Matt Owens Rees

Different nationalities have different senses of humour.

I recall being in a UK pub one overcast winter’s day. A few of us were sitting around the bar when the barman commented, “Looks like rain, doesn’t it?”
The fellow next to me raised his glass and sipped his beer. “Yes—tastes like it too.”

We all laughed, including the barman. A sarcastic joke like that—hinting at watered-down beer—might not land so well in Thailand. You’d likely get a blank look, a polite walk-away, or possibly even a more heated response.

Thais prefer you to join in with their own brand of humour. They’ll love it if you sing karaoke with them, no matter what kind of voice you have. Life is about having fun—sanuk. When I dance, I show the world I was born with two left feet. It matters not a jot to a Thai.

Trying to dance the ramwong—Thailand’s traditional circle dance with its symbolic hand and body movements—guarantees laughter and smiles. That’s the sort of joking and fun they enjoy.

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Footnote: Cultural Insight

🔹 Sanuk is more than fun—it’s a guiding principle in Thai life. Activities are valued not just for their purpose, but for the joy they bring.
🔹 Ramwong dances are often performed at festivals and community events. Participation is more important than perfection—joining in is the joke, and the joy.
🔹 Thai humour tends to be playful, inclusive, and light-hearted. Sarcasm or irony, especially when directed at others, can be misinterpreted or seen as confrontational.

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Watch the Ramwong in Action

To get a feel for the rhythm and grace of ramwong, these clips offer a variety of styles—from traditional performances to tutorials:

1. Ramwong l รำวง – A medley of classic ramwong songs with paired circle dancing, perfect for understanding the communal spirit of the dance.
2. Ramwong Dance – A lively group performance that captures the joy and spontaneity of ramwong in a festive setting.
3. Thai Ramwong Dance by Sri Warisan – A polished, professional rendition by a Singaporean performing arts troupe, showcasing the elegance of the form.
4. YouTube – A general clip that includes ramwong among other Thai dance styles, useful for spotting regional variations.
5. Rakram EP 4 – Southern Thai Dance – Offers insight into Southern Thai dance culture, with moments that echo ramwong’s circular flow.
6. Virtually Thailand – Traditional Thai Dance “Ram Wong” Tutorial – A step-by-step tutorial led by a Thai dance instructor, ideal for beginners wanting to try the moves at home.

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