Thai Language Schools

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The best methods for learning the Thai Language


If you are planning to stay in Thailand, then learning Thai may be a good idea as it can be handy and help you survive long-term. Different methods of learning Thai can offer different benefits, and it really depends on what method is convenient depending on your needs.

Learning at a Thai Language School
Attending a Thai language school may be for you if you have the time to go and the money. At school, you will get to study with other learners and practise in and out of the classroom. Most Thai teachers also offer one-on-one private lessons that can speed up your command of the language. Most of the Thai language centres focus on serving 2 different purposes. One is for actually learning the Thai language, while the other is a bit more watered-down version of learning Thai as part of keeping an education visa. If you choose to get an education visa, the class pricing will be higher as it includes the visa. In Bangkok, there are several language centres that can help you learn Thai. Duke Language School is considered the best language centre in Bangkok. Other language schools that are reputable, include AUA Thai (which features a unique teaching style that was adapted from a famous algebra teaching method). Rak Thai Language’s method of teaching is similar to the Union Thai method, which was created over 40 years ago for the purpose of teaching missionaries to be fluent in the language. Pro Language School is also another reputable language school to attent as well as Jentana & Associates. The latter school is great for those who want to learn specific Thai vocabularies, such as business, law, etc. Sumaa also has good ratings by former students. If you are dead-set on getting fluent in Thai, Chulalongkorn University has a Centre for Thai as a Foreign Language. For those enrolling in the programme, you can also obtain an education visa using this route. The programme is divided into 3 courses:

• Intensive Thai Programme
  Price: 28,000 THB
  Times: Monday - Friday, 9:00 am - 12::00 pm or 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
  Duration: 6 weeks
• Communicative Thai for Beginners
  Price: 12,000 THB
  Times: Monday and Wednesdays, 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
  Duration: 10 weeks
  Enrollment period: January, April, July and October
• Thai for Mandarin Chinese speakers
  Price: 27,000 THB
  Times: Monday-Friday, 9:00 am - 12:00 pm, or 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
  Duration: 6 weeks

Learning Thai online
Studying the Thai language online is another popular option. As you don’t have to leave the comforts of your home and can study whenever you want, it is a more convenient option for many. However, your motivation must be high as it is easy to put off studying using this method. Online learning does have its cons, however, as the lack of physical and social interaction is evident. Immediate feedback from teachers is missing as well.
ThaiPod101.com is a reputable online learning platform for Thai and upon signing up, you get a free, 7-day premium class trial. Their lessons are divided into 4 different proficiency levels, allowing you to choose which one you think suits your skills the best. The lessons revolve around using the language practically, as they include everyday phrases that you can use in daily life. The platform also offers cheat sheets, flashcards, word banks, and bonus apps for additional learning. Learn Thai from a White Guy is also a popular online learning platform. Brett Whiteside, the “White Guy,” created his system that was based on 10+ years of direct experience and teaching Thai to foreigners. As a native English speaker, he is accustomed to the many questions and issues that non-native Thai speakers may face when learning the language. He also knows the problems associated with a speaker of a non-tonal language learning a tonal language.

• Read Thai
• Learn common Thai sentences and phrases
• Understand basic conversations

His course is broken into 3 areas that are divided over 4 courses. Those areas include:

• Read Thai in 2 weeks
• Starter Sentence Pack
• Need to Know Sentence Pack
• Talking Thai

Those who enroll in the courses, get access to audio clips, examples, exercises and almost weekly supplemental material by email.

Online Tutoring
An online tutor is another great way to tackle the Thai language. A tutor can provide uninterrupted attention, while answering your specific questions. They can also teach you exactly what you want or need to know. As they are usually cheaper than taking private classes, it could be a great way to learn the language. italki.com is a great website that will allow you to choose your online Thai tutor. After choosing, you get a half-priced trial hour in which you can try out the tutor and lesson to see if it is right for you. If it is, you can go ahead and continue learning with your chosen teacher. If it is not, you can switch.

Taking Private Classes
Taking in-person, private classes or tutoring is probably the most effective way of learning the Thai language. As you can clearly hear the tones and get immediate feedback, if you have the funds, it may be worth the price. Bangkok’s Sumaa learning centre offers such classes at a starting cost of 39,000 THB. The course at Sumaa offers 60, 1-hour classes. And, if you just want to try out the course, you can pay for a minimum of 10 classes at 1,000 THB each, and then add more later at a rate of 650 THB per class. Another option is hiring a freelance tutor. In Bangkok, rates for a private tutor range from 300 THB to 500 THB per hour.

Reading Thai Language Books
If you like to learn through reading books, this is a good option. However, beware of the pitfalls in learning the correct tones that are used in the Thai language. As you don’t have someone speaking to you or someone to assess your tonal skills, it could not be as efficient as some of the other methods listed. It is recommended to use books as a secondary resource due to the absence of hearing, seeing, and speaking to someone who can give you feedback.

