happens beyond the classroom walls.
While space is limited here to delve into specific memory techniques, if you’re interested in learning more about effective vocabulary learning and memorization strategies, be sure to join my mailing list for in-depth explanations and training.
Looking back, one tool that would have significantly streamlined my vocabulary learning process is Vocabooster Thai. It provides pre-loaded flashcard decks containing essential Thai words and phrases, which would have been a tremendous time-saver!
After the first week, I felt I was acquiring a substantial vocabulary base, but what I needed most was a deeper understanding of how all the pieces fit together. This was partly due to my limited grasp of Thai grammar, but more fundamentally, it stemmed from insufficient listening practice. My foundation in auditory comprehension was still weak.
Consequently, my out-of-class study focus shifted in week two, moving away from isolated word memorization and towards learning complete sentences and phrases. My aim was to start using the language more actively in real-world situations and build conversational fluency.
After eight days of lessons (16 hours), I recorded this video of me speaking Siamese language with Kru Nuu, showcasing my progress.
Why Embark on Learning Siamese Language?
Numerous compelling reasons might motivate you to learn Siamese language:
- You reside in Thailand.
- You are planning a trip to Thailand.
- You have a Thai partner or significant other.
- You are captivated by Thai culture and history.
Regardless of your personal motivation, you should feel encouraged!
Why?
Because relatively few foreigners invest the effort to learn Siamese language. By learning even the foundational elements of Thai, you instantly endear yourself to local Thai people, earning their respect and admiration, and profoundly transforming your experience of Thailand and Thai culture.
Furthermore, learning Thai is likely more attainable than you might initially believe…
Admittedly, it’s different from English – it certainly sounds distinct! However, as you’ll discover throughout this guide, despite the differences, Siamese language possesses several aspects that are surprisingly simpler than many other languages.
This means that with focused time and effort directed towards the right areas, you can rapidly begin speaking the language and enjoying the rewarding benefits! Whatever Thailand represents in your life, learning Siamese language will undoubtedly enhance and enrich your experience.
Is Siamese Language Difficult for English Speakers to Learn?
Assessing the difficulty level of a language is always subjective. What constitutes a “difficult” language varies depending on the learner’s native language background. The challenges faced by a native English speaker will differ from those of a native Chinese speaker.
My personal experience learning Siamese language has been insightful, allowing me to observe connections and similarities with other languages I know. Notably, my prior knowledge of Cantonese (a Chinese dialect) proved exceptionally helpful. I found shared vocabulary, tonal concepts, and grammatical reference points. (Interestingly, I’ve been told I have a slight “Chinese accent” when speaking Thai, which is revealing!)
I’ve also noticed vocabulary similarities with Arabic and Japanese – languages not linguistically related to Thai. Therefore, given my existing familiarity with Asian languages, it may be challenging for me to provide a completely unbiased assessment of the difficulty of Siamese language. However, I can confidently state this:
While achieving mastery in Siamese language is a lifelong pursuit, grasping the basics is straightforward enough that you can quickly acquire a functional understanding and begin using it in conversation.
Several aspects make Siamese language relatively accessible for beginners, particularly when compared to some European languages:
- Verb Conjugation Simplicity: Verbs are not conjugated based on tense or person.
- Noun Simplicity: Nouns do not have plural forms or grammatical gender (though you will need to learn classifiers).
- Tense Indication: Tenses (present continuous, past, future) are indicated using simple “time words” rather than complex verb forms (see here for a more detailed discussion).
- Word Length: Words in Siamese language tend to be shorter than those in many European languages.
(There are linguistic features of Siamese language often overlooked by English speakers, such as marking social status and maintaining appropriate registers. However, as a beginner, these nuances can be addressed later in your learning journey!)
As a beginner, you will likely find two aspects of Siamese language initially daunting:
- Thai Script: The Thai alphabet and writing system.
- Tonal System: The “sound world” – encompassing Thai tones, pronunciation, and intonation (discussed in the next section).
Many language learners mistakenly equate unfamiliarity with difficulty. This misinterpretation leads to statements like, “Siamese language just isn’t for me,” or “I’m simply not good at languages.”
Your initial encounters with Siamese language will undoubtedly highlight its distinctness. However, while it may be unfamiliar, that doesn’t automatically make it objectively difficult. You simply need to approach it with a mindset of, “I will allow myself time to become comfortable with it,” and persevere long enough for the unfamiliar to become familiar. Then, you’ll likely wonder what initially seemed so daunting!
