Can Thais understand Laos?

Thai and Lao are closely related languages. They’re in a way mutually intelligible at least for a greater part. Thai people can understand most of spoken Lao, though perhaps with difficulties. If the Thais are from the Northeastern region (Isan), then it’s easier for them, as the Isan dialect is very close to Lao.

Is Laos like Thai?

Lao and Thai languages are very similar to each other. In fact, the two languages are linguistically similar, though their writing script varies a bit. Thai is the native language of Thailand and is spoken in minority in Cambodia. Hence, the people in Laos are very familiar with the Thai language.

Is Lao easy to learn?

Lao does not take really long to learn (compared to other languages that might take many years or decades). Both Lao and Thai are from the Tai-kadai language class, so by learning Lao first as the foundation, you’ll be able to understand a variety of Lao regional dialects and Thai quicker.

Is Thai and Lao similar?

What do Thais think of Laotians?

According from the Thai friends, they view Laotians like their brothers because of the Tai-Kadai links, but also poorer and poverty comparing to Thailand. Many Thais even show a lot of disappointment and saying Laos today is nothing but a little “puppet” of Vietnam.

What are the similarities between Cambodia and Thailand?

Among the neighboring countries of Southeast Asia, none seems more similar to Thailand than Cambodia (perhaps not even excluding Laos and the “Tai” people scattered throughout such countries as Burma, Vietnam, and southern China). Both nations share similar customs, traditions, beliefs, and ways of life.

What is the relationship like between Laos and Vietnam?

Yet, Laos was faced with immigrants from Vietnam that were brought in by the French and the current government which caused them to view the Vietnamese as an invader. According from the Thai friends, they view Laotians like their brothers because of the Tai-Kadai links, but also poorer and poverty comparing to Thailand.

Do Thailand and Cambodia have a love-hate relationship?

In light of these similarities, it seems surprising, therefore, that relations between Thailand and Cambodia should be characterized by deep-seated “ignorance, misunderstanding, and prejudice.” Indeed, the two countries have what can be termed “a love-hate relationship.”