Learning Thai with a Mobile Phone app
Google Play or the Apple Store can be used to find a Thai language learning app. Just type in “learn Thai,” and you will see many apps that claim to teach you the language. It is best to look at the app’s ratings before committing and try out the app before relying on it to learn the language accurately. Learning Thai through an app or even YouTube is one of the cheapest ways to master the language. However, keep in mind that feedback may be minimal if present at all.

[Sundance2020]

Why you should study Thai to explore Thailand



Thailand has always been known as the world’s most popular tourist destination. Why? The land of smiles has so much to offer: tranquil beaches, never-ending options of cuisines, majestic temples and scenery, rich history, and cultural and archaeological sites. There is never enough time to get to know and explore Thailand fully. But, how do you make the most out of your time in this beautiful country? Why not learn the language itself? Here are reasons why you should study Thai to know Thailand.

Get to know Thai culture better.
Culture and language are strongly connected. Learning Thai immediately leads to a greater understanding of Thai people and the essential components of their culture, customs, and traditions. Through learning various expressions, vocabulary and slang, you’ll be able to grasp the culture connected to it. You might even gain some vocabulary with meanings unique to Thailand! On top of this, you are opening the door to making friends with more than 60 million people. This gives you the chance to know the culture in a greater depth while familiarising yourself with the colloquialisms.

Obtain Education Visa (Non-immigrant ED Visa)
If you genuinely want to explore Thailand, a 2-month tourist visa might not be enough. By enrolling in a reputable Thai language school, you can obtain a non-immigrant ED visa for the time duration of your study, for a minimum of 8 months. Moreover, some of the courses have a flexible schedule. This gives you plenty of time to cross the items on your bucket list of things to do in Thailand. But, where do you find a good and trustworthy Thai language school? Check out our language school info.

Make Thai friends.
One of the best parts of travelling is making friends from different cultures and backgrounds. While you can get around Thailand without speaking the language, it can be challenging to make friends since English is not widely spoken in the country. But of course, it is no surprise that the Land of Smile is home to friendly and generous people. Speaking Thai reduces the boundaries and is an excellent ice-breaker to get to know these amazing people! It is also an excellent conversation starter if you want to make friends but don’t know how to. While it may be nerve-racking to talk to the locals, know that you make a great first impression since Thai people will greatly appreciate your effort to learn their language.

Explore less touristy areas
Thailand is the hub for tourists; hence, there are endless activities for you to do! But the country never runs out of surprises; there are still many hidden gems yet to be discovered by many. Have you been to a local carnival? There, you can get rides, feed adorable piglets, play Bingo, play carnival games and choose from a range of street food for very cheap prices. But, where do you find these events? Well, it is a fact that the locals know best! So, go ahead and ask your Thai friends or a local for some suggestions. You will find the country’s most hidden gems!

Improve your career options.
During your time in Thailand, don’t limit yourself but explore the career opportunities here. Contrary to popular belief, there are many career options in Thailand for a foreigner aside from teaching. Multi-national companies have great opportunities for foreigners, especially in industries such as tech, digital marketing and real estate. Knowing the Thai language on top of your native language will surely give you an edge over other candidates. Moreover, speaking Thai will also benefit the social aspect of your work life, especially if you’re working with many Thai employees.

By learning the Thai language, you are opening the door to meeting amazing people, visiting gorgeous yet hidden places, expanding your career options, and, last but not least, getting to explore the beautiful country for longer. So, don’t delay your urge to explore Thailand and enrol for a Thai language course!

[Iceman]

The Best Thai Language Schools in Bangkok

For those eager to master the Thai language, there’s no better place than Bangkok to learn it. Not only does this lively city offer an incredible cultural experience, but it also hosts a wide range of language schools that cater to diverse learning styles and preferences. From established institutions to cozy, homely environments, anyone looking to learn Thai is sure to find a suitable school in Bangkok. So, let’s take a look at the top 5 Thai language centres in the city that will make your journey into the Thai language both rewarding and enjoyable.


ALA Language School
First on our list of the best language centres in Bangkok is the fantastic ALA Language Center. It’s a place where gaining fluency in Thai becomes an enjoyable and achievable feat. With an array of speaking, reading, and writing courses available, ALA accommodates all learners, whether you’re a beginner, intermediate, or advanced student. What sets ALA Language School apart is their friendly instructors, student-centred curriculums, and well-equipped classrooms nestled in an excellent location. Their customized Thai language courses cater to an international learning environment, perfect for mingling with other language enthusiasts aged 15 and over. In no time at all, you’ll be boosting your conversation skills and mastering Thai like a native speaker, thanks to their expert teachers dedicated to your goals. At ALA, the flexibility is unparalleled. Learners can choose between onsite and online classes looped twice a month, giving you plenty of options to fit your schedule. Need full ED Visa support? The fully-licensed school is ready to provide all necessary paperwork for Thai course students. Likewise, the friendly multilingual team is always eager to assist and help you learn Thai in Thailand.