During my time in Thailand, I heard numerous stories of expats who began enthusiastically, even enrolling in language classes, but gave up prematurely before the language had time to “sink in.” To mitigate this specific risk, I recommend that beginners commit to an initial 20 hours of study with a qualified teacher before allowing frustration to derail their progress. 🙂
](https://learn.storylearning.com/bulletproof-memory-sales-page18581433?utm_source=organic&utm_medium=website&utm_campaign=Blogbanner_thaifromscratch_banner4)
Mastering Tones and Pronunciation in Siamese Language
If you’ve ever heard Siamese language spoken, you’ve likely noticed it sounds quite different from English! One primary reason for this distinct sound is that Thai is a tonal language: “A language in which the same series of sounds can represent different meanings, depending on how high or low they are spoken.”
Siamese language features five distinct tones, visually represented as follows:
Tonal languages often intimidate prospective learners. The common reaction is: “If you say maa this way, it means mother, but said another way, it means horse! How confusing!” This is often followed by: “I could never learn that! I struggle with spelling in English!”
However, understanding tones is not as insurmountable as it initially appears. Honestly. You’ve already successfully tackled numerous “difficult” language features in your native language and perhaps others. Consider:
- Distinguishing masculine and feminine nouns in French.
- Mastering the rolled “R” in Spanish.
- Pronouncing “ough” in its diverse forms: thought, through, though, cough, plough, enough…
The key difference with tones is simply their unfamiliarity to many English speakers. With each new word in Siamese language, you learn the associated tone. After an initial adjustment period, recognizing and producing tones becomes increasingly natural. Exposure to common conversational words repeatedly makes learning to speak Siamese language and internalizing tones much easier.
Advantage of Prior Tonal Language Experience
Interestingly, many individuals who already speak a tonal language (like Mandarin Chinese) express concern: “I’m hesitant to learn Siamese language because I worry it will interfere with my Chinese!”
However, far from being a disadvantage, I found my prior experience with a tonal language – Cantonese in my case – to be a significant asset for these reasons:
- Comfort with Tonal Concepts: I was already accustomed to the principle of tones conveying meaning and learning tones alongside vocabulary.
- Tonal Auditory Acuity: My ear was already trained to listen for tonal variations, providing a natural mechanism for perceiving and remembering Thai tones.
- Tonal Production Experience: My experience producing six tones in Cantonese made the physical production of Thai tones significantly easier.
Given that learning tones is largely a matter of familiarization and auditory discrimination, having a tonal language background provides a considerable head start.
Will learning Siamese language interfere with a tonal language you already know? Potentially, yes. For me, this falls under the broader topic of how to maintain proficiency in multiple languages.
Caution Regarding Tone Markers and Thai Script
As a beginner, unable to read Thai script, the only immediate way to represent tones is through tone markers (those small lines in the diagram above). It’s crucial to understand that this visual representation is an approximation, not a perfectly accurate depiction of the true tones, which are fluid and adaptable.
The true tones are actually encoded within the Thai script itself, a significant reason to eventually learn the script (discussed later).
My current perspective is this:
- For serious Siamese language learners: Transition away from romanized script and tone markers as quickly as possible and learn the Thai script. However, script acquisition takes time and dedicated effort.
- For beginners: Romanized tone markers are a helpful initial tool, providing an accessible entry point and easing the initial learning curve.
- Value of Early Momentum: Progress and momentum are vital, especially for beginners. Using tone markers with romanized script as a guide for the first few weeks is acceptable and can foster early success.
- Awareness of Limitations: Be mindful that tone markers are a simplification. Work closely with a teacher from the outset to develop accurate tonal pronunciation.
Siamese Language Pronunciation
“Pronunciation” is a broad term that is inherently linked to tones. However, for clarity, I’ll address them separately here.
Siamese language includes consonants and vowels that are unfamiliar to native English speakers and require conscious learning. I found that many of these “unfamiliar” sounds do exist in English, but are not typically taught explicitly in standard English phonics instruction. Therefore, mastering Siamese language pronunciation seems to involve:
- Sound Awareness: Becoming conscious of these specific sounds and their nuances.
- Auditory Recognition: Developing the ability to hear and distinguish these sounds when spoken by native speakers.
- Deliberate Practice: Consciously and systematically practicing producing these sounds yourself.
For example, try to perceive the subtle difference in the pronunciation of the “t” sound in these English words (place your hand in front of your mouth, say the words aloud, and notice the aspiration – a puff of air – or lack thereof):
- time
- stop
or
- point
- spit
If you can discern the difference between these allophones, you’ll likely adapt well to Siamese language pronunciation!
Other aspects of Siamese language pronunciation I focused on during my two-week study period included:
- Vowel Length Distinction: Differentiating between long and short vowels. For example, the difference between “a” and “aa.” This vowel length distinction is less prominent in English but crucial in Siamese language.
- Final Consonant Pronunciation: Consonants at the end of words in Siamese language are often not fully pronounced. However, they are not completely omitted. You need to form the mouth shape for the final consonant and stop just before actually voicing it.
