Navigating Language, Food, and Transportation: The Cross-Cultural Experiences of Chinese Students in Thailand

Yu Zhang; Wang Wei; Alan White; Tubagus  Darodjat

Authors

Yu Zhang
Wang Wei
Alan White Rajamangala University of Technology Krugthep
Tubagus Darodjat

Keywords:

Chinese students, Thailand, language barriers, food culture, transportation, academic performance, social integration, English proficiency, cultural adaptation, international students

Abstract

This study explores the experiences of Chinese undergraduate students studying in Thailand, focusing on language barriers, food culture, and transportation issues. A total of 42 second-year Chinese students enrolled in a business program participated in semi-structured interviews. The findings indicate that students predominantly used Chinese within their social groups, with limited interaction in English or Thai, which affected both academic performance and social integration. Many students reported difficulties with vocabulary, grammar, pronunciation, and fluency, largely due to a lack of speaking practice in their English education in China. Regarding food, some students struggled with the taste of Thai cuisine, finding it either too sweet or too spicy, while others adapted and ate Thai food regularly. Additionally, while transportation was not a significant issue, the heat and distance for some students created minor discomforts. The study suggests that increased focus on language practice and cultural adaptation could improve the experience of Chinese students studying in Thailand.

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