• Location: Trendy Building, Floor 1A, Soi Sukhumvit 13, Khlong Toei Nuea, Watthana, Bangkok 10110
• Google Maps

Duke Language School
Duke Language School is an esteemed establishment that takes pride in its experienced teachers and tailored curriculum designed to accommodate both beginners and advanced students. With flexible schedules, small class sizes, and a variety of course options (including intensive programs and private lessons), Duke caters to the individual needs of all Thai language learners. One of the highlights at Duke is their seamless process of securing education visas for foreigners. Thus, making long-term stays in Thailand a breeze. But why else should one opt for Duke Language School? Well, for starters, their professional teachers take a fun and interactive approach, ensuring that students enjoy learning Thai in a positive environment. Additionally, Duke delivers education through original, up-to-date textbooks filled with easy-to-understand pictures and in-depth explanations. They also incorporate interactive comics and mobile-compatible online flashcards, making it easier for students to remember essential words and phrases.

• Location: The Trendy Office Building, 10/63 Soi Sukhumvit 13, Khlong Toei Nuea, Watthana, Bangkok 10110
• Google Maps

Union Language School
Next on the list is Union Language School, proudly dubbing itself as “the first, the best, and the preferred Thai language school” in the city. Known for its practical approach, Union emphasizes teaching non-Thai speakers the language in a way that allows for easy communication with Thais in everyday conversations. Keen on genuinely connecting students with Thai people, Union Language School offers various courses. These include Basic Communication, Intermediate Communication, Advanced Communication, and Thai Competency Test preparation. Quality lies at the core of this esteemed institution. And it’s evident in their proprietary teacher training program and certified ULS curriculum. From day one, students are expected to use the Thai language in class, ensuring full linguistic immersion. Moreover, the engaging teachers utilise enjoyable methods while prioritising language competency as the primary goal. But aside from the courses, one of the charms of Union Language School is the warm, family-like atmosphere. They ensure to make students feel at home from the very first day.

• Location: 328 The Church of Christ in Thailand Office Building, 7th Floor, Phayathai Road Rachatewi Bangkok 10400
• Google Maps

Jentana & Associates Thai Language School
Jentana & Associates is a Thai language school renowned for its fun, friendly, and relaxed learning environment. Inspired by excellence and innovation, the institution focuses on making learning Thai enjoyable in every possible way. Catering to beginners, intermediate, and advanced students, the experienced teachers at Jentana employ a question-and-answer approach that empowers most students to start speaking conversational Thai almost from the first lesson. With over 25 years of experience, Jentana’s teaching methods and study materials have been refined to ensure that students can “Speak Thai with Confidence.” The school offers a variety of learning environments, including private study rooms at the Jentana School, located in Sukhumvit Soi 31 road, and the comfort of home or office through Skype. Both private and group lessons are available at convenient times and locations, adapting to the busy lives of students in Bangkok. With their relaxed and friendly atmosphere, Jentana & Associates makes learning Thai in Bangkok an enjoyable and rewarding experience.

• Location: 5 8 Sukhumvit 31, Klongtoey-Neua Watthana, Bangkok 10110
• Google Maps

Baan Aksorn Thai Language School
Baan Aksorn is a language school specializing in teaching Thai to foreign students in private settings and small groups. Known for its range of Thai language courses, from beginner to advanced levels, Baan Aksorn customizes courses to meet the unique needs of individual students. The school is set in a serene, traditional Thai house, making the learning experience all the more satisfying. Conveniently located near Bangkok’s Phrom Phong Skytrain Station (Emporium), Baan Aksorn boasts contemporary language instruction developed in-house by experts with advanced degrees. Here, books serve as a mere springboard for a dynamic learning experience facilitated by knowledgeable instructor guides.
The school’s personalized approach helps students identify the best techniques for their learning style to achieve their goals. As students invest in their Thai language skills, the rewards continue to enrich their experiences in the country. Baan Aksorn also offers 12-month Student Education (ED) visas for those looking to stay longer in Thailand. Choosing the perfect learning environment for mastering the Thai language in Bangkok is made seamless with these top 5 language centres. Each establishment offers a distinctive approach, catering to various learning styles, goals, and preferences.

• Location: Narindra Residence, 40 Sukhumvit 33 Alley, Khlong Tan Nuea, Watthana, Bangkok 10110
• Google Maps