On the 6-7 November 2024 the Thailand Foundation organized the Fifth Expatriate Orientation Program (EOP5). The two-day program aims to provide useful and interesting information to foreigners living and working in Thailand about various aspects of the country, Thai people, and Thainess. Attendees at the event included diplomats, representatives from the public and private sectors, as well as expat businesspersons, among others.

The Expatriate Orientation Program is conducted twice a year by the Thailand Foundation. The purpose of the program is to serve as a “quick-start manual” to help expatriates and their families enhance their professional and personal experience in Thailand through better understanding Thai culture, customs, and characteristics of Thai people, as well as other essential information that they should be aware of. The sessions are conducted by renowned speakers from different fields, such as history, economics, and international affairs.

Sessions at the Fifth Expatriate Orientation Program included: (1) Prism of Thainess: Approaching Thai Society from the Perspective of Thai Values by Jonas Anderson; (2) Introduction to Thai History by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bhawan Ruangsilp ; (3) Hidden Bangkok by Phillip Cornwell-Smith ; (4) Discover the Four Regions of Thailand by Rails by Richard Barrow ; (5) Thai Economy: Thriving in Global Uncertainties by Dr. Kirida Bhaopichitr ; (6) Appreciating Arts Around You in Thailand by Asst. Prof. Dr. Anucha Thirakanont ;  (7) Buddhism in the Mindset and the Ways of Life of the Thai People by Dr. Phibul Choompolpaisal and (8) Finding Your Lifestyles in Thailand by Daniel Fraser.

For more information on future Expatriate Orientation Programs, please visit https://www.thailandfoundation.or.th/program_categories/eop/