Sawasdee krap (hello)!

If you’ve ever been to Thailand, then you know most Thais–especially the younger generations in tourist areas–speak English well enough. For that reason, not knowing how to speak Thai isn’t that big of a deal. It won’t cause any huge problems while traveling or living in the country.

On the other hand, if you are a foreigner who knows how to speak Thai, then chances are you’ll witness a completely different (and illuminating) side of Thailand than most foreigners don’t get to see.

What are the advantages of learning Thai online?

As we mentioned above, learning how to speak Thai isn’t a dealbreaker but it opens up a new perspective for foreigners living or visiting the Land of Smiles. More specifically, if you speak Thai language at a conversational level, you are more likely to:

• Experience Thailand like a local.
• Meet and get to know Thai people on a deeper level.
• Not get lost as much.
• Avoid scams and being charged “foreigner prices”.
• Find places that are off-the-beaten path.
• Get a better appreciation for Thai culture.

So whether you are a traveler heading on a trip to Thailand or a foreigner planning on living in the country, learning to speak Thai is a smart idea. This comprehensive guide will highlight 5 apps and online platforms that offer a diverse range of approaches to make learning Thai language seamless and rewarding.

What are the best online platforms to learn Thai?

1. You Too Can Learn Thai Podcast

For those who thrive on auditory learning, the You Too Can Learn Thai Podcast opens a gateway to Thai fluency. This podcast offers conversational lessons that not only enhance your Thai language skills but also provide an entertaining peek into Thai culture.

With engaging hosts and practical lessons, each episode becomes a valuable stepping stone on your language-learning journey.

2. Pocket Thai Master

Pocket Thai Master is without a doubt the best free mobile app to learn Thai language. The reason? Well, put simply, it teaches you all of the basics of Thai in a very straightforward and understandable manner. No needless frills or distractions.

On top of that, Pocket Thai Master also gives you practical tips on living as a foreigner in Thailand as well as interesting background info on Thai culture and history.

3. Thai2English.com

Thai2English.com stands as a bridge between language learners and the nuances of Thai language. Dive into a treasure trove of resources, including dictionaries and grammar guides, providing invaluable support as you navigate the intricacies of Thai communication and culture.

The best thing about this online Thai language website? It allows users to translate Thai words using transliteration, i.e. typing a Thai word using the English alphabet and getting the definition rather than needing to type it in Thai script.

4. Ling

In short, Ling is a free mobile app that functions similarly to the wildly popular language learning app Duolingo, which uses exercises, games, and other interactive lessons to teach languages. Unlike Duolingo, however, Ling has an option for users to learn Thai language.

Ling tailors its approach to your learning style, ensuring a dynamic and personalized journey to Thai fluency.

5. Thai-language.com

Explore the cultural heart of Thai language learning with Thai-language.com. This comprehensive website offers lessons, resources, and insights into the Thai language, providing you with a deeper understanding of the language and its cultural context.

Online Thai lessons on Thai-language.com cover everything from basic conversations and reading and writing to more complex Thai language subjects like business jargon and literature.

Can I become fluent in Thai by learning it online?

The short answer is yes.

That’s because the multitude of options for learning Thai online is vast. From learning the basics of Thai through an intuitive app or by getting a deeper grasp on the language through learning with a Thai online tutor.

At the end of the day, whether you prefer auditory immersion, interactive lessons, linguistic insights, or cultural exploration, these resources offer a holistic approach to mastering the captivating world of Thai language.

Chok dee (good luck)!

Related: Want to Learn Thai? Here are the best Thai language schools in Bangkok