During my time in Bangkok, I had the privilege of a private pronunciation masterclass with renowned polyglot Stu Jay Raj. He analyzed my Siamese language pronunciation and provided invaluable insights into avoiding common pitfalls and sounding more natural.
In practical conversation, you’ll find that many pronunciation inaccuracies, even with unfamiliar sounds, will still be understood by native speakers (I observed this frequently among expats in Bangkok speaking Thai). Don’t let pronunciation concerns deter you from learning.
However, pronunciation is one of the most challenging aspects to correct later. Therefore, it’s beneficial to strive for accurate pronunciation from the beginning of your Siamese language journey.
Is Learning to Read and Write Siamese Language Essential?
First, I must clarify that I have not yet learned to read and write Siamese language myself! However, I’ve engaged in extensive discussions about the Thai script with teachers and experts, and I’ll share what I’ve learned.
The Thai script, with its 44 consonants and over 28 vowel forms, presents a significant learning undertaking:
- More demanding than learning the Arabic script.
- Comparable in scope to learning Japanese hiragana.
- Less complex than mastering Chinese characters!
Whether you should learn to read and write Siamese language depends on your individual goals and circumstances. In my two-week project, I deliberately chose not to focus on reading and writing, believing that conversational practice was a more effective use of my limited time.
My current thoughts on learning the Thai script are as follows:
- Learning spoken Siamese language is achievable without learning to read and write.
- Using romanized script as a learning aid is a common practice, especially in language schools.
- If your primary goal is “travel Thai” and you have limited study time, you can function without learning the Thai script.
However, the fundamental issue with relying solely on romanized script is its inherent inaccuracy:
- True tones are not consistently or accurately represented (as discussed earlier).
- There is no universally standardized romanization system, leading to variations and inconsistencies.
- Important pronunciation features, such as vowel length, are often omitted in romanized representations (e.g., pasa Thai for paasăa Thai).
](https://learn.storylearning.com/bulletproof-memory-sales-page18581433?utm_source=organic&utm_medium=website&utm_campaign=Blogbanner_thaifromscratch_banner5)
When Learning the Siamese Language Script Becomes Important
In the long term, neglecting to learn the Thai script will significantly impede your progress in Siamese language. You’ll be working with approximations of spoken language and developing an incomplete understanding of the language system.
Therefore, if you aspire to learn Siamese language comprehensively, progressing beyond basic “holiday Thai,” learning the script is essential.
The benefits of literacy in Thai are substantial:
- Access to Authentic Materials: You can read anything written in Thai – menus, signs, books, websites, and a wealth of other useful and enriching content.
- Text-Based Communication: You can communicate with Thai friends via text messaging and instant messaging, opening new avenues for connection and practice (this is a personally rewarding aspect and an excellent way to overcome speaking anxiety).
- Engage with Thai Social Media: You can navigate Facebook and other social media platforms in Thai, immersing yourself in authentic online content.
Above all, the ability to read and write in such a beautiful and unique script is a significant motivator and source of personal pride!
If you are in Thailand, inexpensive children’s writing practice books are readily available. These books often feature dotted outlines of letters, allowing you to patiently practice your handwriting, even if it initially feels awkward.
Overall, I recommend prioritizing spoken Siamese language and delaying script learning for at least the first 20 hours of study. This allows you to build initial momentum and conversational confidence.
There is always an inevitable opportunity cost associated with learning choices. Considering that many beginners give up at the initial hurdles of language learning, focusing on speaking first offers greater potential for early success and sustained motivation.
(In the curriculum used by my teacher at Sumaa Language Institute, conversational Thai is prioritized for the first 60 hours before introducing the script.)
Regardless of your chosen path, don’t let the Thai script intimidate you from learning Siamese language. Just be aware that without script literacy, your understanding will remain somewhat superficial.
6 Steps to Begin Speaking Siamese Language
If you’re wondering how to learn beginner Siamese language from scratch, here is my recommended step-by-step approach:
- Find a Good Teacher: This is your non-negotiable first step. Whether it’s a private tutor or language school, in-person or online, individual or group lessons – the format matters less than the quality of the teacher. Siamese language is a language you can start speaking from day one with the right guidance and encouragement. Begin with a commitment of 20 hours of instruction. (Teacher recommendations provided below.)
- Study Siamese Language Fundamentals: Complement your speaking-focused lessons with a thorough grounding in Thai language fundamentals, particularly pronunciation and tones. For this, Stu Jay Raj’s Cracking Thai Fundamentals course (available as a book or interactive online course) is unparalleled, providing the best possible foundation in Thai phonetics.
- Memorize Key Phrases: From your lessons and supplementary materials, identify and memorize essential words and phrases that will give you a significant boost in conversational Siamese language. I’ve compiled the most useful vocabulary I learned during my lessons into a free PDF and audio bonus for you. Download it here.
- Learn to Read the Thai Script: Most learners report that learning to read Thai script independently is achievable within a few weeks. After your initial 20 hours of teacher-led lessons, acquire a reputable book on reading Thai and work through it systematically. (Book recommendations provided below.)
- Get a Good Siamese Language Textbook: After your initial 20 hours of lessons, you’ll need to expand your input through reading and listening to progress beyond beginner level and grow your vocabulary. Look for a textbook rich in dialogues and practical conversational scenarios. Refer to this list of recommended books for suggestions. If possible, browse textbooks in a bookstore before purchasing to choose one that appeals to your learning style.
- Find Siamese Language Partners: One endearing trait of Thai people is their enthusiasm for foreigners learning their language. Unlike in some cultures where native speakers might be less encouraging when you practice, Thais are generally very supportive and willing to engage. Leverage this cultural openness to gain valuable real-life practice, accelerating your language acquisition. If you live in Thailand, search online for language meet-up events or find conversation partners on sites like conversationexchange.com (face-to-face exchanges tend to be more effective). Outside Thailand, you may need to explore online platforms and Thai communities to find language partners. Google ‘Thai language exchange,’ ‘Thai society,’ etc., to find relevant connections.
As you progress, listen to the I Will Teach You A Language podcast to maintain motivation and enhance your overall language learning strategies.
Recommended Resources for Learning Siamese Language
Siamese Language Courses
Siamese Language Schools
Top Recommendation:
- Sumaa Language Culture Institute (Bangkok): http://www.sumaa.net/ – My personal experience was excellent, particularly with Kru Nuu.
Other Recommended Schools (unverified personally):
In Bangkok:
- AAA Thai Language School: http://www.aaathailanguage.com/
- Union Language School: http://www.unionlanguageschool.com/
In Chiang Mai:
- Chiang Mai University Language Institute (CMI): https://www.cmi.cmu.ac.th/
- AUA Language Center: https://www.auathailand.com/
Online Siamese Language Teachers
- iTalki: https://www.italki.com/affshare?ref=StoryLearning – A platform to find qualified online Thai teachers for personalized lessons.
- Verbling: https://www.verbling.com/ – Another reputable platform connecting language learners with online teachers.
How to Learn to Read Siamese Language
The following books and courses are highly recommended for learning to read Thai script. I will update this list as I progress in learning to read myself!
- “Read Thai in 10 Days” by Bingo Lingo: https://bingolingo.co/read-thai-in-10-days/ – A popular and effective method for script acquisition.
- “Thai for Beginners” by Benjawan Poomsan Becker: Widely used textbook series that includes script instruction.
Siamese Language Textbooks
Having not used a textbook extensively myself, I cannot offer personal recommendations. However, the following textbooks are frequently recommended:
- “Thai for Beginners” by Benjawan Poomsan Becker: A comprehensive and well-structured textbook series.
- “Elementary Thai” by Kasemmas Kasemsri: A classic textbook often used in university courses.
- “Thai: An Essential Grammar” by David Smyth: A detailed grammar reference for serious learners.
Learn Siamese Language Online
- Cracking Thai Fundamentals with Stu Jay Raj: https://storylearning.com//stujay – Essential for mastering pronunciation and tones.
- Vocabooster Thai: https://storylearning.com//vbthai – Vocabulary building tool with pre-made flashcard decks for Thai.
I trust you’ve found this guide valuable! Learning Siamese language, even for a short period, was a deeply rewarding experience. Being able to communicate with Thai people in their native language significantly enriched my time in Thailand.
If you have a friend interested in learning Siamese language, please share this article with them or on social media – it would mean a lot to me! (You can click here to share on Twitter!)
I want to express my gratitude to Catherine Wentworth from Women Learn Thai for her invaluable assistance and advice, both during my trip to Thailand and in the development of this article.
I’ve created a fantastic FREE bonus guide to accompany this post. It features 150 essential Thai words and phrases that helped me start speaking right away, complete with MP3 audio for each. If you’re learning Siamese language, these are the perfect starting point! Simply fill in the box below for instant access.
](https://learn.storylearning.com/bulletproof-memory-sales-page18581433?utm_source=organic&utm_medium=website&utm_campaign=Blogbanner_thaifromscratch_banner6)
Olly Richards
Creator of the StoryLearning® Method
Olly Richards is a renowned polyglot and language learning expert with over 15 years of experience teaching millions through his innovative StoryLearning® method. He is the creator of StoryLearning, one of the world’s largest language learning blogs with 500,000+ monthly readers.
Olly has authored 30+ language learning books and courses, including the bestselling “Short Stories” series published by Teach Yourself.
When not developing new teaching methods, Richards practices what he preaches—he speaks 8 languages fluently and continues learning new ones through his own methodology.
